Careers For Communications Majors

Communications degree-holders work as technical writers and broadcast journalists. They also work as public relations specialists; in advertising, marketing, or education; or in nonprofits.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for those with communications degrees to increase 4% through 2029.

Communications career fields include organizational communication, mass communication, strategic communication, and advertising. Other fields include public relations and interpersonal communication and mediation and dispute resolution.

Communications careers may involve long-term projects and public-facing, creative work performed on deadlines. A key function involves publishing written or visual information to audiences on behalf of an organization.

In a media production concentration, students learn how to design, edit, and produce multimedia video, audio, and web content. Students take courses in video production techniques, sound design, web design, and social media content production. With a focus on hands-on skills, media production concentrations attract people interested in video production, podcasting, or traditional broadcasting on TV or radio.

Strategic communication concentrations teach students to use traditional and digital media marketing techniques to advance organization-driven goals and objectives. Coursework includes the theory and practice of developing a brand voice or marketing campaigns. Many students in this concentration also take a public speaking class to practice delivering persuasive messages in front of an audience. People who thrive on interpersonal engagement may enjoy a career in corporate or nonprofit communications, advocating on behalf of a cause about which they care deeply.

People energized by selling a product, brand, or experience excel in marketing. Marketing professionals lead customer communications for businesses or nonprofits. Coursework includes developing marketing strategies and campaigns, and learning how to raise awareness of an organization’s presence, products, and services. Marketing communications also centers on developing and promoting brand awareness and identity. Understanding consumer behavior is a key component of this specialization.

Students who earn an associate degree in communications typically possess the skills necessary for careers in video production, graphic design, or public relations. Typical coursework includes studies in professional writing composition. Additional coursework includes interpersonal or business communication theories. Students also practice hands-on skills in print and digital media design. Most associate programs require about 60 credits to graduate. With a full-time course load, students can complete the program over four semesters in two years.

Most students choose or are required to declare a major when pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s programs often include additional theoretical and hands-on coursework. For example, students may practice broadcast-style, web-based, or advertising-focused writing. Many bachelor’s programs also require students to complete a practicum or internship for credit. Journalism employers favor candidates with a four-year degree and internship experience. Bachelor’s degrees typically require 120 credits for graduation.

A master’s degree in communications usually requires 30-40 credits. Whether online or in-person, students typically complete a master’s program in about two years. Master’s-level programs focus on creating and presenting accurate, persuasive communications. Students also study and apply advanced communication theories and techniques. The curriculum also includes coursework in conflict resolution or nonverbal communication. Students seeking graduate degrees in communications find work in executive-level positions such as corporate communications, social media, or public relations leadership.

A doctorate in communications, like all other academic subjects, focuses on research, theory, and data analysis. Doctoral-level coursework includes developing problem-solving strategies for high-level organizational communication issues and challenges. Students who earn this degree typically pursue academic teaching positions or top executive roles at businesses or government agencies, where they shape an organization’s communications strategy and culture. Students typically complete doctoral programs in 2-3 years by earning 60 credit hours.

Public relations specialists work to enhance the positive perception of the organizations they represent. They create and publish news releases, and respond to media and public inquiries. Public relations specialists also help develop and maintain an organization’s brand image. They may also manage a company’s social media presence and work directly with customers. Employers often prefer candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, or business.

Reporters research, write, and publish or broadcast news stories about local and national events. They review content for accuracy and adherence to professional style standards. Reporters often work live at the scene of important news events. No matter the media outlet, most journalists work in a multimedia capacity by producing stories combining text, images, and video on digital platforms. Employers value internships and experience at college media outlets.

Public relations managers direct and maintain an organization’s brand image and identity. They may serve as the lead spokesperson for an organization and also provide communications training for company executives. Public relations managers also identify financial donors, write grants, and design promotional programs. These professionals need at least a bachelor’s degree, though some employers prefer a master’s degree. Requirements typically include several years of related work experience.