Communication and Media Studies at Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,899/yr (-6% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
12.7x earnings multiple (5.1x out-of-state)
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 | $492K | $492K | $461K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.7x | 12.7x | 11.9x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 5.1x | 5.1x | 4.7x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 37 | 36 | 30 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,848
Out-of-state: $97,248 (5.1x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,061
7.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,866
39% growth from Year 1
About Colorado Mesa University
With 81% of applicants admitted, Colorado Mesa University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 7,604 in Grand Junction, CO.
See all programs and financial aid at Colorado Mesa University →Top Career Paths
Public relations managers
$138,520/yr
Fundraising managers
$123,480/yr
Communications teachers, postsecondary
$77,800/yr
Compare & Explore
Communication and Media Studies at Other Schools
Other Majors at Colorado Mesa 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 36/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Colorado Mesa University?
At 36/100, 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 Colorado Mesa 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 →