Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at Northern Arizona University

Based on comparable programs in Arizona, Northern Arizona University's communication disorders degree appears positioned in the middle of the state's pricing spectrum—with estimated debt around $20,500 slightly below the state median, though still substantial for the expected first-year earnings of $37,000.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 suggests manageable, if not ideal, financial positioning. That means graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary, which translates to meaningful but not crushing monthly loan payments. What's more telling is the state context: Arizona's communication disorders programs consistently produce first-year earnings around $37,000, well above the national median of $24,700. This suggests either stronger regional demand for these graduates or that Arizona programs feed into better-paying entry positions than their counterparts elsewhere.

The real question for parents is whether this bachelor's degree is the endpoint or a stepping stone. Many communication disorders graduates pursue master's degrees in speech-language pathology, where earnings jump significantly. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation, these estimated outcomes suggest a several-year repayment timeline that's workable but not comfortable. If graduate school is the plan, factor in additional borrowing before income substantially increases. Given that this data comes from only three peer programs statewide, ask NAU's department directly about their graduates' outcomes—particularly what percentage continue to graduate programs versus enter the workforce.