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Communication and Media Studies at Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $33,955/yr (-3% vs median)

AI Risk High (55% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 10.7x earnings multiple (4.5x out-of-state)

Ranked #315 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	$490K	$490K	$459K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	10.7x	10.7x	10.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.5x	4.5x	4.2x
Probability of Field Employment	46%	40%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	36	35	29

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$45,744

Out-of-state: $108,000 (4.5x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$43,664

5% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$23,000

8.1 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$45,754

35% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $33,955/yr, Communication and Media Studies graduates from Western Kentucky University land near the $35,147 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 10.7x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% 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 $23,000 against $33,955/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #315 ranking among 613 Communication and Media Studies programs places Western Kentucky University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 35% earnings increase from $33,955 to $45,754 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Western Kentucky University

With 97% of applicants admitted, Western Kentucky University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 12,267 in Bowling Green, KY.

See all programs and financial aid at Western Kentucky 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 Western Kentucky University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 35/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Western Kentucky University?

At 35/100, 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 Western Kentucky 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.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →