Communication and Media Studies at Westminster University

Westminster's Communication and Media Studies program shows concerning underperformance within Utah, ranking in just the 25th percentile statewide despite graduates taking on more debt than the state median ($24,454 vs. $17,292). While the program's first-year earnings of $33,649 sit close to the national median, they fall significantly short of Utah's typical $40,392—meaning Westminster grads earn roughly $7,000 less annually than peers from other Utah programs. Every other major program in the state delivers substantially higher outcomes, with even the lowest-ranked competitor outpacing Westminster by $4,000.

The strong 51% earnings growth to $50,739 by year four offers some reassurance, suggesting graduates find their footing over time. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable than data from larger programs. The debt burden, while not extreme, becomes more problematic given the weak starting earnings—that 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates are managing nearly nine months of income in student loans.

For Utah families, the value proposition here is weak compared to in-state alternatives. Unless Westminster offers specific program features or connections unavailable elsewhere, Utah Valley, Weber State, or the University of Utah would deliver better financial returns at comparable or lower debt levels.