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Communication and Media Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $35,808/yr (2% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 8.3x earnings multiple (3.5x out-of-state)

Ranked #257 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	$557K	$549K	$501K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	8.5x	8.3x	7.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	3.6x	3.5x	3.2x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	40	39	32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$65,832

Out-of-state: $156,168 (3.5x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$77,808

-18% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,500

7.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$56,586

58% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $35,808/yr, Communication and Media Studies graduates from Virginia Commonwealth University land near the $35,147 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

A 8.3x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

The 10% 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 $21,500 against $35,808/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #257 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Virginia Commonwealth University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $35,808-to-$56,586 earnings arc over five years reflects a 58% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Virginia Commonwealth University

With 93% of applicants admitted, Virginia Commonwealth University prioritizes broad access, with 20,797 students enrolled in Richmond, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Virginia Commonwealth 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 Virginia Commonwealth University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Virginia Commonwealth 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 Virginia Commonwealth 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 →