Jobs you can get with an associates degree in communications

With the prevalence of digital technologies, it’s critical for organizations in all industries to have clear, concise, and strategic communication across multiple platforms. To meet this demand for communication professionals, universities offer flexible, traditional, and online communications degree programs , such as the best Associate Degrees in Communication.

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If you want to gain the technical skills and certifications required for a career in communication, an Associate Degree in Communication is a good start. In this article, we will discuss the best communication associate degrees and the communication associate degree program requirements you need to prepare.

What Is Communication?

Communication is the use of information to convey messages through visual, written, or spoken media. Effective communication improves personal, social, cultural, and professional understanding and transferring of ideas between individuals, communities, and organizations. “Communication” is sometimes referred to as “communications” in academic contexts.

Jobs you can get with an associates degree in communications

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Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Communication?

The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Communication include Tulsa Community College and Cameron University. If you’re wondering where to get an Associate Degree in Communications, you must consider the price of tuition, course quality, and the distance from home. Consult the list below to discover where to get a communication associate degree.

What Schools Offer the Best Communication Associate Degrees?

  • Cameron University
  • Delaware County Community College
  • Montgomery College
  • San Jacinto College
  • Tulsa Community College

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Communication?

The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Communication is a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) diploma at the minimum. You may also have to meet GPA criteria before you can be considered for admission into the program. It’s important to note that Associate in Communication requirements may differ across colleges.

The required language for most Associate of Communication degrees is English. However, many programs offer courses that teach you how to read, write, and speak foreign languages.

Requirements for an Associate Degree in Communication can also be found on a school’s website.

Communication Associate Degree Admission Requirements

  • High school diploma
  • General educational development (GED) diploma
  • Meet GPA criteria
  • Short essay
  • Online application form

How to Get an Associate Degree in Communication

You can get a communication associate degree by completing the full course requirements and meeting the school’s grade point average (GPA) requirements. Each program necessities a certain amount of credits to pass. If you want to get an Associate Degree in Communication, you should go over your program guide in great detail.

The best way to get a communication associate degree is to be prepared. Although it is not required, there are a few things you should know before starting a communication associate degree that will boost your education and contribute to your success. Having prior knowledge of global media and interpersonal skills will help you get into college for a communication associate degree.

How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Communication?

You need 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Communication, although the number may vary depending on your program. An associate degree is half the length of a bachelor’s, which is why you only need half as many credits. If you’re wondering how many credits you need for an Associate Degree in Communication, you can consult individual school requirements.

Communication Degree Requirements

  • Complete 60 credits
  • Attain a GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • Complete two years of school
  • Succeed in all your classes
  • Complete an internship/intensive

Best Communication Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Cameron University Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication Higher Learning Commission
Colorado Christian University Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Higher Learning Commission
Delaware County Community College Associate of Arts in Communication Studies The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Madison Area Technical College Associate of Science in Visual Communications Higher Learning Commission
Montgomery College Associate of Arts in Communication Studies The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Northern Essex Community College Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communication The New England Commission of Higher Education
San Jacinto College Associate of Arts in Communications Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Scottsdale Community College Associate of Arts in Communication Higher Learning Commission
Southwestern College Associate of Arts in Communication Studies WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tulsa Community College Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technologies Higher Learning Commission

Best Schools for Communication: Top Communication Associate Degree Programs

The best schools with the top communication associate degree programs are the ones that will equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in their field. Focusing on program length, required courses, and tuition fees will help you find the best communication associate degree programs for you.

Many colleges across the United States offer an Associate Degree in Communication that expand on your communication skills, journalism skills, and technological skills. Below is a brief description of the 10 best schools for an Associate Degree in Communication.

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Cameron University was founded in 1908 and offers more than 50 graduate and undergraduate programs. Nicknamed the University of “Choice” for its offering of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, Cameron University is home to more than 3,771 students.

Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication

Cameron University introduces students to the fundamental subjects of the liberal arts through strategic communication. It offers a well-rounded experience to expand students' intellectual capacities and equip them with skills to succeed in their future careers in liberal arts, such as content managers, publicists, and human resources specialists.

You must complete 66 credit hours to receive your associate degree, of which 37 are in liberal arts and science and 15 and in Residence at Cameron. Some of the core courses offered to students in this program include Professional Speaking, Introduction to Public Relations, and Visual Media Production.

Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $215/semester hour (in state); $529/semester hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 66 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 23%

Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.7
  • Standardized Tests: Complete ACT or SAT
  • Application Fee: $20
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or possess GED
  • Other Requirements: If lacking requirements, students may have to take remedial courses and obtain a C or higher

Applying to Cameron University

  1. Create an online account with the school
  2. Fill out application form
  3. Submit transcript
  4. Submit ACT/SAT scores

Founded in 1914, Colorado Christian University was recently ranked in the top two percent of colleges nationwide . It’s also the reigning Christian university in the rocky mountain area. The school’s 9,000 students have a selection of over 200 degree programs to choose from, whether undergraduate or graduate.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies

This university offers a Christian worldview-based introduction to communication studies. In this program, students learn about successful communication skills in interactive and public communication, mass communication, and intercultural communication. This program stands out from the rest because of its religious and ethical standpoint.

You must complete 60 credits to graduate, of which 18 must be core courses such as World Views, Biblical Studies, and Oral Communication. This Communication Studies program opens students up to many career paths. Government, politics, marketing, and media journalism are all possible futures for future graduates.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $494/credit hour
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.8
  • Standardized Tests: 21 ACT, 1460 SAT, or submit CLT score (optional for 2022-2023 academic year)
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: A strong spiritual recommendation

Applying to Colorado Christian University

  1. Complete application for admission (including essays)
  2. Application processing fee
  3. Request and submit a spiritual recommendation
  4. Submit transcripts and test scores
  5. Apply for FAFSA student aid

Delaware County Community College was founded in 1967 and offers 53 associate degree programs. You could also apply to any of their 43 certification programs across many campuses. With just over 10,000 students, Delaware County Community College is known for its reduced prices and excellence in maritime workforce training in preparation for US maritime careers.

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts

Using the right mix of theoretical and practical, Delaware County Community College provides a solid foundation in the study of human communication. What’s special about this program is that students in the Associate of Arts in Communication Arts program can specialize in communication studies, theatre, or journalism.

Students emerging from this program can expect to land in careers such as media marketing and management, communication teaching, and public speaking. To graduate, students must complete 60 total credits of which 24 must be on campus, and 15 of those must be graded. Your core courses vary depending on your specialization.

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts Overview

  • Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition (and Fees): $342/credit (in state); $475/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: Placement testing after acceptance

Applying to Delaware County Community College

  1. Create an account with the school
  2. Online application
  3. Verify if you need any special application procedures
  4. Apply for scholarships
  5. Placement testing (only after acceptance)

Madison Area Technical College offers a variety of 180 programs, earning you an associate degree, a technical diploma, or a certificate. The school was founded in 1912 and is home to 30,000 students. Known for its affordable education, Madison College covers 40 school districts and aims to make higher education accessible.

Associate of Science in Visual Communications

The visual communication program at Madison College focuses on concepts like video creation, multimedia and web page content, and media design. For video creation, you’ll take courses involving storyboarding, videography and editing, and audio production. With multimedia, you’ll learn motion graphics, presentation design, and media design.

After completing the required 68 credits, graduates will be trained for careers in 3D design, webpage design, multimedia design, and video production. With only two more semesters of study, students can obtain an Associate Degree in Graphic Design or Web and Digital Media Design.

Associate of Science in Visual Communications Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $141/credit (in state); $211.50/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 68 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 24%

Associate of Science in Visual Communications Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: Completion of GED/HSED/GED02 can substitute a high school diploma

Applying to Madison Area Technical College

  1. Create an account with the school
  2. Complete online application form
  3. Submit official transcripts
  4. Apply for residency
  5. Enroll for classes

Founded in 1946, Montgomery College is well-known for its high-quality associate degrees. Its 55,000 students have the choice to study and receive associate degrees, professional certificates, or letters of recommendation. During their studies, students can join any of the 130 clubs and organizations available on campus.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies

The Associate of Arts in Communication Studies program equips students with a strong liberal arts foundation. Foundation statistics and English courses are required to take core courses, which include behavioral and social sciences. Graduates of this 60-credit program can later pursue careers in corporate communication, consumer communication, and media.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview

  • Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Tuition (and Fees): $340.80/credit hour (in state); $467.80/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Montgomery College

  1. Create an account with the school
  2. Complete admissions application
  3. Submit official high school transcript
  4. Apply for financial aid
  5. Apply for Disability Support Services (if applicable)

Founded in 1961, Northern Essex Community College is home to 4,715 credit students and offers about 60 credit programs. Students can also enroll in any of the 100 non-credit programs available. Northern Essex Community College offers associate degrees or certifications of program completion.

Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communications

Northern Essex Community College offers an associate degree program in liberal arts and journalism with an in-depth insight into the field of communication. The 62-credit curriculum employs courses and hands-on experience to help students succeed in a communication or journalism career.

The core academic skills students learn in this program include a written communication intensive, a public presentation intensive, and an information literacy intensive written communication intensive. With this degree, students can get jobs in print media, publishing, television, or radio.

Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communications Overview

  • Accreditation: The New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition (and Fees): $238/credit (in state); $479/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 62 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 17%

Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communications Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: At least one intense course is required for graduation

Applying to Northern Essex Community College

  1. Complete admission application
  2. Apply for financial aid
  3. Apply for NECC scholarships
  4. Submit official transcript
  5. Receive academic placement or waiver

Ranked number five for the 2021 Aspen Award for best community colleges across the nation, San Jacinto College offers more than 100 programs and courses. The school was founded in 1961 and is now home to 30,711 students.

Associate of Arts in Communications

At San Jacinto College, you’ll learn the fundamental skills to begin your career as a media professional. You’ll be exposed to the working operations of the communication industry and the principles of media content creation. You’ll get the opportunity to work at San Jacinto Times, the college's student newspaper.

Receiving your communications degree from San Jacinto prepares you for careers like reporting, copy editing, and production assisting and managing. Your core courses include life and physical science, communications, and mathematics.

Associate of Arts in Communications Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition (and Fees): $135/credit hour (in state); $210/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%

Associate of Arts in Communications Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA)
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: Bacterial meningitis shot

Applying to San Jacinto College

  1. Complete ApplyTexas online application
  2. Submit shot record for bacterial meningitis
  3. Submit high school transcript
  4. Take the Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA)
  5. Apply for financial aid

Scottdale Community College offers approximately 100 programs and 60 certifications to its 10,000 students every year. Founded in 1969, the school was named the 4th Best Community College in the US by SmartAsset in 2016.

Associate of Arts in Communication

The Associate of Arts in Communication program employs practical experience and theory to teach communication. Its courses cover crisis communication, interpersonal communication, public and professional speaking, and organizational speaking. It equips students with a broad communication skill set to transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree or secure communication jobs.

The Associate of Arts in Communication is a 60 to 62 credit program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in health education, marketing management, or public relations career paths.

Associate of Arts in Communication Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $441/credit hour (in state); $326/credit hour (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60-64 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 17%

Associate of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: Must be over 18, or have permission from parents and the school

Applying to Scottsdale Community College

  1. Complete student admission application
  2. Activate Maricopa Enterprise ID (MEID)
  3. Obtain a student email account
  4. Submit transcript
  5. Check the student center for enrollment updates

Founded in 1961, Southwestern College is home to about 27,000 students every year. Southwestern College is what you’d consider a feeder school, meaning it prepares students wanting to transfer to University of California or San Diego State University. It offers more than 300 programs.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies

Southwestern College’s associate program teaches the theoretical and practical application of oral communication in public speaking. The curriculum exposes students to an intensive cultural education in the liberal arts and encourages personal growth and social relations. Students also learn mass communication contexts, public speaking, and interpersonal communication.

The communication studies associate degree at Southwestern College is particular because it’s an AA-t, known as an Associate of Arts transfer program. The program is designed for students who wish to later transfer to a four-year degree.

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview

  • Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $1,342/year (in state); $9,434/year (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Southwestern College

  1. Create a California Community Colleges student account
  2. Apply for admission through admission and records
  3. Complete math and English placement test (not required)
  4. Submit transcript
  5. Apply for financial aid

Tulsa Community College has a student population of 16,475 and offers a multitude of associate degree programs. Founded in 1970, Tulsa Community College aims to prep students for four-year programs or their careers post-education.

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technologies

This 60-credit program prepares students for a baccalaureate degree in oral communication and related fields of study. Its curriculum involves foundational communication topics such as strategic communication, broadcast and electronic media, and intercultural communication. Graduate students can expect careers in reporting, media marketing, and managing roles.

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technologies Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition (and Fees): $xxx/{unit} (in state); $xxx/{unit} (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60-61 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: In person
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%

Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technologies Admission Requirements

  • GPA: None
  • Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT or GED scores
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Tulsa Community College

  1. Create an account with the school
  2. Apply for admission
  3. Submit transcript and test scores
  4. Apply for FAFSA student aid
  5. Apply for scholarships

What Is a Communication Associate Degree?

An Associate Degree in Communication is a two-year degree program that prepares you for a variety of entry-level communication jobs. It helps you gain a broad understanding of the technical and creative aspects of various communication careers.

It prepares students for careers in a wide variety of professions such as journalism, mass communication, business communication, and marketing. A communication associate degree can also easily be transitioned to a bachelor’s degree , which will allow holders to work in higher positions and earn a higher income.

How Important Is an Associate Degree in Communication?

An Associate Degree in Communication is important because it fine-tunes your writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills. This type of degree can get you into entry-level jobs in careers such as marketing, journalism, and public relations. Certifications for communication associate degrees show employers you were properly trained at accredited institutions.

The main reasons why a communication associate degree is important are because it gives you the necessary life skills needed in any profession or social setting, and allows you to network with peers and professionals. The future career prospects and salaries available to graduates are a demonstration of how important an Associate Degree in Communication is.

What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Communication?

You can get the following types of Associate Degrees for Communication:

  • Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication
  • Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
  • Associate of Science in Visual Communications
  • Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communication
  • Associate of Arts in Communications
  • Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technologies

There are many communication associate degree types, but the best ones depend on your future plans and long-term goals . You should pick the communication associate degree program that best aligns with your values. Visual communication is an excellent choice for those interested in 3D design, and communication studies are more suited for those interested in marketing.

Is It Better to Get an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in communication?

It is better to get an Associate Degree in Communication because it takes half the amount of time and money as a bachelor’s and earns you the same skill set. The difference between an Associate Degree in Communication and a bachelor’s is mostly the length. An Associate Degree in Communication is better than no degree at all.

Credits from an associate degree can easily be transferred to a bachelor’s degree in the future, so you can keep your options open. If you already know you want to get a job in communications, it might be beneficial to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications instead of taking the extra step of an associate degree.

What Is the Difference Between a Communication Associate Degree and a Communication Certificate?

The main difference between a communication associate degree and a certificate in communication is that an associate degree is a more vast education program that covers subjects related to a specific career, while a sub-baccalaureate certificate program just trains you for one specific job. If you’re choosing between a communication certificate vs associate degree, pick the latter.

You should get a communication associate degree instead of a certificate because the acceptance requirements are much easier to meet. Sometimes certificate programs demand career experience or higher education before you can join, while an associate degree program just requires a high school diploma.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Communication?

Communication associate degrees cost about $3,621 , according to the two-year program numbers from National Center for Education Statistics. This is also far less than the tuition cost of a four-year degree at $16,647. However, an Associate in Communication cost still depends on the type of school, living conditions, and educational materials you’ll need.

Communication Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Communication Degree

If students can’t afford to pay the full cost of the communication associate degree upfront, many schools have financing options for paying in installments. They also offer fee waivers for financially disadvantaged students. Students can also consider financial aid for an Associate in Communication, including grants, loans, and scholarships.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Communication Associate Degree?

It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Communication. The average Associate in Communication length is 60 credits or four full semesters. The classes are usually split up into two semesters per year, totaling two full years of school.

If you’re still worried about how long it takes to get an Associate Degree in Communication, it’s sometimes possible to finish in less or more than two years depending on how tightly packed your schedule is.

How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Communication?

An Associate Degree in Communication is very easy to get because it’s a much smaller time commitment than any other degree. If you already have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, projects involving public speaking or presentations will be much easier for you. The difficulty of the associate degree will depend on your existing skills.

However, a communication associate degree is hard because you have to be very attentive to detail and be able to maintain focus for a long time. This type of program tackles complicated subjects such as media, design, business applications, and computer technology. Getting a communication associate degree is hard if you’re not able to master these systems.

Why Should You Get a Communication Associate Degree?

The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Communication are advancing your skill set, working alongside professionals, and preparing yourself to hop right into the work field after school. Job security and opportunities, advancement in your career, and higher earning potential are all benefits of an Associate in Communication.

The benefit of getting a second Associate Degree in Communication is getting the chance to specialize in a different topic without wasting years and money in school. Your first degree could be focused on liberal arts and journalism while your second degree covers technical media.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Communication?

The required courses for a communication associate degree are focused on basic communication and interpersonal skills as well as expanding on specific technical skills. Associate in Communication courses vary depending on the program, but overall focus on the essential building blocks to help you succeed in any career path you chose.

The types of classes in an Associate in Communication course list range from seminar classes to in-person presentations and intensives. The following list highlights typical courses in an Associate in Communication degree.

Interpersonal Communication

This class typically breaks down the basic elements used while connecting with other human beings, such as facial and physical cues, tone of voice, conscious and unconscious codes of meaning, and verbal and non-verbal communication.

Public Speaking

Knowing how to speak in public effectively is necessary to complete your communication associate degree. This class teaches you how to overcome nerves and fears and goes over how to properly organize and prepare yourself for a speech.

Intercultural Communication

It is required for a communication graduate to have a diverse knowledge of language and cultures. Cultural intelligence and cross-cultural communication are subjects typically covered in this class. You’ll learn about varied systems of non-verbal message systems and rules.

Electronic Marketing

An electronic or digital marketing class familiarizes students with the current landscape of online business markets. In a class like this, you’ll learn the fundamentals of digital communication, master skills needed to engage an online audience, and learn how to use key technology.

Written Communication

Written communication courses cover the essential skills and techniques for writing clear, concise, and engaging texts. You’ll learn about commonly used rhetoric, grammar rules, and the flow of text. The knowledge learned applies to multiple writing genres.

Continuing Education Paths for Communication Associate Degree Graduates

The best path to take with a communication associate degree is to continue to a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication. If you’ve already completed your associate degree, you can easily transfer your credits to a bachelor’s program and avoid having to retake two years’ worth of courses.

Another path after an Associate Degree in Communication is to complete another associate degree. To get the highest level of education, you can pursue a master’s degree or even a PhD program . Having more training and degrees under your belt gives you higher-paying opportunities.

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What to Look For in the Best Communication Associate Degree Programs

The best communication associate degree programs have a well-rounded course load, have reputable teachers, and meet your standards. You can expect flexibility from a communication associate degree that is top-quality. Above all, always refer to your goals and values when considering what to look for in a college for an Associate Degree in Communication.

Accreditation

If a school or program is accredited, it means it passed a review and meets certain educational standards of quality. It’s important to go to an accredited institution to ensure that the knowledge you’re receiving is appropriate and valuable.

Cost

Going to university or college is an expensive process, so it’s vital to consider the cost of your program. If you chose a pricey program and do not have the funds to cover it, you can overwork yourself trying to work part-time or find yourself in financial debt in the future. Chose a school within your price range or inform yourself about loans and scholarships.

Flexibility and Format

Associate degrees are perfect for students who need a bit more flexibility in their life. If your program only offers courses at one specific time or doesn’t offer online equivalence, it can become much harder for you to balance school and your personal life. Chose a program that allows you to follow your dreams and doesn’t restrict you.

Reputation of Program

Make sure your program has a good reputation to ensure you get the best education you can. If your teachers or classes are known for being too difficult, unfair, or unqualified, you might want to consider a different school. Going to a school with a bad reputation can set you back and might require you to go back and relearn the things you learned incorrectly.

Specialization Options

It’s important to consider your interests when choosing an Associate Degree in Communication. Certain programs offer specializations and concentrations to advance your skills in a specific field, so it’s important to consider in advance where you might like to end up. If you chose a program with a specialization you don’t care for, you’ll be wasting your own time and money.

What Is the Most Affordable Communication Associate Degree?

The most affordable Associate Degrees in Communication are as follows:

  • Associate of Arts in Strategic Communication from Cameron University
  • Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts Journalism/Communication from San Jacinto College
  • Associate of Arts in Communication Arts and Technology from Tulsa Community College

Salary and Job Outlook for Communication Associate Degree Graduates

Jobs you can get with an associates degree in communications
An Associate Degree in Communication is a stepping stone to obtaining other advanced degrees in the wide-ranging field of communication.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication professionals earn an average annual wage of $61,310 . This Associate in Communication salary depends on many factors, such as specialization, experience, career path, technical expertise, and what communication associate degree jobs you chose.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Communication Associate Degree?

It is easy to get a job with a communication associate degree because many professions and career paths utilize these skills. If you’re wondering how hard is it to get a job with an Associate Degree in Communication, you shouldn’t be worried. A communication associate degree opens doors to many entry-level jobs, giving you the opportunity to work your way up.

What’s the Average Communication Associate Degree Salary?

According to PayScale, the typical average salary for an Associate Degree in Communication graduate is about $80,000 for someone working in corporate communication . The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Communication is dependent on the specific career path you chose.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Communication Associate Degree?

The jobs you can get with a communication associate degree are scattered throughout the business, marketing, journalism, or theatre fields. The highest-paying jobs with communication associate degree training are usually found in government or high-up corporations, although it’s always possible to work your way up in a company.

Communication Degree Jobs

  • Content manager
  • Human resources specialist
  • Media journalist
  • Political assistant
  • Multimedia designer

Potential Careers With a Communication Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Communication?

According to PayScale, you can make between $34,000 to $64,000 with an Associate Degree in Communication . If you’re wondering how much money can you make with an Associate Degree in Communication, the salary and hourly wages depend on your career path, job title, and position in the company.

These numbers are but the average money that communication majors make out of college, but you can work yourself up and make even more. For example, according to PayScale, a communications director can make up to $88,400 per year.

Highest-Paying Communication Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Communication Associate Degree Jobs Average Salary
Technical Writers $74,650
Social Media Communications Specialist $65,429
Public Relations Specialists $62,810
Announcers $36,770
Customer Service Representatives $35,830

Best Jobs for Communication Associate Degree Grads

The best jobs for communication associate degree grads are the ones that pay well, highlight your training and skills, and nourish your passions. If you’re looking for the best-paying communication associate degree jobs, they are in the corporate, media, advertising, and public relations sectors.

Your degree gets your foot in the door, but it’s essential to put in the hard work to build your career and reputation as a young professional. A smart first step after graduation is to check job boards to help you find the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Communication graduate.

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Technical writers convert technical and complex material into a basic message for instruction manuals, journal articles, how-to guides, and other supporting materials. They liaise with technical staff to provide easy-to-read instructional materials.

  • Average Salary: $74,650
  • Job Outlook: 12%
  • Number of Jobs: 52,300
  • Highest-Paying States: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, District of Columbia, Hawaii

Social media communications specialists represent their companies on social media platforms. They help to increase a company’s brand visibility and communicate with potential customers on social media.

  • Average Salary: $65,429
  • Job Outlook: 10%
  • Number of Jobs: 316,800
  • Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, Virginia

A public relations specialist helps individuals and organizations achieve and maintain a positive public image. They issue press releases and launch social media campaigns to influence public opinion and promote awareness of their clients’ work and goals.

  • Average Salary: $62,810
  • Job Outlook: 11%
  • Number of Jobs: 272,300
  • Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, New York, Washington, California, Virginia

Also called a broadcaster, an announcer relays information to a viewing or listening audience. You may cover worldwide, national, or local news, depending on your location and the size of the station you work for.

  • Average Salary: $36,770
  • Job Outlook: 15%
  • Number of Jobs: 52,200
  • Highest-Paying States: New York, Long Island, Utah, Colorado, District of Columbia

Customer service representatives listen to the customer’s complaints and communicate how to resolve issues. They take customer orders and advertise a company’s products and services. There aren’t many education requirements for this job, which means it’s a good communications job option for people who are still studying.

  • Average Salary: $35,830
  • Job Outlook: - 1%
  • Number of Jobs: 2,923,400
  • Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Washington, New York, California

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Is an Associate Degree in Communication Worth It?

Yes, an Associate Degree in Communications program is ideal for you if you enjoy public speaking, writing, and sharing information and ideas with people. It’s also a fast-track career route, as an associate’s degree can be typically acquired in less than two years.

With an associate degree, you can become qualified for most job opportunities that require less than two years of experience. Following your heart, expanding your skill sets, and getting high-paying jobs are confirmation that an Associate Degree in Communication is worth it.

Additional Reading About Communication

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/everything-about-communications-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/jobs-for-communications-majors/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-online-communication-associate-degrees/

Communication Associate Degree FAQs

What is an associate degree?

An associate degree is a type of degree that can be acquired after high school and just before university education. It aims to provide students with the fundamental academic and technical knowledge, as well as transferable skills, that they’ll need to pursue employment or further education in their chosen profession.

How much money can I make with an Associate in Communications?

The average salary for a communication professional is $61,310 annually, according to PayScale. Your income will be determined by a number of factors, such as your level of experience, education, and the subfield of communications in which you work.

How long does it take to get an Associate Degree in Communication?

The average completion time is two years, but some colleges often permit students who desire to speed up their curriculum and complete it in less than two years.

What does an Associate Degree in Communications programs give you?

With an Associate Degree in Communications, you can get a variety of well-paying entry-level roles in mass media, public relations, and marketing. It also provides a fast track to getting a bachelor’s degree with transferable credits.

Is an associate's degree in communications worth it?

Yes. An associate degree in communications can prepare you for a variety of entry-level careers, such as a client service representative, administrative assistant, advertising sales agent, or audio-visual technician.

What jobs can I get with a communications degree?

Communications jobs: 10 career fields.
Social and digital media. The emergence of digital media has changed the way we communicate and consume information. ... .
Public relations. ... .
Marketing and advertising. ... .
Human resources. ... .
Writing and publishing. ... .
Media. ... .
Meeting and event planning. ... .
Politics..

What is the highest paying job with a communications degree?

Highest Earning Jobs for Graduates with a Communications Degree. With an average salary of $176,126 per year, chief executives and legislators top the list of highest-earning jobs for communications majors, followed by sales managers with $125,577 per year and advertising sales agents with $111,521.

Is it hard to find a job with a communications degree?

Yes, a communication degree is worth it for many students. Media and communication jobs are projected to grow at a rate of 4% in the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Common careers in this field include film and video editors, announcers, public relations, news reporters, and authors.