Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Communications

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$95,839

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$29,620

Avg. Net Price

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Many students today are considering their options in communications programs, a field that blends creativity with practicality. The average earnings for graduates from these programs stand at $96,056, indicating strong financial outcomes for those who choose wisely.

The schools on this list not only highlight impressive earnings but also showcase completion rates, debt levels, and mobility. These factors come together to provide a clearer picture of what students can expect post-graduation. For instance, the schools listed below have graduation rates averaging 84%, which suggests that students are not just enrolling but succeeding in their studies.

Take Santa Clara University and Washington and Lee University as examples. Santa Clara graduates earn an average of $109,183, while those from Washington and Lee make $94,810. However, Santa Clara's higher net price of $50,062 compared to Washington and Lee's more affordable $23,781 adds a layer of consideration for prospective students. This contrast may influence decisions about where to invest time and money.

Key Findings

Santa Clara University graduates earn an average of $109,183, the highest in this ranking.

Boston College boasts a graduation rate of 91%, indicating strong student success.

Northwestern University has the lowest debt among the top five schools, at $15,000.

Villanova University graduates earn $100,423, reflecting solid outcomes in the communications field.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $95,839

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $29,620

Avg. median debt $20,693

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings with program concentration in Communications

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA

Graduation88%

Earnings$109,183

Net Price$50,062

View full profile →

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA

Graduation91%

Earnings$103,937

Net Price$41,704

View full profile →

Villanova University

Villanova, PA

Graduation92%

Earnings$100,423

Net Price$43,756

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Located in sunny Santa Clara, California, this private nonprofit university has a graduation rate of 88%, which reflects a supportive community that helps students succeed. With a median earning of $109,183 ten years after graduation, many students find that their investment in education pays off significantly in their early careers.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College, nestled in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, is known for its commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its impressive 91% graduation rate. Alumni earn a median income of $103,937 a decade after leaving, suggesting that students who attend here are well-prepared for professional success.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

In Villanova, Pennsylvania, this university boasts a remarkable 92% graduation rate, signaling a strong commitment to student success and support. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $100,423 ten years after graduation, showcasing the value of a Villanova degree in the job market.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, is known for its small and tight-knit community, with just 1,881 students and a graduation rate of 94%. Graduates here enjoy a median earning of $94,810 after ten years, indicating strong career prospects for students who choose this path.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Southern California, located in the heart of Los Angeles, attracts 20,443 students eager to engage in a diverse array of programs and opportunities. With a graduation rate of 92%, USC stands out for its strong emphasis on a well-rounded education that prepares students for the fast-evolving job market. The median earnings of $92,498 ten years after graduation affirm that USC graduates are equipped to thrive in their careers.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, has built a reputation for academic excellence and student support. This private university is home to 9,201 students who engage in a vibrant campus life while preparing for successful careers. The strong alumni network and high median earnings of $89,363 at ten years post-graduation show that Northwestern graduates are well-positioned in the job market.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston, MA, enrolls 17,326 students and has carved a niche with its strong focus on experiential learning through co-op programs. This approach not only enhances academic learning but also positions students well for the job market, which is reflected in a graduation rate of 90% and median earnings of $92,538 after ten years. The university fosters an environment where students are encouraged to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, paving the way for successful careers.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $90,873 just ten years after graduation, George Washington University in Washington, DC, presents a strong case for students aiming for a lucrative career. The school’s commitment to a well-rounded education is reflected in its 85% graduation rate, suggesting that most students find the resources and support they need to succeed.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of San Francisco, a smaller student body of around 5,287 fosters a close-knit community in the heart of a vibrant city. While the graduation rate is lower at 71%, the university emphasizes social justice and community engagement, attracting students who are passionate about making a difference in the world.

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a beacon for students aspiring to excel in science and technology. The median earnings for graduates hit $143,372 at the ten-year mark, a testament to the school's commitment to equipping students with the skills needed in today's job market.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#11

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University combines rigorous academics with a vibrant campus culture, making it a prime choice for students eager to innovate. Its graduation rate of 92% and median earnings of $124,080 ten years after graduation indicate that Stanford graduates are well-positioned for success in various fields, from tech to the arts.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#12

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 84%, Fairfield University has successfully guided a significant number of its students to completion. The median earnings for graduates reach $88,794 ten years after enrollment, indicating strong career outcomes that suggest students leave well-prepared for the workforce.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

#13

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College, located in Wellesley, MA, is renowned for its focus on entrepreneurship, making it a natural choice for students interested in business. The impressive 93% graduation rate is indicative of a supportive environment that encourages students to excel, and with median earnings of $123,938 at ten years out, the financial rewards are compelling.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#14

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, MA, Bentley University is particularly well-suited for those seeking a business education that integrates technology and analytics. The school has a solid 88% graduation rate and an impressive median earning potential of $120,959 ten years after graduation, indicating that students often leave well-prepared for lucrative careers.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#15

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University is a bustling urban campus with over 18,000 students, providing ample opportunities for networking and career development in a major city. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its programs and community, drawing students from various backgrounds eager to make an impact.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#16

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University draws attention with a median earning of $90,008 for graduates a decade down the line, pointing to lucrative career paths for its alumni. The school's focus on business and entrepreneurship equips students with relevant skills, making them attractive to employers across various industries.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

#17

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston, MA, emphasizes healthcare education, making it an appealing option for students aiming for careers in health professions. While the graduation rate is lower at 63%, the median earnings of $125,557 at ten years out highlight the potential for significant financial rewards in the field.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

In Albany, the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences attracts students interested in pharmacy and related fields. With a graduation rate of 68% and median earnings of $131,426 at ten years, graduates leave with solid earning potential, reflecting the college's strong emphasis on career readiness in the healthcare sector.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#19

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

Fordham University in the Bronx is home to over 10,500 students. With a graduation rate of 81%, it prepares students for a strong future, reflected in the median earnings of $85,569 a decade after graduation.

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

#20

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

Nestled in San Luis Obispo, California Polytechnic State University attracts 21,996 students who are drawn to its hands-on learning philosophy and strong emphasis on engineering and technology. With an 86% graduation rate, Cal Poly graduates are prepared for the workforce, with median earnings of $90,768 ten years post-graduation. The university fosters a collaborative environment that encourages students to develop practical skills alongside their academic knowledge.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

#21

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of just 921, Harvey Mudd College fosters an intimate learning environment where collaboration thrives. Known for its rigorous STEM programs, the college boasts a remarkable 93% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#22

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, students find a supportive community with a strong focus on health sciences. Though the graduation rate is 69%, the median earnings of $137,047 ten years post-graduation indicate that graduates are well-prepared for the job market, especially in healthcare fields.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

#23

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

The University of San Diego, with its picturesque campus and commitment to social justice, draws in about 5,671 students seeking a well-rounded education. A graduation rate of 83% indicates that students are not only engaged but also supported in their educational journeys, allowing them to thrive in a vibrant academic community.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a low acceptance rate of just 13%, Davidson College in North Carolina cultivates a tight-knit community of 1,867 students who thrive in an academically rigorous environment. The impressive graduation rate of 91% speaks to the support and resources available to students, allowing them to excel both academically and personally during their time on campus.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#25

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of New York City, NYU is a vibrant community of nearly 29,000 students. The school boasts an impressive graduation rate of 88%, with graduates earning a median income of $82,509 ten years after they leave.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

Virginia Tech, situated in Blacksburg, is a large public university with about 30,900 students. The school has an 86% graduation rate and graduates earn a median of $81,698 a decade later, which speaks to the quality of education here.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#27

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh is a smaller institution with around 7,300 students, yet it boasts a graduation rate of 93%. Graduates earn a median of $114,862 after ten years, reflecting the school's strong focus on career readiness and innovation.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#28

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

Loyola University Maryland is situated in Baltimore, a city rich in history and culture. With a graduation rate of 80% and median earnings of $82,652 ten years after graduation, students can expect a supportive environment that prepares them for successful careers.

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#29

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the vibrant city of Portland, the University of Portland welcomes students into a close-knit community. With an impressive graduation rate of 80% and median earnings of $82,804 within a decade of graduation, it’s clear that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce successfully.

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 84%, Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, is known for its beautiful coastal campus and a strong sense of community. Students here often thrive in an environment that emphasizes faith and values, leading to a supportive atmosphere that can enhance academic success.

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

#31

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT · 6,531 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Hamden, Quinnipiac University is a smaller institution that cultivates a close-knit community while delivering a strong academic experience. With a graduation rate of 77%, students often find themselves engaged not just in their studies but also in various extracurricular activities that enhance their college life and prepare them for future careers.

72% accepted 77% graduate $83,759 earnings

Quinnipiac's full profile

#32

Manhattan University

Riverdale, NY · 2,744 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Riverdale, New York, Manhattan University caters to 2,744 students and emphasizes a personalized educational experience. With a graduation rate of 65%, it offers small class sizes and a supportive environment that encourages students to engage deeply with their studies and the community around them.

79% accepted 65% graduate $86,316 earnings

Manhattan's full profile

#33

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

Wake Forest University, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, prides itself on a strong academic tradition and a close-knit community. With a remarkable 90% graduation rate and median earnings of $78,158 ten years after graduation, students here are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen fields.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Saint Joseph's University has a graduation rate of 79%, reflecting its commitment to student support. The median earnings of $86,881 after ten years indicate that graduates find rewarding careers, particularly in fields like business and healthcare, which are prominent in the region.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD · 30,760 students · Public

Home to nearly 31,000 students, the University of Maryland-College Park offers a vibrant campus life and a diverse array of programs. With an 89% graduation rate, it balances accessibility with academic rigor, making it an appealing option for many students looking for a public university experience.

45% accepted 89% graduate $82,860 earnings

University's full profile

#36

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is renowned for its intense focus on science and engineering, attracting some of the brightest minds. With a graduation rate of 94%, the small campus community of just 987 students fosters collaboration and innovation, making it ideal for those who thrive in a challenging academic atmosphere.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#37

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering is known for its impressive 94% graduation rate, showcasing its dedication to student success in a challenging academic environment. Graduates earn a remarkable median income of $129,455 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the school's robust engineering programs and strong industry connections.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#38

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY · 15,477 students · Private nonprofit

Syracuse University offers a robust educational experience with a strong focus on practical learning and community engagement. The 82% graduation rate indicates that students are not only getting accepted but also finding their footing and completing their degrees, equipped with skills that employers value in the workforce.

46% accepted 82% graduate $79,164 earnings

Syracuse's full profile

#39

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia is a powerhouse in higher education, with a stunning graduation rate of 97%. Known for its interdisciplinary approach and strong emphasis on research, Penn attracts a diverse array of students eager to make an impact across various fields, from business to the humanities.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#40

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

In the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose State University attracts 27,601 students who are often eager to engage with the tech industry. The university’s location offers unique internship and job opportunities, making it a great choice for students looking to jumpstart careers in a rapidly evolving job market.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

Home to over 36,000 students, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a major public university known for its vibrant campus life and diverse academic offerings. Graduating 85% of its students, it fosters a culture of achievement and collaboration, where students can engage in research, clubs, and community initiatives that enhance their college experience.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

#42

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College in New York City offers a unique blend of academic rigor and urban excitement, catering particularly well to ambitious students drawn to business and public affairs. With 16,154 students and a graduation rate of 72%, Baruch is committed to providing a solid education that prepares students for the real world, often connecting them with valuable networking opportunities in one of the world's largest cities.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX · 7,277 students · Private nonprofit

Southern Methodist University, located in Dallas, TX, has a vibrant student body of 7,277 and a graduation rate of 84%. Known for its strong programs and engaging campus life, SMU encourages students to immerse themselves in both academics and extracurricular activities. The impressive median earnings of $78,354 ten years after graduation highlight the university's focus on career preparation and real-world skills.

63% accepted 84% graduate $78,354 earnings

Southern's full profile

#44

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

University of the Pacific

Stockton, CA · 3,204 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 68% graduate $78,445 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University, located in the picturesque town of Princeton, New Jersey, is known for its strong academic rigor and a tight-knit community of 5,709 students. The impressive 97% graduation rate reflects the institution's commitment to student success and the wealth of resources available, from personalized advising to world-class faculty engagement.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

#47

Gonzaga University

Spokane, WA · 5,198 students · Private nonprofit

82% accepted 87% graduate $78,892 earnings

Gonzaga's full profile

#48

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Provo, Utah, is home to Brigham Young University, where a large student body of 32,952 creates a lively campus atmosphere. The university emphasizes a values-based education, fostering personal growth alongside academic achievement, which resonates with many students seeking a well-rounded college experience.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#49

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#50

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI · 7,660 students · Private nonprofit

81% accepted 82% graduate $78,257 earnings

Marquette's full profile

The data reveals a notable distinction between Santa Clara University and Villanova University. While Santa Clara leads with an average earning of $109,183, it also comes with a net price of $50,062. In contrast, Villanova graduates earn $100,423 but have a lower net price of $43,756. This indicates that while Santa Clara may offer higher returns, it requires a larger upfront investment, which could impact students' financial situations post-graduation.

As you explore the 50 schools listed, consider how the data aligns with your personal priorities. Think about location, program fit, and financial implications. If you’re drawn to a school with a higher earning potential, weigh that against the debt you might incur. Look for a balance that matches your career aspirations and financial situation.

Ultimately, these figures reflect the broader implications of choosing the right college. With the right decision, one family could find a path from higher education to financial stability. It’s a critical choice, and understanding the numbers can help guide that decision.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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