Communication and Media Studies at University of Kansas

KU's communication program punches well above its weight class, with first-year earnings of $40,772 that exceed the national median by 17% and beat most Kansas competitors. More importantly, earnings climb to $52,304 by year four—a 28% increase that suggests graduates are building real career momentum rather than hitting a ceiling. With manageable debt of $22,250, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio that stays below 0.6 even in the first year, when money is typically tightest.

The value story here is about trajectory. While KU trails Washburn slightly in starting salaries, graduates are clearing the 80th percentile nationally in their field—landing in the top fifth of all communication programs across 1,132 schools. At 60th percentile within Kansas, this program outperforms the state median by over $7,000 annually, which compounds significantly over a career. The debt load sits below both state and national averages, making the investment easier to manage.

For an accessible Big 12 school (88% admission rate), these outcomes deliver solid returns. Communication degrees often face skepticism about earning power, but KU's graduates demonstrate clear career progression and above-average compensation. The combination of reasonable debt, strong earnings growth, and top-quintile national performance makes this a defensible choice for students serious about the field.