Communication and Media Studies at Tennessee State University

Tennessee State's Communication and Media Studies program starts with concerning first-year earnings of just $25,140—roughly $9,000 below the state median and in the bottom 5% nationally. Combined with above-average debt of $30,625, new graduates face immediate financial strain with a debt load exceeding their annual income. While the program serves a predominantly low-income student population (52% receive Pell grants), families need to understand they're paying more than most Tennessee programs ($30,625 vs. $22,688 state median) for significantly weaker outcomes.

The 41% earnings growth to $35,498 by year four offers some recovery, eventually surpassing both state and national medians. However, this four-year trajectory means graduates spend their early career years underwater financially, likely struggling with loan payments on a communications salary that starts below the poverty line for a family. Compare this to UT-Knoxville's communications grads earning $41,000+ from day one, or even Middle Tennessee State at nearly $30,000 initially.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: you'll borrow above-average amounts for below-average starting outcomes. Unless your student has compelling reasons to attend TSU specifically—strong campus fit, scholarship aid, or family circumstances that make Nashville essential—Tennessee offers multiple communications programs with better financial trajectories. If TSU is the choice, students should plan for lean early years and potentially seek employment outside traditional media roles where starting salaries might be higher.