Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Midway University

Based on comparable communications programs in Kentucky, first-year earnings around $37,000 against an estimated $26,000 in debt creates a workable ratio of 0.70—meaning roughly eight months of gross earnings would cover the full debt load. That's manageable territory for a bachelor's degree, though it's worth noting that similar programs at Kentucky's flagship university produce first-year earnings nearly $9,000 higher.

The uncertainty here cuts both ways. We're working with estimates because too few graduates from this specific program have reported earnings data, which could mean the program is small and personalized or simply new. What we do know is that Kentucky's communications programs cluster in the mid-to-high $30,000s for starting salaries, and Midway's student profile—95% admission rate, 46% Pell recipients—suggests graduates may face steeper economic headwinds than those at more selective state schools.

For families weighing this investment, the estimated debt burden looks reasonable, but the earnings gap between Midway and Kentucky's larger programs deserves attention. If your student has options at Murray State or UK and qualifies for similar financial aid, those programs offer clearer track records. If Midway provides advantages like smaller classes, location, or a more supportive environment for your student's needs, the slightly lower projected earnings may be an acceptable trade-off given the modest debt load.