Communication and Media Studies at Black Hills State University

Four years after graduation, communication and media studies majors from Black Hills State reach median earnings of $40,169—a figure that trails South Dakota State's $39,173 but edges ahead of USD's $35,792. The first-year estimate of roughly $35,000, based on national peer programs, suggests a typical trajectory for the field. With seven programs in South Dakota producing varied outcomes, location and opportunity matter considerably for these graduates.

The estimated debt load of about $24,000 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69, meaning roughly 8-9 months of first-year salary to cover total borrowing. Comparable programs nationally carry slightly more debt (around $25,000), making Black Hills State's estimated burden slightly lighter than the typical communications degree. Still, the $40,000 mid-career earnings ceiling means graduates need realistic expectations about income growth in this field—journalism, public relations, and media roles rarely command premium salaries early on.

For families weighing this investment, the modest debt estimate works in the program's favor, but the limited graduate data means you're betting on whether your student will match outcomes from similar programs elsewhere. If they're planning to stay in South Dakota where media market opportunities cluster in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, understanding the local job landscape before committing matters more than the credentials themselves.