Communication and Media Studies at Kent State University at Kent

Kent State's Communication and Media Studies program lands squarely in the middle of the pack—matching Ohio's median earnings exactly and sitting just above the national average. With first-year graduates earning $35,804 and climbing to $44,278 by year four, these numbers reflect what communication majors typically face: modest starting salaries that require patience to build.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $26,000, borrowing sits slightly above state and national medians but remains manageable given the earnings trajectory. The 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than they'll earn in their first year—not great, but workable for those willing to live lean early in their careers. The 24% earnings growth over four years suggests job-hopping and skill-building can pay off, though you're still looking at mid-$40s even after establishing yourself.

For Ohio families, this program delivers exactly what the state's communication degree market offers—no premium for Kent State's brand, but no penalty either. If your child can get into Ohio State or Dayton (where grads earn $6,000-7,000 more annually), those options merit serious consideration. But if Kent State's accessibility and location fit your family's needs, you're getting standard outcomes at a standard price. Just make sure your student understands they'll need to hustle for internships and connections, because the degree alone won't command premium wages.