Communication and Media Studies at Keene State College

Keene State's Communication and Media Studies program starts graduates at $34,372—roughly $4,500 below what New Hampshire's other public universities deliver for the same degree. Among the state's 10 communication programs, Keene ranks in just the 40th percentile, with both Saint Anselm and UNH producing graduates earning nearly $10,000 more in their first year. The $25,000 in typical debt sits right at national norms, but when that debt comes with below-average New Hampshire earnings, the value equation tilts unfavorably.

The program does show impressive income growth—36% by year four, bringing graduates to $46,711—which demonstrates the degree provides marketable skills that develop over time. This trajectory helps offset the slower start, though it still leaves Keene graduates trailing their peers at the state's flagship university throughout their early careers. For in-state students, that tuition discount matters, but New Hampshire families should recognize they're accepting a lower initial salary floor compared to what's available at similarly priced public alternatives like Plymouth State ($31,293) or, with stronger academics, UNH ($43,551).

The practical takeaway: if your student is set on communication studies in New Hampshire and Keene State offers the best fit culturally, the debt level is manageable and career growth looks solid. But if maximizing early earnings matters—and you're comparing in-state options—UNH delivers substantially better starting salaries for a comparable public school investment.