Analysis
Walsh University's Communication program graduates start at nearly $30,000—substantially below both the Ohio median ($35,804) and national average ($34,959). Among Ohio's 54 Communication programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of similar programs produce higher-earning graduates. For context, Ohio State grads in this field earn $41,000, while University of Cincinnati grads make about the same—both roughly $11,000 more right out of college.
The 33% earnings jump by year four is encouraging, bringing graduates closer to $40,000, but that's still starting from a low base. With $27,000 in debt (slightly above state and national medians), the first year presents a tight financial situation—the debt nearly equals that initial salary. The debt-to-earnings ratio improves significantly as earnings grow, but those early years could be challenging for loan repayment.
The critical caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, making it statistically unreliable. A few outliers could skew the picture dramatically. If your child is seriously considering Walsh for Communication, request more detailed placement data directly from the school and compare specific career outcomes to Ohio's stronger-performing programs. The current numbers suggest this program underperforms its in-state peers, but the small sample makes definitive conclusions risky.
Where Walsh University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Walsh University 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walsh University | $29,861 | $39,794 | +33% |
| University of Dayton | $42,629 | $60,466 | +42% |
| John Carroll University | $41,072 | $55,079 | +34% |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $41,232 | $54,473 | +32% |
| Denison University | $47,396 | $52,234 | +10% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (54 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,595 | $29,861 | $39,794 | $27,000 | 0.90 | |
| $64,000 | $47,396 | $52,234 | $25,187 | 0.53 | |
| $47,600 | $42,629 | $60,466 | $25,375 | 0.60 | |
| $12,859 | $41,232 | $54,473 | $23,500 | 0.57 | |
| $13,570 | $41,138 | $46,535 | $23,816 | 0.58 | |
| $49,100 | $41,072 | $55,079 | $27,000 | 0.66 | |
| 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 Walsh University, approximately 23% 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.