Communication and Media Studies at University of Hartford

University of Hartford's communication program starts graduates at $32,186—slightly below both the national and Connecticut medians—but the trajectory tells a more interesting story. Four-year earnings jump 43% to $46,075, ultimately surpassing Fairfield's communication grads and landing well above the state average. That growth pattern suggests graduates are finding their footing in the field, even if entry-level positions don't pay premium salaries.

The debt picture is reasonable. At $26,374, it's roughly in line with what students borrow for this major nationally and across Connecticut. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.82 means graduates owe less than one year's starting salary—manageable if you can navigate those first couple of years on a tighter budget. The real question is whether your child can weather the initial earnings phase, which will likely mean shared apartments and careful spending.

If your child is passionate about media and communications, this program delivers tangible career momentum after that first year. The four-year earnings put Hartford graduates ahead of flagship UConn's communication majors, which is notable given the selectivity difference between the schools. Just make sure they understand the financial reality of year one and have a plan—whether that's living at home, finding roommates, or supplementing income with side work—to manage debt payments on an entry-level salary.