What to expect from a career in Corporate Communications, Marketing Communications and more
Communications is a term that actually encompasses a number of different career paths. Communications training can include anything from marketing and media interaction to writing and design. Communications programs at Ontario colleges cover all these aspects of the industry to give students the well-rounded knowledge base they’ll need for successful careers in communications.
If you’re driven, ambitious and think you can handle the many hats that make up a communications career, here’s what you need to know.
Communications Courses
Communications programs are often targeted to a specific area, such as corporate communications, technical communications, marketing communications and more. In general, however, they share many of the same foundations. Communication courses can typically be divided into three categories:
- Creative. Creative skills in communications help students develop excellent written and verbal skills, as well as design and multimedia skills, so they’ll be equipped to handle all forms of communications, from press releases to websites and social media.
- Business. Courses such as career management, project management, media law, and written and oral presentation will give students an understanding of the business side of a communications career.
- Public Relations. Courses in media and client relations will give students the skills and professionalism required to handle the press and connect with clients, even during times of high stress.
General Communications Program Requirements
Ontario college communications programs may be offered as advanced diploma or graduate certificate programs. For advanced diploma options, requirements typically include an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with additional credit requirements varying by program. For graduate certificate programs, students must show proof of completion of a degree or diploma program in a related field.
Communications Jobs and Salaries
Communications professionals are needed across many industries, from advertising and marketing firms to media, technology, government agencies, non-profit organizations and more. Possible roles that can be held with a communications credential include (but aren’t limited to):
- Copywriter
- Media Planner
- Marketing Coordinator
- Event Planner
- Media Sales Representative
Salaries are difficult to predict as they will vary by position and industry. As a guideline, entry-level salaries typically start between $30,000 and $35,000 per year, while high salaries in the industry can be upwards of $60,000 to $80,000 per year.
Ontario Colleges Offering Communications Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of communications programs at Ontario colleges.
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