by our College Data Analytics TeamDo you have a passion for technology and a knack for problem solving? You might be interested in a degree in Communications Technology.
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.
Studying Communications Technology involves the study of Communications Technologies/technicians. Read on to learn the important information every communications technology major should know — including career paths, salary data, the skills you will develop, and the best colleges offering communications technology programs.
Nationwide, communications technology draws strong interest, with 1,043 degrees awarded annually.
Our 2026 Best Communications Technology Schools ranking analyzes these 40 schools to determine the best overall colleges for communications technology students. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of communications technology programs later in this article.
Studies in Communications Technology build a specific mix of skills, knowledge, and abilities — derived from O*NET surveys of workers in the occupations communications technology graduates commonly enter.
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.
Skills developed in a communications technology program reflects the day-to-day work of related occupations:
Per O*NET surveys, a communications technology major emphasizes the following knowledge areas:
There are several communications technology degree levels. The table below shows the typical length of the most common levels, and how many graduates earn each one.
| Degree | Typical Program Length | Graduates Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | Varies | 51 |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | 162 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | 297 |
| Master’s Degree | 1-3 years | 520 |
People currently working in careers related to communications technology tend to have obtained the following education levels.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 37.1% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 22.8% |
| Associate’s degree (or other 2-year) | 19.0% |
| Postsecondary certificate | 9.7% |
| Some college courses | 7.9% |
| Post-master’s certificate | 1.6% |
| First professional degree | 1.6% |
| Master’s degree | 0.3% |
View the chart below to get an idea of what level of education most of those in communications technology careers hold.
Source: ONET Online education / training / experience requirements.*
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.
Majoring in communications technology can lead to numerous career paths. Below are some of the most common occupations related to communications technology.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to communications technology.
| Occupation | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Film and Video Editors | 354,104 | 10.0% |
| Sound Engineering Technicians | 294,018 | -0.5% |
| Media and Communication Workers, All Other | 164,697 | 10.8% |
| Broadcast Technicians | 117,697 | 3.5% |
Federal data tracks median earnings of communications technology graduates 1, 4, and 5 years after completion. These numbers tend to grow as graduates gain experience.
| Years Out | Median Earnings |
|---|---|
| 1 year | $19,605 |
| 4 years | $28,474 |
| 5 years | $36,156 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, field-of-study earnings tracker.
Salaries for communications technology graduates vary widely by occupation. The following table shows the top highest-paying careers communications technology grads often go into.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Film and Video Editors | $89,576 |
| Broadcast Technicians | $74,153 |
| Media and Communication Workers, All Other | $69,171 |
| Sound Engineering Technicians | $66,427 |
With 40 different communications technology programs to choose from, finding the best fit can be a challenge. We have analyzed these schools to produce unbiased communications technology school rankings to help you.
Those considering communications technology, you may also want to explore other closely related fields of study within the same broad area.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Communications Technology/Technician | 1,043 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Graphic Communications | 8,298 |
| Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians | 7,169 |
| Communications Technologies/Technicians and Support Services, Other | 166 |
More about our data sources and methodologies.
