Since mass communication focuses on how to get your ideas to a large number of people through a number of mechanisms, from TV news to advertising, a mass communications degree can prepare you for a range of jobs. The mass communication career field encompasses writing, editing, broadcast, online media, public relations and more.

While it is true that newspapers and some other print media have seen a precipitous decline, there will always be a need for people who can write and analyze the news. Many journalism jobs have migrated to online platforms. There is an increasing number of journalists who report news on multiple media including written content, video and photography. Mass communications majors often get experience in all these areas. Some people with this major become TV and radio anchors or reporters. Others focus on some of the more technical aspects of reporting such as behind the camera, as sound technicians and in editing.

Public relations uses many skills gleaned in mass communications classes. This career uses writing and editing skills, as well as ones in marketing. PR professionals get their message out through the media via press releases, story pitches and video footage that can be used by news outlets and events for members of the media.

Companies have a wide variety of communications needs. Employees who work in this area write annual reports, reports and letters to clients and stockholders. They also craft speeches for executives in the company. They may also create multimedia presentations for the general public and clients, as well as compose messages to the media about the company.

Mass communications majors who can conceptualize ways to sell products or ideas can consider a career in advertising. Jobs in advertising use creative skills to create clever and memorable ads that sell products.

Akin to both advertising and public relations, careers in marketing create ways to brand products and services to appeal to a wide range of consumers. People who work in marketing conduct focus groups and market research to better understand why people prefer certain products or ideas.

Sometimes a picture can convey a thousand words. Mass communications majors with an artistic flair can create illustrations for publications, corporations and organizations. They can find ways to express statistics visually or create signs and posters. Graphic designers use computer software to create layouts for magazines, brochures and display ads.