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Communication and Media Studies at University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $34,654/yr (-1% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 10.4x earnings multiple (5.3x out-of-state)

Ranked #403 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	$440K	$447K	$428K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	10.2x	10.4x	9.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	5.2x	5.3x	5.0x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	32	32	25

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$43,040

Out-of-state: $84,872 (5.3x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$46,444

-8% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$25,802

8.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$37,483

8% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $34,654/yr, Communication and Media Studies graduates from University of South Carolina Aiken land near the $35,147 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 10.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 3% 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 $25,802 against $34,654/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #403 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places University of South Carolina Aiken in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The limited growth from $34,654 to $37,483 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About University of South Carolina Aiken

With 80% of applicants admitted, University of South Carolina Aiken prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 2,805 students in Aiken, SC.

See all programs and financial aid at University of South Carolina Aiken →

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 University of South Carolina Aiken

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 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at University of South Carolina Aiken?

At 32/100, 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 University of South Carolina Aiken?

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 →