In today’s competitive work environment, effective communication skills are crucial for success. In fact, today’s employers rate communication as one of the most important skills for job candidates, according to reports from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, LinkedIn and the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Earning an online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication degree from Lamar University is a great way to prepare for a career in a variety of media-related fields like journalism, advertising and public relations. Training through an online communications program will empower you to communicate ideas clearly and concisely. In addition, you will sharpen critical thinking, knowledge of technology and people skills.
Career Forecast and Salary Information
If you decide to pursue a career in media, you are making a smart choice in terms of career versatility, salary and advancement potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 6% growth in media and communication jobs between 2021 and 2031. BLS places the 2021 median annual salary for media and communication professionals at $62,340. The figure is $62,800 for public relations specialists, $69,510 for writers and authors, and $78,060 for technical writers, with a bachelor’s degree typically required for entry-level jobs.
A bachelor’s degree combined with appropriate experience can also qualify professionals for more advanced, managerial roles with substantially higher pay. For instance, the following are managerial positions that communication majors could pursue with enough experience under their belts, including median 2022 salaries from BLS:
- Public relations managers: $129,430
- Marketing managers: $140,040
- Advertising and promotions managers: $127,830
What Can an Online Program in Communication Teach You?
The Lamar University 120-credit bachelor’s program in communication prepares you for your chosen media/communications career. The program covers all the essentials — from public speaking to organizational communication. You will gain in-depth knowledge of theories and practices that you can apply to many areas of professional communications, from advertising to television broadcasting.
The Lamar University online B.S. in Communication program offers a range of classes, such as:
- Media Writing covers writing for applications like film documentaries, television, advertising and the news.
- Political Communication explores the nature and role of communication and the media in politics, including campaigns and movements.
- New Media and Publishing on Web focuses on writing, design and message production for modern web-based media platforms, namely social media.
- Conflict Management & Small Group Communication explores the dynamics of leadership, problem-solving and conflict management in group settings.
A bachelor’s degree in communication can open doors to a promising career in almost any media-related field. Whether you seek a career in writing or broadcast news analysis, you can gain the knowledge and confidence to excel.
As long as there are ideas to analyze and communicate, there will be a need for skilled professionals to convey that information. By earning a bachelor’s degree in communication, you’ll acquire tools to engage your chosen audience, build strong business relationships and drive results in today’s fast-paced economy.
Learn more about the Lamar University online B.S. in Communication program.
