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.
Campbellsville University is a Christian institute, founded in 1906. The university offers a wide variety of certificates, associates, undergraduate, and graduate programs. They provide both online and on-campus programs, and currently have over 5,000 students enrolled within their institution.
Associate of Science in Mass Communication
The Associate of Science in Mass Communication is an online communication degree comprised of 60 credit hours over two years. This program has both core classes and general education credits. In the program, students will learn about mass media and society, copyediting, and social media.
Associate of Science in Mass Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $410/credit
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 36%
Associate of Science in Mass Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Campbellsville University
- Speak with an enrollment counselor
- Fill out the application form
- Submit high school/college official transcript and SAT or ACT score if transferring less than 24 credit hours.
- Enroll in online courses
- Pay tuition costs and fees
Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System. They have campuses located across the state, all of which offer various degree programs for prospective students. They provide innovative and flexible education opportunities online and in-person, as well as apprenticeship programs.
Associate of Arts in Professional Communications
During the Associate of Arts in Professional Communications program, students will gain insight into document design, writing and publishing, and digital media communications. The professional communications program is fully online and requires 60 credits over four semesters to graduate.
Associate of Arts in Professional Communications Overview
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $143.45/credit (in state); $215.18/credit (out of state)
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%
Associate of Arts in Professional Communications Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: None
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: ACCUPLACER pre-entry test for students without high school diploma or GED transcripts
Applying to Chippewa Valley Technical College
- Fill out the online application form
- Pay application processing fees of $30
- Apply for financial aid
- Submit an official high school transcript
The Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) is a public institution that has been providing degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels since 1965. The college offers more than 253 certificates and provides students with both academic resources and support services during their education. CCP is also an open-admission college that offers transfer credits.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
Through a Liberal Arts foundation, the Associate of Arts in Communication Studies is aimed to give students skills and knowledge that will be used to transfer into a four-year program. Upon finishing the 61 credit degree, students will have gained knowledge in public speaking, society and mass communication, and interpersonal communication.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $193/credit (Philadelphia residents); $328/credit (other Pennsylvanians); $497/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 61 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at varying credits per semester
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 16%
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Community College of Philadelphia
- Fill out the online application
- Apply for financial aid
- Submit high school transcript and SAT or ACT scores
- Register for classes
- Pay tuition and fees by the payment deadline
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University was established in 1902, and specializes in adult learners with over 4,000 students enrolled. They are connected with business partners and technical colleges located across the US. They are recognized for their academic prowess, affordability, and accessibility.
Associate of Science in Communication
Over the course of this 24-month program, students will be required to complete 60 credits in order to graduate, including 24 credits from general electives and 36 credits from required classes. Some core courses in the program include Digital Design, Introduction to Mass Media, and Professional Communication. The program is designed for busy, working adults to be able to finish quickly.
Associate of Science in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $398/credit
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 42%
Associate of Science in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: None
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Students without a high school diploma or GED may require a placement test
Applying to Franklin University
- Fill out the online application form
- Send your high school official transcripts
- Apply for financial aid, scholarships, or grants
- Placement test based on your transcript evaluation
- Pay tuition fees for the first term
Lone Star College is located in The Woodlands, Texas, and was established in 1972. The college offers higher learning programs in more than 190 subjects. There is currently an online and on-campus student population that totals over 70,000 people. They inspire to create educational opportunities that enrich the lives of their students.
Association of Arts in Speech Communication
The Associate of Arts in Speech Communication program teaches students about life and physical sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and creative arts. This associate degree can be transferred to a Bachelor of Art in Speech Communication after completion. Throughout the program, students will need to take 17 credits of core classes, 37 general credits, and 6 electives to graduate.
Association of Arts in Speech Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $90/credit (in district); $202/credit (out of district); $257/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 12%
Association of Arts in Speech Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: TSI assessment test
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Lone Star College
- Fill out the online application
- Complete pre-assessment and placement testing
- Submit high school or college transcript
- Bacterial Meningitis vaccination
- Campus Health, Safety, & Risk-Management Awareness (CHSRMA) Completion
Monroe Community College (MCC) was established in 1961 and it is located in Rochester, New York. Monroe Community College offers degree programs to people on its various campuses at an affordable price. MCC prides itself on innovation and evolution to meet the standards of its student and faculty population.
Association of Science in Communication and Media Studies
The Associate of Science in Communication and Media Studies has three tracks for its students to choose from, including the public relations track, speech track, and the journalism track. The program requires on average 60 to 61 credit hours and allows students to explore their interests as they learn through 20 elective credits.
Association of Science in Communication and Media Studies Overview
- Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $2,353/semester (in state); $4,706/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 23%
Association of Science in Communication and Media Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Monroe Community College
- Contact admission counselor for guidance
- Fill out the online application
- Send high school transcript
- Apply for financial aid
Since 1967, Northampton Community College (NCC) has been providing students with quality education, access to career training, and leisure activities. Located in Bethlehem, PA, NCC is an award-winning university that provides degree programs at all levels both online and in-person.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
The Associate of Arts in Communication Studies is an online communication degree that requires a total of 62 credit hours, with core and elective classes based on communication theory, interpersonal communication, and small group communication. The program on average takes two years to complete at full-time status.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $5,175/semester (in state); $7,635/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 62 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 14 - 16 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Northampton Community College
- Fill out the online application
- Attend an information session
- Apply for financial aid
- Submit transcript and test scores
- Take placement test (if required)
- Register for online courses
With over 5,823 undergraduate students, Saint Paul College offers more than 100 programs in various fields of study. Since its foundation in 1910, it has been providing a valued education through its associate, bachelor, and certificate programs. Saint Paul prides itself on an engaging learning experience and offers transfer credits for accelerated graduation.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
During the program, students will learn to strengthen their writing and thinking skills to understand spoken and written communication. After the 64 credit program, students will be able to work in communications, customer relations, and media relations. They will also have mastered the fundamentals of public speaking, intercultural communication, and family communication.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $225/credit
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online, hybrid, in-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 31%
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.8
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT/MCA
- Application Fee: None (currently waived)
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Saint Paul College
- Fill out the online application
- Submit high school transcripts and test scores
- Declare your major
- Register for courses
- Pay tuition and fees and apply for financial aid
South Texas College is a relatively new college that was founded in 1993. It offers students the opportunity to work closely with professors through small classes. It currently has over 120 degrees and learning flexibility with online, hybrid, and in-person educational experiences.
Since its foundation, it has grown to have over 30,000 students and over 2,000 staff and faculty members.
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
The Associate of Arts in Communication Studies is an online communication degree offered by South Texas College. The program takes two years to complete and requires 60 credit hours. The core courses include business and professional communication, argumentation and debate, discussion, and small group communication.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $77/credit (in district); $87/credit (in state); $200/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at varying credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online or you may also opt for on-campus classes
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 24%
Associate of Arts in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school graduate. If not then the applicant should submit General Education Development (GED) test scores.
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to South Texas College
- Fill out the online application
- Submit high school transcript or GED test scores
- Apply for financial aid
- Register for classes
- Pay tuition and fees before the deadline
Waldorf University is a Lutheran university founded in 1903. It is a value-driven university that prides itself on community. The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs in different fields for students to choose from. They promote excellence and support students in educational paths in business, education, and science.
Associate of Arts in Communication
The Associate of Arts in Communication is an online program of 60 credit hours completed over four semesters. During the program, students will acquire hands-on experience in mass communications and society, news gathering and reporting, and visual theory. They will be able to transfer their credits towards an accelerated bachelor's degree program afterward.
Associate of Arts in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $310/credit
- Required Credits: 60 credits
- Program Length: 4 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 52%
Associate of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: SAT score 970 or ACT score 18
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Waldorf University
- Fill out the online application
- Submit high school or college transcript
- Wait for the application evaluation process
- Enroll in courses
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
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-associate-degrees
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
[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession
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.
A technical writer's responsibilities include creating and revising technical documents, user guides, how-to manuals, and software documentation. They also need to work with subject matter experts to gather accurate information and edit and revise documents as needed.
- Average Salary: $78,060
- Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 52,300
- Highest-Paying States: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and the District of Columbia
Public relations specialists create and implement strategic communications plans, pitch stories to the media, and prepare press releases. Public relations specialists also often serve as a spokesperson for organizations, fielding questions from reporters and conducting media interviews.
- Average Salary: $62,800
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 272,300
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, and California
The responsibilities of a video editor include shooting events, reviewing footage, selecting and compiling the best shots, and adding effects or transitions between scenes by using video-editing software. Editing also involves working with sound, either choosing existing audio clips or adding new ones.
- Average Salary: $62,680
- Job Outlook: 29% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 63,300
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Hampshire, California, District of Columbia, and Connecticut
The job responsibilities of an advertising sales agent include finding new clients to sell advertising space, managing relationships with existing clients, creating sales proposals, generating sales leads, and preparing presentations.
- Average Salary: $52,340
- Job Outlook: 3% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 115,100
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Washington, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and California
Reporters are responsible for covering stories and writing articles about them. To do this, reporters often have to conduct research, interview people, and cover press conferences, and other social or political events.
- Average Salary: $48,370
- Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 46,700
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, New York, Connecticut, Georgia, and New Jersey
Best Jobs According to Your Major
[query_class_embed] jobs-for-*subject-majors
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
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/communication-associate-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-bachelors-degree-in-communications/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/everything-about-communications-degree/
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.