In a recent national survey of corporate recruiters, 86 percent identified “effective communication” as the most important professional skill they were looking for in prospective employees. Think about it: different jobs require you to do very different tasks. But what do they all have in common? Communication. This is why communication consistently is identified as one of the top skills employers seek in job candidates, regardless of industry.

If you desire a career in fields such as public relations, broadcasting, or journalism, we have specializations for you. But we also offer classes addressing almost every career imaginable. You can take classes on topics as diverse as nonverbal communication, communication in romantic relationships, visual media production, and public relations strategy. You will learn about effective presentations, social networks, media criticism, and news reporting. Whether you are a scientist or a salesperson, a medical researcher or a musician, desire a career in politics or sports marketing, communication skills will be an essential part of your job; and we are here to help you acquire and master those skills.

Below is a small sampling of some of the professions our majors go into:

How We Help You

The faculty in the Department of Communication Studies take preparing you for your future very seriously. You will receive hands-on training for your future professions in many of our classes, such as Public Speaking (CMST 101), Newswriting and Reporting (CMST 210), or Conducting Public Relations Campaigns (CMST 442). Classes such as Communications and Teamwork (CMST 310), Organizational Communication (CMST 311), Communication Leadership and Management (CMST 315) and Interviewing (CMST 309) are specifically designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the workplace. In fact, you’ll find that most of our curriculum has a strong, practical emphasis that prepares you for the communication challenges that lie ahead.

Where Should You Start?

Start your search here at UAB. To talk about professional opportunities in Communications, make an appointment with Jacquelyn S. Shaia. You can reach out to her at jsshaia@uab.edu or call (205) 934-3877.

Career and Professional Development Services has job and internship listings, job fairs, resume builders, and many more resources for UAB students. We recommend that you take advantage of all that they have to offer.

In addition, there are plenty of other websites that can help you with your career search. Start with one of these:

• One Day One Job
• PayScale Salary Report
• 20 Highest-paying Jobs for Communications Majors