Communication and Media Studies at Waynesburg University

Waynesburg's communication program lands right at Pennsylvania's median debt level ($27,000) but trails the state's typical earnings by about $3,000—a gap that matters when you're trying to pay back loans. Starting at $29,070 puts graduates below three-quarters of communication programs nationwide, though they do reach nearly $39,000 by year four. That 33% earnings growth is solid, but it's essentially catching up to where stronger programs start.

Within Pennsylvania's competitive landscape, this ranks middle-of-the-pack (40th percentile), meaning roughly 60% of the state's communication programs deliver better initial outcomes. The contrast with top Pennsylvania programs is stark—Penn and Villanova graduates earn nearly double out of the gate, while even regional competitors like Messiah produce graduates earning $16,000 more annually. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93 means your child would owe nearly a full year's salary, which is manageable but leaves little cushion if that first job doesn't materialize quickly.

The practical challenge: communication roles often cluster in major metros, and starting below $30,000 in Pennsylvania's smaller markets can mean tough budget choices early in a career. If your child is set on this field, the numbers suggest considering whether Penn State, Temple, or other state options might offer better launching points for similar in-state costs.