Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Ohio University-Zanesville Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Ohio University-Zanesville's broadcasting program starts slowly but shows impressive momentum, with earnings jumping 42% to reach $41,203 by year four. While that first-year salary of $29,086 sits at the state median, graduates who push through the initial lean period see substantial income growth—a pattern that suggests building valuable skills and industry connections over time.
The $25,000 debt load is manageable given the earnings trajectory, particularly when you consider that fourth-year income makes the initial investment look increasingly reasonable. Among Ohio's 28 broadcasting programs, this sits squarely in the middle of the pack—not competing with Miami University's standout $51,000 outcomes, but significantly outpacing what many regional programs deliver. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates means these aren't statistical flukes; this pattern is real.
The key question for parents: can your child weather those first few years when entry-level media salaries feel tight? If they're willing to build experience and advance within the field, this program offers solid long-term value at a debt level that won't become a financial anchor. Students chasing immediate post-graduation income might want to look elsewhere, but those comfortable with a typical media career arc will find this investment pays off reasonably well over time.
Where Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all radio, television, and digital communication bachelors'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 University-Zanesville Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Ohio University-Zanesville Campus graduates earn $29k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all radio, television, and digital communication bachelors 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 bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (28 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University-Zanesville Campus | $29,086 | $41,203 | $25,000 | 0.86 |
| Miami University-Hamilton | $50,938 | $59,993 | $24,250 | 0.48 |
| Miami University-Middletown | $50,938 | $59,993 | $24,250 | 0.48 |
| Miami University-Oxford | $50,938 | $59,993 | $24,250 | 0.48 |
| Cedarville University | $33,554 | $37,230 | $15,250 | 0.45 |
| University of Akron Main Campus | $31,699 | $34,810 | $26,000 | 0.82 |
| National Median | $29,976 | — | $24,250 | 0.81 |
Other Radio, Television, and Digital Communication Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton | $7,278 | $50,938 | $24,250 |
| Miami University-Middletown Middletown | $7,278 | $50,938 | $24,250 |
| Miami University-Oxford Oxford | $17,809 | $50,938 | $24,250 |
| Cedarville University Cedarville | $36,078 | $33,554 | $15,250 |
| University of Akron Main Campus Akron | $12,799 | $31,699 | $26,000 |
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 University-Zanesville Campus, approximately 10% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 305 graduates with reported earnings and 315 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.