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Trinity Washington University breaks the mold with a net price of just $12,233 for Communication and Media Studies, making it nearly $35,000 cheaper than Howard University's $47,919. This dramatic cost gap among District of Columbia programs reflects how different institutional models serve students pursuing careers in federal communications, nonprofit advocacy, and the capital's extensive media market. With earnings potential ranging from $22,329 to $45,980, graduates enter a job market where government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations create unique opportunities for communication professionals.
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 In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,233 $26,110 44.4% 97.0%
2 $14,085 $18,382 46.6% 59.2%
3 $14,693 $6,152 26.3%
4 $32,798 $55,834 81.3% 85.6%
5 $37,454 $64,990 85.2% 49.0%
6 $41,945 $56,543 78.5% 40.6%
7 $47,919 $33,344 68.9% 53.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Trinity Washington University so much cheaper than other DC programs?

Trinity's net price of $12,233 represents significant institutional aid bringing costs down from a $26,110 sticker price. The 96.97% acceptance rate and focus on underserved populations allows them to offer substantial financial support compared to schools like American University at $41,945 net cost.

How do graduation rates vary among affordable options in DC?

The University of the District of Columbia, despite being the public option at $14,693 net price, has just a 26.30% graduation rate. Trinity Washington achieves 44.40% while Gallaudet University reaches 46.60% at similar price points, showing institutional support matters beyond just cost.

Does attending a more expensive program guarantee higher earnings?

American University graduates earn $45,980 despite the $41,945 net cost, while Trinity graduates average $22,329 at one-third the price. However, George Washington University shows $37,568 earnings at $37,454 cost, suggesting the relationship between price and income varies significantly among DC schools.

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