Skip to main content

Cheapest Communication and Media Studies Colleges in North Carolina

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

North Carolina presents a striking divide in Communication and Media Studies affordability, with costs ranging from Elizabeth City State University's $7,237 net price to Shaw University's $14,083. Public institutions dominate the affordable options, with 12 of the 15 most budget-friendly programs coming from the state university system. The earning potential varies significantly too, from Shaw University graduates earning $20,140 to NC State graduates making $35,914 annually. This variation reflects North Carolina's expanding media market, particularly in the Research Triangle where tech companies increasingly need communication specialists and Charlotte's banking sector requires corporate communications expertise. UNC Chapel Hill stands out as an strong value despite its selective 17% acceptance rate, offering graduates earning $34,326 with just $14,625 in debt. The state's public universities generally provide strong return on investment, with Western Carolina University graduates carrying only $18,697 in debt while earning $29,250. North Carolina's growing film industry and numerous corporate headquarters create steady demand for communication graduates throughout the region.
40
Programs
$7,237 – $41,048
Net Price Range
$28,429
Avg. Program Earnings
54.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

40 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,237 $3,412 48.1% 74.2%
2 $7,360 $3,969 35.2% 81.2%
3 $9,918 $3,571 44.5% 89.7%
4 $10,170 $7,593 57.9% 91.9%
5 $10,980 $6,748 55.3% 56.4%
6 $12,579 $4,532 59.1% 84.8%
7 $12,865 $7,461 55.0% 74.3%
8 $12,983 $8,989 92.1% 17.1%
9 $13,393 $6,735 48.6% 73.4%
10 $14,083 $17,176 20.2% 61.0%
11 $14,745 $7,214 67.7% 79.6%
12 $15,028 $6,542 46.0% 84.4%
13 $16,487 $7,541 73.1% 83.1%
14 $16,514 $7,361 62.1% 92.3%
15 $16,931 $8,895 84.6% 47.2%
16 $17,740 $16,896 33.2% 58.9%
17 $18,127 $60,300 91.9% 17.0%
18 $18,165 $35,536 40.4% 68.4%
19 $18,210 $33,400 52.1% 67.1%
20 $18,835 $32,236 56.3% 87.5%
21 $19,472 $7,317 70.7% 68.8%
22 $20,011 $20,480 34.1% 25.3%
23 $20,197 $43,936 65.0% 73.2%
24 $21,371 $40,196 46.8% 86.2%
25 $21,728 $33,150 44.3% 63.2%
26 $21,953 $33,930 42.6% 69.1%
27 $22,858 $19,140 20.6% 44.6%
28 $23,393 $30,900 51.0% 82.9%
29 $23,665 $35,600 51.5% 94.6%
30 $23,991 $40,410 55.9% 88.6%
31 $24,137 $33,450 61.7% 75.0%
32 $24,978 $39,664 40.1% 75.7%
33 $25,765 $31,140 44.2% 61.3%
34 $26,328 $33,860 40.6% 68.1%
35 $27,786 $43,285 65.9% 71.3%
36 $28,746 $64,758 90.9% 21.4%
37 $28,901 $40,408 52.1% 73.3%
38 $33,756 $30,800 27.1% 64.8%
39 $40,721 $44,208 70.0% 78.9%
40 $41,048 $44,536 83.0% 74.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Elizabeth City State University the most affordable option at $7,237?

Elizabeth City State University offers the lowest net price through significant financial aid packages that reduce costs for most students. The in-state tuition stands at just $3,412, making it accessible even before aid. However, the 48% graduation rate suggests students should carefully consider academic support resources. The $23,351 average earnings for graduates remain competitive within the regional job market.

How do public university costs compare to private options for this major?

Shaw University represents the only private institution in the top 15 most affordable programs, with a net price of $14,083 compared to public schools ranging from $7,237 to $16,931. The private option shows concerning outcomes with only a 20% graduation rate and the lowest graduate earnings at $20,140. Public universities clearly provide better value, with most offering graduation rates above 40% and higher earning potential.

Is UNC Chapel Hill worth the higher cost given its selectivity?

UNC Chapel Hill's 17% acceptance rate makes it highly competitive, but graduates earn $34,326 annually with relatively low debt of $14,625. The 92% graduation rate far exceeds other affordable options in the state. At $12,983 net price, it costs more than the cheapest schools but delivers significantly better outcomes than most alternatives.

Does location within North Carolina affect job prospects for communication majors?

Programs near major metros show higher graduate earnings, with UNC Charlotte ($35,126), NC State in Raleigh ($35,914), and East Carolina ($34,876) leading the pack. These areas benefit from North Carolina's Research Triangle tech center and Charlotte's financial sector. Rural campuses like Elizabeth City State and UNC Pembroke show lower earnings, though costs are correspondingly reduced.

What debt levels should students expect from affordable North Carolina programs?

Debt varies widely among affordable options, from UNC Chapel Hill's low $14,625 to Shaw University's concerning $40,500. Most public universities keep debt manageable between $18,000-$28,000, with Western Carolina offering the best debt-to-earnings ratio. Students should note that Shaw University's high debt combined with low earnings creates financial stress for graduates.

More Communication and Media Studies Rankings

Best Value Communication and Media Studies in North Carolina Communication and Media Studies Under $20,000 in North Carolina

Related

All Communication and Media Studies Programs Best Colleges in North Carolina Best Communication and Media Studies in North Carolina

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