The highest paying jobs with a communications degree include public relations director, marketing manager, corporate communications manager, advertising executive, and media strategist. These roles can earn six-figure salaries and typically require strong leadership, analytical, and strategic communication skills developed through experience and industry knowledge.
Why a Communications Degree Leads to High-Paying Roles
A communications degree opens doors to jobs that require public speaking, writing, critical thinking, and leadership. Employers across various industries seek communication professionals who can deliver compelling content and implement communication strategies that support sales goals, brand reputation, and business development.
These professionals often work in government agencies, global brands, nonprofits, and startups. The ability to write press releases, oversee content strategies, manage campaigns, and maintain relationships with stakeholders creates strong demand for communications graduates.
Entry level positions in this field can lead to six-figure roles over time, especially when paired with advanced education, writing samples, and real-world experience managing campaigns or creating engaging content.
Corporate Communications and Public Relations
Jobs in corporate communications and public relations consistently rank among the highest paying communication jobs. These positions influence how companies speak to the public, media outlets, and internal teams.
High-Paying Roles in This Area Include:
- Public Relations Director – Leads media relations, crisis response, and brand messaging.
- Corporate Communications Manager – Oversees internal communications and ensures consistent messaging across departments.
- Vice President of Communications – Shapes an organization’s public image and directs all external communications efforts.
These roles involve writing press releases, conducting interviews, and analyzing market trends. Professionals in this space need strong communication skills and must be able to create engaging content for online platforms, media outlets, and donor relationships.
Salaries in this field often start at $90,000 and can rise well above $150,000 with experience and leadership responsibilities.
Journalism, Media Strategy, and Editorial Leadership
Media careers aren’t limited to news stories or reporting. Many high-income communications careers exist behind the scenes in planning, directing, and editorial oversight.
Examples of Lucrative Media Roles:
- Executive Producer – Oversees content strategy for TV, podcasts, and digital platforms.
- Director of Content – Develops content strategies and manages writing teams.
- Managing Editor – Leads editorial planning for online publications or other publications.
These professionals manage deadlines, assign articles, write compelling content, and negotiate contracts. They often implement strategies to increase brand awareness while ensuring all written content aligns with the organization’s voice.
The job outlook for experienced media professionals is positive, especially in growing online publications and content marketing departments.
Marketing, Advertising, and Brand Strategy
Many of the highest paying roles for communication professionals are in marketing strategies and brand messaging. These positions combine verbal communication, sales targets, and the ability to develop campaigns across various industries.
Examples of High-Earning Marketing Jobs:
- Marketing Manager – Leads campaign planning, coordinates teams, and tracks results.
- Advertising Director – Buys advertising space and coordinates creative production.
- Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) – Sets strategic marketing direction for entire organizations.
Professionals in these jobs analyze market trends, create marketing materials, and maintain client relationships. A communications major with strong writing skills and experience managing campaigns can grow into these roles quickly.
Median salaries range from $90,000 to over $200,000 depending on industry and scope of responsibility.
Tech, UX Writing, and Internal Communication Roles
Communications careers in the tech sector offer excellent salaries and growing opportunities. UX writing, internal communications, and knowledge management require professionals who understand both human behavior and clear messaging.
High-Income Tech-Related Jobs Include:
- UX Writer – Designs in-product language that helps users navigate apps and digital tools.
- Internal Communications Lead – Coordinates employee relations content and HR announcements.
- Documentation Manager – Oversees technical writing, onboarding content, and policy manuals.
These positions demand strong grammar, plain-language writing, and the ability to translate complex information into accessible language. As tech companies scale, the need for clear employee communications and onboarding materials continues to grow.
Salary ranges start around $75,000 and can exceed $130,000, especially in larger firms or startups.
Sales, Executive Coaching, and Communication Consulting
Sales leadership and consulting are high-income fields where strong communicators thrive. Top earners use persuasive storytelling, critical thinking, and strong communication skills to close deals and train others.
Top Roles Include:
- Sales Director – Drives sales targets and manages client relationships.
- Communication Consultant – Offers services to improve an organization’s communication strategies.
- Executive Coach – Trains senior leaders on verbal communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Communication professionals in these roles work with potential clients, host fundraising events, and sometimes deliver public speaking workshops. They frequently work as freelancers or independent consultants, setting their own rates.
Earnings in this category vary widely, but six-figure incomes are common for those who build strong reputations or serve corporate clients.
How to Increase Your Salary With a Communications Degree
To reach the highest paying communication jobs, focus on building your portfolio, gaining certifications, and choosing a niche where communication is critical to growth.
Practical Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Add advanced education such as a master’s degree or certificate in digital marketing.
- Develop public speaking and writing samples that showcase essential skills.
- Choose high-demand industries like tech, healthcare, or finance.
- Network with other communication professionals and join relevant associations.
- Apply for job postings that mention “communications strategies,” “verbal communication,” and “oversee content strategies.”
A communications degree gives you tools that apply to a wide range of roles. By focusing on skills that increase business value, you can grow from entry level positions into six-figure roles across marketing, media, PR, and consulting.
Highest Paying Jobs With a Communications Degree
| Job Title | Typical Education Required | Estimated/Median Salary (USD) | Notes/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) | Bachelor’s (MBA preferred) | $255,000–$475,000 | Executive-level; oversees all marketing strategies |
| Public Relations Director | Bachelor’s or Master’s | $158,000+ | Leads media strategy, brand messaging, and crisis response |
| Corporate Communications Mgr. | Bachelor’s or Master’s | $121,700+ | Manages external and internal communications across the organization |
| Marketing Manager | Bachelor’s | $87,000–$120,000 | Runs advertising campaigns, teams, and content initiatives |
| Communications Director | Bachelor’s or Master’s | $89,000–$137,000 | Directs broad communication strategies for mid-to-large organizations |
| Executive Producer | Bachelor’s | $40,000–$180,000 | Oversees content production across media formats |
| Social Media Director | Bachelor’s | Varies, can exceed $100,000 | Directs social media strategy for brands or agencies |
Most Asked Questions
These are the Most Asked Questions when trying to find the Highest Paying Jobs With a Communications Degree
1. Can you become a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) with just a communications degree, or do you need an MBA?
Yes, you can become a CMO with a communications degree. However, many top CMOs have an MBA or significant business experience. Climbing from mid-level marketing roles into executive positions usually requires proven leadership, strategic thinking, and experience across multiple industries.
2. Are there remote or freelance opportunities among the highest paying communications jobs?
Yes. Roles like Communications Consultant, Content Strategist, and PR Specialist often work remotely. Skilled communicators who build a client base or niche reputation can earn six figures through freelance projects or retainer-based consulting.
3. Can a communications degree lead to high-paying roles outside of traditional marketing and PR, such as in tech or healthcare?
Absolutely. Communications professionals are needed in technical documentation, user experience (UX), health education, and employee communications. Salaries are strong in these sectors, especially with specialized training or industry knowledge.
4. Is it possible to reach the highest paying communications jobs without working for a large corporation?
Yes. Many professionals earn high salaries by running agencies, starting consultancies, or working with nonprofit organizations and startups. Communication professionals who build strong networks and provide clear results often earn competitive income, even without working in large companies.
