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Journalism at Radford University

Radford, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $25,675/yr (-25% vs median)

AI Risk Very High (64% exposed)

Job Market Large (50,500 openings/yr)

ROI 10.9x earnings multiple (5.3x out-of-state)

Ranked #156 of 178 Journalism programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Journalism graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$540K	$534K	$490K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.0x	10.9x	10.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	5.4x	5.3x	4.9x
Probability of Field Employment	53%	46%	31%
DegreeOutlook Score	26	26	24

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$49,144

Out-of-state: $100,740 (5.3x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$66,560

-35% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$26,000

12.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$48,517

89% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $25,675/yr fall 25% below the $34,417 national median for Journalism. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 10.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Journalism career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At a 1.0x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.

A #156 ranking among 178 Journalism programs places Radford University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $25,675-to-$48,517 earnings arc over five years reflects a 89% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Radford University

Radford University has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 5,609 students in Radford, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Radford University →

Top Career Paths

Communications teachers, postsecondary $77,800/yr

Editors $75,260/yr

Writers and authors $72,270/yr

View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Journalism at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Journalism at Radford University?

At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Journalism programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

What's the payoff timeline for a Journalism degree from Radford University?

At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.

Should I worry about AI if I study Journalism at Radford University?

The 64% 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.

Is Radford University a good choice for Journalism despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If Radford University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.

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