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Graphic Communications at George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $29,192/yr (2% vs median)

AI Risk High (49% exposed)

Job Market Large (32,300 openings/yr)

ROI 11.0x earnings multiple (3.9x out-of-state)

Ranked #11 of 54 Graphic Communications programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Graphic Communications graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$627K	$610K	$543K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.4x	11.0x	9.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.0x	3.9x	3.4x
Probability of Field Employment	47%	41%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	35	35	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)

$55,260

Out-of-state: $157,588 (3.9x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$73,148

-32% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$22,985

9.4 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$61,613

111% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $29,192/yr, roughly in line with the $28,601 national median for Graphic Communications. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.

With a 11.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 13% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Graphic Communications career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,985 against $29,192/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

George Mason University ranks #11 among 54 Graphic Communications programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The $29,192-to-$61,613 earnings arc over five years reflects a 111% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About George Mason University

George Mason University accepts 89% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, with 27,083 students enrolled in Fairfax, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at George Mason University →

Top Career Paths

Special effects artists and animators $99,800/yr

Desktop publishers $53,620/yr

Prepress technicians and workers $47,300/yr

View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Graphic Communications at Other Schools

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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 35/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Graphic Communications at George Mason University?

At 35/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Graphic Communications programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Graphic Communications at George Mason University?

The 49% 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 George Mason University one of the best schools for Graphic Communications?

Among 54 Graphic Communications programs, George Mason University's #11 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 →