Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians at Rowan University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Rowan's audiovisual communications program starts graduates at $27,700—barely above the poverty line for a single adult—but shows impressive momentum with 34% earnings growth to $37,200 by year four. This trajectory outpaces most audiovisual tech programs nationally, placing Rowan in the 60th percentile despite the challenging first-year numbers. The $22,750 debt load, while below the national median for this field, still represents 82% of first-year earnings, meaning graduates face tight budgets early on while they build experience.
Here's the practical reality: audiovisual technology is a skills-based field where entry-level positions often pay modestly, but experience and technical proficiency command better compensation. The strong earnings growth suggests Rowan graduates are successfully moving into more specialized roles—video production, broadcast engineering, or corporate AV management—where their bachelor's degree differentiates them. With debt payments potentially consuming $250-300 monthly for ten years, the first few years will require careful budgeting or supplemental income.
This program makes sense for students genuinely passionate about production work who understand they're investing in career trajectory rather than immediate payoff. The earnings curve is moving in the right direction, but families should ensure their student can manage lean early years, possibly by living at home initially or securing higher-paying internships during school to minimize borrowing.
Where Rowan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all audiovisual communications technologies/technicians 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 Rowan University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Rowan University graduates earn $28k, placing them in the 60th percentile of all audiovisual communications technologies/technicians bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rowan University | $27,701 | $37,166 | $22,750 | 0.82 |
| National Median | $26,194 | — | $26,000 | 0.99 |
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 Rowan University, approximately 31% 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 174 graduates with reported earnings and 173 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.