Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Seattle University

Seattle University graduates in this field start at around $34,000—beating three-quarters of similar programs nationwide and landing above the Washington state median. While Central Washington offers comparable earnings, Seattle U's graduates carry notably less debt at $18,250, creating a more manageable financial picture than most alternatives.

The debt numbers tell an encouraging story here. At just 54% of first-year earnings, this debt load sits well below what's typical for media and communications programs, where graduates often juggle loans exceeding their initial salaries. You're looking at roughly $200 monthly in loan payments on an entry-level communications salary—tight but workable, especially in Seattle's robust media market.

The main consideration is whether $34,000 feels adequate for Seattle's cost of living. Entry-level positions in digital media rarely command premium salaries anywhere, but Seattle U's combination of reasonable debt and slightly above-average starting pay makes this a stronger financial foundation than most communications degrees offer. If your child is committed to this career path and values Seattle U's urban location for networking and internships, the numbers support that choice better than they do at most schools offering this major.