Communication and Media Studies at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis communication program starts rough but shows impressive momentum—graduates earn just $26,922 initially, landing in the 10th percentile nationally, but four years out they've reached $37,313, a 39% jump that outpaces the national median. This growth trajectory matters for families worried about those first lean years, though it doesn't fully close the gap with Tennessee's stronger programs at Belmont ($41,889) and UT-Knoxville ($41,258).

Within Tennessee, this program sits right at the state median, ranking in the 40th percentile among 25 communication programs. The $23,381 in debt is manageable—less than Tennessee's median and representing just 0.87 times first-year earnings. An accessible school serving many Pell-eligible students, Memphis delivers a communication degree that eventually hits respectable earning power without crushing debt.

The path here requires patience through those early career years when earnings lag significantly behind peers. But for Tennessee families seeking an affordable entry point into media work with solid growth potential, this represents a workable investment—just understand you're trading immediate earning power for a steadier climb up the salary ladder.