Logging into the best affordable online Bachelor’s in Digital Communication and Media degree programs will prepare computer-savvy students for enhancing corporate brands on the Web. Digital media majors study the 21st-century strategies organizations apply to attract and interact with customers. Affordable colleges offer digital communication degrees online to help non-traditional undergrads learn the ins and outs of Internet marketing anywhere 24/7. In 2018, the Interactive Advertising Bureau reported that digital ad revenue hit a record-high $107.5 billion. Nearly nine out of every 10 U.S. companies now use social media sites to market their goods and services. After all, 3.48 billion potential customers worldwide belong to online networking platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. Salesforce also found that 87 percent of American shoppers begin product searches online. Businesses need a strong social media presence and user-friendly websites to compete in today’s $2.3 trillion eCommerce industry. Earning a cheap digital communication and media degree online will develop the tech skills employers want.
Our Methodology
Therefore, Affordable Schools decided to rank the best-value digital communication and media degree options online that teach students how to design ad campaigns for the Internet. We began by accessing the digital NCES College Navigator database. Our advanced search located 30 four-year digital communication and media bachelor’s majors available by distance education. We whittled down the results based on the 2018-19 cost of attendance. Our staff evaluated the full-time tuition and fees for in-state residents. Though not weighed, we also mentioned out-of-state prices for your reference. Preference was given for the cheapest online schools billing $7,500 or less. We gave each low-cost digital communication and media degree online one to five points based on their average yearly budget.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 Points
$15,001 and Up: 1 Point
Next, the AS Staff looked for online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs with low student-faculty ratios. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, student-faculty ratios are proportions that tell you how many undergrads there are per one professor. Lower numbers suggest that the online college has smaller, more active courses. Thus, online digital media majors can rest assured that knowledgeable mentors are only a mouse click away. Close-knit online cohorts interact more in riveting discussions, social media projects, and virtual labs. Teachers will also be readily available for career advice and references. Our team awarded more points to online economical digital communication and media degree majors for student engagement.
Points:
10:1 or Less: 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 Points
Greater Than 15:1: 1 Point
Finally, Affordable Schools determined the average graduation rate for each cost-effective digital communication and media degree online. Graduation rates tell the percentage of learners who culminate their bachelor’s within at least 150 percent of the normal four-year timeline. This figure gives insights into how well online schools get students to graduation in a timely manner. Online colleges with high graduation rates usually give pupils good reasons to return. These affordable schools meet or exceed students’ expectations and keep them happily engaged. Good graduation rates are key to avoid wasting tuition dollars and racking up debt without a degree. We granted up to three more points for graduation rates of 50 percent or better, according to NCES. Our researchers then added the totals to arrange our best affordable online Bachelor’s in Digital Communication and Media degree options in descending order.
Points:
More than 50 Percent: 3 Points
Between 30 and 50 Percent: 2 Points
Less than 30 Percent: 1 Point
Ranking the 25 Most Affordable Colleges for Online Bachelor’s in Digital Communication and Media Degrees
25. Fisher College
Boston, MA
Total Points: 3
Program Website
Granted a 2016 OLC Digital Learning Innovation Award, Fisher College is a private, nonprofit Common App member that’s endowed for $30.4 million to admit 2,560 Falcons from 34 states and 43 countries online or at four Greater Boston locations with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Fisher the 10th best Northern value. College Factual placed Fisher 319th for communications programs. Fisher College made our top 25 affordable colleges for digital communication and media studies degree studies online costing $31,384. The School of Graduate & Professional Studies offers accelerated, eight-week Blackboard terms for its high-value Communication and Media Studies (BA). Chaired by Dr. Heidi Hendershott, the 120-credit, NEASC-accredited online path has four Advertising, Public Relations, Journalism, and Video Production concentrations plus an optional 15-credit Social Media Minor.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies
In-State Tuition: $31,384
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,384
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 24 percent
24. Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Home to the 2014 Florida Alliance for Arts Education ACE of Hearts Award winner, Southeastern University is a private, nonprofit Pentecostal ICUF member that’s grown 215 percent since 2010 to educate 7,000 Fire on a $8.5 million endowment for 42 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked SEU 43rd for social mobility in the South. On Niche, Southeastern boasts America’s 164th best Christian education. Southeastern University finished 24th among our affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs online priced $25,870. On Canvas, the College of Arts & Media accepts up to 90 transfer credits for its economical Communication and Mass Media BS or Digital Media and Design BS. Directed by Dr. Craig Collins, both 120-credit, SACS-accredited options share core courses like Mass Communication Law and six-credit capstone internships, such as The Walt Disney Company.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Communication and Mass Media
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Design
In-State Tuition: $25,870
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,870
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
23. Full Sail University
Winter Park, FL
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Given The New Media Consortium’s 2015 Center of Excellence Award, Full Sail University is a private, for-profit USDLA Award winner that recently invested $10 million to improve its 200-acre Winter Park campus and online platform for 19,171 undergrads from 56 countries across 39 majors. On Niche, Full Sail boasts America’s 73rd best student life. The Princeton Review ranked Full Sail 18th among undergraduate game design schools. Full Sail University is our list’s 23rd most affordable university for digital communication and media degree studies online with universal $24,109 tuition. The School of Media & Communications runs Project LaunchBox for a low-cost B.S. in Media Communications to receive free MacBook Pros. Headed by Ms. Colleen Cleveland, the 120-credit, ACCSC-accredited program fills 29 months with short-form courses like Integrated Marketing and $25,000 Creative Minds Scholarships.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Media Communications
In-State Tuition: $24,109
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,109
Student-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 31 percent
22. Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Awarded the 2018 National Religious Broadcasters Convention’s Best of Festival Prize, Liberty University is a private, nonprofit Christian CCCU member that’s endowed for $1.43 billion to employ 2,500 faculty setting “Knowledge Aflame” for 100,000 students from more than 80 nations. The U.S. News & World Report ranked LU 194th for online bachelor’s studies. Niche declared Liberty America’s second top online university. Liberty University landed 22nd among our best affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs online with a $22,584 cost. On Moodle, the School of Communication & Digital Content confers a budget friendly B.S. in Strategic Communication and B.S. in Digital Media for three tracks: Video, Audio, or Performance. Overseen by Dr. Clark Greer, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited plans span 3.5 years with eight-week Web courses like Social Media Development for 50 percent completion.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media
Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication
In-State Tuition: $22,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,584
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
21. Purdue University Global
Indianapolis, IN
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Named a 2019 APLU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Award finalist, Purdue University Global is a public, adult-serving online branch acquired from Kaplan Higher Education for $38 million that’s now educating 29,000 Boilermakers from 46 countries across more than 180 degrees. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Purdue 23rd for undergraduate teaching. On Niche, Purdue Global has America’s 353rd most liberal academics. Purdue University Global is Affordable Schools’ 21st best affordable online accredited college for digital communication and media degree studies costing $14,343. On Blackboard Learn, the School of Social & Behavioral Sciences admits B.S. in Communication majors bimonthly with a 55 percent military discount available. Managed by Dr. Sara Sander, the 180-unit, HLC-accredited sequence fills 10-week terms with courses like The Technological Revolution and an optional internship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Communication
In-State Tuition: $14,343
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,343
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
20. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
State College, PA
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Selected for the 2019 ACRL Routledge Distance Learning Librarianship Award, Pennsylvania State University-World Campus is a public, online-only outreach center funded from the $3.11 billion endowment since 1998 to serve 14,000 Nittany Lions from more than 60 countries. The U.S. News & World Report ranked the World Campus fifth for online bachelor’s. Times Higher Education placed Penn State 78th globally. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus claimed 20th place among online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree choices with a $13,988 price. On Canvas, the Bellisario College of Communications presents the affordable online B.A. in Digital Journalism and Media or B.Des. in Digital Multimedia Design at a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Led by Dr. Marie Hardin, the 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited tracks cover 15-week courses like Media Ethics and Internet Law with hands-on DMD Innovation Hub projects.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Journalism and Media
Bachelor of Design in Digital Multimedia Design
In-State Tuition: $13,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,988
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 29 percent
19. Johnson and Wales University
Providence, RI
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Affiliated with the American Advertising Federation’s 2018 Distinguished Educator of the Year, Johnson and Wales University is a nonprofit, four-campus GNAC member that’s endowed for $263.8 million and linked to 1,654 internship sites to train 12,930 Wildcats for 96.8 percent job placement. The U.S. News & World Report ranked JWU 137th for online undergrads. On Niche, JWU boasts America’s 186th most student diversity. Johnson and Wales University broke our top 20 with an affordable online digital communication and media degree that charges everyone $13,365. On ULearn, the College of Online Education starts its inexpensive B.S. in Digital Marketing and Social Media four times annually at an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Organized by Dr. Diane McCrohan, the 180-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree plan has 11-week courses from Search Engine Optimization to Marketing Analytics with an Accelerated 4+1 MS option.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing and Social Media
In-State Tuition: $13,365
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,365
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
18. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Picked for the 2019 Great Colleges to Work For Honor Roll, Southern New Hampshire University is nonprofit, open-access ACE member that’s endowed for $16.7 million to employ 5,798 instructors teaching 87,042 online Penmen in more than 200 “Summa Optimaque” programs. The U.S. News & World Report ranked SNHU 168th for social mobility in the North. Washington Monthly named SNHU the 12th best college for adults. Southern New Hampshire University came in 18th among online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs with a $31,136 price. On D2L, the College of Online & Continuing Education has a top-value BA in Communication for four emphases: New Media, Professional Writing, Business Communication, or Public Relations. Supervised by Dr. Steven Johnson, the 120-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree plan accepts 90 transfer credits to hasten eight-week courses like Strategic Storytelling.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
17. Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Presented the 2018 Coastal VirginiaBest of Higher Education Gold Award, Regent University is a conservative, nonprofit Christian CCCU member that’s endowed for $186 million to instruct 10,400 Royals from 88 countries in more than 135 majors for 59 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report applauded Regent for the 28th best for vets online programs. Niche ranked Regent the 18th top online university. Regent University has the AS Staff’s 17th best affordable online Bachelor’s in Digital Communication and Media degree billing $18,380 yearly. On Blackboard, the School of Communication & The Arts designs eight-week, faith-based low-cost B.A. in Communication Studies courses for adults aged 24 or older. Administered by Dr. Peter Fraser, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited major splits into eight concentrations, such as Internet & Social Media Marketing, Journalism, and Advertising & Public Relations.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
In-State Tuition: $18,380
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,380
Student-Faculty Ratio: 47:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
16. Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Bestowed the 2018 PR News Digital PR Award for Best Online Newsroom, Northeastern University is a private, research-intensive UPNE member that’s endowed for $831 million to educate 20,287 undergrad Huskies in 92 majors with 2,943 co-op partners for 97 percent retention. The U.S. News & World Report ranked NEU 40th for baccalaureate teaching. Money magazine declared Northeastern the 135th top value. Northeastern University snagged the 16th space among online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree options despite a $51,522 total. On Blackboard, the College of Professional Studies provides a high-value B.S. in Digital Communication and Media in a 2+2 format for associate grads. Advised by Mr. Carl Zangerl, the 120-credit, NEASC-accredited program blends upper-division courses like Inbound Marketing with six-week Experiential Network (XN) projects.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Digital Communication and Media
In-State Tuition: $51,522
Out-of-State Tuition: $51,522
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 88 percent
15. DePaul University
Chicago, IL
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Chosen for the Society of Professional Journalists’ 2018 Online Opinion and Commentary Award, DePaul University is a private, Catholic NAICU member that’s endowed for $595.8 million to employ 950 full-time faculty teaching 23,799 Blue Demons for 72 percent completion. The U.S. News & World Report ranked DePaul the 42nd most innovative school. Forbes declared DePaul the 127th best research institution. DePaul University reached our top 15 online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs with $39,975 annual tuition. On D2L, the College of Communication admits transfers with 45 or more previous credits and GPAs above 2.0 into the best-value Communication and Media BA. Directed by Dr. Blair Davis, the 192-credit, HLC-accredited completion option takes as little as 24 months for courses like Advertising Management, internships at more than 290 partners, and senior capstone projects.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media
In-State Tuition: $39,975
Out-of-State Tuition: $39,975
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
14. Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Victorious at the 2019 Press Club of New Orleans Excellence in Journalism Contest, Loyola University New Orleans is a private, coed Jesuit AJCU member that’s endowed for $234.5 million to provide financial aid to 90 percent of its 2,997 undergrad Wolf Pack from more than 50 countries. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Loyola 159th for online bachelor’s education. The Princeton Review named Loyola ninth for race/class interaction. Loyola University New Orleans is our 14th pick among online top-value digital communication and media degree programs with a $39,942 price. On Blackboard, the School of Communication & Design delivers a high-value BA in Mass Communication and BAIS in Mass Communication at a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Coordinated by Dr. Sonya Duhe, the 120-credit, ACEJMC-accredited online degree options cover 10-week courses like Social Media Strategies and one required internship in 3.5 years.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – Mass Communication
In-State Tuition: $39,942
Out-of-State Tuition: $39,942
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
13. Maryville University
St. Louis, MO
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Honored with the 2018 Campus Technology Impact Award for Student Services, Maryville University is a private, coed Catholic CIC member that’s endowed for $54.7 million to immerse 5,900 Saints from 58 countries in more than 30 online degrees at a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Maryville the 176th best university for social mobility. On Niche, Maryville is America’s 69th best free application school. Maryville University has our website’s 13th most cost-effective digital communication and media degree online that charges $28,470 per year. On Canvas, the College of Arts & Sciences offers a best-value BFA in Digital Media or BA in Communication with two emphases: Strategic Communication or Emerging Media Strategy and Social Media. Overseen by Dr. Dustin York, the 128-credit, HLC-accredited online degree programs use Adobe software to build portfolios in eight-week courses like Advanced Web Design.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Media
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
In-State Tuition: $28,470
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,470
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
12. National University
La Jolla, CA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Conferred a 2012 CASE Circle of Excellence Gold Advertising Award, National University is a private, nonprofit NAICU member and “Yellow Ribbon School” that’s endowed for $720.2 million to employ 2,721 faculty teaching 23,909 adult learners from 82 countries for 36 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked National 150th for online bachelor’s studies. On Niche, NU is America’s 10th best distance institution. National University earned the 12th spot among our online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree options worth $13,320 each year. On Blackboard Learn, the Division of Extended Learning offers year-round enrollment to complete the low-cost Strategic Communications BA or Integrated Marketing Communications BA in only 17-19 months. Led by Dr. Carol Richardson, the 180-unit, WASC-accredited online degree options have condensed, four-week courses like Persuasion.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communications
Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications
In-State Tuition: $13,320
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,320
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
11. Wilmington University
New Castle, DE
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Collecting three 2018 Telly Awards for its Educational Technology & Multimedia Department, Wilmington University is a private, nonprofit CACC member that’s endowed for $92 million to enroll 44 percent of its 11,829 undergrad Wildcats from more than 60 countries online with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. College Factual ranked WilmU 128th for communication technology programs. On Niche, Wilmington is Delaware’s fourth most diverse school. Wilmington University is our 1th best affordable accredited university for digital communication and media degree majors online costing $11,210. On Canvas since Fall 2019, the College of Arts & Sciences has awarded a cheap online B.S. in Communication for two tracks: Media Communication or Integrated Marketing. Chaired by Dr. Janice Colvin, the 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited online degree path fulfills CPTC Exam requirements in eight-week courses with an optional Digital Marketing Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Communication
In-State Tuition: $11,210
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,210
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 24 percent
10. University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Given a 2017 College Media Association Pinnacle Award for The Prospector, the University of Texas at El Paso is a public, Hispanic-serving APLU member that’s endowed for $262.4 million to employ 1,303 faculty inspiring 21,341 undergrad Miners in 74 majors with 39 percent completion. The U.S. News & World Report ranked UTEP 40th for online veteran education. Forbes picked El Paso for the 188th best value. The University of Texas at El Paso begins our 10 best online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree options with a $8,198 in-state rate. On Blackboard, the Extended University has a cheap online B.A. in Media Advertising and a best-value B.A. in Organizational & Corporate Communication. Outlined by Dr. Beth Brunk-Chavez, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree plans offer seven- or 14-week courses like Creative Copywriting Strategy and Market Research Methods plus an active AAF Student Chapter.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Media Advertising
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational and Corporate Communication
In-State Tuition: $8,198
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,629
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
9. Granite State College
Concord, NH
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Esteemed for its 2019 WICHE Cooperative of Educational Technologies Outstanding Work Award, Granite State College is a public, mid-sized USNH member that’s endowed for $7.5 million to employ 315 faculty who educate 87 percent of the 3,125 students exclusively online. The U.S. News & World Report ranked GSC 76th for online undergrad majors. Washington Monthly declared Granite the best school for New England adults. Granite State College earned ninth place for its high-value digital communication and media degree online with $7,761 in-state tuition. On Moodle, the Communications & Media Department confers a cheap online Digital Media B.S. and Communication Studies B.S. with zero campus trips. Advised by Dr. Rita Kondrath, the 120-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree options have rolling admission to begin six-week online courses like Consumer Behavior and Web Development anytime.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
In-State Tuition: $7,761
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,745
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 32 percent
8. Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Nominated a 2018 Best of Social Media Education finalist at the 10th Annual Shorty Awards, Colorado State University is a flagship public, land-grant MWC member with research expenditures of $338.4 million and 5,186 online Rams enrolled in 50 programs for 71 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked CSU 20th for online bachelor’s. The Sierra Club crowned Colorado State the fourth coolest school for sustainability. Colorado State University is Affordable Schools’ eighth best online accredited college for digital communication and media degree majors with $11,707 in-state costs. On Canvas, the College of Liberal Arts has August 1st, January 1st, and May 1st deadlines for B.A. in Journalism & Media Communication transfers with minimum 2.5 GPAs. Headed by Mr. Greg Luft, the 120-credit, ACEJMC-accredited and low-cost online degree sequence requires one internship like The Aspen Times, CBS, or Chevron.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Communication
In-State Tuition: $11,707
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,608
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
7. Clarion University
Clarion, PA
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Selected for the 2009 Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals Hermes Award, Clarion University is a public, doctoral-granting PASSHE member that’s endowed for $31 million to employ 712 total staff serving 4,869 Golden Eagles from 45 states and 10 nations. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Clarion 58th among online bachelor’s schools. College Factual declared Clarion the 311th most popular media program. Clarion University has the AS Staff’s seventh best low-cost digital communication and media degree online that bills $11,175 in-state. On Desire2Learn, the College of Arts & Sciences provides a low-cost B.S. in Integrative Studies or B.S. in Communication for three concentrations: Digital Media, Public Relations/Advertising, and Journalism. Outlined by Dr. Jessica Crespo, the 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited online degree tracks blend 300-level major courses like Graphic Design with Eagle Media practice.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Communication
Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies – Communication Concentration
In-State Tuition: $11,175
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,054
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
6. Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Crowned a 2017 Associated Collegiate Press Online Pacemaker Award finalist, Texas Tech University is a public, research-intensive APLU member that’s endowed for $1.3 billion to teach 32,158 undergrad Red Raiders, including four Goldwater Scholars, from 50 states. The U.S. News & World Report ranked TTU the 84th best online bachelor’s provider. On Niche, Texas Tech is America’s 73rd best communications college. Texas Tech University stands sixth among our online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree options with $9,080 in-state expenses. On Blackboard Learn 9.1 or in Waco, the eLearning Division provides “Freedom to Achieve” in the inexpensive online Digital Media and Professional Communication B.A. or Communication Studies B.A. Organized by Dr. David Perlmutter, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree programs span eight full terms with courses like Global Advertising and Texas Politics.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media and Professional Communication
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
In-State Tuition: $9,080
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,040
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
5. University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Prized a 2019 Council for Advancement & Support of Education District VI Award, the University of North Dakota is a public, space-grant RU/H Big Sky member that’s endowed for $278.6 million to train 10,519 undergrad Fighting Hawks, including 3,531 totally online, from 85 nations. The U.S. News & World Report ranked UND 69th for online bachelor’s studies. Forbes placed UND 171st for research influence. The University of North Dakota made our top five online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree programs with an $8,695 in-state total. On Blackboard, the College of Arts & Sciences conveys a cheap B.A. in Communication for six concentrations, such as Digital Journalism, Digital Analytics, or Social Media Strategy. Coordinated by Dr. Jeffrey Weatherly, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree leads to 94 percent job placement after fast-paced, seven-week courses like Audio Production.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
In-State Tuition: $8,695
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,759
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
4. Washington State University
Pullman, WA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Highly regarded for its 2017 SPJ Region 10 Best All-Around Student Newspaper Award, Washington State University is a public, civic-engaged APLU member that gifts $380 million in financial aid to 24,470 undergrad Cougars from 106 nations who contribute 81,323 service hours yearly. The U.S. News & World Report ranked WSU 20th for online bachelor’s programs. Kiplinger’s declared Washington State the 117th top public value. Washington State University is our fourth best online affordable accredited college for digital communication and media degree studies with $11,584 in-state tuition. On Blackboard Learn, the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication guarantees spots for B.A. in Integrated Strategic Communication transfers with 30 or more credits and 3.0 GPAs. Managed by Dr. Bruce Pinkleton, the 120-credit, NWCCU-accredited low-cost online degree path matches students to Murrow Mentors and 16-week practicum.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Strategic Communication
In-State Tuition: $11,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,820
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
3. Valdosta State University
Valdosta, GA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Triumphant at the Georgia College Press Association’s 2019 Better Newspaper Contest, Valdosta State University is a public, four-year USG member that’s endowed for $20.86 million to inspire 11,200 Blazers from more than 60 countries in 56 majors at a 19:1 student-faculty ratio. The U.S. News & World Report ranked VSU 137th for online bachelor’s academics. Washington Monthlycrowned Valdosta the 194th best Southeastern value. Valdosta State University took third place among our online affordable colleges for digital communication and media degree choices with $6,410 in-state pricing. On D2L Brightspace, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences has a cheap online B.F.A. in Communication for two tracks: Public Relations or Interpersonal and Organizational Communication. Led by Dr. Mark Borzi, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree requires 2.25 GPAs during the SmartPath Core and courses like Digital Message Design.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication
In-State Tuition: $6,410
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,196
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
2. East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Recognized with the 2019 North Carolina College Media Association’s Best of Show Award, East Carolina University is a public, sea-grant ORAU member that’s endowed for $200.8 million to support 28,718 Pirates from 48 states and 44 countries in 84 majors for 65 percent graduation. The U.S. News & World Report ranked ECU 150th for online undergrad programs. The Center for World University Rankings placed ECU 190th overall. East Carolina University is the AS Staff’s second best affordable online bachelor’s digital communication and media degree charging $7,188 in-state. The Division of Continuing Studies puts the low-cost B.S. in Interpersonal/Organizational Communication on Canvas for 2+2 transfers. Directed by Dr. Linda Kean, the 60-credit, SACS-accredited degree completion track provides more than 850 online course choices like Media Writing and Sports Media plus cutting-edge Speech Communication Center resources.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Interpersonal/Organizational Communication
In-State Tuition: $7,188
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,465
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
1. University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Total Points: 9
Program Website
Bestowed the 2019 IBS First Place Hearst Journalism Award, the University of Florida is a flagship public, sea-grant ADDY Award recipient that budgets $6.0 billion yearly to instruct 56,079 Gators, including 3,587 fully online, from 131 countries across 123 majors for 90 percent completion. The U.S. News & World Report ranked UF fifth for online bachelor’s opportunities. Times Higher Education placed Florida 63rd overall. The University of Florida snagged Affordable Schools’ #1 spot for economical digital communication and media degree programs online that cost $6,381 in-state. On Canvas, the Online Learning Division provides a cheap B.A. in Digital Arts and Sciences or B.S. in Telecommunication Media and Society. Administered by Dr. Clay Calvert, the latter 124-credit, ACEJMC-accredited degree path immerses transfers with more than 60 credits and 2.5 GPAs into 16-week online courses like Audience Analytics.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Arts and Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication Media and Society
In-State Tuition: $6,381
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,659
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 90 percent
Which Careers are Popular for Affordable Online Digital Communication and Media Degree Graduates?
Adding a high-value digital communication and media degree to your online portfolio can work wonders when getting your foot in the competitive marketing world for diverse careers. For example, SEO specialists focus on search engine optimization to maximize consumer traffic from Google to business websites. Social media managers paint a positive corporate image on multiple platforms to build up a solid follower base. Web designers program the HTML and JavaScript codes to create visually pleasing websites that convey business info. Digital strategists carefully review Web analytics data to find effective means for improving online messaging. Audience analysts perform surveys and use metrics to learn the unique needs of the organization’s targeted consumers. Digital advertising managers coordinate every step of viral media campaigns that drum up online buzz. Other jobs for affordable online digital communication and media degree graduates include graphic designer, video editor, business reporter, multimedia artist, blogger, PR manager, content marketer, creative director, media consultant, and account executive.
What is the Salary Potential With a Top-Value Digital Communication and Media Degree Online?
Attending the most affordable university for digital communication and media degree majors online will maximize your lifetime earnings ROI in a high-paying creative career. In May 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that media and communications occupations provide a median annual wage of $57,530. Particularly, Web developers received a mean salary of $75,580. Multimedia artists reaped average profits of $78,230. Advertising and promotions managers earn a whopping $133,090. Marketing managers bring home median pay of $134,290. Public relations managers have mean compensation of $131,570 each year. Art directors enjoy an average salary of $92,780. Film and video editors earn a median wage of $86,830. Market research specialists are paid $70,960 on average. According to PayScale, social media directors have mid-career pay of $79,700. Digital content strategists generate mean income of $70,700. Digital communication directors can expect a $85,400 salary potential.
Is the Job Market Hiring After Online Cheap Digital Communication and Media Degree Programs?
Completing an affordable distance education digital communication and media degree will make bachelor’s grads extremely marketable for an increasingly online field that’s hiring. In 2017, Smart Insights found that 56 percent of marketing job openings required digital experience. Only 24 percent of active job seekers had the desired digital skills though. The U.S. Department of Labor expects communication and media occupations will grow 4 percent overall by 2028. However, advertising and promotions managers will see faster-than-average growth of 8 percent. Demand for PR managers will increase rapidly by 8 percent. Openings for market research analysts will skyrocket by 20 percent. Web designers will benefit from a 13 percent hiring uptick. Employment of both social media managers and brand managers will expand by 9 percent. The need for videographers will jump 12 percent through 2028. Content strategists also have CNN Money’s 68th best job predicting 19 percent growth. Earning a cheap digital communication and media degree online can improve your credibility when selling yourself in job interviews.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 best affordable online bachelor’s digital communication and media degree programs.
Other Rankings of Interest:
- 35 Top Value Communication and PR Online Degree Programs (Bachelors)
- 25 Most Affordable Online Master’s of Communications and Public Relations Degrees
- 15 Best Affordable Public Relations Degrees (Bachelor’s)
- 35 Top Value Marketing Online Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Master’s in Marketing Online Degrees
- 25 Most Affordable Master’s of Marketing Degrees
- 15 Best Affordable Marketing Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 15 Best Affordable Journalism Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 25 Cheapest Online Schools for Out-of-State Students (Bachelor’s)
- 40 Best Affordable Accelerated 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree Programs
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns