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Communication and Media Studies at Appalachian State University

Boone, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $38,331/yr (9% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 16.0x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)

Ranked #142 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs Top 25%

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	$482K	$483K	$454K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	16.0x	16.0x	15.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.9x	4.9x	4.6x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	44	44	37

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$30,164

Out-of-state: $98,148 (4.9x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$65,948

-119% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$19,500

6.1 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$45,568

19% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Appalachian State University's Communication and Media Studies graduates start at $38,331/yr — above the $35,147 national average, though not by a wide margin.

With a 16.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% 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 $19,500 against $38,331/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Appalachian State University ranks #142 among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $38,331 to $45,568 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Appalachian State University

A 89% acceptance rate means Appalachian State University is accessible to most applicants, serving 19,304 students in Boone, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at Appalachian State 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 Appalachian State 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 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Appalachian State University?

At 44/100, 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 Appalachian State 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.

Is Appalachian State University one of the best schools for Communication and Media Studies?

Among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs, Appalachian State University's #142 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.

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