Communication and Media Studies at Lycoming College
Williamsport, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
23
Optimistic
23
Base Case
17
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,696/yr (-16% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
2.9x earnings multiple
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 | $564K | $554K | $505K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.0x | 2.9x | 2.6x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 23 | 23 | 17 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$190,700
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
10.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$54,573
84% growth from Year 1
About Lycoming College
Lycoming College accepts 68% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a smaller institution with 1,049 students in Williamsport, PA. 40% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity. The average net cost of $77,032 over four years represents a 60% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Lycoming College →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 Lycoming College
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
How does Lycoming College's Communication and Media Studies program score?
This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Communication and Media Studies. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Communication and Media Studies to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Communication and Media Studies careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 55% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Communication and Media Studies earnings lower at Lycoming College?
Lower starting pay at Lycoming College may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
How affordable is Communication and Media Studies at Lycoming College after financial aid?
Sticker price is $190,700, but the average net cost is $77,032 — a 60% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →