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Best Value Communication and Media Studies Colleges in Kansas

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Washburn University delivers the strongest value proposition for Communication and Media Studies in Kansas, with a net price of just $13,046 and earnings potential of $29,250. The gap between public and private institutions tells a stark story across Kansas's 20 programs, where private colleges like MidAmerica Nazarene reach $29,520 in net costs while public options stay under $19,000. University of Kansas graduates command the highest salaries at $41,106, reflecting the state's media market that includes agricultural broadcasting networks and aerospace communications roles at companies like Spirit AeroSystems. Kansas State follows closely with a 70.50% graduation rate, matching KU's strong completion numbers. The state's low cost of living amplifies the value of these programs, particularly for graduates entering Kansas's agricultural media sector or corporate communications roles in Wichita's aviation industry.
20
Programs
$12,473 – $29,520
Net Price Range
$32,468
Avg. Program Earnings
48.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $17,365 $41,106 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
2 $13,776 $31,547 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%
3 $13,046 $29,250 $9,578 52.6%
4 $15,702 $30,409 $7,356 54.3% 95.7%
5 $17,883 $31,305 $10,942 70.5% 95.1%
6 $22,500 $35,060 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
7 $18,889 $28,598 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
8 $23,369 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
9 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
10 $22,403 $32,200 29.0% 61.1%
11 $27,310 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
12 $28,083 $35,300 28.7% 78.2%
13 $29,520 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%
14 $24,837 $35,162 52.0% 65.9%
15 $19,045 $35,500 53.8% 51.0%
16 $25,752 $32,748 61.5% 63.3%
17 $13,493 $5,633 47.8% 88.0%
18 $12,473 $21,000 23.0%
19 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
20 $27,477 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Kansas stand out for Communication and Media Studies value?

University of Kansas graduates earn $41,106 annually, the highest among Kansas programs, while maintaining a reasonable net price of $17,365. The school combines this earning power with a strong 68.80% graduation rate and 87.84% acceptance rate. KU's location in Lawrence provides access to major media markets while keeping costs manageable compared to coastal programs.

How do public versus private program costs compare in Kansas?

Public universities average around $15,000-$18,000 in net costs while private institutions range from $19,000 to nearly $30,000. Washburn University offers the lowest net price at $13,046, while MidAmerica Nazarene reaches the highest at $29,520. This $16,474 gap represents significant savings potential for students choosing public options.

Is the graduation rate gap between schools concerning for students?

Graduation rates vary dramatically from 28.70% at Ottawa University to 70.50% at Kansas State University. University of Kansas maintains a solid 68.80% rate while Wichita State sits at 51.40% despite its affordable $13,776 net price. Students should weigh completion rates against costs when evaluating programs.

Does the Kansas job market support Communication and Media Studies graduates?

Kansas offers opportunities in agricultural broadcasting, aerospace communications at companies like Textron Aviation, and corporate media roles. Graduates earn between $28,598 and $41,106 depending on their program, with the state's low cost of living stretching those dollars further. The Kansas Promise Act also supports students transferring from community colleges into four-year programs.

Where can students find the best debt-to-earnings ratio?

University of Kansas provides the best earning potential at $41,106 with manageable debt of $18,811, creating a favorable 2.2:1 earnings-to-debt ratio. Washburn University offers solid earnings of $29,250 with debt of $19,616, while Wichita State graduates face higher debt of $22,698 but still reasonable earnings of $31,547. Students should calculate total program costs against expected starting salaries.

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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.