Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Point Park University

Pittsburgh, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings $17,479/yr (-44% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (144,300 openings/yr)
ROI 4.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #136 of 140 Radio, Television, and Digital Communication programs

Program Analysis

While the career paths listed are achievable, the earnings data suggests a challenging start for many graduates. Pittsburgh is a solid city, but it isn't a top-tier media market like New York or Los Angeles. This means you'll be competing for a smaller pool of full-time production and on-air jobs at local stations like KDKA or WPXI. Many entry-level roles in this industry—from production assistant to social media coordinator—are often freelance or lower-paying, which can suppress early-career earnings until you've built a strong portfolio and network. Point Park's strength lies in its hands-on approach, but your success will depend on aggressive networking and interning. Your key piece of advice: Starting on day one, treat every project as a professional portfolio piece and actively seek internships not just in Pittsburgh, but also in larger, more competitive markets to broaden your post-graduation opportunities.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Radio, Television, and Digital Communication graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $634K $617K $557K
Earnings Multiple 4.2x 4.0x 3.6x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 42% 32%
DegreeOutlook Score 24 23 22

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$152,640
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$99,164
35% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
18.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$51,753
196% growth from Year 1

About Point Park University

With 98% of applicants admitted, Point Park University prioritizes broad access, with a smaller student body of 2,320 in Pittsburgh, PA. The average net cost of $99,164 over four years represents a 35% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Point Park University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Web and digital interface designers $98,090/yr
Producers and directors $83,480/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Other Schools

Other Majors at Point Park 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 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Point Park University?
At 23/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Radio, Television, and Digital Communication programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Radio, Television, and Digital Communication degree from Point Park University?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 19 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Radio, Television, and Digital Communication at Point Park University?
The 48% 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 Point Park University a good choice for Radio, Television, and Digital Communication despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Point Park University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →