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Communication and Media Studies at Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $31,913/yr (-9% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 10.2x earnings multiple

Ranked #246 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Communication and Media Studies graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$592K	$579K	$523K
Earnings Multiple	10.4x	10.2x	9.2x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	39	39	33

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$56,760

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$64,164

-13% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$27,000

10.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$59,377

86% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $31,913 track close to the $35,147 national median for Communication and Media Studies programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 10.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 12% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Communication and Media Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $27,000 against $31,913/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #246 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Central Michigan University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $31,913-to-$59,377 earnings arc over five years reflects a 86% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 9,916 students in Mount Pleasant, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Central Michigan University →

Top Career Paths

Public relations managers $138,520/yr

Fundraising managers $123,480/yr

Communications teachers, postsecondary $77,800/yr

View all 10 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Communication and Media Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at Central Michigan University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Central Michigan University?

At 39/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Communication and Media Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Communication and Media Studies at Central Michigan University?

The 55% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →