Analysis
Similar communication programs in Colorado suggest first-year earnings around $37,000, but by year four this program's graduates reach $53,344—a meaningful jump that outpaces many peer schools in the state. The estimated $26,000 debt load translates to a 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio, which is manageable compared to many liberal arts degrees and aligns closely with what comparable programs nationally produce.
What makes this trajectory interesting is how it compares to Colorado's communication programs with reported data. While CSU Global leads at $49,436, Regis appears positioned in the middle tier by year four, above state stalwarts like CU Boulder and Colorado Christian. That suggests the program may offer competitive career preparation, though without reported first-year data for this specific school, the early earnings picture relies on state averages.
For parents weighing this investment, the debt burden seems reasonable given the four-year earnings, but recognize you're working with educated estimates rather than verified outcomes from Regis graduates. The stronger four-year number is encouraging, but if your student needs immediate post-graduation earning power—perhaps to start repayment quickly—confirming the actual early-career placement rates directly with the school would be wise before committing.
Where Regis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regis University | — | $53,344 | — |
| Colorado State University Global | $49,436 | $59,821 | +21% |
| University of Colorado Boulder | $39,738 | $56,211 | +41% |
| University of Denver | $36,234 | $53,098 | +47% |
| University of Northern Colorado | $34,892 | $47,866 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,980 | $37,066* | $53,344 | $26,000* | — | |
| $8,400 | $49,436* | $59,821 | $32,010* | 0.65 | |
| $16,430 | $39,738* | $56,211 | $17,500* | 0.44 | |
| $10,017 | $39,662* | $47,203 | $27,000* | 0.68 | |
| $12,896 | $38,731* | $45,258 | $24,647* | 0.64 | |
| $39,266 | $37,129* | $36,746 | $26,000* | 0.70 | |
| National Median | — | $34,959* | — | $25,000* | 0.72 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with communication and media studies graduates
Public Relations Managers
Fundraising Managers
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Public Relations Specialists
Fundraisers
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
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 Regis University, 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 10 similar programs in CO. Actual outcomes may vary.