In today’s competitive work environment, effective communication skills are crucial for success. In fact, employers rated verbal communication as the most important candidate skill, according to NACE’s Job Outlook 2016 report. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in communication is a great way to prepare for a career in a variety of media-related fields like journalism, editing 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. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4 percent growth in media and communication jobs between 2014 and 2024. The BLS places the 2016 median annual salary for media and communication professionals at $54,780. The figure is $58,020 for PR specialists, $61,240 for writers, and $69,850 for technical writers, with a bachelor’s degree typically required for entry-level jobs.
What Can an Online Program in Communication Teach You?
The Lamar University 120-credit bachelor’s program in communication prepares you for the media/communications career of your choice. The program covers all of the essentials — from public speaking to organizational communication. In 48 months, you will gain in-depth knowledge of theories and practices that you can then apply to many areas in the communication industry, including advertising and television broadcasting.
The Lamar University online Bachelor of Science in Communication degree program offers a range of classes:
- Media Writing covers writing for television, advertising and the news.
- Political Communication explores the nature of communication in politics and the role of communication in political campaigns, as well as the media’s role in the political arena.
- Desktop Publishing focuses on writing and design for various forms of printed media such as newsletters, advertising copy and brochures.
- 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 BS in Communication program.
Sources:
NACE: Employers: Verbal Communication Most Important Candidate Skill
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Media and Communication Occupations
