Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri

Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (39 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Maryville University of Saint Louis$46,188
University of Missouri-Columbia$44,078$50,441$20,5000.47
Lindenwood University$41,579$46,111$28,5000.69
University of Missouri-Kansas City$38,786$45,505$21,9820.57
Southeast Missouri State University$35,282$44,498$24,5000.69
Northwest Missouri State University$34,195$43,574$26,0000.76
National Median$34,959$25,0000.72

Other Communication and Media Studies Programs in Missouri

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia
$14,130$44,078$20,500
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles
$21,100$41,579$28,500
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City
$11,988$38,786$21,982
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau
$9,496$35,282$24,500
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville
$10,181$34,195$26,000

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Maryville University of Saint Louis, approximately 36% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.