Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Communications teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in courses covering journalism, public relations, broadcasting, and organizational communications. They work in higher education settings, developing curriculum and teaching both theoretical and practical skills in media and communication fields.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against communications teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes preparing lectures, grading assignments and student work, holding office hours, and meeting with advisees. Teachers may review student journalism projects or broadcast recordings, develop course materials, and attend department meetings. Some balance teaching with research projects or scholarly writing in their field.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you enjoy investigating complex communication issues and understanding how people and organizations interact. You're drawn to helping others develop their communication skills and are comfortable with both analytical thinking and social interaction.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $102,290 | $135,000 | $186,490 | 3,140 |
| Delaware | $67,710 | $100,260 | $130,330 | 60 |
| Oregon | $72,280 | $98,900 | $123,280 | 490 |
| Connecticut | $75,930 | $97,210 | $119,310 | 280 |
| Rhode Island | $78,750 | $95,910 | $104,890 | 110 |
| New Hampshire | $83,690 | $95,760 | $109,250 | 40 |
| Michigan | $67,250 | $87,670 | $107,460 | 630 |
| New York | $62,540 | $84,690 | $124,870 | 2,490 |
| District of Columbia | $80,640 | $83,910 | $100,530 | 180 |
| Maryland | $62,010 | $83,510 | $114,120 | 440 |
| Minnesota | $75,500 | $83,380 | $95,560 | 450 |
| Massachusetts | $65,920 | $82,610 | $100,940 | 1,110 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Teacher of Parliamentary Procedure (CP-T) — American Institute of Parliamentarians
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against communications teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1122.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.