Communication and Media Studies at University of South Carolina Aiken
Aiken, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
32
Optimistic
32
Base Case
25
Pessimistic
Earnings
$34,654/yr (-1% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
10.4x 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 Communication and Media Studies graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $440K | $447K | $428K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 10.2x | 10.4x | 9.9x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 5.2x | 5.3x | 5.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 32 | 32 | 25 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,040
Out-of-state: $84,872 (5.3x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,802
8.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$37,483
8% growth from Year 1
About University of South Carolina Aiken
With 80% of applicants admitted, University of South Carolina Aiken prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 2,805 students in Aiken, SC.
See all programs and financial aid at University of South Carolina Aiken →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
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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 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at University of South Carolina Aiken?
At 32/100, 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 South Carolina Aiken?
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 →