Cheapest Communication and Media Studies Colleges in Washington

University of Washington's Tacoma campus offers Washington's most affordable Communication and Media Studies program at just $10,017 net cost, yet graduates earn $39,257 annually. This creates an unusual scenario where the cheapest option also produces the highest-earning graduates. The $28,903 gap between UW-Tacoma and the most expensive program at Seattle University reflects Washington's stark public-private divide. Communication majors benefit from the state's tech-heavy economy, where companies like Amazon and Microsoft need skilled content creators and digital strategists. The Washington College Grant helps make public programs even more accessible, covering full tuition for many families. Eastern Washington University charges only $8,353 in-state tuition, though its $33,007 graduate earnings trail other options. Seattle's high living costs mean students often find better value at campuses outside the metro area.

Programs

$10,017 – $38,920

Net Price Range

$36,214

Avg. Program Earnings

63.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Communication and Media Studies Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Washington-Tacoma Campus Tacoma, Washington	$10,017	$12,817	62.3%	88.4%
2	University of Washington-Bothell Campus Bothell, Washington	$10,898	$12,559	68.2%	88.1%
3	Eastern Washington University Cheney, Washington	$13,091	$8,353	47.2%	96.1%
4	University of Washington-Seattle Campus Seattle, Washington	$13,485	$12,643	83.7%	47.5%
5	Washington State University Pullman, Washington	$14,401	$12,997	61.6%	83.1%
6	Central Washington University Ellensburg, Washington	$14,715	$9,192	49.9%	93.5%
7	Western Washington University Bellingham, Washington	$18,680	$9,286	65.5%	92.7%
8	Pacific Lutheran University Tacoma, Washington	$21,370	$50,964	71.0%	88.9%
9	Saint Martin's University Lacey, Washington	$22,618	$44,210	57.1%	95.0%
10	Walla Walla University College Place, Washington	$23,992	$33,027	64.2%
11	Seattle Pacific University Seattle, Washington	$24,820	$38,814	62.1%	90.7%
12	Northwest University Kirkland, Washington	$25,161	$36,035	63.5%	94.3%
13	Whitworth University Spokane, Washington	$25,884	$50,920	68.4%	90.5%
14	Great Northern University Spokane, Washington	$31,680	$17,700		85.7%
15	Seattle University Seattle, Washington	$34,802	$54,285	73.3%	85.2%
16	City University of Seattle Seattle, Washington	$35,049	$14,589	16.7%
17	Whitman College Walla Walla, Washington	$35,506	$61,492	81.0%	47.7%
18	Gonzaga University Spokane, Washington	$36,371	$53,500	86.9%	69.7%
19	University of Puget Sound Tacoma, Washington	$38,920	$59,900	67.9%	82.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UW-Tacoma's Communication program such a good value?

UW-Tacoma combines the lowest net cost at $10,017 with the highest graduate earnings at $39,257, creating nearly a 4:1 return on investment. The campus maintains an 88% acceptance rate while delivering the same degree quality as the main Seattle campus. Students graduate with just $15,000 in debt, well below the state average.

How much more expensive are private Communication programs?

Private schools cost $21,370 to $34,802 net compared to public options starting at $10,017. Seattle University charges the most at $34,802, over three times UW-Tacoma's cost. However, private schools like Pacific Lutheran maintain strong 71% graduation rates and smaller class sizes.

Is the University of Washington-Seattle worth the higher cost?

UW-Seattle costs $13,485 net but offers an 84% graduation rate, the highest among Washington schools. Its 48% acceptance rate makes it highly selective compared to other state options. Graduates earn $39,257, matching the system's other campuses despite Seattle's premium location.

Where do Communication majors find the best job opportunities in Washington?

Seattle's tech sector offers the most opportunities, with Amazon and Microsoft hiring content strategists and communications specialists. The region's healthcare systems and Boeing also employ communications professionals. Starting salaries range from $33,007 to $39,257, reflecting the state's strong economy.

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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.