Analysis
SCAD's graphic communications program starts graduates at below-average salaries but delivers impressive earnings growth that changes the financial picture significantly. While first-year earnings of $23,451 trail the national median by about $2,000, graduates see a remarkable 78% salary jump by year four, reaching $41,688—well above what most graphic communications programs achieve nationally.
The debt load of $26,748 creates a manageable 1.14 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates can expect to earn slightly more than their total debt in their first year. More importantly, the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Georgia's limited graphic communications options, though with only two schools offering this major statewide, that comparison has less meaning than usual. The real story is the earnings trajectory—few programs in this field show such strong mid-career growth.
For parents, this represents a solid investment in a field known for modest starting salaries. The program's strength lies not in immediate post-graduation earnings but in preparing students for career advancement. With robust sample size backing these numbers, families can feel confident that SCAD graduates in this field typically see meaningful salary growth within four years, making the initial financial sacrifice worthwhile.
Where Savannah College of Art and Design Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all graphic communications bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Savannah College of Art and Design 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savannah College of Art and Design | $23,451 | $41,688 | +78% |
| Brigham Young University | $38,725 | $74,650 | +93% |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | $32,044 | $73,091 | +128% |
| Ringling College of Art and Design | $44,048 | $69,773 | +58% |
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | $49,029 | $67,063 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Graphic Communications bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Savannah College of Art and DesignSavannah | $40,595 | $23,451 | $41,688 | $26,748 | 1.14 |
 Baker CollegeOwosso | $12,810 | $74,387 | $40,598 | $32,714 | 0.44 |
 Art Center College of DesignPasadena | $51,640 | $67,010 | — | $35,593 | 0.53 |
 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis ObispoSan Luis Obispo | $11,075 | $49,029 | $67,063 | $17,961 | 0.37 |
 University of Wisconsin-StoutMenomonie | $10,142 | $48,744 | $53,199 | $25,937 | 0.53 |
 University of Maryland Global CampusAdelphi | $7,992 | $46,581 | $65,334 | $26,038 | 0.56 |
| National Median | — | $25,330 | — | $27,000 | 1.07 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with graphic communications graduates
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 Savannah College of Art and Design, approximately 19% 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 382 graduates with reported earnings and 397 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.