Communication and Media Studies at Alabama State University

Alabama State's Communication and Media Studies program ranks near the bottom for earnings outcomes—10th percentile among Alabama schools and 5th percentile nationally. That first-year salary of $22,000 trails the Alabama median by $11,000 and falls more than $12,000 below the national median. Meanwhile, graduates carry $32,750 in debt, significantly above both state and national norms. Even with 52% earnings growth over four years, graduates at year four still earn less than what typical grads from this major make right out of school elsewhere.

The math is stark: borrowers face a debt load 1.5 times their first-year earnings, making standard loan repayment difficult without family support or additional income sources. Compare this to Alabama's flagship programs—UA grads in this field earn nearly double at $40,790. The university serves a predominantly Pell-eligible student body (72%), meaning many families have limited financial cushion to absorb underemployment.

For families considering this program, understand you're likely financing four years of education for entry-level earnings that most communication grads achieve immediately elsewhere. If Alabama State is the only option due to cost or location, have serious conversations about supplementing the degree with internships, technical skills, or a minor that opens more doors. Otherwise, the in-state alternatives offer substantially better financial outcomes for similar or lower debt.