Communication and Media Studies at Portland State University
Portland, OR · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
43
Optimistic
43
Base Case
36
Pessimistic
Earnings
$35,143/yr (-0% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
12.1x earnings multiple (4.5x 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 | $551K | $543K | $497K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.3x | 12.1x | 11.1x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.6x | 4.5x | 4.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 43 | 43 | 36 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$44,952
Out-of-state: $120,552 (4.5x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,499
7.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$55,465
58% growth from Year 1
About Portland State University
With 91% of applicants admitted, Portland State University prioritizes broad access, serving 13,619 students in Portland, OR.
See all programs and financial aid at Portland State 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 Portland State 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 43/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Portland State University?
At 43/100, 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 Portland State 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 →