Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at University of Central Oklahoma

University of Central Oklahoma's communication program graduates start behind the national curve at $36,388, landing in just the 29th percentile nationwide. But here's the more relevant comparison for Oklahoma families: within the state, this program sits at the 60th percentile—roughly matching the Oklahoma median and performing respectably against other in-state options. The relatively modest $21,500 debt load (below both state and national medians) keeps the program financially manageable, with debt representing just over half of first-year earnings.

The 24% earnings growth to $45,032 by year four suggests graduates gain traction in their careers, though they're still earning about $10,000 less annually than University of Oklahoma graduates in the same field. For families prioritizing in-state tuition and reasonable debt, UCO delivers a middle-of-the-road outcome. The program won't catapult graduates into high-earning positions, but the combination of controlled debt and steady salary progression means it's unlikely to create financial hardship either. Students should understand they're choosing accessibility and affordability over standout earning potential—a reasonable tradeoff if keeping costs down matters more than maximizing starting salary.