Communication and Media Studies
Master's degree · Illinois State University · Normal, IL
How this program compares
Graduates of the master's degree program in Communication and Media Studies at Illinois State University earn a median of $45,215 one year after completing the program. Nationally, master's degree graduates in this field earn a median of $71,953 four years after graduating (middle half: $51,074–$99,548). Median debt is $19,775, about 44% of first-year earnings – a manageable level by common guidelines.
Communication and Media Studies (Master's degree) at other Illinois schools
| College | Earnings (1 yr) | Median debt |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University Evanston | $87,012 | $55,813 |
| DePaul University Chicago | $46,389 | — |
| Eastern Illinois University Charleston | $43,587 | — |
Highest-paying Communication and Media Studies programs nationwide →
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Frequently asked questions
How much do Communication and Media Studies graduates from Illinois State University make?
The median salary is $45,215 one year after graduation and $65,027 after five years.
How much student debt do graduates have?
Graduates who borrowed federal loans owe a median of $19,775.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, June 2026 release (Field of Study data). Earnings are for graduates who received federal financial aid.