Communication and Media Studies at South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
42
Optimistic
42
Base Case
34
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)
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)
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,500
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,065
15% growth from Year 1
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
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 →