Communication and Media Studies at Illinois State University

Illinois State turns in solid numbers for a notoriously challenging major. At $38,125 starting and $49,576 by year four, graduates earn above both the national median ($34,959) and Illinois median ($35,991)—landing in the 60th percentile among in-state options. More importantly, they're carrying just $20,125 in debt, roughly $4,000 less than typical Illinois comm students and $5,000 below the national figure. That 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio means manageable loan payments while building a career.

The 30% earnings jump over four years matters here. Many communication grads start in entry-level media or corporate roles that don't pay much initially, but this trajectory suggests graduates are moving into better positions—perhaps public relations management, corporate communications, or specialized media roles. Yes, Northwestern grads start at $52,210, but they're also likely carrying significantly more debt from a $90,000/year institution. Illinois State's combination of above-average outcomes and below-average debt creates breathing room many communication majors don't get.

For an 89% admission rate public university, these are strong results in a field where employment outcomes vary wildly. Your child won't graduate debt-free, but they also won't face the crushing burden that makes some communication degrees financially untenable.