Communication and Media Studies at Waynesburg University
Waynesburg, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,070/yr (-17% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
4.2x earnings multiple
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 | $497K | $497K | $464K |
| Earnings Multiple | 4.2x | 4.2x | 3.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 24 | 23 | 18 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$117,840
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
11.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,244
56% growth from Year 1
About Waynesburg University
Waynesburg University accepts 92% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, with a smaller student body of 1,081 in Waynesburg, PA.
See all programs and financial aid at Waynesburg University →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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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
How does Waynesburg University's Communication and Media Studies program score?
This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Communication and Media Studies. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Communication and Media Studies to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Communication and Media Studies careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 55% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Communication and Media Studies earnings lower at Waynesburg University?
Lower starting pay at Waynesburg University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →