Organizations for Communications Scholars, Students, and Professionals
- National Communication Association
- International Association of Business Communicators
- IEEE Professional Communication Society
- Public Relations Society of America
- Association for Women in Communications
Joining a professional organization can provide many career advantages to students and teachers in the academic discipline of communication studies as well as for communication professionals. Most professional organizations for communications sponsor journals, newsletters, websites, and/or conferences that offer up-to-date information about advances and trends in the field as well as job postings and other useful information. These organizations can also provide opportunities for networking and publicizing one’s own work. Such organizations range from larger umbrella organizations to those focused on special areas within the field.
1. National Communication Association
The largest academic organization in communication studies is the National Communication Association. Founded in 1914, it hosts an annual national conference, publishes eleven journals, runs a career center, and maintains a website that provides many types of useful material. NCA has interest groups in such diverse areas as performance studies, public address, communication and medicine, games studies, international communication, public relations, and visual communication as well as student organizations and regional affiliates.
2. International Association of Business Communicators
With growing globalization in business and media, it is increasingly important for students, scholars, and communications professionals to have knowledge and networks spanning the entire world. The International Association of Business Communicators sponsors an annual conference and offers webinars, GCCC® Communication Certification programs, and other professional development opportunities. As well as its global reach, IABC is characterized by being a place where students, academics, and working professionals can meet and share ideas and experiences.
3. IEEE Professional Communication Society
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a global organization with over 400,000 members, is home to the IEEE Professional Communication Society. Serving engineers interested in best practices in communications, technical communicators, academics, and students, IEEE PCS offers conferences, publications, and an extensive website with resources for educators, established professionals, and students.
4. Public Relations Society of America
With over 30,000 members, the Public Relations Society of America states that its mission is to “make communications professionals smarter, better prepared and more connected through all stages of their career.” Its affiliated Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) serves as a hub for students while professional interest sections focus on particular interests such as nonprofits, corporate communications, sports and entertainment, travel, government and public affairs, and independent practitioners.
5. Association for Women in Communications
With persistent gender pay gaps and the revelations of the #MeToo movement, women in entertainment and other areas of communications may experience special challenges. The Association for Women in Communications, originally founded in 1909 as an organization for female journalism students, has expanded its focus to include academics and working professionals. It offers career advice, a job board, networking opportunities, mentoring, and award competitions.
Advantages of Communication Organizations
Joining professional organizations for communications is equally useful for students, scholars, and working professionals. It is also affordable. Many professional organizations have sliding scales of membership fees, offering discounts for students, retirees, and people who are struggling financially. Organization membership fees, journal subscriptions, and travel to conferences are considered legitimate professional expenses and are tax deductible. Some businesses and universities may reimburse these costs as well.