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Communication and Media Studies at Mercer University

Macon, GA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $35,712/yr (2% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 3.3x earnings multiple

Ranked #444 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	$540K	$534K	$490K
Earnings Multiple	3.3x	3.3x	3.0x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	30	29	22

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$163,560

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$89,400

45% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$24,990

8.4 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$54,048

51% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Mercer University's Communication and Media Studies program produces graduates earning $35,712/yr — within striking distance of the $35,147 national average for this field.

At 3.3x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 9% 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 $24,990 against $35,712/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #444 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Mercer University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $35,712-to-$54,048 earnings arc over five years reflects a 51% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Mercer University

Mercer University's 66% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, with a smaller student body of 4,620 in Macon, GA. The average net cost of $89,400 over four years represents a 45% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Mercer 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 Mercer 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 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Mercer University?

At 29/100, 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 Mercer 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 →