Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Ohio Media School-Columbus
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Ohio Media School-Columbus delivers exactly average outcomes for Radio, Television, and Digital Communication programs—which means graduates earn relatively low starting salaries that grow slowly over time. With first-year earnings of $18,896 and debt of $9,500, graduates face a manageable debt burden that represents just half their annual income, but the underlying earnings are concerning for long-term financial stability.
The program performs slightly better than other Ohio schools in this field (60th percentile statewide), though this comparison isn't particularly meaningful since the entire field struggles with low compensation. Even after four years, median earnings only reach $22,121—well below what most families would consider a middle-class income. The 17% earnings growth over four years is modest, and graduates would need significant career advancement beyond what's captured in this data to achieve financial security.
The bottom line: this is a low-earning field regardless of where you study it, and this school's outcomes are typical for the sector. If your child is passionate about media careers, they should understand they're likely choosing a field where financial success will require entrepreneurship, advanced skills, or transitioning into higher-paying adjacent roles like marketing or corporate communications. The relatively low debt load is the program's main financial advantage.
Where Ohio Media School-Columbus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all radio, television, and digital communication certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Ohio Media School-Columbus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Ohio Media School-Columbus graduates earn $19k, placing them in the 50th percentile of all radio, television, and digital communication certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication certificate's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (10 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio Media School-Columbus | $18,896 | $22,121 | $9,500 | 0.50 |
| Ohio Media School-Valley View | $18,896 | $22,121 | $9,500 | 0.50 |
| Ohio Media School-Cincinnati | $15,006 | $31,156 | $9,500 | 0.63 |
| National Median | $18,896 | — | $9,500 | 0.50 |
Other Radio, Television, and Digital Communication Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio Media School-Valley View Valley View | — | $18,896 | $9,500 |
| Ohio Media School-Cincinnati Norwood | — | $15,006 | $9,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Ohio Media School-Columbus, approximately 63% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.