Communication and Media Studies at Millikin University

Millikin's communication program tracks slightly above the national median for first-year earnings but lands below average among Illinois schools—specifically in the 40th percentile statewide. That gap matters in a competitive state market where Northwestern grads earn nearly 50% more, though Millikin's outcomes sit closer to peer liberal arts colleges like Augustana and Elmhurst. The 28% earnings growth to $45,295 by year four shows reasonable career progression, suggesting graduates find their footing after an entry-level period.

The financial picture looks manageable: at $21,149, debt sits about $2,600 below the state median and $4,000 below the national figure. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60, graduates face roughly seven months of gross income in loans—high enough to feel burdensome but not crushing compared to other communication programs. The small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) means these numbers could swing significantly with just a few different outcomes, so they're better viewed as directional than definitive.

For families considering Millikin specifically for communications, this represents a middle-ground outcome in Illinois. The debt load won't anchor graduates, but the career trajectory isn't dramatically different from what you'd see at many mid-tier programs. If your student has stronger academic credentials, schools like Lake Forest or Augustana deliver noticeably better starting salaries for similar debt levels.