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.