Communication and Media Studies at Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
31
Optimistic
30
Base Case
24
Pessimistic
Earnings
$31,169/yr (-11% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
8.1x earnings multiple (6.5x 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 | $498K | $497K | $464K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 8.1x | 8.1x | 7.6x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 6.5x | 6.5x | 6.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 31 | 30 | 24 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$61,192
Out-of-state: $76,392 (6.5x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,362
9.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$46,081
48% growth from Year 1
About Western Michigan University
A 85% acceptance rate means Western Michigan University is accessible to most applicants, enrolling 12,704 students in Kalamazoo, MI.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Michigan 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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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 30/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Western Michigan University?
At 30/100, 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 Michigan 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 →