A communication degree can help you land jobs in media, including online and print marketing, journalism, and public relations.
Communication majors study mass media, technical communications, and advertising. They learn how to write press releases, long-form articles, and technical documents. In a communication program, students strengthen their writing and communication skills to prepare them for careers in growing industries.
This article introduces top careers for communication graduates and different types of communication degrees to help prospective students find the best fit for their professional goals.
Top Careers for Communication Majors
A communication degree prepares graduates for careers in mass media, public relations, and marketing. Graduates can also work in fields that rely on strong communication skills, including advertising, politics, technology, and healthcare. For example, the tech sector hires communication graduates to write technical documents.
This section highlights career paths for communication majors, including median salaries, required education, and projected job growth. In addition to these opportunities, a communication degree can lead to other roles that require strong writing and communication skills.
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Associate or Bachelor's Degree Required
Broadcast and Sound Engineering Technicians $45,510
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Broadcast and sound engineering technicians manage communication equipment for audio recordings. They work on radio programs, movies, and TV shows, where they operate and maintain sound equipment.
Interpreters and Translators $51,830
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Interpreters and translators communicate spoken or written material from one language into another. They must be fluent in both languages and have strong communication skills.
Fundraisers $57,970
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Fundraisers raise money for their organization through events, outreach, and advertising campaigns. They create promotional materials to reach potential donors and increase awareness of their organization.
Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators $59,810
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Film and video editors and camera operators capture and manipulate images for entertainment and news organizations. They work with directors to create content for news programs, movies, or other media.
Public Relations Specialists $61,150
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Public relations specialists promote positive public images for their organizations. They write press releases, create social media content, and conduct outreach to promote their organizations.
Technical Writers $135,900
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Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers oversee departments that raise money, promote products, and implement marketing strategies. They often meet with top executives to set goals for the organization and strategize about how to reach them.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Master's or Doctoral Degree Required
Postsecondary Teachers $79,540
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Postsecondary teachers, also called professors, instruct undergraduate and graduate students in their field of study. In addition to teaching classes, many communication professors conduct research and publish their work.
Postsecondary Education Administrators $95,410
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Postsecondary education administrators manage student services at colleges and universities. They work in admissions, the registrar's office, financial aid, and student affairs. Some administrators also specialize in athletics or faculty research.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Kinds of Communication Degrees Are There?
Considering a communication degree? Students can earn an undergraduate or graduate degree in communication to prepare for specific careers. Many roles, like public relations specialist or interpreter, require at least a bachelor's degree. This section introduces the different types of communication degree and the career opportunities available at each level.
Accreditation for Communication Programs
Prospective communication majors should research accreditation before applying to programs. Regionally accredited schools meet the highest standards for academic excellence. Choosing an accredited school can shape a student's academic opportunities and career prospects. Learn more about accreditation and why it matters in our accreditation guide.
In addition to choosing a regionally accredited school, applicants can also research accredited communication programs. For example, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications grants accreditation to communication programs.
Communication Professional Organizations
- National Communication Association NCA is an academic association that represents educators and practitioners who research and teach communication. The association publishes academic journals, hosts an annual convention with professional development opportunities, and offers data related to the field. NCA also hosts a career center, including a job board of academic positions.
- Public Relations Society of America: PRSA is a public relations organization that represents both professionals and students. The society offers professional development programs tailored to different career stages, including the Public Relations Student Society of America. PRSSA also offers scholarships and awards to support students pursuing an education in public relations. It also connects students with internship opportunities.
- American Marketing Association: AMA represents marketing professionals and hosts over 70 local chapters in North America. The association offers marketer toolkits, live webinars, and academic journals to help members to stay current in the field. AMA also connects students with opportunities through its micro-internship program and offers members-only discounts.
- International Communication Association: An international association, ICA has members in more than 80 countries. The association hosts an annual conference with networking opportunities, publishes six professional journals, and offers a members-only networking organization on its site. Students can access resources on academic achievement and professional development to launch their careers.
- International Association of Business Communicators: A professional organization dedicated to business communication, IABC offers educational resources, professional certifications, and a resource library to help members advance their careers. The association also hosts an award program and publishes an online magazine. Members can access best practices resources, learning and career guidance, and the IABC job center to find professional opportunities in business communication.
- International Association for Media and Communication Research IAMCR promotes research and encourages emerging scholars. The association publishes global handbooks in media and communication, journals for its section and working groups, newsletters, and a book series. Members can also attend conferences to network with other communication researchers. IAMCR awards travel and research grants for members.
- Association for Women in Communications AWC represents women working in communication fields. The association promotes networking opportunities through local chapters and national meetings. Members may also participate in professional development webinars, access resources on salary negotiation, and pursue leadership opportunities through AWC. The association offers awards for members and hosts an online job board.
Frequently Asked Questions
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