Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (2023)

Wondering about a career in media or marketing and curious if a communications degree is worth it? Explore career paths, salaries, job growth, and more in this degree guide.

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (1)

A communications degree can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to play a key role in the way corporations and organizations communicate with the public.

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Take a look at the doors that can open in a variety of industries if you pursue this degree path.

Is a Communications Degree Worth It?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (2)

Yes, a communication degree is worth it for many students. Media and communication jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 4% in the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Common careers in this field include film and video editors, announcers, public relations, news reporters, and authors.

Communications majors have a wide-range of exciting and interesting jobs open to them.

A communications degree can be a great fit for someone who is interested in working in media or broadcasting. However, you don’t necessarily have to be someone who is strictly interested in a glamorous career to major in communications.

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Compare specializations like film, journalism, or public relations: 50 Best Online Communications Degrees for 2023

Communications experts are needed right where you live today. You can use your passion for bringing big, bright ideas to the forefront to help communities.

Is Communications a Good Major?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (3)

Communications is one of the most interesting and versatile majors out there. What you may find interesting once you dive in is the way a communications program overlaps with so many other majors. In fact, you can obtain a “hybrid” set of skills that straddles the worlds of business, psychology, and journalism.

One of the big advantages of an on-campus or online communications degree is that graduates often get recruited to work for companies in really exciting industries. Media outlets and public relations firms are peppered with communications majors.

Additionally, major corporations and organizations need communications experts to handle both internal and external communications.

What Do You Learn in a Communications Program?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (4)

A communications program has a little bit of “everything” because communications experts are involved in so many different roles in professional settings.

Here’s a sampling of just some of the courses you might expect to take:

  • Communication Theory
  • Creating Writing
  • Marketing
  • Mass Communications
  • News Writing and Reporting
  • Political Science
  • Public Speaking
  • Speech Writing
  • Television and Media Broadcasting

The big thing a communications major can help you walk away with is the ability to craft a message that resonates and informs. One exciting thing about today’s programs is that they often integrate all of the mediums that are possible for effectively communicating a message. This covers everything from video to social media.

Should I Major in Communications or Marketing?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (5)

Many people with great communication skills and creativity find themselves feeling torn between majoring in communications and marketing. While not interchangeable, the two majors do have some overlaps. Let’s break down the similarities and differences.

Similarities

  • Focus on written, visual, and verbal communication
  • Emphasis on crafting messages
  • Room for creativity
  • Strong ties to business

Differences

  • Marketing typically requires more work with data than communications
  • Communications isn’t always focused on “selling” the way marketing is
  • Communications can be internal instead of external

The fact that communications and marketing aren’t interchangeable doesn’t mean that graduates of these program can’t leap into flexible roles. The fact that you haven’t graduated with a degree in marketing won’t necessarily disqualify you from making the leap toward a more marketing-oriented role.

Many of the data-focused skills used at marketing firms can be learned “on the job” once you get in the door. A strong GPA and internship at a marketing-based company could be enough to help you land a job in marketing after putting your focus on studying communications.

This is especially true if you’re more interested in the “creative” side of marketing.

Are Communications Degrees Worth Anything in the Job Market?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (6)

Yes, a communications degree is something that can open big doors in the job market. Job availability for media and communication occupations is expected to grow about 4 percent in the next decade. That’s about the same pace as the overall job market.

One of the things really giving life to the communications field right now is the explosion of new media platforms and outlets. Brands need people who know how to create, disseminate, and edit media and messages across platforms more than ever.

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What is especially exciting for new graduates with communications degrees is that they can choose to work for traditional organizations or jump to emerging platforms that are doing very innovative work.

What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Communications Degree?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (7)

Job options for graduates with media communications degrees aren’t limitless. However, it can feel that way once you begin researching all of the different roles that are available across so many different industries.

Someone who majors in computer science can be pretty sure that they are likely to end up working at a tech firm or software company. However, the story is a little different for a communications major.

As a communications major, you could actually end up at a tech firm or software company within a communications or marketing department. You might also work for a movie studio, news agency, manufacturing firm, hospital, college, or government agency.

These are only just a few examples of what you can do with a communications degree, and it should be known that very few majors offer so much range!

Entry Level Jobs You Can Get With a Communications Degree

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (8)

What kind of job can you expect to get as a new communications graduate? Most new graduates land support roles. This can include roles like a communications associate, public relations assistant, editorial assistant, associate brand manager, or customer communications specialist.

It may seem overwhelming to decide the specialty you want to focus on when applying for your first job out of college. After all, this is a major with lots of room to branch out into some very specific career paths. This is one of the reasons why so many communications majors seek out exciting internships.

You might say that communications majors often land the most enviable internship positions around! That’s because many spend their summers or semesters working at news stations, magazines, marketing firms, movie studios, or production companies.

It’s not uncommon for interns to work closely with well-known television or media personalities while learning essential skills.

Of course, the connections earned during an internship at a high-profile company can be priceless for someone looking to get into media!

How Much Can You Make With a Communications Degree?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (9)

It’s important to have a realistic perspective regarding earning potential for a communications degree. Of course, salary prospects are a bit skewed due to the fact that many high-profile media personalities like Oprah Winfrey just happen to be communications majors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the communications field include:

CareersAnnual Median Salary
Communications Director$134,790
Public Relations Manager$118,430
Interactive/Digital Producer$95,260
News Producer$65,720
Social Media Specialist$64,880
Publications Editor$63,400
Publicist$62,810
School Publicity Writer$59,360
News Anchor$55,030

People who get into major corporations or media entities tend to climb to salary thresholds that are well above average. Of course, the possibility of working in an on-air capacity can open up some very exciting doors for communications majors!

Further Education – How to Move Up in Communications

You may decide that you’d like to earn a master’s degree once you begin your career. This can be a great move if your goal is to reach an executive or supervisory role.

There are actually two good options for people in the communications field seeking advanced degrees. The first is a Master’s in Communications. The second is a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

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Deciding which degree path you want to follow should be based on the career you’re carving out. Those who are interested in becoming experts in strategic communication may be very satisfied by what they are able to take away from an advanced degree in communications.

Those looking for diverse training may be pleased with the doors opened by an MBA program.

Accreditation for a Communications Bachelor Degree

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (10)

One of the first questions you’re going to be confronted with while researching communications programs has to do with accreditation.

Don’t worry if you don’t know anything about regional accreditation for communications programs. Most people don’t until they begin researching schools and programs!

While not required, regional accreditation is something that should be strongly considered. Colleges and universities with regional accreditation often enjoy better reputations among employers than those that don’t.

Accreditation is also something to keep in mind if you think there’s a good chance you’ll be pursuing an advanced degree following graduation because colleges and universities weigh this factor when making acceptance decisions. Don’t forget that credits from regionally accredited schools are more widely accepted for transfers!

What is the simple definition of regional accreditation? There are seven accrediting bodies in the country that vet schools based on very strict academic and practical criteria. Schools that receive accreditation prove that they are offering quality, actionable degree programs to students.

Financial Aid for a Communications Degree Online

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (11)

A communications program is no different from any other degree path when it comes to funding. Communications majors have all of the same federal, state, and private funding options available to them as other students.

Federal loans, education tax credits, work-study programs, and private scholarships can all be used to fund your communications degree. You’ll also discover that there are many scholarships for communications and broadcasting students available. Here’s a look:

This list obviously just represents a very small chunk of the vast scholarship opportunities available to students interested in exploring all facets of the worlds of media, marketing, and communications. This is an industry that loves to help fresh faces!

That means that you are likely to find many groups that offer scholarship funds to ensure that the next generation of great communicators is equipped and ready to handle this fast-paced realm.

Getting Your Bachelor’s in Communications Degree Online

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (12)

Studying for a communications degree can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to play a key role in the way corporations and organizations communicate with the public.

You may also find that you’re drawn to internal corporate communications that help enterprises to motivate and inform their workforces.

A career that’s going to take you to some very interesting places with some very interesting personalities can start when you complete a bachelor’s degree in communications. You can start exploring degree programs online today to browse courses that you find engaging and interesting.

Ready to start your journey?

Is a Communications Degree Worth It? [2023 Guide] (13)

WRITTEN BY

Joy Cromwelle

Joy is pursuing her Ph.D. in Public Policy & Foreign Policy and holds a Master of Business Administration in Strategic Management, as well as a Bachelor's in Business Administration. Joy's focus is helping non-traditional students find accelerated degree options and credit for prior learning opportunities.

FAQs

Is getting a degree in communications worth it? ›

Yes, a communication degree is worth it for many students. Media and communication jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 4% in the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Common careers in this field include film and video editors, announcers, public relations, news reporters, and authors.

Is getting a communications degree hard? ›

Communications is just as hard as any other major. But these people mistakenly confuse this with enjoyment. Yes, studying Communications is hard, but I don't know anyone who doesn't love it, no matter what their focus is.

Can I be successful with a communications degree? ›

Graduates with a communication degree may find their career path in advertising, marketing, public relations, journalism, or media. Other possible career paths that depend on communication skills include sales, health education, and human resources.

Is there a lot of math in communications? ›

Communications just may be one of the most popular majors that doesn't require a lot of math. The study of communications will help you develop communication skills in a range of mediums—such as verbal, digital, written, and visual—for applications in any number of influential channels.

Can you make 6 figures with a communications degree? ›

If you're willing to think outside of the box, you might eventually leverage your communications degree into a six-figure job that's rewarding on both a personal and financial level. Make sure to do thorough research early on potential career paths.

Is there a demand for communication majors? ›

A communication degree can be incredibly valuable. Media and communication jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 6% in the next 10 years. This degree can prepare you for many exciting careers in the fields of film and video production, public relations, news, media, and many more.

What degree is best for communication? ›

A bachelor's degree in communications is a four-year program that prepares students for entry-level positions. Some common career options for graduates with a bachelor's degree in communications include technical writing, public relations, journalism and marketing.

Is communications a stressful job? ›

Stress is often seen as part of the job of being a communications, PR and marketing professional.

What jobs make most money with communication degree? ›

Here are five of the highest-paying communication jobs.
  • Communication Director. ...
  • Public Relations Manager. ...
  • Brand Strategist. ...
  • Media Supervisor. ...
  • Account Supervisor. ...
  • Communication Director. ...
  • Public Relations Manager. ...
  • Brand Strategist.

How to make money with a degree in communication? ›

Featured Programs
  1. Public Relations and Fundraising Managers. Median Annual Wage 2020 (BLS): $118,430. ...
  2. Broadcast News Analysts. Median Annual Wage 2020 (BLS): $49,300. ...
  3. Writers and Authors. ...
  4. Market Research Analysts. ...
  5. Editors. ...
  6. Technical Writers. ...
  7. Advertising Sales Agents. ...
  8. Public Relations Specialists.

Is a communications degree a lot of writing? ›

Writing Intensive Communications Courses

Oral communication courses at this level also require a lot of writing in the form of outlining, research, and presentation notes. Advanced courses in a communications degree curriculum also often focus heavily on writing tasks.

Can you make a lot of money in communications? ›

How much do communication majors make? Communication majors can make anywhere from about $36,638 to $176,126 a year depending on the career path they choose. Since communications is a broad discipline, graduates are prepared for an array of careers in the media, marketing, sales, business, or government.

What should I major in if I hate math? ›

Political science, fine arts, elementary education, even a culinary arts degree – there are lots of options for those of us who hate math!

What is a communications major good for? ›

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.

What is the highest paying PR job? ›

High Paying Public Relations Manager Jobs
  • Manager Global Communications. Salary range: $70,000-$125,500 per year. ...
  • Community Relations Director. Salary range: $50,000-$64,500 per year. ...
  • Outreach Manager. ...
  • Community Marketing Manager. ...
  • Communication and Outreach Manager. ...
  • Outreach Director. ...
  • Community Outreach Director.

How much math is in a communications degree? ›

Communications. Communications majors train undergraduates in public speaking, advertising, writing, and public relations. Students in this field complete college without passing any math courses.

What majors make 6 figures out of college? ›

Six-figure jobs with a bachelor's degree
  • Financial manager. National average salary: $100,178 per year. ...
  • 2. Development director. National average salary: $101,180 per year. ...
  • Aeronautical engineer. ...
  • Electronics engineer. ...
  • Sales engineer. ...
  • Security engineer. ...
  • Compensation manager. ...
  • Deputy director.
Mar 10, 2023

What major has the highest dropout rate? ›

While students choose to drop out of college for many reasons, including cost, time commitment, and coursework difficulty, the major they choose also has an impact. Students who major in computer science tend to have the highest dropout rate, followed by advertising and agriculture majors.

What is the #1 hardest major? ›

#1 Chemistry

According to the average Grade Point Average of students in the program, Chemistry wins the prize title hardest major. A Chemistry major overlaps somewhat with biology, but chemistry extends beyond living things.

What is the 1st toughest degree in the world? ›

It is believed that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or BSN is the toughest course in the world as per the Guinness Book of World Records along with courses like MBBS, BCom, IAS, IPS and Engineering, etc.

What should I double major in with communications? ›

Communication majors have doubled in Psychology, Spanish, History, Classics, Chemistry, Management, Marketing, Dance, Sports Management, English, Legal Studies, Hospitality, Political Science, Theater, Sociology, BDIC, German, Judaic Studies, and Philosophy, among others.

Should I major in English or communications? ›

Comparison of Job Prospects for Communications and English Majors. Communications majors can gain employment in areas like journalism, public relations, entertainment production, politics and sales. English majors can gain employment as technical writers, creative writers and journalists.

Is communications a good major for introverts? ›

Myth #2: People who earn a communications degree are all extroverts and social butterflies. Fact: Being an introvert doesn't automatically mean you can't thrive as a communications degree. In fact, it's quite the opposite.

What's the easiest major in college? ›

As the most popular college major since 1980, business encompasses a variety of sub-disciplines, such as finance, accounting, and marketing. It's also considered to be one of the easiest college majors. With a business degree, you could also work in fields like healthcare, human resources, or public administration.

What degrees are similar to communications? ›

Answer: Advertising, global, health, intercultural, interpersonal, journalism, marketing, media and digital media, organizational and corporate, political, public relations, rhetorical studies, strategic, and technical are areas of study and training that are encompassed by the larger field of communication or ...

What is the difference between communication and communications major? ›

“Communication”, as a mass noun, is the exchange of information. This is the most common use of “communication”. “Communications”, treated as a singular, refers to technology that enables communication or a field of study and artistic activity.

Do people regret majoring in communications? ›

Journalism, sociology, communications and education all topped the list of most-regretted college majors, according to ZipRecruiter's survey of more than 1,500 college graduates who were looking for a job.

What careers come from communications? ›

Communications jobs: 10 career fields
  • Social and digital media. The emergence of digital media has changed the way we communicate and consume information. ...
  • Public relations. ...
  • Marketing and advertising. ...
  • Human resources. ...
  • Writing and publishing. ...
  • Media. ...
  • Meeting and event planning. ...
  • Politics.
Feb 21, 2023

What careers come out of communication? ›

Careers in Business and Industry
  • Business manager.
  • Speech writer.
  • Opinion researcher.
  • Customer service representative.
  • Communication consultant.
  • Director of communication.
  • Training and development specialist.
  • Special events planner and coordinator.

What's the difference between marketing and communication? ›

Marketers study economic trends in their industry, analyze campaign performance, and report on the results of advertising efforts. Communication focuses more on words. Communicators concern themselves with writing compelling copy that will engage prospects and retain customers.

Can you get an MBA with a communications degree? ›

A communications/MBA dual degree program can provide the unique and powerful base of experience that those who want to apply the communications ability to the field of business can find extraordinarily valuable.

How much do top publicists make? ›

$101,500

What are the 6 types of communication? ›

What are the different methods of communication?
  • Verbal communication.
  • Non-verbal communication.
  • Written communication.
  • Listening.
  • Visual communication.
Dec 15, 2021

What is Bachelor of Arts in communication? ›

The BA in Communication and Media program prepares graduates for careers in advertising, public relations, broadcasting, journalism, digital media, management, and international organizations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate training in a wide variety of professional specializations.

What is the role of a communications manager? ›

Communications Managers create, implement and oversee communications programs, be it internal or external, that effectively describe and promote the organization and its products. This role provides supervision and direction to staff and often works in conjunction with the marketing department.

What degree do most writers have? ›

A college degree in English, communications, or journalism is generally required for a full-time position as a writer or author. Experience gained through internships or any writing that improves skill, such as blogging, is beneficial.

Which degrees require the least amount of writing? ›

No-Writing-Required College Majors
  • Bachelor of Arts in Painting, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting.
  • Bachelor of Mathematics, Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics.
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
  • Bachelor of Engineering.
  • Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design.
Jan 21, 2023

What major has a lot of writing? ›

English. English is a straightforward choice of majors for anyone who wants to become a writer. This major typically requires students to study and analyze classic English literature as well as tackle numerous writing assignments.

What is the richest communication channel around? ›

The richest communication channel around, face-to-face meetings, is often hailed as the most effective way for teams to interact. This is because it reduces any misconstrued messages by allowing for body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal communication.

What is communication paid? ›

Pay communication is the organizational practice that determines how pay information is shared and communicated to current and prospective employees. That pay information includes pay ranges, raise processes, and total compensation packages. Pay communication doesn't mean total pay transparency.

What is the easiest major with no math? ›

Here's a list of 16 college majors that don't rely on math for you to consider:
  1. Anthropology. Anthropology is the study of humans. ...
  2. Linguistics. ...
  3. Theology. ...
  4. History. ...
  5. Psychology. ...
  6. Sociology. ...
  7. Occupational therapy. ...
  8. Culinary arts.
Mar 10, 2023

What is the fastest degree to get? ›

What is the fastest and easiest degree to get? Often students focus on Business Administration, Psychology, or Education degrees for the fastest degrees; however, General Studies, English, and Communications may be considered some of the easiest, along with Psychology.

What careers don t require hard math? ›

20 high-paying jobs that don't require math
  • Compliance manager.
  • Marketing manager.
  • Music teacher.
  • Historian.
  • Recruitment manager.
  • Art director.
  • Web developer.
  • Documentation manager.
Apr 13, 2023

Is a communications major hard? ›

Communications is just as hard as any other major. But these people mistakenly confuse this with enjoyment. Yes, studying Communications is hard, but I don't know anyone who doesn't love it, no matter what their focus is.

What is the difference between a marketing degree and a communications degree? ›

Marketing deals with reaching audiences, while communications focuses on what to say to those audiences. The two work in tandem to create clear and defined messaging around a brand, product, individual, or company.

What are the skills in communication? ›

Communication skills involve listening, speaking, observing and empathizing. It's also helpful to understand the differences in how to communicate through face-to-face interactions, phone conversations and digital communications, like email and social media.

What are the benefits of majoring in communications? ›

Benefits of a Communication Major

In addition, graduates often find they've developed enhanced media relations and public speaking skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and a flair for writing with clarity and precision.

Why is majoring in communications good? ›

Communications majors can gain skills that are useful in a vast number of sectors, including business, journalism, media, advertising, and government. Management opportunities. If you learn your stuff and work hard, you may find a number of opportunities for career advancement.

Is it better to have a marketing degree or a communications degree? ›

Both have strong connections to the business world and, if you graduate with either of these degrees, you'll most likely have no problem finding a job right out of college. The average annual salary for professionals in both of these spaces is very similar, with marketing majors making slightly more.

Do communications majors write a lot? ›

Writing Intensive Communications Courses

Oral communication courses at this level also require a lot of writing in the form of outlining, research, and presentation notes. Advanced courses in a communications degree curriculum also often focus heavily on writing tasks.

Is a Masters of communications useful? ›

Mastering in communications can provide inroads to a wide range of careers in mass media, journalism, writing, public relations, publishing, and much more. Your communication skills and personal interests could take you down a wide range of professional paths, including these top jobs: Editors.

What are the 3 main reasons to study communications? ›

Six reasons to study Communication & Media Studies
  • Modern and applicable. ...
  • Freedom of choice. ...
  • Combined courses. ...
  • Good social skills. ...
  • Multicultural environment. ...
  • No prior experience in the area required.

Why choose bachelor of communication? ›

Why choose a Bachelor of communication? Students preparing for careers in communication should take the BC. Opportunities in this broad and diverse field include everything from public relations, media, and content creation to marketing, advertising, and digital management.

How important is communication in college? ›

For students, communication is one of the most vital life skills to be mastered: at all levels of education, they must be able to communicate effectively. Without well-developed communication skills, students run the risk of falling behind their peers, becoming emotionally overwhelmed, or even withdrawn from school.

What do you learn in a communications major? ›

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.

Can you become a marketing manager with a communications degree? ›

Qualifying for some marketing or promotions positions may require a bachelor's degree in communications or a related field. Completing a bachelor's degree, and taking other steps, can help aspiring marketing managers seize potential job opportunities in a diverse range of organizations.

What is the difference between communications and public relations? ›

PR and communications are so intertwined that distinguishing between the two may seem like splitting a hair. Public relations always involve communications, but communications does not always involve public relations. For example, advertising is communication, but it is not a form of public relations.

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