Analysis
Oklahoma State's journalism program sits at an interesting crossroads: while it trails national medians by about $3,500, it actually performs above average within Oklahoma, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. With University of Oklahoma journalism grads earning $36,744 and University of Central Oklahoma grads earning $28,139, OSU lands squarely in the middle of the state's range.
The $22,750 debt load is actually lighter than both the state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.73—not ideal, but workable for a journalism degree. First-year earnings of $31,068 are modest, though this reflects the reality of entry-level media salaries everywhere, not a failing specific to OSU. For students committed to staying in Oklahoma's media market, this program delivers competitive preparation without excessive debt.
The significant caveat here is sample size—with fewer than 30 recent graduates reporting data, a handful of career outcomes heavily influence these numbers. If your child is serious about journalism, focus less on these specific figures and more on the program's industry connections, internship pipeline, and whether they're targeting Oklahoma media markets where OSU's network is strongest. The financial picture is survivable but tight, especially in journalism's early years.
Where Oklahoma State University-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all journalism bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Oklahoma State University-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Journalism bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,234 | $31,068 | — | $22,750 | 0.73 | |
| $9,595 | $36,744 | $48,285 | $24,250 | 0.66 | |
| $8,522 | $28,139 | $37,152 | $26,000 | 0.92 | |
| National Median | — | $34,515 | — | $24,250 | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with journalism graduates
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Film and Video Editors
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Photographers
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
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 Oklahoma State University-Main Campus, approximately 26% 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 21 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.