Work In The Communication Environment of The Future: Digital Communications Degree
From journalist and Web design to social media and public relations; if you are interested in all forms of mass communication then a digital communications degree is for you. It combines all these areas of communication and more, which gives you a solid foundation from which to enter this career field. Businesses, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and many others all require a communication department. And digital communications can prepare you for a multitude of jobs. By studying digital communications you’ll be able to specialize in the areas that interest you the most, such as the Web, film or television.
Digital Communications Degree Info
Degree programs related to digital communications can be done at an associate’s, bachelor’s as well as master’s level.
Associate’s Degree in Digital Communications
When doing a degree in digital communications at associate’s level you’ll typically be able to concentrate on graphic design, cinema, multimedia and photography while exploring the fundamentals of each. Along with general education coursework you will also be attending classes in computer graphics, digital imaging and design. Other elements of the course can include animation, Web authoring, media programming, interface design and even computer programming.
Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Communications
Often digital communications is grouped with Bachelor of Science programs while others of a Bachelor of Arts. During these courses you will be familiarized with all the trends and technologies in the field of digital communications while also examining their social impact. Additionally, you’ll gain skills in collaboration and digital communications management. Specialized classes can include media ethics, mass communication, digital media, visual communications and media convergence. While completing your bachelor’s degree you might also have to complete internships that provide you with practical experience.
Master’s Degree in Digital Communications
Enrolling in graduate degree programs related to digital communications will educate you about current issues in the profession along with the changes happening in this ever evolving field. You’ll gain valuable leadership and management skills while topics can include public relations, new media, web design, writing and social media. After completing a master’s degree you can also go on to complete a Ph.D program in communications or visual arts.
Digital Communications Degree FAQs
Can I Study Digital Communications Online?
There are some institutions that offer online classes in digital communications, but many opt for a hybrid format. This means a mixture of online learning combined with face-to-face time in classrooms. For example, many of the general education and communication courses that are required for your degree can be done online, while your electives will in most cases have to be completed on campus.
Who Are The Ideal Candidates To Study Digital Communications?
Anyone can study digital communication, but it helps to have a strong interest in digital media and communication. It is also a great field for anyone with a love for technology and who can exhibit critical thinking skills. Creativity and strong communication skills are obviously an advantage and because you will be working with a lot of software, it helps to know your way around a computer. Because digital communications is such a fast moving field you must be able to stay up to date with all the new developments that are constantly happening as well as willing to continually learn things.
What Are My Career Options After Studying Digital Communications
The options available to you after studying digital communications will largely depend on what you want to specialize in. Some people choose to become freelance communication specialists or consultants while others opt for careers in Web design, technical writing, project management and copywriting. Other career options include social media specialist, public relations specialist, journalist and more. After completing an associate degree program you will be prepared for any entry-level job in industries that make use of digital communications. Jobs can range from media production intern to graphic design assistant and more. As a digital communications major, the focus of your degree program will influence the career opportunities that are available to you. Popular options include multimedia animator, digital video artist and web designer.
What Skills Will I Learn While Studying Digital Communications?
Studying digital communications will teach you how to use digital media tools for collaboration and communication purposes. You will also learn how to analyze and research communication issues before using your findings to set an effective course of action into motion. Most courses in this field will also assist you in developing and applying workplace preparation skills and strategies. In addition, you will become knowledgeable in the history of digital communication and learn about the importance of digital convergence.
What Will My Duties Be When Working In The Field of Digital Communications?
Since digital communications is such a broad field, your duties can include anything from managing websites and social media accounts to creating videos, coming up with communication strategies and much more. This will all depend on the type of industry you are working in and which area of digital communications you chose to specialize in.
How Much Can I Potentially Earn With A Career In Digital Communications?
The salary range for careers in digital communications vary widely depending on your specialty, experience level as well as your location. For example, according to Payscale.com, a web designer can potentially earn an annual salary of $48,474 in the United States, although this can go up to $65,000 when assuming senior web designer roles. On the other hand, multi-media artists or animators earn a median salary of up to $53,041.
What Are The Other Benefits of Studying Digital Communications?
Today’s cultural landscape is media dominated, which means a thorough understanding of digital communications can be an asset for just about any industry or career path. In addition to careers in the media field, such as marketing, entertainment and journalism, it will provide an advantage when entering the fields of business and management, law, international relations, education and much more. Technology and communication are two things that will always be useful and studying digital communications will keep you on the cutting edge of both.
