Journalism at Radford University
Radford, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
26
Base Case
24
Pessimistic
Earnings
$25,675/yr (-25% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (64% exposed)
Job Market
Large (50,500 openings/yr)
ROI
10.9x earnings multiple (5.3x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Journalism graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $540K | $534K | $490K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 11.0x | 10.9x | 10.0x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 5.4x | 5.3x | 4.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 53% | 46% | 31% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 26 | 26 | 24 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$49,144
Out-of-state: $100,740 (5.3x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
12.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$48,517
89% growth from Year 1
About Radford University
Radford University has a 91% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 5,609 students in Radford, VA.
See all programs and financial aid at Radford University →Top Career Paths
Communications teachers, postsecondary
$77,800/yr
Editors
$75,260/yr
Writers and authors
$72,270/yr
Compare & Explore
Journalism at Other Schools
Other Majors at Radford University
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Journalism at Radford University?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Journalism programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Journalism degree from Radford University?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Journalism at Radford University?
The 64% 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 Radford University a good choice for Journalism despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Radford 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 →