Communication and Media Studies at Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State's communication program delivers slightly above-average earnings at a below-average price—a combination that puts it ahead of most Michigan options. Starting at $36,348 and climbing to $41,112 by year four, graduates earn more than the typical Michigan communications major ($36,016) while carrying just $28,000 in debt, less than 80% of their first-year salary. Among Michigan's 34 programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, meaning it outperforms more than half the state's offerings despite SVSU's accessible admission standards.

The debt picture is particularly favorable. At the 5th percentile nationally for student loans, this is one of the more affordable ways to study communications. That matters in a field where many graduates don't see dramatic salary jumps—though the 13% earnings growth here is respectable, putting graduates over $40,000 by their mid-20s.

The realistic comparison isn't University of Michigan ($50,556 starting), which serves a different student population. It's against schools like Eastern Michigan ($36,717) or the median Michigan program, where SVSU holds its own while likely costing less. For families seeking an affordable communications degree with earnings potential that exceeds state averages, this program offers solid value—especially if keeping debt manageable is a priority.