Communication and Media Studies at Lasell University

The $30,379 starting salary from Lasell's Communication program ranks in the bottom quarter of both Massachusetts schools and national Communication programs—nearly $6,000 below the state median and roughly $4,600 below the national average. For a field already known for modest starting salaries, this positions graduates at a notable disadvantage. Compare this to Boston College's $55,162 or even the state median of $36,380, and you're looking at a $6,000-$25,000 first-year earnings gap that compounds over time.

The bright spot is impressive earnings growth: salaries nearly double to $54,507 by year four, an exceptional 79% jump that outpaces typical media career trajectories. However, that initial year of $30,379 creates real financial stress when paired with $27,000 in debt—translating to a manageable but tight 0.89 debt-to-earnings ratio. Starting this far behind means delaying financial milestones even if earnings eventually catch up.

For an 82% admission rate school charging private tuition, these outcomes raise questions about value. Students interested in communications might find better ROI at UMass programs or by targeting the higher-performing Boston schools if credentials warrant. If your child is set on Lasell, factor in a lean first year financially and recognize they'll need to hit that strong four-year trajectory to justify the investment.