Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Purdue University Global
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Purdue Global's program charges nearly double the typical debt load for Radio, Television, and Digital Communication degrees, but the earnings justify the investment. At $48,015, graduates earn 60% more than the national median and outpace every other Indiana program by significant margins. Even the second-best in-state option (University of Southern Indiana at $34,685) falls $13,000 short. This ranking in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th within Indiana isn't just noise—it reflects genuine market value.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.96 means graduates can theoretically pay off loans in under a year if they prioritize it, which is exceptional for a field that typically sees lower starting salaries. The $46,125 debt burden sits at the higher end but remains manageable given the income trajectory. For context, the typical program in this field carries $24,250 in debt but only delivers $29,976 in earnings—leaving graduates with similar relative burdens but far less absolute earning power.
The nearly 50% Pell Grant population suggests this program successfully serves students who need strong outcomes to justify college costs. If your child is serious about a media career and comparing Indiana options, Purdue Global's track record of placing graduates into higher-paying positions makes the debt premium worthwhile.
Where Purdue University Global 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 Purdue University Global graduates compare to all programs nationally
Purdue University Global graduates earn $48k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all radio, television, and digital communication bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (18 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue University Global | $48,015 | — | $46,125 | 0.96 |
| University of Southern Indiana | $34,685 | $31,115 | — | — |
| Ball State University | $32,118 | $40,496 | $23,443 | 0.73 |
| Indiana University-South Bend | $30,190 | — | $22,625 | 0.75 |
| Indiana University-Indianapolis | $28,508 | $45,940 | $22,959 | 0.81 |
| National Median | $29,976 | — | $24,250 | 0.81 |
Other Radio, Television, and Digital Communication Programs in Indiana
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Indiana schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern Indiana Evansville | $10,136 | $34,685 | — |
| Ball State University Muncie | $10,758 | $32,118 | $23,443 |
| Indiana University-South Bend South Bend | $8,179 | $30,190 | $22,625 |
| Indiana University-Indianapolis Indianapolis | $10,449 | $28,508 | $22,959 |
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 Purdue University Global, approximately 48% 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 37 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.