Degree Overview: Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Telecommunications
Majors Overview February 27, 2015Get information about bachelor’s degree programs in telecommunications and their coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Telecommunications
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in telecommunications explore the broadcasting and communication of voice, video, and data by using media technology, such as computers and phones, among others.
Coursework varies by concentration and school chosen and may focus on either mass media including film and TV, or telecommunications technology. It takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree program.
There are no specific admission prerequisites that needs to be met by incoming students to most telecommunications bachelor’s programs. Some programs may even offer courses in online formats.
Coursework
Coursework can vary depending on whether the focus of the telecommunications bachelor’s program is in technology or media. Classes in subject areas such as scriptwriting and television production are available in media-oriented programs, along with courses in data traffic and data networks.
Both concentrations may offer internship opportunities. Coursework may also include topic areas such as:
•Information technology
•Signals systems
•Group psychology
•History of journalism
•Art criticism
Career Choices
Those that complete bachelor’s degree programs in telecommunications can seek jobs in a range of industries, such as journalism, broadcasting, and entertainment. They can aim for positions such as the following:
•News writer
•Newscaster
•Media buyer
•Copy editor
•Research analyst
Management, repair, and installation jobs are available to computer network and telecommunications technology students in satellite, phone, and other broadcasting companies. Network administrator and technician positions are available to graduates that focus on computers in corporate information technology departments.
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2010 – 2020 decade, job growth rates of 15% have been predicted for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers (other than line installers). During the same period, lower growth rates of 9% and 11% are expected to be seen by broadcast technicians and media and communication workers respectively (BLS).
Wages can vary by location, employer, and experience. In May 2012, telecommunications equipment workers brought home an average annual wage of $54,350, while broadcast technicians banked $41,200 and other types of media and communications workers grossed $66,570 on average (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates from a telecommunications bachelor’s degree program may pursue continuing education by earning a graduate degree in the media arts, law, or business. Armed with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree, individuals can seek career advancements in the entertainment and telecommunications industries.
Earning a doctorate in a field related to telecommunications would allow individuals to seek opportunities in education, research, and academic administration.
