A Comprehensive Guide to Communications Careers

Completing a degree in communications gives students the option of pursuing hundreds of different careers. Because communication skills are essential for success in the workforce, a communications degree or specialized training in communications can set one person apart from other candidates for the same position. An interest in communications might lead to a career in the public relations, publishing, advertising, entertainment, or business industries. Making the right career decision depends on several factors, so students should consider their long-term goals, skills, knowledge, and abilities when choosing a career.

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists help their employers or clients build relationships with members of the media and with the public. This job involves contacting media personalities, writing press releases, and conducting programs to help raise awareness of the organization’s activities. Successful public relations specialists typically have degrees in communications, journalism, business, or marketing. National certification from the Public Relations Society of America can open up additional opportunities. The median annual salary for this position is $51,280. The number of jobs in this field is expected to increase by 24 percent by 2018.

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers are responsible for communicating via print or electronic media. They use color, photography, fonts, animation, illustration, and special layout techniques to get their messages across. Designers may produce brochures, logos, website designs, and other related projects. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or fine arts for entry-level jobs. The median annual salary for this job is $42,400, but the job outlook for this career is good. The number of jobs in this field should increase 13 percent by 2018.

Advertising Account Executives

Advertising account executives help companies determine their advertising needs and create advertising plans that help achieve sales objectives. People who want to pursue this type of career should have excellent communication skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in communications, business administration, or marketing. Students should complete courses in management, business law, accounting, statistics, and finance if they want an edge when seeking employment. The median annual salary for this job is $80,220. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the number of jobs available in this field will decrease by 2 percent by 2018.

Newspaper Reporter

Newspaper reporters write stories that appear in daily or weekly newspapers. Some reporters focus on hard news stories while other reporters write about arts, entertainment, and topics of local or regional interest. This job requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, as reporters often conduct interviews when writing their stories. Newspaper writers should also be able to handle criticism well, as editors typically review their work and make changes. The Internet changed the way organizations deliver news, so the outlook for this career is not as good as it once was. The median annual salary for this job depends on work experience. People with one to four years of experience earn a median annual salary of $28,700. Even those with more than 20 years of newspaper writing experience only earn a median annual salary of $61,000.

Broadcast Journalist

News anchors deliver the news from a television studio and introduce taped stories and live feeds from other reporters. This job requires excellent attention to detail, good communications skills, and the ability to adjust to changes quickly. Students who want to pursue this type of career should take courses in communications, broadcasting, and journalism. The ability to deliver news without bias is also an important part of building a successful career as a broadcast journalist. Overall employment for this career is expected to decline moderately through the year 2018. The salary for this job depends on the market. Reporters and anchors in large markets such as New York and Los Angeles can expect to earn much more than reporters and anchors working in smaller markets. The median annual salary of a broadcast news analyst is $51,260.

Photographer

The main duties of a photographer are creating and preserving images. However, this career requires a number of other skills. Photographers must know how to operate different types of equipment, how to use lighting equipment to produce the best images, how to edit or enhance photos using image editing software, and how to instruct subjects to pose for the best results. Some photographers choose to start their own businesses and focus on just one or two aspects of photography, such as wedding portraits or travel photos. This field is very competitive, as many people like the idea of getting paid to take pictures. Aspiring photographers should complete a degree in photography or a related field. Practical experience and a solid photography portfolio are also necessary for those seeking full-time or part-time employment. Employment in this field is expected to grow by 12 percent through 2018. The median annual salary for a photographer is $29,440. Those who are self-employed tend to earn less than those who work for other companies.

Acquisitions Editor

Acquisitions editors help publishers acquire new titles for publication. This involves evaluating proposals and manuscripts sent by authors, developing marketing plans for accepted books, guiding authors in the preparation of their manuscripts, negotiating author contracts, and working with other departments to ensure successful production of accepted titles. Entry-level acquisitions editors typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, English, journalism, or a related field. The salary for an entry-level position in this field is usually in the high $20,000 range. The number of jobs is expected to decrease by 2018, as many authors now self-publish their own books using online platforms.

Audio Engineer

Sound engineers set up and operate the machines used to record or mix voices, music, and sound effects. These engineers work in the television, radio, and performing arts industries. Most entry-level sound engineering positions require only a certificate or diploma from a technical training program, but some entry-level candidates have associate or bachelor’s degrees. Coursework in electronics, broadcast technology, and related topics can help aspiring sound engineers develop the skills needed for success in this career. Employment in this field is expected to grow as fast as the average for other occupations, but entry-level candidates will face tough competition in major markets. The median annual salary for this job is $38,050.

Video Camera Operator

Camera operators use video cameras to record footage for films, television programs, sporting events, training sessions, and documentaries. Another option for those interested in camera work is a career as a videographer. Videographers shoot private events such as weddings and baptism ceremonies. They may also shoot and edit video for businesses. A bachelor’s degree in broadcasting, communications, or film will provide the basic foundation needed for success in this career. Employment in this job is expected to grow as fast as the average, but the competition will be fierce. The median annual salary for this job is $41,670.

Copywriter

Copywriters write the text for advertisements, television commercials, radio commercials, and other marketing and advertising materials. A copywriter may work for one company or choose to work with several different clients, so this career has the potential for a lot of variety. Some copywriters also develop taglines or slogans for their clients. Employers prefer to hire copywriters with bachelor’s degrees in English, journalism, or communications. The competition for this field is expected to increase, as many companies are downsizing. However, employment in copywriting is expected to grow as fast as the average for other occupations. Copywriters earn a median annual salary of $53,070. Self-employed copywriters have the potential to earn more, as they set their own fees.

Communications Teacher

Communications teachers educate students about important concepts and skills in the communications field. Teachers in this field may teach courses in broadcasting, journalism, communications theory, written communication, and related topics. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, communications teachers may also have to advise students or work with student organizations. The salary for this job depends on the employer and the location. College communications teachers typically earn more than those who teach communications in high school. The outlook for this job is good, as colleges and universities typically require all students to take basic communications courses. The salary for this job depends on the type of employment secured. Adjunct faculty members typically receive a flat fee for each course they teach. Salaried teachers with the potential for tenure receive an annual salary and benefits. According to Salary.com, the median annual salary for a communications instructor in the United States is $43,813.

Script Writer

Script writers write the stories used in films and television shows. They also collaborate with actors, producers, and directors to polish the finished product. Anyone who wants a career in script writing needs excellent communication skills, as scripts use a very specific format. Script writers should also be able to edit their own work and use feedback from other film industry professionals to improve each script. The fees for scripts are set by The Writers Guild of America, so pay varies for each project completed. Staff writers for television shows earn anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 per week. A finished script for a long television program can command as much as $50,000. Movie industry salaries often vary based on the company and the type of project. The median annual salary for movie script writing is $44,350. However, script writers for successful movies may earn as much as $600,000 per year.

Performing Artist

The performing arts field includes theatre performers and actors, two groups of people who greatly benefit from coursework in communications. The educational requirements for this field are often less stringent than those required by other fields, as natural talent and ability play a bigger role in performing arts success. However, many performing artists take courses in communications to improve their abilities. The pay for this field also varies greatly. If a performing artist participates in a very successful project, such as an acclaimed Broadway play, the pay is much greater than the pay for someone who performs in a short-lived project that was not well-received by audiences.

Newsletter Editor

Newsletter editors use their skills to ensure the successful production of print or online newsletters. Some of the duties of this job include soliciting submissions from writers, editing newsletter copy, organizing the newsletter layout according to subject, proofreading the newsletter before going to print, and ensuring that production expenses do not exceed an established budget. Entry-level editors typically have a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or English. The median expected salary for this job is $53,657, but compensation varies widely based on job duties.

Audiovisual Specialist

Audiovisual specialists provide support for teachers, presenters, executives, and other people who use audio and visual technology to perform their jobs. An audiovisual specialist sets up cameras, projectors, recording devices, and other equipment used for training seminars, workshops, and conferences. They also instruct users in selecting the right audiovisual equipment, learning how to use the equipment, and troubleshooting the equipment in the event of problems. This job may also involve maintaining audiovisual equipment by cleaning it and ensuring that all components work properly. Communications skills required by audiovisual specialists include active listening, speaking to others, and communicating effectively in writing. Most jobs in this field require a bachelor’s degree and several years of relevant work experience. The median annual salary for this career is $42,710.

Author

Authors create fictional stories or write about nonfiction topics such as history and science. Authors may write for magazines, books, newsletters, journals, websites, and other publications. This job requires excellent communications skills, as authors have to know how to communicate with their audiences. Some authors also have to conduct seminars or workshops in order to promote their work, which requires excellent public speaking skills. A degree in English, communications, or journalism can help an author develop the skills necessary for success. The average yearly wage of writers and authors is $64,560. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics includes copywriters, technical writers, and other types of writers in the salary data for authors. This means authors may earn less than the average yearly salary.

Technical Writer

Technical writers use their writing skills to develop training manuals, equipment documentation guides, and other documents that communicate technical information to others. This career typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree and coursework or experience related to a specific field. A technical writer who develops software manuals, for example, may seek additional education or certifications in the technology field. Someone who writes medical documents may take coursework in medicine, biology, nursing, or related fields to enhance their understanding. The median annual salary for a technical writer in the United States is $46,222.

Radio Announcer

The job duties of a radio announcer vary based on the position description and news organization. Someone hired as a sports announcer typically reads sports scores or covers highlights from recent sporting events. News announcers read prepared summaries of news stories. Most announcer positions do not require a college degree, but a degree can help a candidate set him or herself apart from other candidates in a competitive market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in this field to decline slightly, as radio audiences have gotten smaller. The median annual salary of radio announcers is $40,050.

Casting Director

Casting directors help select the actors that will perform in television shows, movies, and live performances. A casting director gathers several candidates to audition for open roles, reads through the script with the candidates, and works with the producer and director to determine the type of person needed for each role. This role typically does not require a bachelor’s degree, as a good eye for talent is more important in this field than completed coursework. However, a communications degree can help an aspiring casting director learn valuable skills. The salary for this career varies based on the project. Casting directors might earn a flat fee for production or an annual salary. Some casting directors earn more than $100,000 per year if they work on feature film projects.

Radio DJ

Disc jockeys, more commonly known as DJs, broadcast music on the radio. Some disc jockeys also entertain their audiences with jokes and gags. The main requirement for this career is a very clear speaking voice. Radio DJs should also have strong personalities, as their success depends on connecting with an audience. In addition to their radio duties, popular disc jockeys may also be required to attend local events and contests. An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in communications or broadcasting can help an aspiring DJ learn about the equipment used in the industry. The annual salary for this job ranges from a low of $17,145 to as much as $53,590. The salary for this job depends largely on the size of the radio market and the popularity of the DJ.

Career Resources

Browse through the following links for further information on communications careers:

• Career: Public Relations Specialists – This career guide explains what public relations specialists do and how students should prepare for a career in this field.
• A Day in the Life of a Graphic Designer – This article discusses the work of graphic designers and lists some related careers.
• Advertising Account Executive Job Description – This resource lists the typical job duties of an advertising account executive.
• Salary for News Reporter Jobs – PayScale lists the average salary for a newspaper reporter in the United States. Users can customize the salary information based on their geographic location and education level.
• Broadcasting Careers – The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers an in-depth look at broadcasting careers. This guide includes information on job duties, work environment, and salaries.
• Photographer Job Description – This guide explains what a photographer does and discusses the skills needed by professional photographers.
• Acquisitions Editor – This article by an acquisitions editor explains what the job entails and what skills are needed for success.
• Video Camera Operator Job Description – This resource explains what a video camera operator does and also discusses options for self-employment.
• Copywriter Profile – The Academy of Art University explains the job duties of a copywriter.
• Communications Teacher – This guide outlines the primary responsibilities of a communications teacher.
• Script Writer Career Information – This guide details the job duties of a script writer, discusses the skills necessary for success in the field, and lists the median hourly wage and median annual salary for this career.
• Careers in Performance – The Berklee College of Music lists some of the many careers available in the performing arts field.
• Newsletter Editor Job Description – This example of a newsletter editor job description lists the duties performed by someone in this position. The editorial calendar also demonstrates the many tasks a newsletter editor must organize to be successful.
• Audiovisual Specialist Salary Information – This resource shows the hourly wage range, average yearly salary, and yearly salary range for audiovisual specialists.
• Career Profile: Technical Writer – This guide aims to help readers decide if a career in technical writing is right for them.
• Career Information: Announcers – This resource discusses the job duties of announcers and explains the job outlooks and earnings for this position.

• Casting Director – This guide lists the key skills needed by a casting director and explains what this job entails.
• DJ Information – This article specifically distinguishes between dance club DJs and radio DJs. It lists the job duties of each position and discusses training and development opportunities.
• Communications Career Info – This resource from Western Washington University lists dozens of careers in the communications field and explains how to choose the right career.
• Pathways to Careers in Communications (PDF) – This detailed guide offers information about several careers that are possible with a communications degree.