Communication and Media Studies at University of Southern Indiana

The striking 72% earnings jump at University of Southern Indiana's Communication and Media Studies program tells an unusual story: graduates who start at $29,000 see their pay climb to over $50,000 by year four. That's encouraging, but it requires weathering that difficult first year when earnings fall well below both the Indiana median ($34,213) and national average ($34,959). In Indiana's competitive communication landscape—where this program ranks in just the 25th percentile—early-career finances will be tight.

The $17,860 debt load is the program's saving grace. It's substantially lower than both the state ($25,144) and national ($25,000) medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio even during that challenging first year. By year four, when graduates are earning $50,000, they're actually outpacing the top programs in Indiana, suggesting the initial career lag may be about entry-level positioning rather than program quality. The moderate sample size adds some uncertainty, but the trajectory is clear.

Parents should plan for their child to need financial support during that first year or two after graduation. If you can help bridge that gap—or if your student can line up internships that lead to stronger initial placement—the long-term outcome compares favorably to pricier Indiana alternatives. Just know you're trading a slower launch for lower debt.