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Communication and Media Studies at Emory University

Atlanta, GA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $37,237/yr (6% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 1.9x earnings multiple

Ranked #412 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs

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	$462K	$466K	$442K
Earnings Multiple	1.9x	1.9x	1.8x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	31	31	24

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$243,096

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$95,644

61% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,000

6.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $37,237/yr, edging above the $35,147 national average for Communication and Media Studies — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand.

At 1.9x tuition cost, the financial math is tight. Decade earnings don't dramatically exceed what you paid, making school choice and aid packages critical.

The 4% 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 $21,000 against $37,237/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #412 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Emory University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Emory University

Emory University admits 11% of applicants — among the most selective institutions in the country, serving 7,275 students in Atlanta, GA. The average net cost of $95,644 over four years represents a 61% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Emory 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 Emory 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 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Emory University?

At 31/100, 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 Emory 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.

What do students actually pay for Communication and Media Studies at Emory University?

The 61% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $243,096. At a net cost of $95,644, the earnings multiple improves substantially.

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