Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at Wichita State University

Wichita State's Communication Disorders program shows troubling first-year earnings of just $21,429—below both the Kansas median ($25,828) and the national average ($24,702), landing in the 25th percentile statewide. That initial figure is particularly concerning given it barely covers the $21,750 in typical debt, creating a tight financial squeeze right when graduates can least afford it. The University of Kansas's program, by comparison, produces graduates earning $30,227 from the start.

The dramatic turnaround by year four—earnings more than doubling to $46,211—suggests this program may be preparing students for graduate school or career paths that require additional training before paying off. Many speech-language pathology positions require a master's degree, which could explain why early earnings lag so significantly. If your child plans to stop at a bachelor's degree and enter the workforce immediately, these numbers indicate a rough financial start.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) means these figures could shift considerably with more data, but the pattern—low initial returns followed by strong growth—aligns with what you'd expect from a pre-professional program. If graduate school is the plan, factor in additional debt and delayed earnings. If not, understand that year one will likely mean living lean while building experience.