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Communication and Media Studies at Utica University

Utica, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $23,890/yr (-32% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 4.2x earnings multiple

Ranked #590 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	$392K	$405K	$397K
Earnings Multiple	4.0x	4.2x	4.1x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	21	21	18

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$97,232

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$87,476

10% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$24,345

12.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $23,890 place Utica University below the $35,147 national median for Communication and Media Studies — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.

At 4.2x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

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 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 #590 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Utica University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Utica University

Utica University accepts 87% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, with a smaller student body of 2,477 in Utica, NY.

See all programs and financial aid at Utica 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 Utica University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 21/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Utica University?

At 21/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Communication and Media Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

What's the payoff timeline for a Communication and Media Studies degree from Utica University?

At $24,345 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.

Should I worry about AI if I study Communication and Media Studies at Utica 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.

Is Utica University a good choice for Communication and Media Studies despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If Utica University'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 →