Learn communications

Understanding how communications work in the professional world is a versatile skill to possess. Explore how to get started learning communications today.

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Why learn communications?

Communications is the study of how messages are created and conveyed by individuals, businesses, and organizations. By better understanding communications, you can help businesses and organizations deliver stronger messaging to their customers and followers.

Some of the most popular jobs within the communications field include public relations specialist, journalist, marketing coordinator, marketing consultant, and brand strategist. Most of these positions require at least a bachelor's degree, which typically takes four years to complete.

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Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

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Certificates

Choosing the right communications program for you

When selecting a communications education program, there are several factors worth considering. First, look for a program that supports your career goals. Many jobs, like a journalist or public relations specialist, require a bachelor's degree. Second, research the instructors to find people with real-world experience in the area of communications in which you're interested.

Here are some options to consider to learn more about communications.

Courses

A course in communications can provide you with a flexible way to explore the field. Whether you enroll in an introductory course or a special topic, these programs can help you gain relevant and in-demand skills. Courses typically last a few weeks.

Certifications

Earning a communications certification can be a way to boost your résumé and demonstrate your commitment to future employers. Usually slightly more time intensive than a course, certifications can last several months and are credentials issued by top industry organizations.

Executive education programs

For busy professionals, executive education programs in communications are a great way to learn while still satisfying your existing commitments. These programs can help you build essential skills that can immediately be applied to your current role. Most executive education programs can be completed within 6-8 weeks.

Degrees

A bachelor's degree in communications is a common prerequisite for most communications jobs, making this is a logical first step for anyone looking to start a career in the industry. Bachelor's programs may offer concentrations that allow you to specialize your studies in the specific industry you hope to enter.

Some professionals may choose to earn a master's in communications to further validate their skills and prepare them for senior roles with higher salary potential.

Jobs in communications

There are many different jobs across various industries that you could pursue with communications knowledge. Most communications professionals work primarily in an office setting, but you may be required to travel depending on the role.

Here are several jobs you can pursue in within the communications industry.

Marketing manager

Marketing managers oversee the advertising and promotional initiatives of a company or organization. This includes a heavy focus on how a company's message is communicated.

Required education: Bachelor's degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $157,620

Journalist

Journalists work independently or with a news agency to find, research, and share important news stories.

Required education: Bachelor's degree
BLS median annual salary (2023): $57,500

Public relations manager

Public relations managers are in charge of the communications and interactions between an individual, company, organization, or agency and the public.

Required education: Bachelor's degree
BLS median annual salary (2023): $134,760

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FAQs about communications

Why should I learn communications?

When you learn communications skills, you can prepare yourself for a variety of careers helping businesses and organizations better convey their messages. Communications skills are in demand, and highly transferable. Some of the roles you can pursue with a communications degree earn higher-than-average salaries, making this field lucrative for some individuals.

How long does it take to learn communications?

Most communications jobs require a bachelor's degree which takes four years to complete. If you are looking to build supplementary communications skills to support your existing career, this can be achieved through courses and certifications which may take several weeks to several months to complete.

How hard is it to learn communications?

The study of communications is not generally regarded as hard to learn. That said, the difference between understanding and mastery may be wide and heavily dependent on your experience and level of study.

Last updated June 17, 2025