What You Should Know About This Degree
When deciding on a career in communications, you might also consider pursuing a degree in marketing or public relations. Communications programs teach students how to apply messaging in many situations, and graduates are prepared to work in roles at governmental, nongovernmental, and nonprofit organizations. Marketing programs also teach students about effective communication but under the lens of promoting, selling, or advertising goods and services. Public relations degree programs deal with messaging and specialize in building and maintaining the public image of brands and organizations. Determine if you’d like a more comprehensive or focused study when choosing which program is right for you.
Communications is a competitive field, and graduates who wish to increase their future job opportunities might want to consider obtaining certification. The International Association of Business Communicators awards certifications to communications professionals who’ve demonstrated excellence in the field. The Communication Professional certification is aimed at professionals with six to eight years of experience. The Strategic Communication Professional certification is given to senior-level professionals with more than eight years of experience in the industry.
With the rise of digital and social media, brands and organizations in every industry will continue to rely on skilled workers to help them communicate with their audiences.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask yourself when researching communications degree programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students from all educational backgrounds with a high school diploma or equivalent can pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree in communications. Some programs might also require a minimum GPA and standardized test scores as well as letters of recommendation. Master’s degree programs require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Associate and master’s degree programs in communications require two years of full-time study. Bachelor’s degree programs require four years of full-time study. Students must complete between 42 and 132 credits to graduate from the programs on our list.
Application deadlines and academic prerequisites vary for each program. Obtain detailed information about the program to which you’re applying by visiting the school’s website or contacting the admissions department.
Higher education requires financial investment. Consider how you’ll cover the cost of your studies by researching scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. You might also be eligible for federal student aid that doesn’t have to be repaid.