The range and depth of communication we engage in today would not be possible without advanced technology. A degree in communications technology will allow you to mix your interest in technological systems with reaching and engaging with people. Students take a variety of classes that cover topics such as economics, management, radio, television, and digital media production, and principles of communications to become equipped with the necessary skills for a successful career.
Since this is a broad major and covers all types of communications, you will have the option to pursue a career in an array of areas within the communications field.
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Communications Technology Degrees Trends
#281Most Popular Major
855Degrees Awarded
239Schools Offering Degrees
In 2021-2022, communications technology was the 281st most popular major nationwide with 855 degrees awarded.
This year's Best Communications Technology Schools ranking compares 6 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom communications tech rankings further below.
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Requirements for Getting a Degree in Communications Technology
In order to excel in this major, you should have an interest in technology along with strong interpersonal skills. This field is also best suited for students who enjoy working with computers and problem solving. As a technician, you will be responsible for ensuring the upkeep of communications systems while communicating effectively with both colleagues and the general public.
Communications Technicians often work full time in an office or studio setting. However, hours and locations can differ depending on the type of job. For example, a career in broadcast may require long hours or work on the weekends to cover breaking news stories.
Internships or summer jobs within the communications technology field would provide great experience. Take advantage of opportunities to gain hands-on experience working with the different types of media and communications equipment.
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Prior Education for a Communications Tech Program
New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Once you obtain your degree, additional communications tech certifications required to pursue a career in this field.
Types of Communications Technology Degrees
There are many different communications tech degree levels. Communications Technology programs offered by schools range from a to a , which is the highest communications tech degree you can get. Depending on the communications technology degree you choose, obtaining your diploma can take anwhere from 1 to 4+ years.
Degree
Credit Requirements
Typical Program Length
Associate Degree
60-70 credits
2 years
Bachelor’s Degree
120 credits
4 years
Master’s Degree
50-70 credits
1-3 years
Doctorate
Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation
At least 4 years
An associate degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to communications tech, with approximately 22.5% of workers getting one. Find out other typical degree levels for communications tech workers below.
Level of Education
Percentage of Workers
Associate’s Degree (or other 2-year degree)
21.3%
High School Diploma
21.3%
Bachelor’s Degree
20.0%
Some College Courses
19.4%
Post-Secondary Certificate
16.1%
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See the chart below for the most common degree level workers in communications technology have received.
The education level required is different depending on the communications tech career you are seeking.
Career Opportunities for A Degree In Communications Tech Graduate
Below AverageNumber of Jobs
$19.2kAverage Starting Salary
8% GrowthJob Outlook 2016-26
As a communications technician, you will have to ability to work with a wide array of systems. Students may decide to pursue careers in radio, television or digital media.
Growth Projected for Communications Tech Careers
Want a job when you graduate with your communications tech degree? Communications Technology careers are expected to grow 7.7% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to communications technology.
Occupation Name
Projected Jobs
Expected Growth
Film and Video Editors
40,000
17.0%
Media and Communication Workers
36,200
10.0%
Broadcast Technicians
32,900
-3.2%
Sound Engineering Technicians
18,100
6.5%
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How Much Money Do People With a Communications Tech Degree Make?
Communications Technology graduates between <nil> reported earning an average of $19,172 in the <nil> timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $11,940 to as high as $32,713. As you might expect, salaries for communications tech graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
High Paying Careers for Communications Tech Majors
Salaries for communications technology graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers communications tech grads often go into.
Occupation Name
Median Average Salary
Film and Video Editors
$86,830
Sound Engineering Technicians
$63,500
Media and Communication Workers
$52,430
Broadcast Technicians
$46,770
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Getting Your Communications Technology Degree
With over 69 different communications tech degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased communications tech school rankings to help you with this.
by our College Data Analytics Team
