What Can I Do with a Communications Degree?
For many college graduates, the thought of having a communications degree and entering the job market can be a little intimidating. There are many different fields to choose from and many employers don’t understand what a communications degree really means. In reality, a communications degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities in many different sectors.
What is a Communications Degree?
A communications degree focuses on the ways and means of sharing information across a variety of mediums and to various stakeholders. It focuses on the ways in which we present, develop and assess information and how communication is used to create relationships between different people or companies. A communications degree covers a variety of topics, including communication theories, mass media, public relations, writing, graphic design and more.
What Can I Do with a Communications Degree?
A communications degree can open the door to a wide variety of career possibilities. Here are some of the most common options available:
1. Public Relations
Public relations jobs involve working with clients and media to reach out to target audiences and build relationships. A public relations specialist helps a client to monitor public opinion and respond to any negative feedback. They must also work to create press releases, plan PR events, manage media relations and create targeted campaigns.
2. Advertising
Advertising is all about creating persuasive messages that compel audiences to take action. It involves creating visual designs, such as web banners and brochures, as well as writing and editing multiple types of copy. An advertising role within a company typically involves developing strategic plans, carrying out market research and creating campaigns for print, broadcast and digital channels.
3. Writing and Editing
Communications professionals are often called upon to write and edit content for print and online publications, such as websites, newsletters, blogs and articles. They are also expected to proof read and check text for accuracy and clarity. Writing and editing skills are also used to develop marketing materials and social media content.
4. Event Planning
Event planning requires a combination of communications, technical and management skills in order to plan and execute successful events. Communications graduates learn to create effective marketing plans for events and manage software applications for event registration and ticketing. They must also be able to work with vendors, such as catering companies and audio-visual service providers, to ensure the event comes off without a hitch.
5. Social Media Management
Today’s digital age demands that companies create and manage a presence on social media platforms. Communications graduates can use their knowledge of digital media and communication tactics to manage and grow a company’s presence on these networks. Responsibilities include creating campaigns, monitoring and responding to user comments, posting content and managing online promotions.
6. Graphic Design
Graphic design is used in many forms of communications, from web design and corporate identity to product packaging and magazine layout. Communications graduates need to have a basic understanding of typography, imagery, colour and design elements to be successful in this field.
What Skills are Needed for a Job in Communications?
The most successful communications professionals possess a combination of technical and communication skills. Here are some of the key skills that might be needed for a job in communications:
- Writing Skills: The ability to write and edit both long-form and short-form content is essential in many communications roles.
- Graphic Design: Knowing the fundamentals of graphic design and the ability to work with popular design software is very important in the field.
- Digital media: Being knowledgeable about digital media, such as websites, email, social media and mobile apps, is essential in a digital world.
- Public relations: Being able to monitor public opinion and respond accordingly to maintain relationships with stakeholders is essential.
- Planning: Staying organized and being able to plan events and campaigns are highly important in the industry.
- Research: Being able to conduct market research, manage data and interpret results is essential for most roles.
- Communication: Being able to communicate effectively with stakeholders and other employees is paramount.
- Leadership: Being able to lead teams, manage projects and solve problems are essential for many roles.
Conclusion
A communications degree can open the door to a number of exciting career possibilities. With the right mix of skills and knowledge, a communications degree can be the key to finding a career that is both interesting and rewarding. It is important to remember that having a degree is just the first step – once you graduate, you need to network and be dedicated to finding the right job opportunity.