Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Taylor University

Communications degrees typically face scrutiny over their return on investment, and based on comparable programs in Indiana, Taylor's outcomes land right at the state median—estimated first-year earnings around $38,900 against $27,000 in debt. That 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio sits slightly above the national median debt of $24,600, meaning graduates are carrying moderately more debt than peers nationwide for essentially the same starting salary. The estimates come from a small sample of similar programs in Indiana, so actual outcomes could vary, but they align closely with what's typical for this field.

The more concerning picture emerges when you look at what other Indiana schools report. Indiana Wesleyan produces graduates earning nearly $10,000 more in their first year, while Butler and Ball State also edge ahead of Taylor's estimated figure. Given that communications careers often require hustle and networking to build momentum, starting at the median rather than ahead of the pack matters. The field rewards early connections and portfolio building, and if peers from competitor programs are earning 15-25% more out of the gate, that gap compounds.

For parents weighing this program, understand you're looking at estimates suggesting a middle-of-the-road financial outcome in a competitive major. The debt load is manageable but not exceptional, and peer institutions appear to be launching graduates into slightly better starting positions. If your student is set on Taylor for fit or faith-based education, the financial picture isn't disqualifying—but they should know they're not buying a financial advantage in this particular program.