If you want to pursue a career in the communications industry and learn remotely, the best online communication associate degrees may be a great option for you. With an online Associate Degree in Communication, you’ll be prepared to enter the workforce in a variety of communication associate degree jobs, including public relations, marketing, and event planning.
There are many different online communication associate degree programs to choose from, so it’s important to find one that best fits your needs and interests. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the best programs available today along with information on the communication associate degree jobs that await you after graduation.
Where Can I Get a Communication Associate Degree Online?
Some of the best schools to get a communication associate degree include South Texas College, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Saint Paul College, Community College of Philadelphia, and Monroe Community College.
What Schools Offer the Best Communication Associate Degrees?
- South Texas College
- Chippewa Valley Technical College
- Monroe Community College
- Community College of Philadelphia
- Saint Paul College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Communication Associate Degree?
Admission requirements for online communication associate degree programs vary from school to school, but most will require that you have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a transcript.
Most online communication associate degree programs do not have any specific test score requirements. However, some schools may recommend that students submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. Check with your desired school for more information.
Online Communication Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Official high school transcript
- SAT or ACT scores (recommended or required by some schools)
- Letter of recommendation (required by some schools)
- Application fees
How to Get a Communication Associate Degree Online
To get a communication associate degree online, you need to complete all of the graduation requirements. This typically takes two years of full-time study. Some programs also require that you complete an internship or a final capstone project to graduate.
Communication Degree Requirements
- 15 – 20 credit hours of general education courses
- 25 – 30 credit hours of core courses
- Maintain a minimum 2.00 GPA
- Payment of all the tuition and other fees
- Capstone project
Best Online Communication Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Campbellsville University | Associate of Science in Mass Communication | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College | Associate of Arts in Professional Communications | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Community College of Philadelphia | Associate of Arts in Communication Studies | The Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Franklin University | Associate of Science in Communication | The Higher Learning Commission |
| Lone Star College | Association of Arts in Speech Communication | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Monroe Community College | Association of Science in Communication and Media Studies | The Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Northampton Community College | Associate of Arts in Communication Studies | The Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Saint Paul College | Associate of Arts in Communication Studies | Higher Learning Commission |
| South Texas College | Associate of Arts in Communication Studies | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. |
| Waldorf University | Associate of Arts in Communications | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Communication: Top Online Communication Associate Degree Programs
The table above lists the 10 best schools for online communication associate degree programs. Below you’ll find details of each school’s tuition fees, mode of study, admission requirements, and degree requirements.
What Is an Online Communication Associate Degree?
An online communication associate degree is a two-year undergraduate degree that can be completed entirely online. Typically it will require the completion of 60 credit hours made up of elective and core courses. An online communication associate degree program covers topics such as mass media communication, communication theory, and public relations.
With an online communication associate degree, graduates can pursue a career in a variety of fields, such as public relations, advertising, marketing, and journalism. The degree can also lead to further study at the bachelor’s level in communication or a related field.
Online vs In-Person Communication Degrees
An online communication degree offers students the flexibility to complete their coursework from home or anywhere else with an Internet connection. This is ideal for students who have full-time jobs or other commitments that make it difficult to attend classes on campus.
In-person communication degrees are best suited for students who learn best in a traditional classroom setting and enjoy the social aspect of college life. On-campus communication degrees also typically offer opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities. Below we’ve created a list of the benefits of online and in-person programs.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Communication
- Convenience and flexibility. With an Internet connection and a laptop, you may do your coursework from any place, and create a schedule that’s best suited for your interests.
- No need to commute. You can save money on fuel and other transportation costs by taking classes online. There is no requirement to be on-campus so commuting is unnecessary.
- Lower tuition costs. Online programs typically charge lower tuition rates than their on-campus counterparts, and there are no extra costs for books and services.
- No need to relocate. You can complete your degree without moving to a new city or state through online learning. Every aspect of the program is set up so students don’t have to be on campus.
- Continue your current job. You can maintain your current job while taking classes online. You have the flexibility to do coursework at your leisure and preferred time.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Communication
- Extra-curricular activities and socializing. You’ll have the opportunity to live on campus, join clubs and organizations, and make new friends through the process.
- Hands-on experience. Some communication degree programs offer internships and other practical experiences that can’t be replicated online.
- Access to on-campus resources. You’ll have access to libraries, computer labs, and other campus facilities. There’s also access to tutoring and peer study groups.
- Interaction with professors and classmates. You’ll be able to ask questions and get feedback in real time from your professors and classmates.
- Structure and support from the college. You’ll have access to academic advisors and other support staff who can help you navigate your degree program.
What Types of Online Associate Degrees Can You Get in Communication?
There are two types of online communication associate degrees, an Associate of Arts (AA) and an Associate of Science (AS). The AA degree is a liberal arts degree that covers a broad range of topics, while the AS degree is more focused on communication and media studies.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science in Communication?
It is better to get an Associate of Arts degree if you’re looking to transfer to a four-year university or want a well-rounded education. The best online communication associate degree for you depends on your educational goals and possible career paths.
However, if you’re looking to enter the workforce as soon as possible, the AS degree might be a better fit. The AS degree focuses on communication and media studies, which can lead to careers in fields such as public relations, marketing, and advertising.
How Much Does a Communication Associate Degree Cost?
The average cost of tuition and fees is $4,289 per year for an in-state student at a two-year college, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The cost of an online communication associate degree will vary depending on the type of school you attend and whether you’re a resident or non-resident of the state where the school is located. In-state students typically pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Communication Associate Degree Online?
It takes two years to complete an online communication associate degree program. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that you can complete in about 18 months. The time it takes to complete your associate degree will also depend on whether you are studying full-time or part-time.
To get a communication degree online, you are typically required to complete 60 credit hours. This means you need to complete an average of 15 credit hours per semester to graduate in two years.
Are Online Communication Degrees Respected?
Yes, online communication degrees are respected. Accredited college and university degrees are respected by employers, but you may not get the level of confidence needed in an online communication degree due to less hands-on exposure and interpersonal interaction.
The presentation and public speaking skills that are the core of a communication degree require you to be on stage and in front of an audience. During your program, you can ask your professor how to strengthen your public speaking skills at home.
Is Communication Hard to Learn Online?
No, communication is not hard to learn online. The only difference is that you’ll be completing your coursework and assignments online instead of in a physical classroom. However, the discipline of completing your studies on your own time and outside of a classroom setting could prove to be challenging for some people.
Communication Bootcamp vs Online Communication Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An online communication associate degree is better than a communication bootcamp. Below are the top benefits of an online Associate in Communications degree and the top benefits of a communication bootcamp. Considering both benefits will help you decide which option is better for you.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Communication Associate Degree
- Quality. Online communication degrees from accredited colleges and universities are respected by employers more than bootcamps.
- Experience. In an online communication degree, you’ll learn from experienced professors who have a wealth of knowledge in the field of communication.
- Curriculum. The curriculum for an online communication degree is generally more comprehensive and in-depth than that of a bootcamp.
- Support. You’ll have access to academic advisors and other support staff who can help you navigate your degree program.
- Practice. You have plenty of time to practice the skills you gain during an associate degree, while bootcamps are short and you don’t have much time to practice the skills throughout its duration.
Top 5 Benefits of a Communication Bootcamp
- Cost. The cost of a communication bootcamp is typically lower than the cost of an online communication associate degree.
- Specific. Bootcamps focus on a specific skill in a subject while an associate degree provides a more general view of many subjects but not full expertise.
- Duration. Bootcamps are shorter than online communication associate degrees. So, if you want to gain specific skills in a short time, a bootcamp is a good choice.
- Intensity. The intensity of learning is higher in bootcamps compared to online communication associate degrees because you move directly into the workforce.
- Flexibility. Bootcamps offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling as compared to an online communication associate degree.
Why You Should Get a Communication Associate Degree Online
You should get a communication associate degree online if you want to gain hands-on experience, in-depth training, and learn from experienced professors. With an online communication degree, you’ll be able to pursue a variety of careers in fields such as technical writing, marketing, public relations, and advertising.
The online communication degree can give you essential skills like self-motivation and self-discipline that will help you to become successful in your career.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Associate Degree Program in Communication?
Some courses you will take in an online communication associate degree may include Small Group Communication, Public Speaking, and Digital Media Communication. Students may also learn about intercultural communication and interpersonal communication during the program.
Below is a breakdown of the classes you may take, along with what students will learn and explore in these courses.
Small Group Communication
In this course, you’ll learn how to effectively communicate in small groups. You’ll explore different communication styles and learn how to use them in various situations. You’ll also learn how to manage and resolve conflict within a group.
Public Speaking
Public speaking teaches you the basics of communicating with an audience. You’ll learn how to engage your audience with your voice and body language, make eye contact, ensure your message is clear, and overcome any nerves you might feel.
Digital Media Communication
Digital media communication teaches you how to effectively communicate with your audience through digital media. Students will learn about the different ways to create and distribute digital content, how to engage effectively through media, how to run social media campaigns, and how to measure a success strategy.
Interpersonal Communication
This class imparts knowledge on how to communicate interpersonally between peers and audiences. You’ll explore different methods of communication, including verbal and nonverbal communication. You’ll also learn how to adapt your style to suit the needs of the audience.
Intercultural Communication
In intercultural communication, you’ll learn about effectively communicating with people of different cultures to avoid misunderstandings. You’ll learn about how to interpret and recognize various cultural norms. Additionally, you’ll develop the cross-cultural communication skills necessary to build strong relationships with people from different countries and cultures.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Communication Associate Degree Graduates
There are many continuing education paths you can take after completing your online communication associate degree. The most common path is to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication. Additionally, you can pursue a certification in various areas of communication, such as public speaking or marketing.
Related Online Communication Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Communication Associate Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best communication associate degree programs are accreditation, cost and financial aid, the reputation of the program, the reputation of the school, student services, and career services.
Accreditation
The best communication associate degree programs will be accredited by accreditation bodies like The Higher Learning Commission, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, or Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Accreditation provides information on the reputation and credibility of a program.
Cost and Financial Aid
When determining whether a program is affordable, the tuition cost is an important factor to consider. To help reduce tuition costs, you should also look at scholarships or financial aid options that may be available.
Program Reputation
You should research the reputation of the communication program to make sure it is respected by employers in the field. You can do this by looking at rankings of programs, talking to people in the industry, or reading reviews from recent graduates.
Institute Reputation
Reputation should be one of the key deciding factors when applying to a school. A good reputation in the market indicates the high quality of education imparted by the institute. Furthermore, a renowned institute ensures better job opportunities for its students after graduation and overall better care for students and faculty.
Career Services
The best communication associate degree programs will have a strong career services department that helps you with your job search after graduation. They can provide you with resources, advice, career planning assistance, and connections to employers. Some programs may offer work/study programs or internships.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Communication Associate Degree?
The most affordable online communication associate degree is the Associate of Arts in Communication Studies offered by South Texas College. The tuition fee for this program is $4,530 per year. The tuition fee for the full program will cost you approximately $9,060.
Can I Get a Communication Associate Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a communication associate degree online for free. However, you can look for scholarships or financing options that will make your program almost free. You may also look for free online short courses on communication through Udemy, edX, Coursera, free communication bootcamps, and communication courses on MIT OpenCourseWare.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Communication Associate Degree Graduates
After completing an online communication associate degree, you’ll be equipped with all you need for a successful career path. Below we’ve broken down possible choices for communication associate degree jobs, along with salaries, and job outlook, to help you on your way.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Communication Associate Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a communication associate degree. Your degree program will have given you the knowledge, experience, and skills to move into various positions in the workforce. Additionally, many employers value degree programs because degree holders are more self-motivated, self-disciplined, and can work independently.
What’s the Average Online Communication Associate Degree Salary?
According to Payscale, the average salary for someone with a communication associate degree is $49,933 per year. Your salary may vary depending on the specific degree, your experience, and your motivation to succeed in your career.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Communication Associate Degree?
The jobs you can do with an online communication associate degree are public relations coordinator, digital communications associate, and newscaster. You can also learn how to become a digital marketer through experience as an advertising assistant or work in healthcare, business, and media as a communications specialist.
Communication Degree Jobs
- Public relations coordinator
- Digital communication associate
- Newscaster
- Communications specialist
- Advertising assistant
Potential Careers With an Online Communication Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Communication Associate Degree?
You can make somewhere between $45,000 and $80,000 per year with an online communication associate degree. It will depend on the job you get and the industry you work in.
Below are some of the best and highest-paying jobs for online communication associate degree holders who are looking for a career in the communication field.
Highest-Paying Online Communication Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Communication Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Technical Writer | $78,060 |
| Public Relations Specialist | $62,800 |
| Video Editor | $56,770 |
| Advertising Sales Agent | $52,340 |
| News Reporter | $48,370 |
Best Jobs for Online Communication Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for online communication associate degree graduates allow you to use your skills in writing, research, and communication. Read on to learn the salaries for these jobs, as well as their job outlook and the highest-paying states for employment in this role.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Communication Associate Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online communication associate degree is worth it if you want to pursue a career in the field of communication. With an online communication associate degree, you have various career options in several different industries, including advertising, public relations, marketing, and journalism.
And, as you can see from the list of jobs above, there are plenty of well-paying jobs available for online communication associate degree holders. If you’re interested in a career in communication, an Associate Degree in Communication is worth considering.
Additional Reading About Communication
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Online Communication Associate Degree FAQ
The fastest you can get an online communication associate degree online is 18 months, through an accelerated program offered by an accredited institution. Typically an associate degree online takes about two years to complete.
Yes, communication jobs are definitely in demand. Those who have strong communication skills, both in writing and in person-to-person interaction, are highly valued in the working world. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in communication and media occupations is expected to grow 14 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Yes, you can start your own business after getting a communication associate degree. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and are interested in starting your own business, an online communication associate degree can give you the business communication skills and knowledge you need to be successful.
With an online communication associate degree, you can start your own advertising agency, public relations firm, marketing company, content writing agency, or even a news website.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
