Program Analysis
At $32,538/yr, Communication and Media Studies graduates from Northeastern Illinois University land near the $35,147 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
Every dollar of in-state tuition returns an estimated 10.1x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Communication and Media Studies programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Communication and Media Studies's typical career paths, with 55% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 7% gap from the optimistic case.
The median debt load of $15,000 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.
Ranked #338 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs, Northeastern Illinois University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $32,538 to $47,402 over five years — a 46% increase that's moderate and in line with typical career progression.