what can i do with a communication degree

What Can I Do with a Communication Degree?

When choosing which college degree to pursue, one of the most important questions you can ask is what options that degree will give you down the road. What doors will this degree open for you? What kinds of jobs will it qualify you to apply for?

You might work in a variety of industries over the course of your career – especially since Americans have been switching jobs more frequently in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Choosing a degree like communication that qualifies you to work in a variety of fields can be a great option. In a communication program, you’ll learn problem-solving and critical thinking skills, while improving your public speaking and writing abilities. 

Here are five common career fields that communication majors enter, along with data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

1. Public Relations
Public relations specialists play a critical role in building and maintaining positive relationships between the public and individuals or organizations. People in this job may spend time conversing with media outlets, drafting press releases, problem-solving, and analyzing market trends.

Median Salary for Public Relations Specialists, 2021

$62,800

Projected Job Growth
(2021-2031)

8% (faster than average)

 

2. Human Resources
Human resources specialists are an integral part of many successful companies. Their responsibilities include recruiting and interviewing job applicants, settling new hires in jobs, and managing internal affairs such as employee benefits, compensation, and training. 

Median Salary for Human Resources Specialists, 2021

$62,290

Projected Job Growth
(2021-2031)

8% (faster than average)

 

3. Marketing and Advertising
Marketing and advertising specialists are essential to developing brand identity and connecting with customers. These professionals often analyze market trends, develop messaging campaigns, and create content for consumers. 

Median Salary for Marketing, Advertising, and Promotions Managers, 2021

$133,380

Projected Job Growth
(2021-2031)

10% (faster than average)

 

4. Event Planning
Event planners work to turn their visions for meetings, conferences, and other events into realities. They often travel to events and meeting sites to make sure everything is running smoothly. 

Median Salary for Meeting, Convention and Event Planners, 2021

$49,470

Projected Job Growth
(2021-2031)

18% (much faster than average)

 

5. Writing and Editing
With the proliferation of online content, there are more opportunities than ever for writers to showcase their work. Writing and editing is a broad field, ranging from technical writing to jobs in the publishing industry. To gain an advantage in this field, you might consider earning a certification from the Society for Technical Communication or the American Medical Writers Association

Median Salary for Technical Writers/Editors, 2021

$78,060

Projected Job Growth
(2021-2031)

6% (about average)

 

A communication degree can set you up for success in these career fields and many more. Indiana Wesleyan University offers a fully online B.S. Communication program, as well as an online certificate in communication. If you’re ready to invest in your future, visit our program pages and explore your options today.


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