Communication and Media Studies at The Catholic University of America

Catholic University's Communications program outperforms most schools nationally but lands in the middle of DC's competitive market. Starting at $43,259, graduates earn roughly $20,000 more than the national median—placing them in the 92nd percentile compared to similar programs across the country. However, within DC itself, where seven schools compete in this field, it ranks 60th percentile, trailing George Washington by about $7,000 but well ahead of Gallaudet.

The financial equation looks manageable: $27,000 in debt against first-year earnings creates a 0.62 ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly seven months of salary. That's better than three-quarters of programs nationally. More encouraging is the 44% earnings jump to $62,150 by year four, suggesting graduates successfully leverage DC's media landscape—home to news outlets, advocacy groups, and government communications roles—to advance their careers.

The catch is sample size: fewer than 30 recent graduates means one unusually successful (or struggling) cohort could skew these numbers significantly. Still, being roughly $7,000 below GW while likely paying less in tuition (and carrying similar debt) positions this as a reasonable option for students who want DC's professional opportunities without paying top-tier prices. Just recognize you're betting on limited data and middle-of-the-pack outcomes in a city where communications credentials compete heavily.