Analysis
Based on comparable journalism programs in Indiana, University of Evansville's estimated first-year earnings of $38,540 align closely with the state median and exceed the national benchmark by roughly $4,000. The estimated $25,000 debt load—slightly above the national median for journalism programs—produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65, suggesting graduates would dedicate about eight months of pre-tax income to debt repayment. This falls within a manageable range, though journalism remains a field where earnings growth matters more than starting salary.
The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here since the school's actual graduate outcomes aren't reported due to small sample sizes. Similar Indiana programs show significant variation—Ball State's journalism grads start around $31,400 while IU-Bloomington reaches nearly $40,000. Where University of Evansville falls within that spectrum depends on factors we can't see in these peer-derived numbers: local media connections, alumni networks, and whether graduates stay in smaller Indiana markets or move to larger metros.
For parents considering this investment, the estimated figures suggest reasonable—not exceptional—value for a private university journalism program. The debt burden appears serviceable if your child lands near the state median, but journalism careers often require geographic flexibility and patience before reaching stable income. If your child has admission offers from Indiana's public universities with reported outcomes, those programs offer more certainty about what you're actually buying.
Where University of Evansville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all journalism bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Journalism bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,676 | $38,540* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $11,790 | $39,992* | $54,955 | $19,500* | 0.49 | |
| $10,449 | $38,540* | $40,760 | $22,837* | 0.59 | |
| $10,758 | $31,398* | $47,164 | $25,675* | 0.82 | |
| National Median | — | $34,515* | — | $24,250* | 0.70 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with journalism graduates
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Film and Video Editors
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Photographers
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Evansville, approximately 23% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in IN. Actual outcomes may vary.