Communication and Media Studies at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's Communication and Media Studies program delivers strong financial outcomes that should ease parental concerns about return on investment. With first-year earnings of $41,232, graduates earn 18% more than the national average for this field and rank in the 83rd percentile nationally—meaning this program outperforms roughly 4 out of 5 similar programs across the country. The $23,500 median debt load is also below both national and Ohio averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57.

What's particularly compelling is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 32% income growth from year one to year four, reaching $54,473. This suggests the program builds skills that translate into career advancement. While Ohio State ranks 60th percentile within Ohio (solidly middle-of-the-pack among state programs), it's competitive with respected private institutions like University of Cincinnati and John Carroll University, but at likely lower tuition costs given its public status.

The bottom line: this program offers above-average earnings potential with below-average debt burden, backed by robust data from 100+ graduates. For parents worried about their child's financial future in a media field, Ohio State provides a relatively safe bet with clear upward mobility potential.