Analysis
Regent University's graphic communications program shows concerning first-year outcomes—graduates earn just $16,280 initially, landing in the bottom 5% nationally and well below Virginia's median of $22,736. While earnings jump dramatically to $35,813 by year four (outpacing both state and national medians), that first year creates real financial stress when combined with $26,000 in student debt. Compare this to George Mason's program, where graduates start at $29,192—nearly double Regent's initial earnings.
The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly with more data, but the pattern suggests either limited career preparation for immediate employment or graduates accepting unpaid internships or freelance work that takes time to monetize. That 120% earnings growth is impressive, yet parents should ask: can their student afford to earn less than $20,000 annually while servicing undergraduate debt?
If your child is set on this field, George Mason offers more immediate earning power in-state. Regent might work if your family can financially support those lean early years, but understand you're betting on a delayed payoff that, even when it arrives, still requires years to recoup the investment.
Where Regent University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all graphic communications bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Regent University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regent University | $16,280 | $35,813 | +120% |
| Brigham Young University | $38,725 | $74,650 | +93% |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | $32,044 | $73,091 | +128% |
| Ringling College of Art and Design | $44,048 | $69,773 | +58% |
| George Mason University | $29,192 | $53,634 | +84% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Graphic Communications bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Regent UniversityVirginia Beach | $20,686 | $16,280 | $35,813 | $26,000 | 1.60 |
 George Mason UniversityFairfax | $13,815 | $29,192 | $53,634 | $23,000 | 0.79 |
| National Median | — | $25,330 | — | $27,000 | 1.07 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with graphic communications graduates
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 Regent University, 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 24 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.