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Wisconsin's communication programs show a striking cost divide between public and private options, with University of Wisconsin-River Falls charging just $14,714 annually compared to Marquette University's $29,237. The state's healthcare and technology sectors, led by Epic Systems and GE Healthcare, create strong demand for communication professionals who can translate complex information for varied audiences. Nine programs serve students across the state, with graduation rates ranging from 41% to 80% and most schools maintaining acceptance rates above 70%.
9
Programs
$14,714 – $29,237
Net Price Range
$41,896
Avg. Program Earnings
63.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,714 $8,606 60.9% 84.5%
2 $14,761 $8,212 57.9% 88.5%
3 $16,948 $9,277 67.6% 76.6%
4 $22,633 $32,350 65.2% 72.4%
5 $23,341 $33,000 41.2% 71.6%
6 $24,021 $48,421 71.5% 63.5%
7 $24,813 $36,500 60.5% 81.8%
8 $26,067 $34,250 64.3% 70.4%
9 $29,237 $48,700 80.1% 87.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UW-River Falls the most affordable option for communication studies?

UW-River Falls charges $14,714 in net costs, making it the cheapest program in Wisconsin by just $47. The school maintains an 84% acceptance rate with a 61% graduation rate, offering accessible entry into communication fields.

How do private schools justify their higher costs for communication programs?

Private schools like Marquette University charge nearly double the cost at $29,237 but deliver an 80% graduation rate, the highest among all programs. Milwaukee School of Engineering also shows strong outcomes with a 72% graduation rate despite its $24,021 net cost.

Does earning potential vary significantly between Wisconsin communication programs?

Graduate earnings show a narrow range from $39,994 to $43,798 among schools that report data. Carthage College graduates earn $43,798 annually while Marquette graduates earn $39,994, suggesting program choice matters less than individual career development.

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