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Unlock a great career with a strategic communications degree

When you tell people you plan to study strategic communications, they think of a politician's spin doctor. In reality, it's a versatile degree that can open doors they didn't know existed.

We live in the golden age of communication. We do it digitally, in print and even over the airwaves. Every organization needs people who can write great stories, manage crises and help build internal morale. That's where a strategic communications degree shines.

The strategic communications revolution

A young woman with long dark hair wearing a gray T-shirt sits on a low brick wall while balancing a laptop on her knee.Strategic communication isn't just some fancy buzzword your professors throw around—it's the beating heart of modern business success. Strat comms pros are responsible for maintaining the public image of all kinds of organizations.

Professionals are in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates about 27,500 new job openings each year for the next ten years.

The field has also evolved. Gone are writers with public relations degrees issuing press releases from windowless offices. These days, these professionals are part of a company's strategic planning. The work is now strategic communications, the workers are strategic communications professionals and their most important work is strategic communications strategy.

Develop skills that open doors

The beauty of a strategic communications background is its versatility. Every organization -- from NASA to local non-profits -- needs effective communicators to build and keep its positive public image.

NASA needs someone to explain rocket science to regular people. Healthcare organizations need experts who can communicate complex medical information during health crises. Tech companies need professionals who can make artificial intelligence sound less terrifying to your grandmother.

Your strategic communication skills become the bridge between complex organizations and the people they serve. You're essentially becoming a professional translator, and every industry desperately needs what you're learning.

Land a job that pays  well

The jobs are plentiful and the work is exciting, but can you earn enough to make ends meet? The average salary data of entry to mid-level jobs will make you sleep better:

Entry to Mid-Level Positions:

That's great pay, especially considering that many of these roles come with excellent benefits and flexible work arrangements.

In-demand communications jobs

The job market is absolutely buzzing with opportunities, but some roles are particularly hot right now:

Corporate Communications Roles:

  • Crisis communications manager
  • Internal communications specialist
  • Brand storytelling strategist
  • Executive communications advisor

Digital-First Positions:

  • Social media strategist
  • Content marketing manager
  • Digital engagement specialist
  • Influencer relations coordinator

Specialized Industry Roles:

  • Healthcare communications manager
  • Nonprofit development communications specialist
  • Government relations coordinator
  • Entertainment publicist
  • Graphic designer

  A young woman with long blonde hair and wearing a sweatshirt points to a presentation projected onto a white screen.

A degree that prepares you to lead

A strategic communications degree teaches you much more than writing press releases. You're developing skills that make you invaluable to any organization:

Strategic thinking skills:

  • Crisis management and rapid response
  • Stakeholder analysis and engagement
  • Message development and testing
  • Campaign planning and execution

Technical skills:

  • Digital platform management
  • Data analysis
  • Media relations and pitch development
  • Content creation across multiple channels

Leadership Qualities:

  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Budget management and resource allocation
  • Team coordination and project leadership

Launch an incredible career

Strategic communications jobs will challenge and surprise you. You'll influence what people think and shape public opinion.

Your degree is a passport to a career that blends creativity and strategy. Your ability to connect with people becomes your greatest professional asset. The question isn't whether you can build a successful career with this degree, it's how high you want to climb.

The future belongs to the communicators, the storytellers, and the strategic thinkers. Your public relations degree is putting you right in the center of that revolution.

Study strategic communications at CMU

CMU's strategic communication program will let you pursue a wide range of bachelor degree programs. Students enrolled in School of Communication, Journalism and Media programs can learn about visual and written tools and strategies. They also pursue interdisciplinary studies. They work interesting internships that provide vital hands-on learning.

If you're considering pursuing a degree in strategic communications, schedule a visit at CMU.

Blog: All Things Higher Ed posted | Last Modified: | Author: by University Communications | Categories: University Communications
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