Analysis
Temple's Radio, Television, and Digital Communication program stands out as a strong performer within Pennsylvania, ranking in the 60th percentile among state programs despite starting graduates at relatively modest salaries. While first-year earnings of $29,112 sit slightly below the national median, the program's 56% earnings growth over four years brings graduates to $45,329โwell above both state and national benchmarks and matching the top program in Pennsylvania.
The debt picture offers genuine relief in a field often associated with financial struggle. At $26,000, graduates carry less debt than typical media programs both nationally and in Pennsylvania, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89. This means graduates can realistically handle their loan payments even during the lower-earning early career years that characterize media professions.
Temple delivers solid value for aspiring media professionals, particularly compared to in-state alternatives. The combination of reasonable debt, strong earnings trajectory, and above-average performance within Pennsylvania makes this program a sensible choice. Parents should feel confident that their investment positions graduates competitively in Pennsylvania's media market while avoiding the debt burdens that often plague communications majors elsewhere.
Where Temple University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all radio, television, and digital communication bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Temple University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple University | $29,112 | $45,329 | +56% |
| Lebanon Valley College | $45,286 | $57,115 | +26% |
| Point Park University | $17,479 | $39,930 | +128% |
| Kutztown University of Pennsylvania | $22,057 | $37,394 | +70% |
| University of Valley Forge | $28,751 | $36,790 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (29 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $22,082 | $29,112 | $45,329 | $26,000 | 0.89 | |
| $50,320 | $45,286 | $57,115 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $24,510 | $28,751 | $36,790 | $27,000 | 0.94 | |
| $12,512 | $23,309 | โ | $27,000 | 1.16 | |
| $11,230 | $22,057 | $37,394 | $27,000 | 1.22 | |
| $38,160 | $17,479 | $39,930 | $27,000 | 1.54 | |
| National Median | โ | $29,976 | โ | $24,250 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with radio, television, and digital communication graduates
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Producers and Directors
Media Programming Directors
Talent Directors
Media Technical Directors/Managers
Film and Video Editors
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
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 Temple University, approximately 30% 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 334 graduates with reported earnings and 346 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.