Earning a degree in communications can pave the way to a career in many different sectors, including advertising, business, politics, publishing, and the media. Many people choose to focus their careers in this broad field.
As we grow, we learn that essays are a great way to communicate, especially with individuals who are shy or reserved. Essays, especially community service essay examples are simply one type of literary composition that may be used to silently convey the author’s thoughts and ideas to the reader. An online communications degree can be a great stepping stone to a successful career. It may benefit in fields like marketing, publishing, and media relations, where graduates can expect to make a median annual salary of $59,230 upon entering the workforce (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
You won’t even have to attend a regular university to earn your degree. A bachelor’s degree in accelerated communications can be earned from the comfort of home through either a conventional campus-based program or an online option.
5 Most Popular Communication Programs for Students
Where may one find such specialized training? Which degree you get will determine this. You can earn a degree in a focus if it’s offered as a major or minor, while others can help you get a license or certification in a certain area. Here is a wide variety of communication-related degree programs from which to choose:
1. Communications – General
The term “communications” or “communication studies” is used to refer to the broader study of communication. As a social science, it’s meant to provide a well-rounded education in a variety of related fields, from oratory to media marketing.
Students who aspire to be masters of many disciplines would benefit most from a communications degree with a broad focus. A broad, versatile education can help you avoid being boxed into a specific career path.
An undergraduate education in communications can also act as a stepping stone to graduate study in a related field.
You may, for instance, start off as a communications major without deciding on a concentration until later on, or you could earn your bachelor’s degree in communications before deciding on a concentration.
A degree in communications can be supplemented with a major or minor in another area of study. A master’s in business administration (MBA) that includes a focus on communication skills could be useful for those interested in a career in business. Combining communication with sociology, political science, or international affairs might be very interesting if you have an interest in politics.
2. Graphic Communication
The field of graphic communication is one that emphasizes the use of visuals like charts, graphs, and diagrams. Similar to graphic design; some visual artists choose to focus their studies on this area.
However, visual language can also be used outside of the digital realm. In addition to posters and periodicals, it can be used for brochures, catalogs, and even the packaging of physical goods. This is not necessarily a creative role, but can also involve working with data and conducting research.
Graphic designers have a wide salary range. Experienced professionals can earn up to $89,210 annually, which is more than quadruple the starting salary of $30,810. (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Your job title may also affect your prospects. The salary of a web design intern is lower than that of an art director who oversees a whole department.
While starting out in the field of visual communication may not pay very well, there is always the possibility of moving up to a higher earning position.
3. Journalism
Many students who study communications go on to careers in journalism. It’s got the writing, editing, and research chops, plus the thrill of doing investigative work, and the possibility of making a mint. No one could resist its allure.
Although journalists are sometimes portrayed in the media as only being capable of high-profile reporting, the reality is that there are many more types of journalism careers available. You may, for instance, work as an editor, researcher, or copywriter, or you could be a reporter or news anchor.
In this era of rapid technological advancement, journalism has expanded into a vast and dynamic sector. For those who take pleasure in this sort of thing, it holds great promise.
4. International Business
Students interested in business, marketing, international relations, or politics might benefit greatly from studying both international business and communications.
Courses in economics and finance are examples of what students typically take. Management positions, product planning positions, operational supervisor positions, and logistics specialist positions are common examples.
Depending on the organization, you could be tasked with assisting with the introduction of new products or services in a foreign market. An international organization in which you work might be responsible for facilitating legal compliance between businesses, governments, and tourism boards.
You could even get hired as a cultural advisor if you have extensive knowledge of a specific country’s customs.
Consider combining your interests in communication with an international business if you want to learn more about doing business throughout the world. It’s hardly likely to be a cakewalk, but working in this field can keep you on your toes.
5. Creative Writing
Getting a degree in communications doesn’t require public speaking. Writing is just one of several forms of communication.
Occasionally, authors move on to journalism. Various others go into education, publishing, or content creation. Freelance writers may dabble in a wide variety of topics, while some may choose to specialize in a certain area, such as legal or medical writing.
A job as a writer or novelist may appeal to you if you have an ear for language and an eye for composition. According to the BLS, the average annual compensation for this occupation is $63,200, with a boost to $72,850 for those who choose to focus their careers in this area.
Many students find that pursuing a degree in communications is worthwhile. It is expected that there will be a 4% increase in jobs related to the media and communication industries over the next decade. Common jobs in this sector include PR managers, content strategists, PR specialists, and journalists.
A degree in communication can lead to many exciting opportunities. It has applications in many industries. This includes advertising, publishing, business, law, and public relations. If you are unable to attend classes on campus, you can still acquire your certifications in the field of communications by studying online.
A degree in communications is, generally speaking, a good one to pursue. It looks great on a resume and can teach you valuable transferable skills for many different careers. Think of it as a long-term investment.
