Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $19,178 place DePaul University below the $28,601 national median for Graphic Communications — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 3.3x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 49% task exposure — and the 12% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $25,000 debt load exceeds a year of the $19,178 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
At #46 out of 54 programs, DePaul University's financial outcomes for Graphic Communications trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $19,178 to $50,382 over five years (163% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.