Discover the Best Online Communications Degree Programs
Explore our comprehensive rankings and career paths in communications to find your path to success.
Associate Degree Rankings
Start your journey with top-rated Associate programs in Communications.
Bachelor's Degree Rankings
Discover leading Bachelor's programs in Communications
Master's Degree Rankings
Advance your career with top Master's degrees in Communications
Brand Strategist
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Content Marketing Manager
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Copywriter
Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.
Customer Service Representative
Interact with customers to provide basic or scripted information in response to routine inquiries about products and services. May handle and resolve general complaints. Excludes individuals whose duties are primarily installation, sales, repair, and technical support.
Digital Content Strategist
Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.
Market Research Analyst
Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets. Gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or plan a marketing or advertising campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. May employ search marketing tactics, analyze web metrics, and develop recommendations to increase search engine ranking and visibility to target markets.
Marketing Manager
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Multimedia Artist/Animator
Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
Social Media Manager
Plan, direct, or coordinate advertising policies and programs or produce collateral materials, such as posters, contests, coupons, or giveaways, to create extra interest in the purchase of a product or service for a department, an entire organization, or on an account basis.
Technical Writer
Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
Discover Communications Resources
Quickly navigate to essential information pages regarding online Communications programs.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Discover typical costs of attendance and financial aid options when pursuing a degree in Communications.
Admission and Requirements
Discover what it takes to get into the top ranked schools for Communications.
Accreditation
Learn more about how online Communications programs are accredited and what it means for you.
FAQs
Answers to common questions about obtaining an online degree in Communications.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Communications in 2024
| Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
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Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Brief Overview of Online Communications Degree Programs
Pursuing an online communications degree can be a strategic move if you're looking to enter or advance in fields such as public relations, marketing, journalism, or corporate communications. With the rise of digital media and the constant evolution of technology, effective communication skills are more valuable than ever in the workplace.
When you choose an online program for your communications degree, you can expect to:
- Develop a strong foundation in communication theory and practice, learning how to craft and deliver messages effectively across various platforms.
- Gain practical skills in writing, editing, speaking, and using digital media tools.
Explore specialized areas such as social media strategy, branding, crisis communication, and media ethics.
Online communications degree programs often provide:
- Flexibility: The ability to complete coursework on your schedule, making it possible to balance your studies with work or family commitments.
- Affordability: Typically less expensive than on-campus programs due to reduced overhead costs and the potential to maintain employment while studying.
- Accessibility: Access to courses from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for commuting or relocation.
- Student Support Services: Many online programs offer resources like virtual tutoring, career services, and online libraries to support distance learners.
Before enrolling, consider these factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) which can affect the quality of education you receive and your degree's acceptance in the professional world.
- Program Outcomes: Look into graduation rates and alumni success stories to gauge the effectiveness of the program.
- Reputation: Research the program's standing within the industry, as well as faculty expertise and experience.
Our proprietary algorithm takes all these aspects into account to rank the best online communications degree programs available. By considering affordability, program outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and program reputation, we provide you with a list that prioritizes quality education that's tailored to your needs.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Communications
Adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus according to a combination of factors, such as lighting, field depth, subject motion, film type, and film speed.
Announce musical selections, station breaks, commercials, or public service information, and accept requests from listening audience.
Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
Assign, supervise, and review the activities of fundraising staff.
Audition and interview performers to match their attributes to specific roles or to increase the pool of available acting talent.
Check completed program logs for accuracy and conformance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations and resolve program log inaccuracies.
Online Communications Degree Program FAQs
What is an online communications degree?
An online communications degree is an academic program that allows students to study communication theories, practices, and strategies through a digital platform. This type of program often includes coursework in media studies, public relations, journalism, and digital communication, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively convey messages across various channels.
Who should consider enrolling in an online communications degree program?
- Individuals interested in pursuing careers in public relations, media, corporate communications, marketing, or journalism.
- Working professionals seeking to enhance their communication skills for better job opportunities.
- Students who require the flexibility of online education due to personal commitments or geographical constraints.
What can I expect to learn in an online communications degree program?
An online communications degree will typically cover topics such as:
- Media ethics and law
- Interpersonal communication
- Organizational communication
- Public speaking
- Digital media production
- Social media strategies
- Crisis communication
How long does it take to complete an online communications degree?
The duration of your online communications degree can vary based on several factors:
- Full-time students often complete their bachelor's degree in approximately four years.
- Part-time students may take longer to complete their degree.
- Accelerated programs or those with transferable credits can shorten the overall time to graduation.
Is an online communications degree respected by employers?
Yes, an online communications degree from an accredited institution is generally respected by employers. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain educational standards. Employers often value the skills and flexibility demonstrated by students who successfully complete online degree programs.
Can I specialize within an online communications degree program?
Many programs offer specializations or concentrations that allow you to focus on a specific area of communications, such as:
- Public Relations
- Marketing Communications
- Digital Media
- Corporate Communication
- Health Communication
What are the technical requirements for enrolling in an online communications degree program?
Typically, you will need:
- A reliable computer with internet access
- Updated web browser
- Productivity software (e.g., word processors, spreadsheets)
- Occasionally, specific software for digital media courses
Are there any in-person requirements for an online communications degree?
While most coursework can be completed fully online, some programs may include optional or mandatory in-person components such as:
- Residencies
- Internships
- Workshops
- Networking events
Be sure to check the specific requirements of each program before enrolling.
How do I choose the best online communications degree program for me?
Consider the following criteria when selecting a program:
- Accreditation status: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
- Affordability: Look at the tuition costs and available financial aid.
- Program outcomes: Research graduation rates and alumni success stories.
- Flexibility: Check if the course schedule fits your availability.
- Student support services: Explore the academic advising, career services, and technical support offered.
- Program reputation: Read reviews and rankings from reputable sources.
How much does an online communications degree cost?
The cost can vary widely depending on the institution. Factors that influence cost include:
- Public vs. private institution
- In-state vs. out-of-state tuition
- Additional fees (technology fee, library fee, etc.)
It's essential to inquire about all possible expenses to understand the full cost of the program.
What kind of jobs can I get with an online communications degree?
Graduates with an online communications degree have a diverse range of career options, such as:
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Marketing Coordinator
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Content Writer or Editor
- Broadcast Journalist
For more details about potential careers and outcomes, consult resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Communications
Analytical or scientific software
- Data visualization software
- Google Analytics
Cloud-based data access and sharing software
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Slack
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
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