Communication and Media Studies at St. John's University-New York

St. John's communication program starts graduates at a concerning $27,234—well below both the state median ($31,881) and national median ($34,959), placing it in just the 12th percentile nationally. That first-year figure translates to barely livable wages in expensive New York City, especially when carrying $26,350 in debt. However, the earnings trajectory tells a more encouraging story: by year four, the median jumps to $47,568, a 75% increase that puts graduates solidly above both state and national benchmarks. This kind of growth suggests the degree opens doors to better opportunities once you've built experience, but you'll need to weather the lean early years.

The core question is whether your family can financially support a low-earning first year or two in one of the country's most expensive metros. Unlike programs where debt clearly outweighs earning potential, St. John's mid-year earnings eventually justify the investment—but the pathway isn't immediate. Within New York's competitive communications landscape, this program sits at the median (40th percentile statewide), far below elite options like Cornell or Fordham but tracking with regional expectations for a school with an 80% admission rate.

For families banking on quick financial independence after graduation, this creates real challenges. For those who can provide runway through that initial period—or if your student can secure internships and networking opportunities that accelerate the timeline—the program's strong mid-career earnings make it a reasonable choice among New York communications degrees.