Communication and Media Studies at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

A $26,000 debt load for a bachelor's degree from Embry-Riddle might sound reasonable until you consider what comparable Communication and Media Studies programs in Florida actually deliver. Similar programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $34,720—putting this squarely at Florida's median but well behind Florida State College at Jacksonville ($43,508) and DeVry University-Florida ($47,622). This isn't necessarily about program quality; it reflects the reality that communications graduates typically start modestly regardless of where they earn their degree.

The debt picture adds another layer of concern. At an estimated $26,000, this program carries more debt than Florida's typical communications bachelor's ($21,677) while producing median-level outcomes. That 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly 75% of their first year's salary—manageable, but not comfortable for a field where entry-level positions often cluster in the low-to-mid thirties. Embry-Riddle's reputation centers on aviation and aerospace engineering, not media studies, which raises questions about whether you're paying a premium for a program that isn't the school's core strength.

The practical calculation: if your child is set on communications and Embry-Riddle specifically, understand that peer programs suggest they'll start at typical Florida wages while carrying above-average debt for the field. Programs at public universities in Florida appear to deliver similar or better earnings outcomes with less borrowing.