Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
University of Idaho's Graphic Communications program follows an unusual trajectory that should interest parents concerned about immediate job prospects. While first-year earnings of $25,848 barely cover the $26,958 in typical student debt, graduates see substantial income growth by year four, reaching $40,404—a 56% jump that significantly outpaces many creative majors. This pattern suggests graduates may start in entry-level positions but advance relatively quickly.
The program performs solidly within Idaho's limited market, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide, though only three institutions offer this degree in-state. Nationally, it sits squarely in the middle of the pack at the 52nd percentile. What's notable is that the earnings growth substantially outperforms typical graphic communications programs elsewhere—by year four, these graduates earn about $7,000 more annually than the national median suggests they would.
The challenge is weathering those first couple of years when debt payments will consume a significant portion of take-home pay. However, if your child can manage the initial financial squeeze (perhaps through parental support or careful budgeting), the four-year earnings suggest this program builds toward a viable career rather than a dead-end. The improving trajectory matters more here than the starting salary.
Where University of Idaho Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all graphic communications bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Idaho graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Idaho | $25,848 | $40,404 | +56% |
| Brigham Young University | $38,725 | $74,650 | +93% |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | $32,044 | $73,091 | +128% |
| Ringling College of Art and Design | $44,048 | $69,773 | +58% |
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | $49,029 | $67,063 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Graphic Communications bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of IdahoMoscow | $8,816 | $25,848 | $40,404 | $26,958 | 1.04 |
 Baker CollegeOwosso | $12,810 | $74,387 | $40,598 | $32,714 | 0.44 |
 Art Center College of DesignPasadena | $51,640 | $67,010 | — | $35,593 | 0.53 |
 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis ObispoSan Luis Obispo | $11,075 | $49,029 | $67,063 | $17,961 | 0.37 |
 University of Wisconsin-StoutMenomonie | $10,142 | $48,744 | $53,199 | $25,937 | 0.53 |
 University of Maryland Global CampusAdelphi | $7,992 | $46,581 | $65,334 | $26,038 | 0.56 |
| National Median | — | $25,330 | — | $27,000 | 1.07 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with graphic communications graduates
Explore Related Programs
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 Idaho, 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.
Sample Size: Based on 30 graduates with reported earnings and 31 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.