Careers in Communications

But what can you do with a Communications Degree?

In the Communications Program, we hear that question all the time. To be honest, it really should be phrased as "What can't you do with a degree in Communications?"

From aspects of media to organizational and corporate resources to the fields of law, entertainment, and politics, communication serves as the foundation for success. A quick glimpse at our number of internships gives you a rough idea of the diverse interests and talents of Communications majors. Simply, we see our degree as a combination of theory and practice that can propel our graduates into exciting and lucrative positions.

Don't just take our word for it. Study after study shows that employers consider the ability to communicate effectively to be one of the vital components for prolonged employment. And as a Communications Major, you will have the ability to not only craft your own study of a particular aspect of Communications but you'll also get a great grounding in a number of different communication fields, increasing your personal marketability even more.

What have Communications Program graduates gone into for careers? The responses are pretty eclectic. Graduates have become writers, consultants, community leaders, and producers. Some have gone on to positions related to media work, while others focus on academe and law. The field of communications is vast and has a number of applications.

Please take a look at the information from the National Communication Association, the largest organization dedicated to the study of communication in the world. The Communications Program has had graduates in any number of these areas, several having had positions in more than one. As noted by the National Communication Association (as taken from www.natcom.org), the fields of
communications related careers include:

• (In the field of Advertising): Advertising or marketing specialist, copy writer, account executive, sales manager, media planner, media buyer, creative director, media sales representative, and public opinion researcher.

• (In the field of Communication Theory): Language arts coordinator, high school speech teacher, forensics/debate coach, drama director, college or university professor, and speech communication department chairperson.

• (In the field of Broadcasting and Film): Broadcasting station manager, director of broadcasting, film/tape librarian, community relations director, unit manager, film editor, news director, news writer, transmitter engineer, technical director, advertising sales coordinator, traffic/continuity specialist, media buyer, market researcher, actor, announcer, disc jockey, news anchor, public relations manager, comedy writer, casting director, producer, business manager, researcher, account executive, floor manager, and talk show host.

• (In the field of Journalism): Reporter, editor, newscaster, author, copy writer, script writer, publisher, news service researcher, technical writer, acquisitions editor, and media interviewer

• (In the field of Public Relations): Publcity manager, advertising manager, marketing specialist, press agent, lobbyist, corporate public affairs specialist, account executive, development officer, fund raiser, membership recruiter, sales manager, media analyst, media planner, creative director, audience analyst, news writer, and public opinion researcher.

• (In the field of Theater): Performing artist, script writer, producer, director, arts administrator, performing arts educator, costume designer, scenic designer, lighting designer, theatre critic, makeup artist, stage manager, model, theatre professor, and casting director.

Additionally, jobs in business, education, government/politics, high technology, health services, international relations, law, and social/human services are also undertaken.

The faculty of the Communications Program stress the importance of the role of internships and scholarships in crafting a successful undergraduate career. For more information about internships, click here. For more information dealing with scholarships, click here.