Careers

Communication Studies is a broad degree that can lead to job opportunities in many different fields, such as public relations/advertising, business, media, non-profit, and government. Skills and experiences gained through co-curricular activities, internships, part-time jobs, and volunteering are essential for preparing you to be the best candidate for the most fulfilling job after graduation.

What Can You Do with a Communication Degree?

As a communication major, you have a competitive advantage. A degree in communication studies prepares you for a wide range of occupations and offers a skill set that employers are demanding more than all others: the ability to communicate effectively.

According to a 2010 American Management Association critical skills survey, effective communication- the ability to synthesize and convey ideas in written and verbal form- is one of the most important skills to have for a long and successful career.

Multiple Options

In today's job market, effective communication skills have never been more important. According to an American Management Association 2010 Critical Skills Survey, effective communication — the ability to synthesize and convey ideas in written and verbal form — is one of the most important skills to have for a long and successful career. Some graduates with a communication studies major enroll in graduate school or law school, while others pursue careers in:

Corporate training
Human resources
Sales
Management
Speech writing
Media relations
Corporate mediation

Lobbying
Law
Politics
Education
Advertising
Public relations
Nonprofit agencies (e.g., Peace Corps and Americorps)

The job market is in high demand of employees who have proficient and superior communication skills, including:

effective communication in both written and oral forms,
working well in groups and teams,
public speaking, and
conflict resolution.

Potential Career Areas:		Communication studies graduates have pursued careers as:
Business Public Relations Media Non-Profit Government Law Education		Human Resources Professionals Political Campaign Strategists Teachers Sales Professionals Lawyers Human Services Professionals Motivational Speakers Media Professionals Managers Peace Corps Volunteers

Strategies to Get the Job You Want

View a full list of opportunities on how to use your communication studies major.

Develop strong verbal and written communication skills
Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills
Learn to work well on a team
Join related professional organizations
Gain experience through internships, part-time or summer jobs
Develop computer skills
Develop a portfolio of writing samples, ad campaigns, and other relevant work

Additional Career Information

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