Communication and Media Studies at Wayne State College

Wayne, NE · Public · Bachelor's Degree
39 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
39
Optimistic
39
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,833/yr (2% vs median)
AI Risk High (55% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 14.4x earnings multiple
Ranked #247 of 613 Communication and Media Studies programs Top 50%

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 $455K $460K $437K
Earnings Multiple 14.3x 14.4x 13.7x
Probability of Field Employment 46% 40% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 39 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$31,880
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$60,432
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,150
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Wayne State College's Communication and Media Studies program produces graduates earning $35,833/yr — within striking distance of the $35,147 national average for this field.

With a 14.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% 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 $23,150 against $35,833/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #247 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Wayne State College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

About Wayne State College

with a smaller student body of 3,041 in Wayne, NE.

See all programs and financial aid at Wayne State College →

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 Wayne State College

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 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Wayne State College?
At 39/100, 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 Wayne State College?
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 →