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Graphic Communications at University of Idaho

Moscow, ID · Public · Bachelor's Degree
31 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
31
Optimistic
31
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $25,848/yr (-10% vs median)
AI Risk High (49% exposed)
Job Market Large (32,300 openings/yr)
ROI 15.3x earnings multiple (4.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #17 of 54 Graphic Communications programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Graphic Communications graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption		 Base Case
Gradual AI		 Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $546K $539K $493K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.5x 15.3x 14.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.6x 4.5x 4.1x
Probability of Field Employment 47% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 31 31 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,264
Out-of-state: $119,136 (4.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$55,128
-56% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,958
12.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$49,983
93% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

University of Idaho's Graphic Communications program produces graduates earning $25,848/yr — within striking distance of the $28,601 national average for this field.

With a 15.3x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Graphic Communications career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At a 1.0x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.

A #17 ranking among 54 Graphic Communications programs places University of Idaho in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $25,848-to-$49,983 earnings arc over five years reflects a 93% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Idaho

A 79% acceptance rate means University of Idaho is accessible to most applicants, serving 7,363 students in Moscow, ID.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Idaho →

Top Career Paths

Special effects artists and animators $99,800/yr
Desktop publishers $53,620/yr
Prepress technicians and workers $47,300/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Compare this program → View all 54 schools offering Graphic Communications →

Graphic Communications at Other Schools

Baker College ($74,387) Art Center College of Design ($67,010) California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ($49,029) University of Wisconsin-Stout ($48,744) University of Maryland Global Campus ($46,581) Ringling College of Art and Design ($44,048) Carroll University ($40,825) New Jersey Institute of Technology ($39,134)

Other Majors at University of Idaho

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering ($80,700) Chemical Engineering ($75,915) Computer Science ($70,276) Civil Engineering ($68,885) Mechanical Engineering ($65,409) Business Administration, Management and Operations ($59,334) Management Information Systems and Services ($52,920) Human Resources Management and Services ($49,442)

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

Compare Graphic Communications trade programs on TradeSchoolWorth →

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 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Graphic Communications at University of Idaho?
At 31/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Graphic Communications programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Graphic Communications degree from University of Idaho?
At $26,958 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Graphic Communications at University of Idaho?
The 49% 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 →