Communication and Media Studies at Kent State University at Ashtabula

Kent State Ashtabula's Communication and Media Studies program tracks right at Ohio's median for starting salaries but distinguishes itself through solid earnings growth and manageable debt. While graduates earn $35,804 their first year—matching the state average—they see wages climb to over $44,000 by year four, a 24% increase that outpaces typical inflation. The $26,000 debt load translates to a 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe less than a year's salary, which is favorable compared to many bachelor's programs.

The program performs squarely in the middle of the pack both nationally (54th percentile) and within Ohio (60th percentile). You won't see the $47,000 starting salaries that Denison grads command, but you're also looking at significantly lower costs at a regional campus. For context, this program serves a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (34%), suggesting it provides accessible pathways into media careers.

The practical takeaway: this is a reasonable choice if your student wants to stay local and values a communications degree with predictable outcomes. The earnings trajectory shows graduates aren't stuck at entry-level wages, and the debt burden won't be crushing. Just understand they're getting median performance at a regional campus price point—neither a standout value nor a concerning investment.