Communication and Media Studies at Dutchess Community College
a smaller institution with 3,696 students in Poughkeepsie, NY.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $17,585 place Dutchess Community College below the $28,401 national median for Communication and Media Studies — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 26.3x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Communication and Media Studies programs nationally.
The 40% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 55% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Communication and Media Studies graduates.
Median debt of $8,937 represents roughly 6 months of the $17,585 starting salary — a manageable burden by trade school standards.
Ranked #15 of 16 Communication and Media Studies programs, Dutchess Community College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $36,269 show a 106% jump from the $17,585 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
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 Dutchess Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.