As the name suggests, mass communication entails the introduction and combination of multiple types of media to interact with the public. It is a stem of social science which has been consistently linked with Communication/ Media Studies, Media Effects and Media Influence. Mass communication as a branch of knowledge, dates back to ancient forms of writing and arts, and its importance is resounding in the modern world. It emerged from the point where the human race started mapping out ways to broadcast or spread information from one source to a large number of recipients. From the original application of the Hypodermic Needle Model theories, mass communication has transited into modern ones such as Computer-meditated Communication.
Careers in the field have skyrocketed in recent times as all forms of communication have been significantly re-branded. Concise and witty pieces of information can no longer yield effective results. Instead, determination of a target audience and an apt use of demographics are unequivocally important in modern day’s mass communication systems. Among others, the influx of radio stations, television programs, news channels, and the increased rate of advertisement, have all led to its continuous, dynamic growth. Certainly, aspirants in the field are set to witness prosperous careers in the long run.
FIELDS OF SPECIALIZATION
Practical application of mass communication is seen in radio broadcasting, journalism, film production, advertising and public relations. However, the advent of social media, digital marketing and new media, has opened up newer forms of mass communication practices. These fields are especially innovative as they have inherent instant feedback structures which are not present in traditional mass communication fields.
In all, each aspect of specialization in mass communication is closely related to another. This makes it possible for graduates in the field to effortlessly switch between different related careers. For instance, a public information officer can swiftly function as a reporter without any lag. Furthermore, “new media” has ushered in careers like as Radio Jockeys, Disc jockeys and many others. And this has ultimately broadened opportunities in the field.
INDUSTRIES WITH HIGH DEMANDS FOR MASS COMMUNICATION PROFESSIONALS
Upon the completion of a bachelor’s degree in mass communication (and any other related professional degree), organizations that would promptly require professionals in the aforementioned fields include:
- Public Relations Companies
- Legal Affairs Institutions
- Magazines
- Broadcasting Corporations
- Press Information Bureaus
- Photography Companies
- Advertising Agencies
- TV Channels
- News Agencies
- Radio Stations
- Websites
- Newspapers
- Books Publication Industries.
- Blogs and many more.
JOB PROSPECTS
It is quite evident that many mass communication industries are flourishing and it has been predicted that their relevance will continue to increase as technology keeps evolving. However, key elements for a successful career in the field are: creativity, improvisation skills, passion, and drive to influence a large group or number of individuals.
Apart from the already mentioned job roles that have enriched mass communication, the following careers are equally coveted by experts with a degree in the field.
- Film Director
- Screenwriter
- Editor
- Art Director
- Illustrator
- Photojournalist
- Cartoonist
- Event Manager
- Fashion Photographer
- TV Correspondent
- Sound Engineer, among others.
INCOME
Professionals in mass communication do not necessarily start their careers with high-end salaries or wages. However, they tend to earn higher after a few years of experience and practice. For instance, the average annual income of journalists is $40,000. That of reporters is about $44,000, while an editor’s median income within the same duration is around $50,000.
UNIVERSITIES TO CONSIDER FOR DEGREES IN MASS COMMUNICATION
Mass communication is not for everyone. Before anything else, you must consider where you stand in terms of creativity and the extent at which you will be willing to drive information to multiple recipients. Once these have been determined, the next step to take is enrolling in a tertiary institution where these innate skills can be honed religiously.
The following colleges would aid in accomplishing such necessities:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of California-Berkeley
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
For personalized counseling and detailed inquiries, feel free to send an email now. Remember, procrastination is one of man’s greatest enemies.
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