Communication and Media Studies at Oakland University
Rochester Hills, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
41
Optimistic
40
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings
$37,795/yr (8% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
8.9x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
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 | $527K | $522K | $482K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 9.0x | 8.9x | 8.2x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 5.7x | 5.6x | 5.2x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 41 | 40 | 33 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$58,776
Out-of-state: $92,752 (5.6x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,000
7.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$52,793
40% growth from Year 1
About Oakland University
With 70% of applicants admitted, Oakland University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 12,450 students in Rochester Hills, MI.
See all programs and financial aid at Oakland University →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 Oakland University
Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?
For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 40/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Oakland University?
At 40/100, 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 Oakland 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 →