Analysis
University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Communication and Media Studies program delivers respectable national value—ranking in the 75th percentile for earnings among over 1,100 similar programs—but parents of Nebraska students should know it actually trails the state median. First-year graduates earn $39,702, slightly below Nebraska's typical $40,445 for this degree, and several hundred dollars less than nearby University of Nebraska at Omaha and Nebraska Wesleyan. The debt load of $22,138 sits comfortably below both state and national benchmarks, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56.
The more compelling story emerges after four years, when earnings jump 45% to $57,735. This trajectory suggests graduates are moving beyond entry-level communications roles into positions with real earning power. That growth pattern helps offset the program's middle-of-the-pack standing among Nebraska schools.
For families weighing in-state options, this program represents a solid foundation rather than a standout performer. The modest debt and strong earnings growth make it a reasonable choice if your student is drawn to UNL's broader campus experience, but purely from an earnings perspective, UNO's program offers slightly better first-year outcomes at comparable cost. The program works best for students confident they'll leverage it into career advancement—those earnings gains don't happen automatically.
Where University of Nebraska-Lincoln Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 Nebraska-Lincoln | $39,702 | $57,735 | +45% |
| Cornell University | $62,182 | $80,616 | +30% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $53,022 | $77,464 | +46% |
| Northwestern University | $52,210 | $77,066 | +48% |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | $41,327 | $43,624 | +6% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln | $10,108 | $39,702 | $57,735 | $22,138 | 0.56 |
 University of Nebraska at OmahaOmaha | $8,370 | $41,327 | $43,624 | $23,250 | 0.56 |
 Nebraska Wesleyan UniversityLincoln | $41,658 | $41,188 | — | $25,500 | 0.62 |
 Wayne State CollegeWayne | $7,970 | $35,833 | — | $25,325 | 0.71 |
| National Median | — | $34,959 | — | $25,000 | 0.72 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with communication and media studies graduates
Public Relations Managers
Fundraising Managers
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Public Relations Specialists
Fundraisers
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
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 Nebraska-Lincoln, approximately 22% 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 56 graduates with reported earnings and 56 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.