Journalism at Louisiana Tech University

Louisiana Tech's journalism program produces first-year earnings of just $21,087—barely above minimum wage and roughly $13,000 below what Louisiana State University journalism grads earn. While the $25,000 in debt sits near the national median, that modest borrowing becomes problematic when paired with poverty-level starting wages. Even among Louisiana's limited journalism options (only three schools offer the program), this ranks in just the 25th percentile for earnings.

The numbers reveal a troubling disconnect: graduates are earning less than many retail management positions while carrying debt that exceeds their first-year income. At the 5th percentile nationally, this program ranks among the very lowest-earning journalism degrees in the country. The moderate sample size suggests this pattern is consistent across multiple graduating classes, not a statistical fluke.

For a family considering this investment, the math is stark. A graduate earning $21,087 would struggle to cover basic living expenses, let alone make meaningful progress on student loans. Unless your child has clear connections in Louisiana media or plans to treat this as a stepping stone to graduate school in another field, this program poses significant financial risk. Loyola's journalism program, while more expensive upfront, produces graduates earning 76% more in their first year—a difference that could justify the investment for families who can afford either option.