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Are you considering a career in the communications field? If you enjoy the creation process and are a motivated worker, an associate degree in communications may be a good fit for you. Graduates qualify for a wide variety of entry-level jobs. While there are numerous employment opportunities available, some of the most common industries include publishing, marketing, public relations, and broadcasting.

Business Degrees & Career Paths

In most cases, communications professionals are expected to have some level of higher education. While it may be possible to find work in the field without a degree, advancing would be difficult. Most individuals interested in communications seek either an associate or bachelor’s degree.

An associate degree will provide graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for advanced employment opportunities, but this course of action is not for everyone. There are several advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of.

PROS

There are many reasons to pursue an associate degree in communications. A key benefit is that earning an associate degree costs less than earning a bachelor’s degree. According to 2017-2018 statistics released by the College Board’s Trends in Higher Education Series, the average in-state tuition at traditional four-year institutions for a single year was $9,970. Associate degree students paid an average of $3,570.

The speed of completion for an associate degree is significantly faster than a bachelor’s degree. While time frames can vary, most full-time students graduate in approximately two years. Those who choose to enroll in a traditional undergraduate program will likely need four years to complete the graduation requirements.

Similarly, bachelor’s degree holders must wait longer to join the workforce than do individuals with associate degrees. Associate program graduates will qualify for employment after only two years. This means they can begin paying off accrued education debt earlier, as well. While these professionals may not make as much initially as someone with an undergraduate degree, they will earn more than people without any advanced education.

Additionally, associate program credits can be transferred. Whether you graduate or not, completed coursework often counts toward bachelor’s degree requirements if you choose to further your education in the future.

CONS

While there are many advantages of pursing an associate degree in communications, there are drawbacks as well. One that is particularly important to note is that graduates from both levels of education often compete for the same jobs. Because academic achievement is an easy way to narrow a candidate pool, employers may give preference to those with undergraduate degrees. Similarly, associate degree graduates may experience more difficulty securing advanced managerial or supervisory positions.

Further, depending on your industry of interest, an associate degree could limit your ability to apply for some certifications. Many certification boards require applicants to have, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in communications or a related field. This could prevent you from qualifying for certain jobs or promotions.

Certificate vs. Associates

In addition to communication associate degrees, there are also certificate programs. While both options take less time to complete than a bachelor’s degree, there are several differences you should be aware of.

An associate degree program usually includes coursework geared toward your field of interest, as well as general education classes. These non-vocational courses often include basic math, science, humanities, English, and foreign language. Communications certification programs, on the other hand, do not incorporate class like this in the curriculum.

As a result, certificate programs take less time to complete. Whereas an associate degree requires approximately two years of time, students can graduate with a certificate in as little as a year.

What Communications Associate Degrees are Available?

Specific degree titles in communication vary from institution to institution. Most colleges and universities offer an Associate of Science (AS) and/or an Associate of Arts (AA) degree option. You may also find Associate of Applied Science and/or Associate of Applied Arts degrees in communication. While all of these variations prepare graduates for employment in the field, there are a few differences you should be aware of.

• Associate of Science (AS) in Communications:

An AS in Communication usually appeals to individuals interested in math and science. Students usually complete additional coursework in these topics. While AS graduates can decide to seek employment, these degrees are usually intended for individuals who may want to enroll in a traditional, four-year undergraduate program later. A two-year AS in Communication degree is often considered equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree.

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Communications:

An AA in Communication usually appeals to individuals interested in social science and humanities. Students usually complete additional coursework related to one or both of these topics. While AA graduates may apply for employment right away, this degree option is usually preferred by individuals planning to pursue further education at a traditional, four-year institution. Completing a two-year AA in Communication degree program is often considered equivalent to completing the first two years of an undergraduate degree.

• Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS):

AAA and AAS degrees are similar to AA and AS degrees. They tend to be, however, much more technical in nature. This is because most individuals receiving these degrees seek employment immediately after graduation. These programs prepare students to join the workforce right away instead of continuing their education. AAA degrees tend to be much rarer than AAS degrees.

Admission Requirements

Most associate degree candidates must complete various institutional requirements before enrolling. Enrollment standards vary, but often include the following:

• A high school diploma or equivalent (GED)

• Minimum overall academic grade point average

Most community colleges do not require SAT and/or ACT scores; however, these may be necessary if you plan to enroll in an undergraduate degree program later. Additionally, transfer students are often asked to provide a transcript containing a record of any prior course completions and grades.

Admission Requirements

Most associate degree candidates must complete various institutional requirements before enrolling. Enrollment standards vary, but often include the following:

• A high school diploma or equivalent (GED)

• Minimum overall academic grade point average

How long does it take to earn a Communications Associates Degree?

Generally, students can expect to graduate with an associate degree in communications within two years. This time frame is contingent upon the student being enrolled full-time, however. Individuals who opt to take classes on a part-time basis will likely take longer to complete the graduation requirements. Part-time students may require one to three additional years. It is also worth noting that students with advanced placement credits may be able to graduate in fewer than two years.

Students can qualify for communications jobs and careers by educational achievement at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels.

Associate Degree in Communications

The associate degree is the first educational level for a communications career. These two-year degrees can help qualify you for an entry-level position. It typically requires 60 credit hours total, 18 hours in the communications major, with six hours of related electives. The other 36 hours consist of general education courses. The A.A. degree can reduce the time needed for a B.A. or B.S. degree.

ASSOCIATE DEGREE COURSEWORK

• Interpersonal and Business communications review the business environment and effective presentations.

• Critical thinking prepares students to engage in problem-solving.

• Writing and oral communications help students function in real-world settings.

Bachelor’s Degree in Communications

The B.A. or B.S. in Communications prepares students to enter the workforce as writers, public relations specialists, and print or broadcast journalists. Some students choose concentrations to refine their career focus like politics, healthcare, or public administration.

BACHELOR’S DEGREE COURSEWORK

• Management communications involve groups, teams, internal, and external communications.

• Digital platform communication is an involved and growing area as marketing, engagement, and strategic planning can revolve around social media.

• Presentations occur in many firms and settings. Persuasive speech is a vital tool in communications.

B.A. OR B.S. CONCENTRATIONS

Bachelor’s concentrations include public relations, marketing, and digital communications.

MASTER’S DEGREE COURSEWORK

• Global communications

• Advanced Research Methodology

• Social Media Management and Communications

Earning Potential for Communications Degree Fields and Occupations

The difference in salaries based on levels of education is revealing. At each level of educational attainment, the median compensation figure reflects a distinct advantage. The below-listed items describe salaries and educational levels, from a comparison of education level and average median compensation based on a 2017 survey of jobs and salaries.

Communications Salaries by Occupation

• Introduction

At the entry level, communications occupations typically require a bachelor’s degree. Students can enter some technical fields without a B.A. or B.S. with some technical background. At the mid-career level, professionals with about ten years of experience reach higher income levels and often have mid-level to senior level positions. The late career stage brings greater rewards and responsibility, and many professionals occupy senior level positions at this point.

Some mid-level to senior level positions require a master’s degree or an extensive background and set of experience. Experience is an important factor in communications occupations. It is a foundation for advancement and greater rewards and job satisfaction.

• Communications Occupations

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies media and communications occupations into these ten representative categories.

Announcers - broadcast and ceremonial roles that announce information and lead proceedings.
Broadcast and sound technicians manage hardware and systems that support broadcast communications.
Film editors manipulate images to produce effective messaging.
Technical writers produce technical copy such as instructions and reports.
Reporters and correspondents broadcast news and analysis.
Interpreters and translators provide all forms of communications across language barriers.
Public relations specialists connect organizations with internal and external audiences.
Photographers manage a form of visual communications.
Writers and authors develop content for print, video script, and digital media.
Editors prepare many forms of content for publication and distribution.

Communications Scholarships

High school seniors and college students can compete for scholarships for general scholastic achievement. Some scholarships focus on people with particular ethnic heritage, location, immigration status, or gender. The below itemized list of six scholarships focus on students in or about to enter one or more fields of communications study.

Six Noteworthy Scholarships in Communications

Students pursuing careers in communications have many scholarship opportunities. While the list below contains private funds, nearly every school or college that offers communications courses provides scholarships. Students should consult their list of possible schools to determine the availability of scholarships for communications majors.

• New York Women in Communications Inc. Foundation Scholarship Program

The New York Women in Communications Foundation Scholarship Program helps empower women attempting to enter one or more fields of communications. The program accepts residents of New York that are undergraduates majoring in communications or high school seniors about to enter an undergraduate program. The program awards scholarships in amounts of $2,500, $5000, and $10,000 to 15-20 women each year. The program selects students based on academic and community performance, achievement, personal background, and demonstrated financial need. The annual deadline for filing applications is January 31 of each calendar year.

• The MillerCoors National Scholarship

This communications program has an annual filing deadline of May 27 each calendar year. The MillerCoors National Scholarship focuses on Hispanic students. Eligible students must be juniors or seniors attending college and enrolled in a communications, marketing, or business program. The Fund works with a group of partner schools. To qualify, students must be a US citizen, have a 3.0 or higher GPA, and maintain full-time enrollment. The number of awards varies from year to year.

The Electronic Document Systems Foundation

The EDSF offers scholarships for students pursuing degrees in the fields of document management and graphic communications. The foundation awards more than 40 scholarships each year, and the decisions rest solely on academic achievement. The scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year. The Foundation administers many honors including the Lowe Scholarship at $2000, the $1,000 Cartun Scholarship, the $2,000 Wayne Alexander Memorial Scholarship, and the $5000 Output Links Communications Group Woman of Distinction Scholarship.

• The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences

This national organization offers scholarship opportunities for students of television and broadcast journalism. The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences total benefits are more than $40,000 per year. Among the larger NATAS programs are the Jim McKay and Mike Wallace Memorial Scholarships. The Academy awards these $10,000 scholarships in honor of these legendary broadcasters. The Academy presents two $10,000 scholarships every year to high school graduates to pursue a communications-related bachelor’s degree. The awards support students that intend to begin a career in television. Other students can compete for and receive awards from the Academy that total about $20,000 per year. The Academy determines awards based on academic achievement.

• National Association of Black Journalists, NABJ Scholarships

This journalism association offers seven scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 per year. The funds support minority students seeking a career in journalism.

The NABJ Scholarships include the below-listed awards.

Allison E. Fisher Scholarship for $2,500
Carole Simpson Scholarship for $2,500
DeWayne Wickham Founder’s High School Scholarship for $2,500
Larry Whiteside Scholarship for $2,500
Les Payne Founder’s Scholarship or $2,500
NABJ Scholarship in the amount of $2,500
Visual Task Force Scholarship for $1,500

• National Association of Hispanic Journalists

The Hispanic journalist’s association offers scholarship benefits of $1,000 – $2,000. The association awards the four below-described scholarships annually.

o NAHJ General Scholarships Ruben Salazar Fund for college-bound high school seniors, college undergraduates, and graduate students pursuing careers in English or Spanish-language print, photo, broadcast, or online journalism.

o NAHJ Ford Motor Company Fund Scholarships awards amounts up to $2,000 for students to pursue careers in journalism. Students must have a 2.5 or higher GPA, and be college-bound high school seniors, college undergraduates, or graduate students.

o NAHJ PepsiCo Scholarships provides awards up to $2,000 to support students seeking careers in print, broadcast, online, and visual journalism. Eligible students must have a 2.5 or higher GPA. The scholarships go to college-bound high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students.

o NAHJ Sports Journalism Scholarship is a $2,000 annual scholarship to support students that seek to work in the field of sports journalism. The awards go to eligible college undergraduates and graduate students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Aides run in essentially every field. They normally simply need a high establishment degree, however an associate degree is a plus. $28,390 share similarities, however, the premium quality of your education as well as likewise how much you pay depends upon where you most likely to college. University needs a considerable economic investment of cash as well as likewise time.

Pupils have to take 60-66 credit scores to finish an associate degree in communications. Students normally complete in concerning 2 years, however this timeline varies relying upon a number of variables. Initially, online associate programs frequently connect accelerated routines which allow irreversible trainees to end up in less than 2 years. Functioning specialists enjoy the flexibility of on the internet courses, which allows them to complete research and watch talks online when it's problem-free.

Nonetheless, commonly it takes longer than two years to complete an associate level. Great deals of functioning professionals as well as students with family members need to take part-time courses, which generally take longer than 2 years to complete. Full-time interactions link pupils pay $186-$ 526 per credit report, nonetheless part-time students normally pay double. Trainees can conserve cash and also time by moving credit ratings from identified universities.

To boost your opportunities of getting into college, make sure to utilize to 5 or more programs. As well as likewise see to it to review the admissions requirements thoroughly to make sure that you are certified. Keep in mind that some needs are not set in rock. For instance, admissions work environments may, on a preliminary basis, confess some potential customers that do not fulfill Grade Point Average requirements.

Nonprofit four-year and additionally two-year universities commonly have neighborhood accreditation, which is much more noticeable than across the country accreditation. Universities make use of on the internet applications that streamline the admissions procedure, yet students ought to still anticipate to spend a month or 2 party and preparing materials for online and on-campus programs. Some additional materials such as senior high school or university documents need to asked for in advancement along with sent by mail or submitted online.

You can either have actually the records sent by mail to the admissions office or upload electronic records with your application. You need to pay $25-$ 35 for each application. Colleges may make it possible for low-income students to send economic waivers. Veterans, service participants, as well as likewise senior locals generally do not need to pay application charges. For various students, an associate degree in communications keeps in mind the initial step in their academic trip.

A public connections specialist makes an average annual wage of $59,300, while an aide, that does not need a bachelor's degree, makes a median income of $28,390, according to the BLS. If you want to go after a bachelor's level after finishing your associate degree in communications, review the programs below. Expand All A bachelor's degree in communications enhances the abilities students discover in an associate program along with prepares them to manage communications in an age controlled by social networks.

Bachelor's Degree in Communications. A Bachelor's Degree in Communications enables you to focus on a particular area of the field. You can become a full-fledged communicator or a part-time communicator who helps clients or organizations market themselves through a range of different communications strategies.

Master's Degree in Communications. This degree will give you a deeper understanding of the field. The program will teach you about communication research methods, theories, and the best practices for communicating within the industry. You'll also learn about the latest technologies and methods that are used to communicate. This type of degree will open new doors for you within the industry and help you advance within your field.

Doctoral Degree in Communications. You may want to expand upon your Master's Degree by obtaining a Doctoral Degree. This degree will provide you with a deeper understanding of the field, and more advanced training in areas of research methodology, communications and communication research methods.

Although the types of degrees vary widely, all of them are intended to open doors into the world of communication and increase your opportunities to advance within the profession. If you have a passion for communicating and the ability to communicate effectively, you can earn the credentials you need to advance within the field of communication.

The first step to earn an Associate of Arts in Communication degree is to find the right college to complete your education. The best colleges in the field of communication will give you a solid foundation in the basic principles of communication and provide you with hands-on experience that will help you further your studies. When you begin your education, you will learn basic communication courses such as listening, verbal and written communications, oral communication, and visual communication. Additionally, you will learn about networking concepts and strategies.

You can earn a Bachelor's degree in Communication and study Communication Studies and then pursue a Master's degree if your interests take you in a new direction. or you may choose to continue your education by earning a Phd in Communications. in order to further your professional goals in the field. Earning a Doctorate degree opens many doors in the communications, but it also requires you to take up a number of extra courses and work on a dissertation projects.

With the option to earn an Associates of Arts in Communication or Masters degree, you will be able to advance your career by becoming a full-fledged communicator and more effective communicator. The advanced level of education you earn at an Associates level will help you advance to the next level in your chosen field of communications and gain a much more detailed understanding of your chosen field.

You can find all the information you need to prepare for your degree in communications programs online. Online institutions offer more affordable degrees than traditional schools, and allow you to keep your costs low.

Choosing an Accredited College

Accreditation means a lot for life during and after college. Accredited schools offer high-quality education that employers and other educational institutions can accept as proof of your abilities. Accreditation affects financing. The Department of Education restricts federal student loan programs to accredited colleges, schools, and universities.

Online vs. On-Campus vs. Hybrid Education

Students today have a wider range of choices than previous generations. They can complete college degrees at quality institutions entirely online. The freedom and flexibility of online education appeals to people that cannot easily separate from other obligations and attend school full-time or part-time on a physical campus. The flexibility of online education stems from its usually asynchronous format. Students can access online class work and resources from anywhere on the Internet. They also do not need to do so at a specific time.

On-campus learning involves students gathering in classrooms or lecture halls to participate. The advantages of on-campus learning include association with other students and a different type of interaction with faculty and school resources like libraries. Further, some types of financial aid depend on a physical presence such as work-study programs and graduate assistant positions.

Additional Questions

Does the College Have Post Graduate Job Placement Help & Assistance?

When considering a college for a communications degree, students should look ahead and consider the support for jobs and careers. Many schools offer extensive assistance to students and graduates to promote job opportunities and career advancement. These programs include providing a system for employers to review resumes and schedule interviews. Support programs can involve alumni and the entire university or school family of corporate and private supporters.

Why You Need to Consider How Rating/Accreditation Can Affect Your Salary

The rating and accreditation of the school affect the acceptance and respect given your degree from employers, recruiters, and other educational institutions. Regional accreditation of the institution and the program is the best combination. National accreditation works well, particularly for faith-based institutions and career type schools. Students that plan to get a graduate degree or other education beyond their current degree program should strongly consider regionally accredited institutions.