What Can You Do With a Communication Management Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What careers can you pursue with a communication management degree?

A degree in communication management prepares graduates to plan, coordinate, and evaluate messaging for real audiences. Note that experts and academic organizations often categorize communication management and strategic communication together because they share related skills, responsibilities, and career paths.

The following career paths are frequent starting points for graduates in this field.

Public Relations Specialist

Shapes public perception through media outreach, newsroom pitching, and press materials, then monitors coverage to protect reputation and align leaders on response plans that maintain trust.

Social Media Manager

Designs platform strategies, builds content calendars, and evaluates performance metrics to grow communities. This role often requires skills similar to those taught in media and communication programs online, particularly in digital content creation and analytics.

Marketing Coordinator

Supports campaign execution by coordinating assets, tracking timelines and budgets, and reporting on results. Coordinators also help ensure brand consistency across advertising, PR, and social media efforts.

Content Writer or Copywriter

Produces articles, web pages, and campaign copy that reflect brand voice, incorporate audience research, and support measurable goals. Writers often collaborate with designers and marketers to deliver integrated messaging.

Event and Experiential Planner

Orchestrates conferences, launches, and community events by managing vendors, on-site run-of-show plans, and communications that drive attendance. Planners also evaluate post-event feedback to strengthen future initiatives.

Together these roles show how graduates contribute immediately to brand storytelling, internal and external communication, and coordinated campaign work across sectors.

How can communication management degree graduates secure roles quickly?

A good starting point is turning strong internships into offers. NACE reports that 62% of 2024 interns received full‑time offers on average, with higher conversion when experiences were in person. Treat every rotation like a months‑long interview by asking for stretch assignments, participating actively in team rituals, and requesting supervisor feedback tied to clear outcomes.

Follow that by assembling a concise digital portfolio that showcases real campaign work and measured results. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) promotes student‑run agencies that deliver external client projects, which translate neatly into case studies. Curate pieces that demonstrate audience insight, message testing, and execution across multiple channels.

Focus your search where early-career hiring actually happens. NACE notes that campus events, career fairs, and other employer touchpoints remain productive when paired with experiential learning. For graduates considering advanced credentials, researching the top online MBA in management programs can help position them for faster career growth and broader leadership opportunities.

As you apply, make your résumé parse correctly. Recruitment experts recommend simple formatting, job‑specific keywords, and one master document that you adapt for each opening. Quantify impact concisely so automated screeners and human reviewers can connect qualifications to requirements quickly.

Finally, keep momentum when timelines slip. Expand into adjacent roles that use the same skills, schedule a weekly cadence of informational interviews, and update your portfolio regularly so every touchpoint shows progress.

What sectors are hiring communication management degree graduates in 2025?

2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows large concentrations of communication management degree roles in client services, education, government, corporate headquarters, nonprofits, and media production.

Employment data points to the following key industries.

Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services

Agencies and PR firms remain a primary landing spot. In May 2023, this industry employed about 38,000 public relations specialists, representing 7.6% of all jobs in the sector. These teams handle client campaigns, media outreach, and crisis assignments for brands and public figures.

Higher Education

Colleges and universities hire communicators to manage institutional messaging, student recruitment campaigns, and donor communications. In 2023, colleges, universities, and professional schools employed roughly 18,520 public relations specialists. Many graduates in this sector also pursue online technology management degrees to expand into roles involving digital infrastructure oversight and IT-related communication strategies.

Government

City and county agencies, as well as state and federal offices, maintain in-house communications teams for public information and stakeholder engagement. Local government alone employed about 14,480 public relations specialists in 2023, supporting transparency, service updates, and emergency communications.

Corporate Headquarters

Large enterprises centralize brand voice and internal communications within corporate offices. The management of companies and enterprises sector employed about 14,960 public relations specialists in 2023, reflecting demand for coordinated internal messaging, executive visibility, and investor-facing materials.

Associations, Nonprofits, and Advocacy

Membership organizations, trade groups, and charities rely on communicators for campaigns and policy visibility. In 2023, business, professional, labor, political, and similar organizations employed about 15,360 public relations specialists, while social advocacy organizations and grantmaking and giving services reported 11,100 and 6,490 respectively, underscoring sector breadth.

Digital Media and Entertainment

Content-driven employers continue to hire for communications and production roles. Producers and directors held about 167,900 jobs in 2023, with 30% in motion picture and video industries, 13% in media streaming and social networks, and 8% in television broadcasting. These environments also staff writers, social teams, and brand communications functions.

The next visual provides a snapshot of which careers within these industries show the greatest concentration of specialized communication roles.

What is the job market for graduates of communication management degrees?

Communication management degree graduates enter a job market with steady demand across core roles in higher education, government, corporate, nonprofit, and digital media fields.

The following BLS employment projections show how these careers are expected to perform over the next decade:

• Public relations specialists: In 2023, there were 308,000 employed, with a projected 6% growth through 2033 and about 27,100 openings annually. Hiring is concentrated in professional services, education, government, and other service sectors, reflecting demand in agency, campus, and public information offices.
• Market research analysts and marketing specialists: This group had 903,400 employed in 2023, with faster-than-average growth of roughly 6–8% and around 88,500 annual openings. Common employers include consulting firms, corporate headquarters, computer systems design, and advertising or PR services.
• Writers and authors: There were 150,700 employed in 2023, with a projected 5% growth through 2033 and approximately 15,100 openings each year. These roles appear in information services, professional services, education, and nonprofit organizations with ongoing content needs.
• Meeting, convention, and event planners: Employment stood at 149,000 in 2023, with 7% projected growth through 2033 and about 16,500 annual openings. Employers include nonprofits, arts and entertainment, hospitality, and administrative support, where audience engagement is central.
• Producers and directors: In 2023, there were 167,900 employed, with an expected 8% growth through 2033 and roughly 13,900 annual openings. Employment is concentrated in motion picture and video (30%), media streaming and social networks (13%), and television broadcasting (8%).

Overall, the job market remains broad, with consistent hiring across many different agencies. Interestingly, graduates exploring related career paths—such as those considering masters in reading and literacy jobs—often find that communication-focused roles in education, publishing, and nonprofit sectors overlap with opportunities available to communication management degree holders. This crossover highlights the versatility of communication skills across multiple industries.

How much can you make with a communication management degree?

The salary potential for communication management degree holders varies widely depending on the role, level of responsibility, and industry.

The following list presents current median wages for a mix of specialist and leadership positions in communication-related careers.

• Marketing managers: Median annual wage of $161,030, with the top 10% earning $239,200.
• Advertising and promotions managers: Median annual wage of $126,960, with the top 10% earning $239,200 or more.
• Public relations managers: Median annual wage of $138,520, with the top 10% earning $239,200.
• Fundraising managers: Median annual wage of $123,480, with the top 10% earning $154,940.
• Public relations specialists: Median annual wage of $69,780, with the top 10% earning $128,090.
• Market research analysts: Median annual wage of $76,950, with the top 10% earning $141,040.
• Writers and authors: Median annual wage of $73,690, with the top 10% earning $145,130.
• Producers and directors: Median annual wage of $83,480, with the top 10% earning $180,850.
• Meeting, convention, and event planners: Median annual wage of $59,440, with the top 10% earning $101,310.

These salaries show that communication management graduates can find competitive pay opportunities across multiple roles, with higher earnings typically available in leadership and management positions.

The graph below illustrates the top-paying communication-related occupations, offering a clear comparison of median annual salaries across key roles in the field.

What skills are taught in communication management degree programs?

Communication management programs develop a blend of strategic, analytical, and creative abilities designed to prepare graduates for diverse roles in media, corporate, and nonprofit environments.

These skills are essential for planning and delivering effective communication strategies in today’s interconnected landscape.

• Content creation and storytelling: Learn to produce clear, engaging, and audience-focused messages for print, digital, and multimedia platforms.
• Digital analytics and media literacy: Gain the ability to interpret engagement data, track campaign performance, and adapt messaging based on digital trends.
• Strategic planning and project management: Build expertise in designing, organizing, and executing multi-channel communication campaigns from concept to completion.
• Research and critical analysis: Develop the skills to gather, assess, and apply data to support informed communication decisions.
• Visual communication and design: Understand how layout, imagery, and brand elements enhance message impact across various media formats.
• Interpersonal and conflict resolution: Learn techniques for managing stakeholder relationships, addressing communication challenges, and fostering positive interactions.

Graduates who master these skills are better positioned to adapt to evolving industry demands and deliver strategic value across a wide range of organizational settings.  In fact, many prospective students also look at earning potential when considering these programs, and resources on technical communication degree salary show how mastering specialized skills in writing, analysis, and strategy can translate into competitive compensation in both corporate and nonprofit roles.

What industry certificates can complement a communication management degree?

Industry-recognized certifications can help communication management graduates strengthen their résumés, validate specialized skills, and stand out in competitive job markets. They provide targeted training that complements academic knowledge with practical applications.

The following certifications are widely recognized, offered primarily online, and vary in cost, accreditation, and scope.

• Accredited in Public Relations (APR): Offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), this accredited credential costs about $700 and requires candidates to present a portfolio and pass an oral panel review. It is widely respected in the public relations field for its emphasis on ethics, strategic planning, and research. Available in a hybrid online format.
• Project Management Professional (PMP): Administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this globally recognized certification costs $555 for members and $1,295 for non-members. It is available fully online and is valued for preparing professionals to manage timelines, budgets, and cross-functional teams, skills transferable to large-scale communication projects.
• Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP): Provided by the Digital Marketing Institute, this certification costs approximately $1,195 and is available entirely online. It is respected in marketing and advertising, covering SEO, content marketing, analytics, and social media strategy.
• Google Analytics Certification: Offered for free through Google Skillshop, this online program verifies foundational knowledge in measuring website traffic and campaign performance. Recognized globally, though often seen as an introductory-level qualification.
• HubSpot Content Marketing Certification: A free, online certification from HubSpot Academy that focuses on content strategy, creation, and promotion. Well-reviewed for its clarity but noted for its brand-specific focus.
• Meta Blueprint Certification: Provided by Meta (formerly Facebook), these certifications range from free to several hundred dollars, depending on the track. Offered fully online, they are widely recognized for advertising expertise on Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger.
• Hootsuite Social Marketing Certification: Priced at about $199 and available online, this program verifies proficiency in social media strategy, scheduling, and analytics using Hootsuite. It is platform-specific but respected among employers seeking tool-based expertise.

Selecting certifications that align with specific career paths ensures they add measurable value to a graduate’s qualifications and support advancement in their chosen industry.

What graduate programs can you pursue with a communication management degree?

Pursuing graduate study can give communication management degree graduates the advanced skills needed for higher-level positions, deeper specialization, and broader career mobility. Many of these programs are offered in flexible formats to accommodate working professionals.

The following graduate degrees align closely with skills and knowledge developed in communication management:

• Master’s in Communication: Focuses on communication theory, media research, and organizational messaging. Available in online, hybrid, and campus-based options, often with specializations in corporate or global communication.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Integrates leadership, strategic management, and business analytics. Many universities offer online MBA tracks, some designed for completion in under two years.
• Master’s in Public Relations: Covers crisis communication, stakeholder engagement, and campaign strategy. Online programs are increasingly common, with curricula emphasizing ethics and measurable outcomes.
• Master’s in Digital Marketing: Focuses on analytics, SEO, social media, and content strategy. Offered fully online by accredited institutions, often with the option to earn stackable certificates.
• Master’s in Strategic Communication: Emphasizes persuasive messaging, public affairs, and integrated campaigns. Programs frequently offer evening and online formats to fit mid-career schedules. Students considering this path often research earning potential, and data on strategic communications salary trends show that professionals with this degree can access competitive roles in corporate leadership, government relations, and nonprofit advocacy.
• Master’s in Journalism: Strengthens skills in investigative reporting, multimedia production, and ethics. Hybrid formats may pair online courses with in-person field assignments.
• Master’s in Organizational Leadership: Builds expertise in change management, culture development, and decision-making. Many are offered entirely online by regionally accredited universities.
• Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC): Merges advertising, PR, and brand strategy into unified messaging frameworks. Available online through multiple accredited institutions.
• Master’s in Technical Communication: Focuses on professional writing, documentation, and usability design for complex information. Programs are often available in flexible online formats, with some ranked among the top online technical communication degree offerings in the country.
• Master’s in Media Studies: Examines media influence, cultural dynamics, and content creation. Some programs offer online pathways with optional campus intensives.

Graduate study can expand career prospects into specialized leadership, consultancy, or academic research roles while providing access to valuable professional networks.

What are the latest trends in communication management careers?

The role of Chief Communications Officers (CCOs), top specialized career for communication management graduates, is evolving rapidly. A 2025 Axios report shows that 10.5% of CCOs left their positions in 2024, compared to 8% the previous year. For graduates of the fastest online communication management degree programs, this shift signals a demand for fresh talent capable of stepping into high-responsibility roles that require adaptability and strategic vision.

Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the field. Research and advisory firm Gartner, known for its global industry analysis and technology insights, identifies three key expectations for CCOs in 2025: driving business-led communications, guiding responsible GenAI use, and managing information overload.

Public relations as a function is also becoming more data-driven and agile. PressConnect.ai, a communications technology platform that tracks emerging PR and media trends, highlights the rise of real-time media listening, sentiment tracking, and influencer engagement, all amplified by data analytics, as top industry shifts.

Finally, transparency and authenticity is becoming increasingly vital. Agility PR Solutions, a provider of media monitoring and analytics services for PR professionals, predicts a shift toward open communication about AI’s role in messaging and emphasizes the growing importance of micro-media such as niche newsletters and podcasts for establishing trust.

These shifts highlight a broader reality: communication professionals who combine strategic, ethical judgment with digital fluency will be best positioned to lead in today’s fast-evolving media environment.

The following chart illustrates how frequently CCO roles are filled by external candidates across different industries, offering insight into potential leadership entry points for new graduates.

What alternative careers can communication management degree graduates pursue outside traditional roles?

While many graduates enter familiar roles like public relations or corporate marketing, communication management skills are highly transferable. This adaptability allows degree holders to excel in industries and positions far outside the standard career track.

Beyond conventional communications positions, graduates who completed an accelerated business communication degree online can apply their expertise in diverse professional environments such as the following:

• Corporate Trainer: Designs and delivers employee development programs to improve organizational performance. The BLS (2023) reports a median annual wage of $64,890 for training and development specialists.
• Fundraising Manager: Leads donor campaigns for nonprofits, healthcare, or education sectors. Fundraising managers earn a median of $107,390 annually, according to the BLS (2023).
• User Experience (UX) Writer: Creates clear, engaging content for digital interfaces, blending technical writing and audience engagement. UX writers in the U.S. earn an average salary of $119,745, according to Zippia (2024).
• Legislative Assistant: Supports policymakers by drafting speeches, managing communications, and researching policy. Legislative assistants earn an average of $55,506 annually, based on ZipRecruiter (2024) data.
• Crisis Communication Consultant: Advises organizations on strategies to manage public perception during emergencies. Communications consultants specializing in crisis management earn an average of $87,364 annually, according to Payscale (2024).

This variety of career outcomes highlights how communication expertise overlaps with many other disciplines. For instance, exploring what can you do with a communication disorders degree reveals similar patterns—graduates may move beyond clinical or education-based roles into research, nonprofit leadership, or policy-related careers, showing just how versatile communication-focused training can be across industries.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Communication Management Degree

Other Things You Should Know About Communication Management Degree Programs

What is the job placement rate for communication management degree graduates?

Communication management graduates consistently report high job placement rates. For example, the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School reported a 100% employment rate for its 2023 communication management graduates within one year of graduation.

While national data specific to communication management is limited, strategic communication graduates see similar outcomes. Broader communication and media studies statistics show a 91.4% placement rate within six months of graduation, according to NACE.

Employers across corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors continue to actively recruit graduates from these programs.

How do internships and capstones affect job placement in communication management careers?

Internships give communication management students a clear advantage when entering the job market. NACE’s 2024 report shows that graduates with at least one internship experience receive job offers at a rate 16% higher than those without. For many, internships also lead directly to full-time positions through employer connections and proven work performance.

Capstone projects provide another competitive edge. By tackling real-world problems for actual clients or industry partners, students build portfolio-ready work that demonstrates both strategic thinking and practical application. Employers often view these projects as proof of a graduate’s readiness to contribute immediately.

Combined, internships and capstones show that a graduate has both the academic knowledge and applied skills employers value, increasing job placement potential in communication-focused roles across industries.

How do micro-credentials and digital badges apply in communication management?

Micro-credentials and digital badges are short, targeted certifications that verify specific skills, such as social media strategy, crisis communication, or data-driven marketing. They are typically awarded by universities, professional associations, or recognized online learning platforms.

In communication management, these credentials serve as proof of specialized expertise beyond a degree. A 2023 LinkedIn Learning survey found that 73% of hiring managers consider industry-recognized digital credentials when evaluating candidates, particularly for skills in emerging communication technologies.

Graduates can display these badges on résumés, LinkedIn profiles, or digital portfolios, allowing employers to quickly verify competencies. This visibility can help candidates stand out in applicant tracking systems and during competitive hiring processes.

While they cannot replace the depth of a full degree, micro-credentials and digital badges can complement academic qualifications, demonstrating ongoing professional development and adaptability in a rapidly evolving field.

How do alumni networks benefit communication management graduates?

Alumni networks connect graduates with established professionals who can offer mentorship, job referrals, and career guidance. These relationships can open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

Some of the most recognized professional and alumni-based organizations for communication management graduates include:

• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) New Professionals Section: Offers mentorship, skills workshops, and exclusive job boards for early-career communication professionals.
• International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Alumni Network: Provides global networking events, industry certifications, and professional development resources.
• American Communication Association (ACA) Alumni Network: Facilitates connections through conferences, online forums, and collaborative projects across diverse communication fields.

Joining these organizations allows graduates to strengthen their professional networks while gaining access to resources that support career growth.