Analysis
University of Northern Iowa's graphic communications graduates earn substantially more than their peers nationally—$36,419 versus the national median of $25,330—landing in the 81st percentile. With manageable debt at $21,070 (below the national median of $27,000), graduates carry a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.58, meaning debt represents roughly seven months of first-year salary. Strong 21% earnings growth to $44,174 by year four suggests graduates are building valuable skills that translate to career progression.
The caveat here is meaningful: with fewer than 30 graduates in this cohort, these numbers could shift significantly with a larger sample. Iowa offers only four graphic communications programs, making it difficult to draw strong state-level comparisons. Still, UNI's accessible admission (94% acceptance rate) paired with these earnings outcomes suggests the program delivers practical value without requiring top academic credentials.
For a family considering graphic design as a career path, this program offers a realistic entry point. The debt load is reasonable enough to manage on a $36,000+ starting salary, and the upward earnings trajectory indicates employers value what UNI teaches. Just recognize that individual outcomes will vary, especially given the small graduate pool and the creative nature of this field where success depends heavily on portfolio quality and networking.
Where University of Northern Iowa Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all graphic communications bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Northern Iowa 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 Northern Iowa | $36,419 | $44,174 | +21% |
| 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 Northern IowaCedar Falls | $9,728 | $36,419 | $44,174 | $21,070 | 0.58 |
 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
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 Northern Iowa, approximately 24% 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 20 graduates with reported earnings and 21 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.