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Communication and Media Studies at South Dakota State University

Brookings, SD · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $39,173/yr (11% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 12.9x earnings multiple (9.4x out-of-state)

Ranked #184 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs Top 50%

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	$478K	$480K	$452K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	12.9x	12.9x	12.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	9.3x	9.4x	8.8x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	42	42	34

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$37,196

Out-of-state: $51,236 (9.4x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$72,876

-96% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$25,500

7.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$45,065

15% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $39,173 per year, Communication and Media Studies graduates from South Dakota State University earn slightly above the $35,147 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 12.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% 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 $25,500 against $39,173/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #184 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places South Dakota State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The limited growth from $39,173 to $45,065 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About South Dakota State University

With 99% of applicants admitted, South Dakota State University prioritizes broad access, serving 8,798 students in Brookings, SD.

See all programs and financial aid at South Dakota State 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 South Dakota State University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 42/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at South Dakota State University?

At 42/100, 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 South Dakota 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 →