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Journalism at Iowa State University

Ames, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
42 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
43
Optimistic
42
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $39,347/yr (14% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (64% exposed)
Job Market Large (50,500 openings/yr)
ROI 12.4x earnings multiple (4.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #32 of 178 Journalism programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption		 Base Case
Gradual AI		 Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $524K $519K $480K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.5x 12.4x 11.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.7x 4.7x 4.3x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 46% 31%
DegreeOutlook Score 43 42 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)
$41,988
Out-of-state: $110,732 (4.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$72,660
-73% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
7.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$52,095
32% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $39,347 per year, Journalism graduates from Iowa State University earn slightly above the $34,417 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 12.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 8% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Journalism career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $23,250 against $39,347/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Iowa State University ranks #32 among 178 Journalism programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

A 32% earnings increase from $39,347 to $52,095 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Iowa State University

With 89% of applicants admitted, Iowa State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 25,033 in Ames, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at Iowa State University →

Top Career Paths

Communications teachers, postsecondary $77,800/yr
Editors $75,260/yr
Writers and authors $72,270/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Compare this program → View all 178 schools offering Journalism →

Journalism at Other Schools

George Washington University ($52,015) Northeastern University ($51,855) Northwestern University ($50,426) California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($48,637) University of Maryland-College Park ($46,893) Brigham Young University ($46,652) Lehigh University ($45,256) University of Southern California ($44,651)

Other Majors at Iowa State University

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering ($84,913) Computer Engineering ($79,182) Computer Science ($78,517) Construction Engineering ($77,845) Chemical Engineering ($76,184) Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering ($75,036) Industrial Engineering ($74,310) Mechanical Engineering ($72,900)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 42/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Journalism at Iowa State University?
At 42/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Journalism programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Journalism at Iowa State University?
The 64% 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 Iowa State University one of the best schools for Journalism?
Among 178 Journalism programs, Iowa State University's #32 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 →