Analysis
Rowan's Communication and Media Studies program outperforms most New Jersey competitors despite its lower sticker price. With graduates earning $34,549 initially and $49,835 by year four—a 44% jump—this program beats the New Jersey median by nearly $5,000 and ranks in the 60th percentile statewide. That's particularly notable given Rowan's accessible admission profile and the fact that only three NJ programs show stronger first-year earnings.
The $25,500 debt load sits right at the national and state median, creating a manageable 0.74 debt-to-earnings ratio that improves significantly as graduates gain experience. While the starting salary trails Rutgers and a few private competitors, the trajectory suggests Rowan graduates are building valuable skills that translate to better opportunities within a few years. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) means these aren't outlier results—they reflect consistent program outcomes.
For families weighing communication programs in New Jersey, Rowan offers solid middle-ground value. You're not paying premium tuition for marginally better outcomes, and the strong earnings growth suggests graduates aren't stuck in low-ceiling positions. The debt is reasonable enough that it shouldn't derail financial planning, especially as those year-four earnings approach $50,000.
Where Rowan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Rowan 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rowan University | $34,549 | $49,835 | +44% |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $43,649 | $60,479 | +39% |
| The College of New Jersey | $37,151 | $57,444 | +55% |
| Montclair State University | $28,062 | $57,399 | +105% |
| Monmouth University | $25,742 | $54,990 | +114% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Rowan UniversityGlassboro | $15,700 | $34,549 | $49,835 | $25,500 | 0.74 |
 Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick | $17,239 | $43,649 | $60,479 | $25,000 | 0.57 |
 Rider UniversityLawrenceville | $38,900 | $41,864 | — | — | — |
 The College of New JerseyEwing | $18,685 | $37,151 | $57,444 | $23,000 | 0.62 |
 Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan CampusTeaneck | $35,822 | $34,772 | $45,729 | $25,000 | 0.72 |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham CampusMadison | $35,822 | $34,772 | $45,729 | $25,000 | 0.72 |
| 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 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 101 graduates with reported earnings and 110 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.