Communication and Media Studies at Delaware State University

Dover, DE · Public · Bachelor's Degree
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
33
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings $30,098/yr (-14% vs median)
AI Risk High (55% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 12.0x earnings multiple (6.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #357 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 $497K $497K $464K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.1x 12.0x 11.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.1x 6.1x 5.7x
Probability of Field Employment 46% 40% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 33 33 28

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,256
Out-of-state: $81,000 (6.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$62,980
-53% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
10.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,630
52% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Delaware State University's Communication and Media Studies program produces graduates earning $30,098/yr — within striking distance of the $35,147 national average for this field.

With a 12.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% 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 $25,000 against $30,098/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #357 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Delaware State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $30,098-to-$45,630 earnings arc over five years reflects a 52% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Delaware State University

Delaware State University's 62% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, with a smaller student body of 4,630 in Dover, DE. 43% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Delaware 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 Delaware State University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Delaware State University?
At 33/100, 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 Delaware 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →