Communication and Media Studies at Wichita State University
Wichita, KS · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
31
Pessimistic
Earnings
$35,035/yr (-0% vs median)
AI Risk
High (55% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
12.9x earnings multiple (6.2x 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 | $478K | $480K | $451K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.8x | 12.9x | 12.1x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 6.2x | 6.2x | 5.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 46% | 40% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 38 | 37 | 31 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$37,288
Out-of-state: $76,960 (6.2x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,698
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$44,116
26% growth from Year 1
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University accepts 95% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, enrolling 10,493 students in Wichita, KS.
See all programs and financial aid at Wichita State 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
Other Majors at Wichita State 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 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication and Media Studies at Wichita State University?
At 37/100, 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 Wichita State 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 →