Communication and Media Studies at Monroe Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 7,737 in Rochester, NY.
Program Analysis
Monroe Community College's Communication and Media Studies program produces graduates earning $27,123/yr — within striking distance of the $28,401 national average for this trade.
With a 37.1x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Communication and Media Studies carry above-average AI exposure (55% of tasks). The 40% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $9,375 in median debt clears fast against $27,123 in annual earnings.
A #7 ranking among 16 Communication and Media Studies programs places Monroe Community College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The $27,123-to-$43,673 earnings arc over five years reflects a 61% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
Communication and Media Studies has a registered apprenticeship option through Public Affairs (Military Only) with a median wage of $69,780/yr — worth exploring for students who prefer structured on-the-job training.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Communication and Media Studies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public relations managers | $138,520 | +5.0% | 45% |
| Fundraising managers | $123,480 | +4.2% | 44% |
| Communications teachers, postsecondary | $77,800 | +2.1% | 57% |
About Communication and Media Studies Careers
Your career could start in a fast-paced public relations agency, where you’ll spend your days drafting press releases, pitching stories to journalists using media databases, and managing a company's social media presence. Another common path is in fundraising for non-profits, writing compelling grant proposals and using donor management software to build relationships and plan events.
Read the full Communication and Media Studies career guide →
Compare & Explore
Communication and Media Studies Overview
Communication and Media Studies at Other Schools
Other Majors at Monroe Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.