Communications Professor

Your Fit

Income

$78K

Preparation

Extensive

Growth

3.4%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Communications Professor?

A Communications Professor is an academic educator and researcher who specializes in the study of communication, including its various forms, processes, and effects. They teach and guide students in understanding and analyzing communication in media, organizations, interpersonal relationships, and public discourse.

Sample job titles:

Communication Instructor, Communication Professor, Instructor, Professor

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Communications Professor.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Communications Professor earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$47K per year	$60K per year	$78K per year	$103K per year	$160K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $28K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Communications Professor do?

Work environment

Communications Professors typically work in universities and colleges, where they teach in classrooms, lecture halls, and online platforms. They also spend time in offices and libraries conducting research, meeting with students, and preparing academic materials. Some may engage in public speaking, consulting, or media-related activities outside of academia.

Quick task list

Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in various areas of communication.
Conducts research and publishes findings in academic journals.
Advises and mentors students on academic and career goals.
Develops curriculum and educational materials for communication courses.
Participates in academic committees and professional organizations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Media Studies: Focusing on the influence and operation of media in society.
Interpersonal Communication: Studying communication in personal relationships and social interactions.
Organizational Communication: Examining communication within and between organizations.
Rhetoric and Public Communication: Analyzing public discourse and persuasive communication.
Intercultural Communication: Exploring communication across different cultures.

Description

Communications Professors play a crucial role in educating students about the impact and importance of effective communication in various aspects of society. They combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications, teaching students to analyze and apply communication theories and principles. Professors in this field are often engaged in research that contributes to the understanding of communication processes, media effects, and public discourse.

The profession requires a strong foundation in communication theories, excellent presentation skills, and the ability to foster critical thinking. Communications Professors must keep abreast of evolving communication technologies and trends, integrating this knowledge into their teaching and research. They often encourage students to critically engage with media, understand diverse perspectives, and develop effective communication skills.

A career as a Communications Professor is rewarding for those passionate about shaping the understanding of communication's role in society. It offers intellectual stimulation, the opportunity for scholarly contributions, and the satisfaction of mentoring future communicators and leaders.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Influencing and shaping the communication skills of future professionals.
Engaging in and contributing to important research in the field of communications.
The intellectual stimulation of exploring and teaching diverse aspects of communication.
Opportunity to influence public discourse and media practices through teaching and research.

You might make a good Communications Professor if you are...

Fascinated by the process and impact of communication in various spheres of life.
Skilled in both verbal and written communication.
Interested in research and academic writing.
Passionate about teaching and mentoring students.
Keen to stay updated with evolving media technologies and communication theories.

Pros:

Opportunity to work in a dynamic and ever-evolving field.
Intellectual fulfillment from research and teaching.
Ability to influence the next generation of communication professionals.

Cons:

The academic career path can be highly competitive.
Pressure to publish and secure funding for research.
Balancing teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.

How to become a Communications Professor

Typical education

A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in communications or a related field is generally required for a professorship, which involves several years of post-bachelor's study, including a master's program and subsequent doctoral research.

High school preparation

Courses:

English and Literature to develop strong writing and analytical skills.
Speech and Drama to enhance public speaking and presentation abilities.
Social Studies or Psychology to understand social interactions and human behavior.
Media Studies or Journalism, if available, for early exposure to the field.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining debate or public speaking clubs.
Writing for school newspapers or magazines.
Participating in drama or theater productions.
Engaging in volunteer work that involves community outreach and communication.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or a related field.
Gain experience through internships in media, public relations, or related areas.
Complete a master's degree in communications.
Earn a Ph.D. in communications for a career in academia.
Stay engaged with professional communications organizations and attend relevant workshops and conferences.

More resources

Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) - Offers resources and networking opportunities for educators and students in journalism and communication.
National Communication Association (NCA) - Provides educational resources and supports communication professionals and academics.
International Communication Association (ICA) - An academic association for scholars interested in the study, teaching, and application of communication.
Speech Communication Association (SCA) - Focuses on promoting effective speech communication practices in academic and professional settings.
Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Educators Academy - Supports educators in public relations and communication with resources and professional development opportunities.

Similar careers

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