Communication, Journalism, at University of Nebraska at Omaha

At nearly $40,000 in first-year earnings, UNO's communication and journalism program outperforms three-quarters of similar programs nationwide—a meaningful advantage in a field where many graduates struggle to break $35,000. The $22,576 debt load translates to monthly payments around $250, which is manageable on this salary though it will require careful budgeting in those early career years.

The 74th percentile national ranking tells you this program punches above its weight for an 87% admission rate school. For Nebraska families, it's worth noting this is the only in-state option for this major, which makes the comparison straightforward: you're getting solid results at a regional price point. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 suggests graduates can realistically handle repayment, assuming they secure work in their field quickly.

The real question is trajectory. Communication degrees can lead to vastly different outcomes depending on whether graduates land in corporate communications, nonprofit work, or entry-level media positions. That $39,400 provides a livable starting point in Omaha's cost of living, but students should build internship experience and professional networks aggressively—this isn't a credential that opens doors on its own. For in-state students avoiding six-figure debt elsewhere, this represents a responsible path into the field.