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Cheapest Communication and Media Studies Colleges in Alabama

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Alabama State University graduates earn $23,207 annually while carrying $32,250 in debt, highlighting the complex cost-benefit calculations facing Communication and Media Studies students across Alabama. The state's most affordable program at University of North Alabama charges just $11,024 net price, creating a $21,126 gap between the cheapest and most expensive options among the top 15 programs. Public universities dominate the lower cost tiers, with seven of the eight most affordable programs coming from state institutions. Alabama's expanding media market benefits from the state's aerospace and automotive growth, with companies like Airbus and Hyundai requiring corporate communications specialists to manage their Southern operations. The earnings range spans from $19,683 to $37,363, demonstrating how program selection and career path significantly impact post-graduation income. Students can leverage the Alabama Student Grant Program to reduce costs further, making these already affordable programs even more accessible for in-state residents pursuing media careers.
20
Programs
$11,024 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$28,015
Avg. Program Earnings
54.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,024 $11,990 54.0% 95.7%
2 $13,461 $15,650 65.0%
3 $13,832 $10,990 38.0% 68.9%
4 $13,869 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
5 $13,889 $11,248 30.2% 96.6%
6 $14,514 $12,714 25.7%
7 $14,596 $9,436 35.7% 92.2%
8 $14,850 $12,426 51.1% 78.5%
9 $15,142 $9,676 52.6% 65.4%
10 $17,727 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
11 $19,514 $23,270 56.1% 72.6%
12 $19,603 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
13 $19,880 $11,770 61.9% 78.1%
14 $21,401 $28,650 46.9% 66.0%
15 $22,150 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
16 $23,351 $22,750 64.2% 57.2%
17 $23,384 $21,838 49.9% 68.1%
18 $23,897 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
19 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%
20 $32,977 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the large graduation rate differences between Alabama communication programs?

University of Alabama achieves a 73.7% graduation rate while Alabama State University graduates only 30.2% of its students. Miles College performs even lower at 25.7%, suggesting significant variation in student support systems. Private institutions like Spring Hill College maintain 56.1% graduation rates despite higher costs, indicating that affordability alone doesn't determine student success.

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

Public universities average around $14,000 net price for the most affordable options, while private institutions start near $19,500. University of North Alabama offers the lowest net cost at $11,024, compared to Spring Hill College's $19,514. However, private schools like Huntingdon College show graduates earning $29,685 annually, potentially justifying the higher investment over time.

Is the University of Alabama worth its $22,150 net price for communication studies?

Alabama graduates earn $37,363 annually, the highest among all programs listed, making the premium cost financially justifiable for many students. The university also maintains a 73.7% graduation rate, significantly higher than most alternatives. With an 80% acceptance rate and strong alumni networks, students face better odds of completing their degree and securing well-paying positions.

Does geographic location affect earnings for Alabama communication graduates?

Mobile-area schools show mixed results, with University of South Alabama graduates earning $28,849 while University of Mobile data remains unavailable. Birmingham's UAB produces graduates earning $29,517 annually, reflecting the city's larger media market. Huntsville graduates from UAH earn $33,993, likely benefiting from aerospace industry communications roles at NASA and defense contractors.

Where can students find the best value combination of low cost and career outcomes?

University of North Alabama provides strong value with $11,024 net cost and graduates earning $23,262 annually. Jacksonville State University offers strong earnings potential at $27,822 for just $14,850 net price. UAB represents the sweet spot for higher earners, producing $29,517 graduates for $17,727 net cost, though this exceeds the most budget-conscious options.

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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.