Median Earnings (1yr)
$29,086
44th percentile (60th in OH)
Median Debt
$25,000
3% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.86
Manageable
Sample Size
305
Adequate data

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

Ohio University-Zanesville CampusOther radio, television, and digital communication programs

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)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ohio University-Zanesville Campus$29,086$41,203$25,0000.86
Miami University-Hamilton$50,938$59,993$24,2500.48
Miami University-Middletown$50,938$59,993$24,2500.48
Miami University-Oxford$50,938$59,993$24,2500.48
Cedarville University$33,554$37,230$15,2500.45
University of Akron Main Campus$31,699$34,810$26,0000.82
National Median$29,976$24,2500.81

Other Radio, Television, and Digital Communication Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (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.