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Trinity Washington University delivers the District's most affordable Communication and Media Studies education at $12,233 net cost, while American University graduates earn $45,980 annually despite charging $41,945. The 7 programs span from Trinity's 44% graduation rate to George Washington's 85% completion rate. Federal agencies, think tanks, and international media outlets headquartered in Washington create unique internship and career pathways for communication majors that leverage the capital's position as a global information center.
7
Programs
$12,233 – $47,919
Net Price Range
$36,510
Avg. Program Earnings
61.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,233 $22,329 $26,110 44.4% 97.0%
2 $32,798 $36,745 $55,834 81.3% 85.6%
3 $41,945 $45,980 $56,543 78.5% 40.6%
4 $37,454 $37,568 $64,990 85.2% 49.0%
5 $47,919 $39,927 $33,344 68.9% 53.4%
6 $14,693 $6,152 26.3%
7 $14,085 $18,382 46.6% 59.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Trinity Washington University costs $12,233 net while Howard University reaches $47,919, creating a $35,686 gap. Public UDC offers the lowest sticker price at $6,152 for residents, but Trinity's generous aid brings its net cost below the public option.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in DC?

George Washington University combines high costs ($37,454 net) with the strongest completion rate at 85.2%. Trinity's low $12,233 cost comes with a 44.4% graduation rate, while mid-priced Catholic University achieves 81.3% graduation at $32,798 net cost.

Does American University justify its premium pricing with superior outcomes?

American University charges $41,945 net but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $45,980 annually. Students graduate with $22,611 in debt, below the $25,000-$27,000 range at Catholic University and George Washington University.

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