Journalism at University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

University of Cincinnati's journalism program produces graduates earning about 10% less than the typical Ohio journalism grad—$34,829 versus the state median of $38,246. While that places it in the 40th percentile statewide, there's a silver lining: students here graduate with slightly more debt than the state average ($26,250 vs. $24,208), but still below the national median. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75 means graduates face roughly 9 months of their first-year salary in loans, which is manageable though not exceptional for journalism.

The comparison to other Ohio programs tells the real story. Bowling Green graduates earn nearly $6,300 more in their first year, and multiple Ohio University campuses outperform UC by $3,400. For a field where entry-level salaries already run tight, that difference matters when making rent and loan payments. UC's 88% admission rate and the moderate sample size suggest this is a stable, accessible program—just not one that's distinguishing itself in Ohio's competitive journalism market.

If your child is set on journalism and UC for other reasons (location, campus fit, other academic interests), the debt load won't bury them. But if journalism is the priority and they have options, programs like Bowling Green appear to deliver stronger earning potential out of the gate without dramatically different debt burdens.