Communication and Media Studies at Onondaga Community College
a smaller institution with 4,349 students in Syracuse, NY.
Program Analysis
At $29,915 per year, Communication and Media Studies graduates from Onondaga Community College earn slightly above the $28,401 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
The 25.9x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 55% task exposure — and the 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Communication and Media Studies graduates.
The median debt load of $10,085 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
At #9 out of 16 programs, Onondaga Community College's financial outcomes for Communication and Media Studies trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
One registered apprenticeship pathway (Public Affairs (Military Only) with a median wage of $69,780/yr) connects to Communication and Media Studies careers, offering a paid training alternative to the classroom model.
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 Onondaga Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.