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Journalism Colleges Under $20,000

Programs with net price under $20,000. See our methodology.

The most affordable journalism degree in America costs just $2,943 net at CUNY Brooklyn College, proving that quality media education doesn't require financial strain. This dramatic cost advantage extends across the CUNY system, where three schools offer journalism training for under $3,500 annually. The earnings gap tells an equally compelling story, with University of Florida graduates earning $34,704 compared to CUNY York College's $15,922, highlighting how location and program reputation shape career outcomes. New York's media market provides unmatched opportunities for journalism students, from major networks and newspapers to digital startups and nonprofit newsrooms. California State schools also deliver strong value, with programs under $7,000 that connect students to the nation's largest media markets. These affordable options challenge the assumption that expensive private schools dominate journalism education.
50
Programs
$2,943 – $12,171
Net Price Range
$28,911
Avg. Program Earnings
44.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

50 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $2,943 $7,452 56.6% 54.5%
2 $2,978 $7,464 72.1% 49.5%
3 $3,482 $7,410 49.3% 55.3%
4 $3,659 $7,064 46.9% 89.1%
5 $4,113 $6,813 52.6% 86.9%
6 $4,285 $5,986 37.9% 80.4%
7 $4,503 $6,178 20.0%
8 $4,734 $7,358 30.3% 59.1%
9 $5,328 $6,178 19.3%
10 $5,971 $6,178 17.7%
11 $6,133 $6,178 13.7%
12 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
13 $6,480 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
14 $6,483 $6,178 12.1%
15 $6,507 $5,324 52.5% 51.6%
16 $6,747 $8,147 52.2% 78.1%
17 $7,168 $10,896 48.3% 86.0%
18 $7,599 $7,095 56.2% 91.2%
19 $7,668 $6,920 30.2%
20 $7,669 $21,290 61.3% 21.1%
21 $8,257 $8,179 33.4% 85.2%
22 $8,327 $8,942 48.7% 96.9%
23 $8,683 $5,498 25.2%
24 $8,751 $13,840 27.0% 78.8%
25 $8,896 $17,462 59.5% 97.9%
26 $8,900 $9,214 27.1% 91.5%
27 $8,931 $7,008 69.9% 40.0%
28 $9,121 $9,708 59.5% 84.0%
29 $9,287 $8,032 32.7% 70.1%
30 $9,634 $8,640 36.7%
31 $9,962 $10,130 49.7% 64.3%
32 $9,983 $9,700 42.3% 91.4%
33 $10,512 $7,602 55.8% 93.2%
34 $10,650 $6,368 75.1% 41.0%
35 $10,705 $6,900 21.5%
36 $10,722 $6,391 43.0%
37 $10,916 $11,436 53.7% 97.0%
38 $10,988 $10,986 46.2% 87.5%
39 $11,268 $10,026 45.9% 86.5%
40 $11,286 $9,875 46.2% 83.0%
41 $11,359 $6,728 17.5%
42 $11,408 $10,449 53.9% 82.9%
43 $11,504 $17,462 56.7% 97.4%
44 $11,592 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
45 $11,609 $5,392 45.2% 43.1%
46 $11,679 $9,019 39.7% 69.3%
47 $11,779 $6,938 59.8% 96.0%
48 $11,800 $7,513 37.2% 99.5%
49 $11,877 $10,791 52.9% 80.6%
50 $12,171 $8,508 48.7% 94.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes CUNY schools so affordable for journalism students?

CUNY schools benefit from New York State funding that keeps tuition low for residents. Brooklyn College charges just $2,943 net, while Baruch College costs $2,978 with impressive 72.1% graduation rates. The system's location in New York provides direct access to major media companies, internship opportunities, and networking events that private schools charge premium prices to access.

How do graduation rates vary among affordable journalism programs?

University of Florida leads with an strong 91.5% graduation rate despite charging only $6,351 net annually. CUNY Baruch follows at 72.1%, while several Ohio University campuses struggle with rates below 20%. The data shows that low cost doesn't guarantee poor outcomes, but students should research support services and program structure before enrolling.

Does geographic location affect journalism career earnings significantly?

Regional differences create substantial earning gaps among graduates. University of Florida alumni earn $34,704 annually, likely benefiting from the state's growing media sector and proximity to major markets. In contrast, CUNY York College graduates earn $15,922, reflecting New York's competitive entry-level market. California State programs position students in the nation's largest media ecosystem.

What role do acceptance rates play in program quality assessment?

University of Florida's 23.35% acceptance rate signals high selectivity and academic rigor, correlating with its 91.5% graduation rate and strong earnings outcomes. Most affordable programs accept 80% or more of applicants, making them accessible but potentially less demanding. CUNY Baruch balances both factors with 49.53% acceptance and strong graduation rates.

Where do journalism students find the best return on investment?

University of Florida offers strong value with $6,351 net cost, 91.5% graduation rate, and $34,704 earnings potential. CUNY Baruch provides strong regional value at $2,978 with 72.1% graduation rates and access to New York media markets. Students should weigh program costs against local job markets and alumni networks when calculating long-term financial benefits.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.