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Best Value Communication Colleges in Pennsylvania

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

Carlow University delivers the lowest net cost at $20,822 among Pennsylvania's 11 communication programs, while Drexel University graduates earn $41,565 annually despite carrying the highest price tag at $38,428 net cost. This earning potential reflects Pennsylvania's media market, where companies like Comcast and major healthcare systems like UPMC need skilled communicators across corporate communications, digital media, and public relations roles. The state's programs span from budget-friendly options under $25,000 to premium offerings, with graduation rates varying dramatically from Keystone College's 41.2% to Drexel's 77.1%.
11
Programs
$20,822 – $38,428
Net Price Range
$33,343
Avg. Program Earnings
59.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $30,465 $38,289 $44,800 71.0% 77.2%
2 $27,700 $32,391 $42,286 60.3% 94.1%
3 $29,464 $33,987 $28,550 64.5% 69.7%
4 $38,428 $41,565 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%
5 $21,461 $20,482 $17,850 41.2% 80.7%
6 $20,822 $34,502 55.2% 92.7%
7 $29,944 $39,410 56.1% 98.2%
8 $22,222 $39,570 72.5% 80.8%
9 $24,791 $38,160 59.6% 82.1%
10 $23,553 $13,544 51.6% 87.8%
11 $22,746 $36,864 43.5% 82.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $17,606 difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Carlow University's $20,822 net cost reflects smaller program scale and regional focus, while Drexel University's $38,428 includes access to Philadelphia's media market and co-op programs. The earning gap shows Drexel graduates make $41,565 compared to data unavailable for Carlow, suggesting the higher investment may pay off in career outcomes.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Pennsylvania?

Higher-cost programs generally show better completion rates, with Drexel at 77.1% graduation and DeSales at 71% both charging over $30,000 net cost. Budget options like Keystone College at $21,461 net cost show only 41.2% graduation rates, indicating potential support and resource differences.

Is Philadelphia worth the premium for communication students?

Philadelphia programs like Drexel and Chestnut Hill College command higher costs but offer proximity to Comcast headquarters and major media outlets. Drexel graduates earn $41,565 annually, the highest among all Pennsylvania programs, justifying the premium location and networking opportunities.

Does Pennsylvania's job market support communication program graduates?

Pennsylvania's healthcare giants like UPMC, major corporations, and Comcast create steady demand for corporate communicators and digital media specialists. The state's earnings range of $20,482 to $41,565 reflects varied opportunities from local nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies requiring communication expertise.

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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.