Journalism at University of Denver

By year four, this journalism program shows graduates earning $48,910—a meaningful jump from the estimated $35,187 first-year figure that aligns with the Colorado median. That trajectory matters because journalism is notorious for low starting salaries, and seeing earnings climb nearly 40% suggests graduates are finding their footing in competitive media markets or adjacent communications roles.

The estimated $25,000 debt load sits slightly above the state median but remains manageable given the four-year earnings. Peer programs in Colorado show considerable variation, with Metropolitan State graduates earning about $37,600 early on while University of Northern Colorado sits at $30,200. Denver's estimated starting point lands right in the middle of this range. The 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming for a field where many graduates spend their first year or two freelancing, interning, or working at smaller outlets before securing stable positions.

The real question is whether Denver's private school premium—evident in that $1,344 average SAT score and selective student body—translates into better media industry connections or career outcomes. If your child is considering this program, the four-year earnings data suggests graduates are advancing beyond entry-level positions, but the estimated figures mean you're making this decision without visibility into Denver's specific track record. The debt is reasonable, but only if those mid-career earnings continue climbing.