Communication and Media Studies at UCNJ Union College of Union County New Jersey

Union County College's Communication and Media Studies associate's degree earns below the national average but actually outperforms most New Jersey programs in this field—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide despite sitting in just the 19th percentile nationally. The first-year median of $21,484 trails the national benchmark by over $5,000, but it exceeds the state median of $18,694. With only $7,350 in typical debt—substantially less than the national median of $11,944—graduates face a manageable debt load that represents just 34% of their first-year earnings.

What's notable here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 22% income growth by year four, reaching $26,285. That's still modest in absolute terms, but the upward trend matters. Nearly half the students receive Pell grants, suggesting this program serves a population that needs affordable credentials to enter the workforce quickly.

The real caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly. For families weighing this option, the low debt makes it a relatively low-risk stepping stone—especially if your student plans to transfer to a four-year program later or needs immediate workforce entry. Just understand that communication associate's degrees, whether from Union County or elsewhere in New Jersey, don't command high starting salaries. The value here is accessibility and affordability, not earning power.