5 Smart Second Degrees For Communications Students
- Business
- A Foreign Language
- Marketing
- A Science-Related Subject
- Computer Science
A major in communication is a good choice but it can be complemented and strengthened by a degree in a different subject. Communications is a broad topic of study and many other degrees pair well with it, especially for students with a specific interest or niche. The following are some of the best options.
Related Resource: Top 20 Best Online Communications Degree Programs
1. Business
Business is a strong, general overall degree students can use no matter where they ultimately find employment. It complements communications well because it provides a strong foundation in basic business principles which are used in most jobs. Topics taught in business programs include basic marketing, accounting, leadership, ethics and even communications. This makes it a good choice for a second degree because students can potentially double up on required classes. A communications degree paired with a business degree will best prepare students to communicate effectively in the business world with clients, contacts, networks, co-workers and managers.
2. A Foreign Language
Majoring in a foreign language is another great option for students going into communications. The world is becoming increasingly globalized and not everyone speaks English, giving communications professionals who know a second language increased employment potential. Generally speaking, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, French and American Sign Language and are some of the most valued language majors according to Investopedia. However, any foreign language can be a valuable skill for professionals in the right niche. Learning a foreign language also helps increase a student’s knowledge and grasp of their native language, ultimately making them better communications professionals.
3. Marketing
Marketing and communications often go hand in hand. A huge part of marketing is understanding how people communicate with one another and how they respond to information. Marketing professionals need to be able to use language to get their meaning across exactly as intended. A marketing degree puts communications students in a good position to work in public relations as well. Marketing professionals also have very high salary expectations – marketing managers are among the most sought-after and highest-paid management level positions according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Base salaries do not include any commissions marketers may make upon successful sales.
4. A Science-Related Subject
Science is a nuanced, fascinating and growing field that heavily utilizes communications. Scientific publications, teaching, journalism and entertainment can all cross scientific subjects with communications. Possible areas of study can include degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, healthcare and more. In particular, the healthcare field is seeing exponential growth and has strong need of quality communications professionals going forward. Healthcare communications is a field in and of itself that is primarily focused on informing and educating patients about health-related topics.
5. Computer Science
With technology continuing to play such a major role in the human experience, computer science has become very integrated with communication, making the two subjects pair well. Communicating digitally includes things like instant messaging, e-mail, social media and more. Professionals who can harness digital methods of conversation are highly desired in just about every field. Communications is also highly desired in most tech roles because many positions require tech workers to be able to explain tech-related subjects to non-tech professionals. Communications students wanting to obtain a second degree in computer science are usually best focusing their communications education on digital communications for an even more compatible match.
Communications pairs well with a lot of other subjects. This allows students to choose a topic or niche that is of greatest interest to them. A major in communication can gain even more value when paired with a specialized subject.