Analysis
Similar Communication and Media Studies programs in Massachusetts suggest graduates start around $36,000 and climb to roughly $50,000 by their fourth yearβa trajectory that puts Assumption in line with state norms but well behind programs at Boston College or Emerson. The estimated $26,000 in debt mirrors what other Massachusetts schools report for this major, creating a manageable first-year burden at 0.71 times earnings. That's workable, though not impressive.
The real question is whether that mid-30s starting salary translates to the kind of career momentum you'd hope for from a private liberal arts degree. The jump to nearly $50,000 by year four suggests some upward mobility, but communication graduates at peer Massachusetts schools face similar earnings trajectories. Given Assumption's 87% admission rate and relatively low Pell enrollment, you're paying for a selective experience without the salary premium that typically comes with it.
If your child is drawn to Assumption's community or Worcester location, the financial picture won't sink themβthe debt load is reasonable and comparable programs produce similar outcomes. But recognize that this major rarely commands high early earnings anywhere, and the estimated figures here don't suggest Assumption offers any particular advantage over less expensive state options. Make sure the fit is strong enough to justify the private school cost.
Where Assumption University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all communication and media studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assumption University | β | $49,696 | β |
| Boston University | $47,349 | $69,156 | +46% |
| Northeastern University | $47,465 | $67,761 | +43% |
| Northeastern University Professional Programs | $47,465 | $67,761 | +43% |
| Boston College | $55,162 | $65,184 | +18% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Communication and Media Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (37 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,414 | $36,380* | $49,696 | $26,000* | β | |
| $67,680 | $55,162* | $65,184 | $18,500* | 0.34 | |
| β | $47,465* | $67,761 | $23,250* | 0.49 | |
| $63,141 | $47,465* | $67,761 | $23,250* | 0.49 | |
| $65,168 | $47,349* | $69,156 | $25,108* | 0.53 | |
| $55,392 | $44,108* | $54,641 | $23,953* | 0.54 | |
| National Median | β | $34,959* | β | $25,000* | 0.72 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with communication and media studies graduates
Public Relations Managers
Fundraising Managers
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Public Relations Specialists
Fundraisers
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Assumption University, approximately 19% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 21 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.