Journalism at Rowan University

Rowan's journalism program demonstrates something unusual in this field: meaningful earnings growth over time. While graduates start near the national median at $34,038, they reach $50,157 by year four—a 47% increase that outpaces the typical trajectory for journalism majors. Within New Jersey, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, placing it solidly above the state median and ahead of larger competitors like Rutgers and Montclair State.

The debt picture is reasonable at $24,238, translating to a 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable compared to many other fields. That first year will feel tight financially, but the trajectory matters here. By year four, earnings have caught up enough to make the investment look substantially better than it does at graduation.

For a family evaluating journalism programs in New Jersey, Rowan offers better outcomes than most in-state options at what's likely a lower sticker price than private alternatives. The key question is whether your student is committed to sticking with journalism or communications work through those crucial early years when the earnings growth happens. If they're willing to build experience and advance in the field, the numbers suggest this program delivers.