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.
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.
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.
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.
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% |
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.
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.
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% |
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.
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 |
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.
One of 3 majors within the Communications Technologies & Support area of study, Communications Technology has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Communications Technology/Technician | 855 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Graphic Communications | 7,995 |
| Audiovisual Communications | 6,420 |
| Other Communication Technology | 180 |
