Marketing vs. Communications
| 2 Min Read
The study of communications or marketing prepares students with skills and knowledge related to written and spoken communication in different formats and media. However, there are some key differences between the two majors.
Communications focuses on conveying a specific message that isn’t necessarily related to selling something. Marketing’s main goal is to educate and advertise a product, service, idea or, organization. Both use television, radio, print, and the internet to convey their messages.
Differences Between a Communication & Marketing Degree
A degree program in communications specifically focuses on helping students create solutions to communication challenges. It can lead to careers in corporate communications, public relations, strategic planning, and other kinds of management positions. A graduate of a communications program is prepared to work in a wide variety of fields, including marketing. A degree in communications is great for professionals who wish to advance in their careers and gain an in-depth knowledge of emerging technologies, industry innovation, leadership, and intercultural communication.
Marketing, on the other hand, prepares students specifically for jobs in marketing and advertising. Marketing programs cover topics relating to the critical factors that drive business, the abilities needed to become effective marketing and project managers, business ethics, marketing strategy, marketing research, and more.
How Much Do Communications Careers Make?
The average pay for an individual with a bachelor’s degree in communications ranges from $48,370 (reporters and journalists) to $78,060 (technical writers), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also reports the median annual wage for a media and communications occupation is $62,340. Media and communications occupations will grow 14 percent by 2030, resulting in about 151,500 new jobs, as projected by the BLS. The variety of platforms associated with communications are creating demand for jobs.
How Much Do Marketing Careers Make?
Marketing, advertising and promotions managers make an average salary of $133,380 a year, according to the BLS. Marketing managers specifically make a median salary of $135,030. The demand for marketing managers is expected to rise about 10 percent by 2030. This is due to advertising through digital and social media. The BLS reports that marketing managers often have more job security because they are so important to an organization’s success and revenue. However, this means that competition is very strong for these positions.
If you’re ready to begin a marketing career, earning a B.S. in Marketing is an ideal starting point. Concordia University, St. Paul offers an online bachelor’s in digital marketing that provides hands-on learning opportunities to help you thrive as a marketer. You can complete all coursework online and benefit from an undergraduate marketing program that enables graduates to earn the highest salary among all alumni from Minnesota colleges and universities.