Communication and Media Studies at Moody Bible Institute

Moody Bible Institute's Communication and Media Studies program produces graduates with remarkably low debt—less than half the state median and among the lowest 5% nationally. At under $12,000, that's the kind of debt load students can realistically manage even if their career path takes unexpected turns, which matters in a field known for varied and sometimes unpredictable trajectories.

The earnings tell a more moderate story. At $37,000 in the first year, graduates earn slightly above both state and national medians, landing around the 60th percentile—respectable but nowhere near elite programs like Northwestern ($52,000). However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 is excellent, meaning graduates owe roughly four months of salary rather than the nearly nine months typical for this major nationally. For a specialized religious institution with a 98% acceptance rate, these numbers suggest students aren't paying a premium for the institution's mission focus.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual circumstances could swing these figures considerably. Still, the combination of manageable debt and middle-tier earnings creates a lower-risk proposition than most communication programs. Parents should verify that the institute's religious orientation aligns with their student's goals, but financially, this program avoids the debt trap that often makes communication degrees questionable investments.