Why This Matters

  • 46,000 NEW MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION JOBS

    The need for trained, talented communicators who can edit, write, and speak well in media and communication occupations is expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, resulting in more than 46,000 new jobs.

  • EARN $61,000 AS A WRITER OR EDITOR

    Earning an online associate degree in communications is a great starting point for creative individuals who plan to pursue a career in public relations, social media marketing, and writing and editing. People with degrees in media and communication occupations earn $61,310 per year on average.

  • THE U.S. NEEDS 18,000 NEW MARKETING AND ADVERTISING MANAGERS

    The demand for marketing, advertising, and social media managers with strong communication skills is growing at an above-average pace.

Our Research

Our list covers the best online communications degrees available. While all online two-year degrees vary in the specific courses they offer, these programs all teach the same fundamental communication and writing skills.

All the communications programs on our list are offered online or in a hybrid format by regionally accredited schools. They are sorted and rated by cost, features, and flexibility. We reviewed schools that offer courses in journalism, public relations, marketing, social media, advertising, broadcasting, and technical writing. Many of the programs offer internships, transfer pathways for advanced degrees, and flexible admissions and transfer opportunities.

  • 77 hours to write this article
  • 116 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 202 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Associate in Communications Programs

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What You Should Know About This Degree

Job market opportunities for media and communications occupations are strong, especially for social media management and digital marketing positions; however, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a slight decline in employment for broadcast reporters, correspondents, and journalists.

It is essential to pick a specialty that will give you a competitive edge in the job market for positions you want. Combining media and communications courses with a specific industry or undergrad degree in an area such as law, human resources, education, or healthcare will give you more career options.

Media and communications is a broad and versatile field that offers students many career opportunities. Membership organizations such as the American Grant Writers’ Association, Inc., American Society of Journalists and Authors, and Society of Professional Journalists can provide you access to networking, training, and mentorship opportunities.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in communications programs:

  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most associate degree programs are offered at community colleges and include around 60 credit hours of coursework, which can take two years to complete depending on whether the student takes extra classes during the summer.
  • What licensing or certifications are required? Although there are no certifications or licenses required for most jobs in the communications industry, there are a number of associations that provide networking, training, and support to employers and media professionals.

Research the admissions process and figure out the procedures and application deadlines for the programs that interest you. Ensure you meet the minimum requirements for admission and contact the school’s admissions office if you have any questions.

You should also consider how you will pay for your college education. Figure out what your funding options are, which can include financial aid, scholarships, and possible employer-based tuition benefits, and note the requirements and deadlines.