Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

Oklahoma State's PR and advertising program starts graduates at $34,752—about $5,000 below the national median and $1,600 below Oklahoma's typical outcome. That places grads in just the 20th percentile nationally, meaning 80% of similar programs launch students into higher-paying first jobs. However, the story shifts dramatically by year four: earnings jump 48% to $51,274, surpassing both national and state averages by a significant margin. With moderate debt of $22,062, the initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 becomes quite manageable once that earnings trajectory kicks in.

The key question is whether families can weather those leaner early years. Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer entry-level communications jobs, but the lower starting salary means graduates might need roommates or family support initially. That said, reaching $51,000 within four years puts them ahead of peers from higher-ranked programs like OU, whose grads start stronger at $45,759 but may not see the same growth curve.

This program rewards patience. If your student can handle a modest lifestyle for those first couple of years—perhaps living at home or taking on side work—the trajectory suggests solid mid-career potential. The debt load won't be crushing even during the slow start, but families expecting immediate financial independence after graduation should factor in that reality.