An online associate degree in communications may provide students with solid skills in communications and public relations. In these two-year programs, students may learn how to interact with consumers, study marketing and advertising, and manage communications during a crisis. Coursework within these programs may include several general education requirements in addition to core communications courses, such as mass communication, broadcasting history, and media writing.

Graduates may pursue entry-level employment or they may opt to further their education and enroll in a baccalaureate program in communications. Employment opportunities may be available in fields such as radio and television, public relations, and advertising.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 21% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an associate-level program in communications typically includes general education requirements along with major-specific courses. In these two-year programs, students may study telecommunication technology, the role media plays within society, and social responsibility in journalism. Core communications courses may include the following:

• Interpersonal Communication
• Mass Communication
• Information Strategies
• Mass Media
• Audio and Video Production
• Broadcasting History
• Media Writing

Career Options

Associate-level graduates of communication programs may find employment opportunities in a variety of fields, including journalism, radio and television, advertising, and public relations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those seeking a career in a related field are expected to increase by 21% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Radio and Television Announcer
• Public Relations Specialist
• Copy Writer
• Broadcast News Analyst
• Radio Promotions Assistant

Continuing Education

Once students complete an online associate-level program in communications, they may decide to pursue entry-level employment, or they may enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in communications. These four-year programs may expand upon the knowledge students obtained in an associate-level program, and they may learn how to analyze and fix communication breakdowns, and how to use communication technologies. Employers may seek candidates who have at least a bachelor’s degree along with related work experience.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook