Find a Job You Really Want In
The communications field has evolved significantly and continues to offer a diverse range of career paths. Spanning areas such as marketing, education, public relations, and media production, a master’s in communication equips graduates with the skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
This versatile degree enables individuals to pivot across various sectors, adapting their expertise to meet the demands of an ever-changing job market.
At its core, a communications degree emphasizes effective communication in multiple formats—verbal, written, visual, and digital. As the landscape of communication expands, professionals must also embrace new technologies and methodologies to engage their audiences.
Key Takeaways:
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A master’s in communications is a valuable asset in the information age, leading to lucrative career opportunities in various sectors.
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Successful communications professionals are adept at verbal, written, and visual communication.
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This advanced degree opens doors to diverse professional avenues, allowing individuals to carve out their niche.
15 Best-Paying Jobs for People with a Master’s in Communications
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Average Annual Salary: $117,000
An executive producer leads entertainment projects, securing funding and facilitating production across various media platforms, including television, film, and digital content.
While hands-on involvement may vary, executive producers are pivotal in project development, often needing years of industry experience and networking to succeed.
Executive Producer Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Public speaking
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Organizational skills
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Sales and marketing acumen
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Psychological insight and empathy
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Networking ability
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Event management
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Senior Vice President of Sales
Average Annual Salary: $204,000
As a senior vice president of sales, you will oversee the sales operations of a company, significantly influencing its financial direction.
Experience in sales and a keen understanding of market psychology are crucial for success in this role, which involves strategic planning and team management.
Senior Vice President of Sales Skills
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Sales expertise
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Marketing analytics
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Teaching and training ability
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Contract negotiation
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Management skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Psychological insight
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Average Annual Salary: $114,000
The director of marketing is responsible for shaping a company’s marketing strategy, enhancing its brand presence, and driving customer engagement through innovative campaigns.
A solid educational foundation in communications, complemented by practical marketing experience, can pave the way for success in this role.
Director of Marketing Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Management skills
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Analytical skills for data interpretation
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Strategic marketing
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Social media proficiency
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Public speaking
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Psychological insight
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Average Annual Salary: $99,000
As a user experience researcher, you will analyze user data to enhance product interaction, ultimately improving satisfaction and loyalty.
This rapidly growing field requires a blend of analytical skills and human interaction expertise.
User Experience Researcher Skills
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Quantitative research skills
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Behavioral research
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Usability testing
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Survey and interview techniques
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Big-picture thinking
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Behavior observation
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Effective communication of findings
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Average Annual Salary: $141,000
The product marketing director plays a vital role in aligning product offerings with customer needs, developing promotional strategies to maximize reach and impact.
This leadership position requires extensive marketing knowledge and excellent communication skills.
Product Marketing Director Skills
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Product-specific knowledge
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Organizational skills
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Psychological insight
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People and event management
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Research and development experience
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Behavioral analysis
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Financial understanding
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Average Annual Salary: $76,000
An advertising sales director strategizes and oversees advertising campaigns, ensuring effective communication and execution.
Many professionals start in creative roles, but sales and management experience can also lead to this position.
Advertising Sales Director Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Public speaking
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Organizational skills
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Sales and marketing expertise
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Social media knowledge
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Familiarity with traditional media
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Financial oversight
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Average Annual Salary: $43,000
News anchors deliver news content across various platforms, requiring a strong on-camera presence and journalistic integrity.
Trustworthiness and relatability are key traits for successful anchors in today’s media landscape.
News Anchor Skills
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Public speaking proficiency
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Comfort in front of the camera
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Trustworthy persona
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Unbiased reporting
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News-gathering capability
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Strong voice and diction
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Average Annual Salary: $94,000
Public relations directors manage branding and public perception, crafting effective communication strategies to enhance an organization’s image.
This role often involves collaboration with media, press releases, and social media management.
Director of Public Relations Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Public speaking expertise
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Empathy and psychological insight
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Project management
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Media connections
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Marketing experience
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Average Annual Salary: $115,000
A chief communications officer (CCO) shapes the public and internal communication strategies of an organization, guiding its overall messaging and branding.
This executive role requires strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of both internal and external communication dynamics.
Chief Communications Officer Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Public speaking proficiency
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Organizational skills
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Sales and marketing knowledge
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Psychological understanding
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Leadership and event management
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Financial acumen
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Average Annual Salary: $61,000
Speech writers craft compelling narratives for individuals or organizations, requiring a deep understanding of the subject matter and the speaker’s voice.
Success in this role often hinges on networking and the ability to convey complex ideas succinctly.
Speech Writer Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Public speaking skills
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Organizational capabilities
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Empathy and psychological insight
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Political awareness
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Analytical skills
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Public relations knowledge
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5 Entry-Level Jobs for People with a Master’s in Communication
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Average Annual Salary: $58,000
Content writers are essential for creating engaging narratives that promote products and services in the digital landscape. This entry-level position can evolve into a rewarding career with experience.
Strong writing skills and an eye for detail are paramount in this role.
Content Writer Skills
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Grammar and editing proficiency
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Marketing acumen
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Basic coding knowledge
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Search engine optimization (SEO)
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Creativity in storytelling
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Average Annual Salary: $80,000
A human resources manager oversees employee relations, benefits, and often recruitment processes, serving as a vital link between management and staff.
This role provides an excellent entry point for further career advancement within an organization.
Human Resources Manager Skills
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Management capabilities
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Business and financial acumen
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Organizational skills
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Understanding of employment law
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Negotiation skills
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Average Annual Salary: $60,000
Journalism serves as a foundational career for many communications graduates, allowing them to build credibility and authority in the field.
The skills developed in journalism can lead to various opportunities and professional growth.
Journalist Skills
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Strong command of language and grammar
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News gathering and reporting
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Interviewing techniques
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Unbiased reporting
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Public speaking
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Average Annual Salary: $67,000
Marketing account managers facilitate communication between clients and the company, ensuring the timely delivery of marketing materials and campaign execution.
This role can serve as a stepping stone to advanced marketing positions.
Marketing Account Manager Skills
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Interpersonal communication
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Marketing knowledge
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Budgeting and scheduling
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Understanding of social media trends
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Graphic design basics
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Average Annual Salary: $51,000
Video editing has become an increasingly valuable skill in today’s media landscape, allowing professionals to creatively communicate messages visually.
The demand for skilled video editors is growing, leading to rewarding opportunities in various industries.
Video Editor Skills
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Graphic design knowledge
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Photography skills
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Videography experience
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Understanding of social media
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Creativity and artistic vision
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Why Pursue a Master’s in Communication?
If you’re contemplating a master’s degree, communication offers numerous advantages:
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Creative expression. This field thrives on creativity, making it ideal for those with artistic inclinations.
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Growth potential. With various pathways for advancement, professionals can continually seek new opportunities and challenges.
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Expanding demand. The need for effective communication has never been greater, creating a diverse range of career options.
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High earning potential. The communications field is ripe with opportunities for high-paying positions, particularly for those who gain experience and showcase their skills.
Masters in Communications Jobs FAQ
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What can you do with a master’s degree in communication?
A master’s degree in communications opens doors to various roles focused on effective messaging. This includes written, visual, and digital formats, enhancing your ability to communicate in any field.
Graduates often find that their enhanced communication skills improve their overall professional effectiveness, leading to success in diverse careers.
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What skills do you need for communication jobs?
Strong communication skills are essential for success in the communications field. This includes proficiency in speaking and writing, as well as listening and interpreting messages.
Understanding visual media and possessing empathy are also valuable traits that contribute to success in this dynamic field.
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Do employees with a master’s in communication earn more?
Yes, individuals with a master’s in communication typically receive higher salaries. The expansive nature of this field allows for various high-earning career paths.
Moreover, a master’s degree not only opens entry-level doors but also equips graduates with the skills to excel and increase their earning potential over time.
Author
Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.
