I'm not sure how many times that I have been asked, what can you do with a degree in Communications? Excuse me while I reiterate. Communication is used in every aspect of our lives. Everyday that we wake up we are using communication skills. Let's say we decide to enjoy our day off, kick back at home, and watch some television. Well we are not escaping communication there either. We are actively practicing in a communication process there as well- whether we want to or not, due to the different channels that communication can take place on; no, not the channels on the television, but the communication channels. Well in order to avoid going through unnecessary explanation for this particular subject here are five CAREER choices for one interested in a Communication Major.

Advertising: A career in advertising can require planning, directing, and coordinating programs and policies. It may also involve an individual to be creative in producing materials for posters, contests, coupons, or give-aways; so that consumers can become interested in purchasing the product, an organization, or entering into a business account. National the estimated annual wage for this occupation is $43,270-$135,930. There is an expectant growth of 14% for careers in this field, between 2010 and 2020. A bachelor’s degree is required and at least 1-5yrs. experience in a related field.

Editors: Editors are generally required to have a bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, or English. If wanting to deal with a specific subject matter experience in that field is desired. For example, if desiring to be a fashion editor-work experience in fashion or formal training is encouraged. Editors need to have skills in using computers and communication devices-in relation to the online side of publication. “Familiarity with electronic publishing, graphics, Web design, and multimedia production is important as well, because more and more material is being read online”(Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012-1013). Annual wages range from $29,340-$104,660. There is little to no change of employment expected from 2010-2020.

Writers and Authors: In this field you are required to develop original work for advertisements, books, magazines, movie and television scripts, songs, and online publications. Writers and authors can work from wherever they have access to a computer. Generally writers and authors work full time; but if self-employed, freelance writers work part time or have variable schedules. If wanting to obtain a salaried position a bachelor’s degree is required. Being proficient with computers is needed due to the need to stay in touch with assignments, sources, and editors. Annual wages range from $27,220-$117,860. There is a 6% projected growth from 2010-2020 and a lot of competition due to this highly desired career.

Interpreters and Translators: “Interpreters and translators are required to convert information from one language to another. Interpreters work in spoken[,]or sign language” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012-1013). Translators work in written language. Interpreters work in environments such as: schools, hospitals, courtrooms, and conference centers. Translators generally work from home; and both interpreters and translators that are self-employed usually have varied schedules. Typically a bachelor’s degree is needed along with being fluent in English and one other language. There is a 42% job growth projected from 2010-2020, mostly due to the amount of non-English speakers. Annual wages for this field ranges from $23,570-$91,800.

Speech-Language Pathologist: The career I’m interested in is Speech-Language Pathology. The education needed for this career field is a Master’s degree. There is currently is no specific undergraduate degree required for admission, but specific courses must be taken prior to entering a Master’s degree program. “The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA), part of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, accredits education programs in speech-language pathology. In 2010, the CAA accredited 253 master’s degree programs in speech-language pathology. Speech-language pathologists must be licensed in almost all states. A license requires at least a master’s degree and supervised clinical experience. Some states require graduation from an accredited program to get a license. For specific requirements, contact your state’s medical or health licensure board. Speech-language pathologists can earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Certification satisfies some or all of the requirements for licensure and may be required by some employers” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012-1013). There is a projected 23% job increase from 2010-2020, as the baby boomer population ages there will be more conditions effecting language. Annual wages range from $44, 380-$107,650.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers, on the Internet at



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