Communication and Media Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Media programs in Kentucky vary widely in outcomes, and here's where limited data becomes a real constraint. With too few graduates to report actual figures, we're working with estimates based on five similar faith-based institutions in the state—not ideal when you're making a major financial decision. Those estimates suggest around $26,000 in debt leading to first-year earnings of roughly $35,000, which aligns almost perfectly with national norms for communications degrees.

The comparison with Kentucky's established programs tells a concerning story, though. Eastern Kentucky's communications graduates earn about $5,500 more than these estimates suggest, and even smaller Georgetown College reports higher starting pay. Since none of the zero-percent Pell grant recipients here likely need financial aid anyway, the debt load may matter less for this particular student body—but that doesn't change the earnings picture. A communications degree is already among the lower-earning bachelor's credentials nationally, and starting below Kentucky's median for the field compounds that challenge.

The lack of actual graduate data reflects the seminary's primary mission (it's predominantly a theological institution) and suggests communications isn't a core strength. If your child can access the established media programs at UK or Louisville, those show demonstrably better outcomes. If the religious environment is the priority, understand you're paying for something beyond career preparation—and the career numbers reflect that trade-off.