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Communication and Media Studies at Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $38,637/yr (10% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 12.3x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)

Ranked #109 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs Top 25%

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	$543K	$537K	$492K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	12.5x	12.3x	11.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	6.3x	6.2x	5.7x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	47	46	39

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$43,584

Out-of-state: $85,920 (6.2x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$28,672

34% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$22,431

7.0 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$55,596

44% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $38,637 per year, Communication and Media Studies graduates from Northern Kentucky University earn slightly above the $35,147 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 12.3x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

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 $22,431 against $38,637/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Northern Kentucky University ranks #109 among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

A 44% earnings increase from $38,637 to $55,596 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Northern Kentucky University

With 96% of applicants admitted, Northern Kentucky University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 8,065 in Highland Heights, KY. The average net cost of $28,672 over four years represents a 34% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Northern Kentucky 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 Northern Kentucky 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 46/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Northern Kentucky University?

At 46/100, 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 Northern Kentucky 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.

Is Northern Kentucky University one of the best schools for Communication and Media Studies?

Among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs, Northern Kentucky University's #109 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 →