Deciding on which communications degree to pursue can be an overwhelming task. At Arkansas State University (A-State), there are two online degree programs that will interest those curious about a career in communications: a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communications with Social Media Management Certification. Which program is the right one for you? This article will provide guidance based on which career track you would like to follow and how you want your future to look.
Earning a degree in communications can open an abundance of doors for graduates. Career paths in social media management, journalism, public relations, visual media, human resources, business, sales, film and more are available to those with a degree in communications. Graduates from one of Arkansas State University’s programs can set themselves apart with strong communication and collective collaboration skills they will gain from either of these online degree programs.
Career Options with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
A Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies provides students with a solid understanding of how organizations and people share, receive and interpret information. Students will learn not only the theory but also the real-life application of communication strategies. This versatile degree program will help students strengthen their critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills by studying crisis management, persuasive tactics and conflict resolution. In addition, students will gain sought-after skills and knowledge related to content management, public relations, oral and written communication, social media platforms and technical writing and editing.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment in the communication field is projected to grow 4% through 2029 and will result in approximately 46,200 new jobs. According to ZipRecruiter, the average yearly salary for communication occupations is $62,472, or $30 per hour. Some career paths that are available for graduates include technical writer, copywriter, community manager and communications manager.
Learn more about the A-State online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies program.
Career Options with a Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification
A Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification will help students develop the ability to use social media deliberately and effectively to create and maintain stable messaging. Companies that promote their mission concisely by using social media can advance their goals by using communication campaigns and tactics. Students in this program will learn how to communicate effectively in today’s social media-based culture. They will understand when to employ public relations, social media, advertising and branding skills to realize a company’s intended results.
By learning in-demand skills that include content management, social media marketing, digital marketing, social media campaigns, Google Ads and Hootsuite certifications, graduates will have experience that makes them desirable in a competitive field. This flexible degree program offers careers as a communications manager, social media strategist, webmaster administrator, marketing specialist and search engine optimization (SEO) specialist.
Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and Twitter are sustaining their popularity. Businesses continue to use them to create and encourage brand loyalty and awareness. As a result, the field of social media is prime for job growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs in the marketing, promotion and advertising sector will grow at 6% through 2029 — which is faster than average growth. As a trained expert in social media, a graduate from Arkansas State University can be at the right place at the right time to guide and advise businesses on what path is best for them.
Learn more about A-State online Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification program.
Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
Media and Communication Occupations
Advertising, Promotions and Marketing Managers