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Best Value Communication and Media Studies Colleges in New Jersey

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

The College of New Jersey stands out among Communication and Media Studies programs with graduates earning $41,705 annually, nearly $15,000 more than the state median of $26,933. This earnings gap reflects the program's strong outcomes despite a net price of $25,458 that falls in the middle range for New Jersey institutions. Public universities dominate the value equation, with New Jersey City University offering the lowest net price at $11,732, while private options like Seton Hall reach $28,921. The state's proximity to major media markets in New York and Philadelphia creates abundant internship and career opportunities for communication students. Johnson & Johnson, one of New Jersey's largest employers, regularly hires communication graduates for corporate communications and public relations roles. With acceptance rates ranging from 64% to 91%, most programs remain accessible while maintaining quality outcomes.
22
Programs
$5,804 – $41,315
Net Price Range
$34,052
Avg. Program Earnings
61.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

22 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,168 $33,281 $13,426 43.4% 82.6%
2 $11,732 $29,685 $13,971 38.7% 90.1%
3 $15,266 $38,289 $35,822 61.7% 84.1%
4 $14,159 $31,133 $14,766 64.3% 91.3%
5 $12,973 $26,933 $41,054 63.1% 88.8%
6 $17,764 $32,644 $15,150 47.7% 91.5%
7 $20,360 $36,776 $15,978 71.9% 70.5%
8 $25,458 $41,705 $18,685 85.2% 64.4%
9 $23,519 $36,906 $17,239 85.0% 66.3%
10 $24,415 $38,289 $35,822 72.3% 89.1%
11 $22,185 $34,277 $15,700 68.3% 76.9%
12 $19,634 $26,353 $15,532 72.0% 85.5%
13 $31,650 $37,532 $44,850 70.3% 90.9%
14 $28,921 $32,925 $51,370 71.5% 75.1%
15 $17,949 $35,942 40.2% 71.9%
16 $21,188 $39,450 58.7% 66.4%
17 $5,804 $24,820 34.1%
18 $25,287 $38,900 63.3% 84.1%
19 $20,218 $37,110 55.1% 75.8%
20 $41,315 $37,830 49.7% 89.2%
21 $25,644 $45,360 72.4% 72.7%
22 $19,037 $37,732 56.6% 96.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for the $15,000 earnings gap between top and bottom programs?

The College of New Jersey leads with $41,705 in graduate earnings compared to Stockton University's $26,353, reflecting differences in alumni networks and career services. Schools with higher graduation rates like TCNJ (85.2%) and Rutgers-New Brunswick (85%) tend to produce higher-earning graduates. Programs near major employment centers also benefit from stronger industry connections. The earnings variation often correlates with the rigor and reputation of the specific communication program.

How do public university costs compare to private options for communication majors?

Public universities average around $15,000 in net costs, while private institutions range from $12,973 at Saint Peter's to $31,650 at Monmouth University. New Jersey City University offers the best financial value at $11,732 net price with decent earnings of $29,685. Private schools like Fairleigh Dickinson justify higher costs with smaller class sizes and specialized facilities. The TAG grant helps New Jersey residents reduce public university expenses further.

Is the 82% acceptance rate at Kean University concerning for program quality?

Kean's 82.6% acceptance rate reflects accessibility rather than poor quality, with graduates earning $33,281 annually. The university maintains a respectable 43.4% graduation rate and keeps student debt manageable at $21,469. High acceptance rates are common in communication programs since the field values varied perspectives and backgrounds. Kean's location in Union provides easy access to New York media markets for internships and networking.

Does graduating from Rutgers-New Brunswick justify the higher cost compared to regional universities?

Rutgers-New Brunswick charges $23,519 net price but delivers strong outcomes with 85% graduation rates and $36,906 in graduate earnings. The university's research opportunities and extensive alumni network in media often offset the higher investment. Students gain access to major market internships and corporate partnerships that smaller regional schools cannot match. The debt load of $21,500 remains reasonable given the earning potential and career advancement opportunities.

Where do New Jersey communication graduates typically find employment after college?

Major pharmaceutical companies like Johnson & Johnson and Merck hire communication graduates for corporate relations and internal communications roles. The proximity to New York City opens doors to media, advertising, and public relations agencies within commuting distance. Philadelphia's growing tech sector also recruits New Jersey graduates for digital marketing and content creation positions. Many alumni work for local news outlets, nonprofits, and government agencies throughout the state.

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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.