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Communication and Media Studies at University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $28,490/yr (-19% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 10.5x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)

Ranked #442 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs

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	$416K	$426K	$413K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	10.3x	10.5x	10.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	6.0x	6.2x	6.0x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	29	29	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)

$40,472

Out-of-state: $69,032 (6.2x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$67,100

-66% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$23,691

10.0 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (4 Year)

$43,555

53% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $28,490/yr fall 19% below the $35,147 national median for Communication and Media Studies. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 10.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 1% 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 $23,691 against $28,490/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #442 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places University of Central Arkansas in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About University of Central Arkansas

University of Central Arkansas has a 90% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 7,426 students in Conway, AR.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Central Arkansas →

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 University of Central Arkansas

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at University of Central Arkansas?

At 29/100, 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 University of Central Arkansas?

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.

Is University of Central Arkansas a good choice for Communication and Media Studies despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If University of Central Arkansas'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 →