University HQ is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University Headquarters strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for an associate in communications.

Are you considering a career in the communications field? If you enjoy the creation process and are a motivated worker, an associate degree in communications may be a good fit for you. Graduates qualify for a wide variety of entry-level jobs as communications professionals, such as public relations specialists or technical writers. While there are numerous employment opportunities available, some of the most common industries include publishing, marketing, public relations, and broadcasting.

Students looking for an associate degree in communications can expect to take courses such as mass communication, communication theory, and interpersonal communication. You can earn an A.S. communications degree either on campus or through an online associate degree. Online programs provide learning opportunities for new students and those looking to switch careers and become a communications professional.

In most cases, communications professionals are expected to have some level of higher education, such as completing an associate degree program. While it may be possible to find work in the field without an associate in communications, advancing would be difficult without some level of degree. Most individuals interested in becoming communications professionals seek either an associate or bachelor’s degree. An associate degree in communications will provide graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for advanced employment opportunities, but this course of action is not for everyone. There are several advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of.

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PROS

There are many reasons to pursue an associate degree in communications. A key benefit is that earning an associate degree costs less than earning a bachelor’s degree. According to 2017-2018 statistics released by the College Board’s Trends in Higher Education Series, the average in-state tuition at traditional four-year institutions for a single year was $9,970. Associate degree students paid an average of $3,570.

Also, the speed of completion for an associate degree is significantly faster than a bachelor’s degree. While time frames can vary, most full-time students complete their learning and graduate in approximately two years. Those who choose to enroll in a traditional undergraduate program will likely need four years to complete the graduation requirements.

Similarly, bachelor’s degree holders must wait longer to join the workforce than do individuals with associate degrees. Associate in communications program graduates will qualify for employment as technical writers or a public relations specialist after only two years. This means they can begin paying off accrued education debt earlier, as well. While these communication professionals may not make as much initially as someone with a bachelor's degree in communications, they will earn more than people without any advanced education.

Additionally, communications associate program credits can be transferred. Whether you graduate or not, completed coursework often counts toward bachelor’s degree requirements if you choose to further your education in the future and gain a bachelor's degree in communications.

CONS

While there are many advantages of pursing an associate in communications, there are drawbacks as well. One that is particularly important to note is that graduates from both levels of education often compete for the same jobs. Because academic achievement is an easy way to narrow a candidate pool, employers may give preference to those with higher undergraduate degrees. Similarly, associate degree graduates may experience more difficulty securing advanced managerial or supervisory positions, even after they gain experience.

Further, depending on your industry of interest, an associate degree (A.S. Communications) could limit your ability to apply for some certifications. Many certification boards require applicants to have, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in communications or a related field. This could prevent you from qualifying for certain jobs or promotions as a communications professional.

Top 25 Best Online Associate in Communications Programs


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,496
    • Out-of-State:$6,496
  • Net Price: $13,521
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 79%
  • Total Enrollment: 34,464
  • Undergrad Students: 31,411
  • Graduate Students: 3,053
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Brigham Young University
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,400
    • Out-of-State:$8,400
  • Net Price: $11,172
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 48,668
  • Undergrad Students: 39,206
  • Graduate Students: 9,462
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • American Public University System
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3

Central Penn College

Score: 64.88

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $19,404
    • Out-of-State:$19,404
  • Net Price: $13,803
  • Acceptance Rate: 34%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 36%
  • Total Enrollment: 943
  • Undergrad Students: 918
  • Graduate Students: 25
  • Grads Salary: $60,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Central Penn College
4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,577
    • Out-of-State:$9,577
  • Net Price: $18,989
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 50%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,044
  • Undergrad Students: 5,647
  • Graduate Students: 2,397
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Franklin University
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5

Cameron University

Score: 64.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,900
    • Out-of-State:$16,320
  • Net Price: $9,674
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 25%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,418
  • Undergrad Students: 3,133
  • Graduate Students: 285
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Cameron University
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6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $39,266
    • Out-of-State:$39,266
  • Net Price: $23,313
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,964
  • Undergrad Students: 7,602
  • Graduate Students: 1,362
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Colorado Christian University
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7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,220
    • Out-of-State:$7,500
  • Net Price: $1,692
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 26%
  • Total Enrollment: 27,894
  • Undergrad Students: 27,894
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $52,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • South Texas College
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8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,724
    • Out-of-State:$6,917
  • Net Price: $10,302
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,364
  • Undergrad Students: 8,364
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $43,600
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Chippewa Valley Technical College
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9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,696
    • Out-of-State:$14,656
  • Net Price: $8,569
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 16,134
  • Undergrad Students: 16,134
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $47,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • City College of San Francisco
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10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $26,990
    • Out-of-State:$26,990
  • Net Price: $20,987
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 60%
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,775
  • Undergrad Students: 6,411
  • Graduate Students: 5,364
  • Grads Salary: $65,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 23:1
  • Campbellsville University
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11
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,110
    • Out-of-State:$12,209
  • Net Price: $7,685
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 17%
  • Total Enrollment: 28,901
  • Undergrad Students: 28,901
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $55,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • College of Southern Nevada
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12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,221
    • Out-of-State:$13,421
  • Net Price: $7,061
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 25%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,162
  • Undergrad Students: 6,162
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $45,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Bucks County Community College
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13

Sinclair Community College

Score: 51.47

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,569
    • Out-of-State:$8,316
  • Net Price: $5,830
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 30%
  • Total Enrollment: 17,591
  • Undergrad Students: 17,591
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $37,700
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Sinclair Community College
14

Georgia Military College

Score: 51.12

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,112
    • Out-of-State:$8,112
  • Net Price: $10,544
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 33%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,998
  • Undergrad Students: 6,998
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $48,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Georgia Military College
15
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,250
    • Out-of-State:$10,550
  • Net Price: $5,993
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 60%
  • Graduation Rate: 34%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,391
  • Undergrad Students: 2,391
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $35,100
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Western Wyoming Community College
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16

Des Moines Area Community College

Score: 49.86

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,550
    • Out-of-State:$11,100
  • Net Price: $9,292
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 34%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,637
  • Undergrad Students: 21,637
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $40,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Des Moines Area Community College
17

Montgomery College

Score: 49.38

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,398
    • Out-of-State:$14,250
  • Net Price: $8,276
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 28%
  • Total Enrollment: 17,137
  • Undergrad Students: 17,137
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $38,100
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Montgomery College
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18

Southeast Community College Area

Score: 49.14

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $3,540
    • Out-of-State:$4,260
  • Net Price: $8,330
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Graduation Rate: 31%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,465
  • Undergrad Students: 9,465
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $36,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Southeast Community College Area
19

Northern Virginia Community College

Score: 48.65

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,703
    • Out-of-State:$11,786
  • Net Price: $10,109
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Total Enrollment: 51,896
  • Undergrad Students: 51,896
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $40,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 28:1
  • Northern Virginia Community College
20

Columbus State Community College

Score: 48.24

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,338
    • Out-of-State:$10,917
  • Net Price: $6,964
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 26%
  • Total Enrollment: 25,129
  • Undergrad Students: 25,129
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $38,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Columbus State Community College
21

Bristol Community College

Score: 47.11

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,412
    • Out-of-State:$10,356
  • Net Price: $6,204
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 59%
  • Graduation Rate: 22%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,822
  • Undergrad Students: 5,822
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $37,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Bristol Community College
22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,484
    • Out-of-State:$12,332
  • Net Price: $11,577
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,352
  • Undergrad Students: 3,352
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Minnesota West Community and Technical College
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23

Saint Paul College

Score: 45

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,318
    • Out-of-State:$6,318
  • Net Price: $11,797
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 62%
  • Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,365
  • Undergrad Students: 5,365
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $36,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Saint Paul College
24
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,918
    • Out-of-State:$11,400
  • Net Price: $9,991
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 53%
  • Graduation Rate: 16%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,576
  • Undergrad Students: 12,576
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $42,100
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Harrisburg Area Community College
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25

Mesa Community College

Score: 43.26

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $2,358
    • Out-of-State:$8,958
  • Net Price: $12,360
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Graduation Rate: 13%
  • Total Enrollment: 15,772
  • Undergrad Students: 15,772
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $43,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Mesa Community College

Certificate vs. Associates


In addition to communication associate degrees, there are also online certificate programs. While both options take less time to complete than an online bachelor’s degree, there are several differences you should be aware of.

An online associate business program usually includes coursework geared toward your field of interest, as well as general education classes. These non-vocational courses often include basic math, science, humanities, English, and foreign language. Communications certification programs, on the other hand, do not incorporate class like this in the curriculum.

As a result, certificate programs take less time to complete. Whereas an online associate degree requires approximately two years of time, students can graduate with a certificate in as little as a year.

What Communications Associate Degrees are Available Online?


Specific degree titles in communication vary from institution to institution. Most colleges and universities offer an Associate of Science (AS) and/or an Associate of Arts (AA) degree option. You may also find Associate of Applied Science and/or Associate of Applied Arts degrees in communication. While all of these variations prepare graduates for employment in the field, there are a few differences you should be aware of.

  • Online Associate of Science (AS) in Communications:
    An AS in Communication usually appeals to individuals interested in math and science. Students usually complete additional coursework in these topics. While AS graduates can decide to seek employment, these degrees are usually intended for individuals who may want to enroll in a traditional, four-year undergraduate program later. A two-year AS in Communication degree is often considered equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree.
  • Online Associate of Arts (AA) in Communications:
    An AA in Communication usually appeals to individuals interested in social science and humanities. Students usually complete additional coursework related to one or both of these topics. While AA graduates may apply for employment right away, this degree option is usually preferred by individuals planning to pursue further education at a traditional, four-year institution. Completing a two-year AA in Communication degree program is often considered equivalent to completing the first two years of an undergraduate degree.
  • Online Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) and Online Associate of Applied Science (AAS):
    AAA and AAS degrees are similar to AA and AS degrees. They tend to be, however, much more technical in nature. This is because most individuals receiving these degrees seek employment immediately after graduation. These programs prepare students to join the workforce right away instead of continuing their education. AAA degrees tend to be much rarer than AAS degrees.

Admission Requirements


Most online associate degree candidates must complete various institutional requirements before enrolling. Enrollment standards vary, but often include the following:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • Minimum overall academic grade point average

Most community colleges do not require SAT and/or ACT scores; however, these may be necessary if you plan to enroll in an undergraduate degree program online later. Additionally, transfer students are often asked to provide a transcript containing a record of any prior course completions and grades.

How long does it take to earn a Communications Associates Degree Online?


Generally, students can expect to graduate with an online associate degree in communications within two years. This time frame is contingent upon the student being enrolled full-time, however. Individuals who opt to take classes on a part-time basis will likely take longer to complete the graduation requirements. Part-time students may require one to three additional years. It is also worth noting that students with advanced placement credits may be able to graduate in fewer than two years.

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Potential Careers in Communications with an online Associates


There are numerous employment opportunities available to individuals who have graduated from an online degree program in communications. Some popular options include receptionist, customer service representative, administrative assistant, public relations (PR) specialist, and communications specialist.

  • Receptionist
    Receptionists are often the first employee a visitor, customer, or client interacts with at a larger company. They frequently screen phone calls, take messages, and manage schedules. They must be able to juggle numerous tasks at once and may be required to prioritize the importance of responsibilities regularly.
    According to PayScale, the average salary for a receptionist is $31,200.
  • Customer Service Representative
    Customer service representatives are generally the first point of customer contact for general inquiries. They are often responsible for delivering excellence customer service, accurately processing orders/requests, answering questions, and coordinating with other departments. These professionals also build and maintain business partnerships. Partnerships and relationships play a very important role in online business.
    According to PayScale, the average salary for a customer service representative is $37,300.
  • Administrative Assistant
    Administrative assistants may work in a variety of different fields, but usually provide some form of administrative support for other employees. They are often responsible for greeting visitors or callers, routing requests, typing correspondence, and compiling data. These professionals must also schedule meetings, appointments, and travel, as well as coordinate the use of office space.
    According to PayScale, the average salary for an administrative assistant is $39,100.
  • Public Relations (PR) Specialist
    Public relations (PR) specialists are responsible for promoting and elevating awareness of an individual, company, or organization. They work to ensure that the general public views the represented entity in a positive light. These professionals often create and distribute publicity materials, coordinate press conferences, lead marketing efforts, and develop public relations strategies to influence public opinion.
    According to PayScale, the average salary for a PR specialist is $47,300.
  • Communications Specialist
    Communications specialists typically manage a company or organization’s internal and external communication efforts. This includes the creation and distribution of memos, job descriptions, management notes, press releases, and marketing materials. These professionals also often coordinate media and marketing for meetings, press conferences, and events.
    According to PayScale, the average salary for a communications specialist is $50,700.

Salary by Occupation


Occupations Entry-Level Mid-Career Late-Career
P.R .Manager $44,500 $72,300 $75,400
News Anchor $35,900 $60,400 $87,000
Social Media Manager $40,300 $61,300 $58,900
Content writer $38,100 $53,300 $61,800
News producer $31,100 $54,500 $69,400
Communications Director $48,800 $69,700 $91,400
Social Media Specialist $38,800 $50,800 $60,000

Options to Advance


In most cases, the opportunity for advancement will come from within the company or organization you work for in the communications field. While many management and supervisory positions will require an undergraduate education, it may be possible to transition into one after accumulating years of professional experience. It is not uncommon for individuals with an online associate degree in communication to eventually become the lead in a specific department or division. These opportunities will, however, arise more frequently to candidates with advanced degrees.

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