Communication and Media Studies at Michigan State University

Michigan State's Communication and Media Studies program shows impressive earnings acceleration that sets it apart from typical programs in this field. While graduates start at $36,390—slightly above both national and Michigan medians—their earnings jump 54% to nearly $56,000 by year four, substantially outpacing the gradual growth seen in most communication programs.

The debt picture is particularly encouraging. At $26,750, MSU keeps borrowing costs in the 28th percentile nationally, meaning 72% of similar programs saddle students with more debt. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74, well below concerning levels. Among Michigan's 34 communication programs, MSU ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining below-average debt levels—a combination that's hard to find in this field.

The program does trail Michigan's top performers like U of M Ann Arbor, but it delivers solid value considering MSU's accessible 84% admission rate. Communication and Media Studies programs often struggle with career progression, but MSU's data suggests their graduates find pathways to meaningful salary growth. For parents concerned about return on investment in a notoriously challenging field, this program demonstrates that strong earnings growth can offset modest starting salaries when debt remains reasonable.