Communications Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in communications, such as organizational communications, public relations, radio/television broadcasting, and journalism. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1122.00

Common Job Titles

  • Communication Instructor
  • Communication Professor
  • Instructor
  • Professor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeDesign undergraduate and graduate course curricula in communications theory, public relations, and media production incorporating contemporary industry practices and pedagogical best practices.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate student research papers, presentations, and media projects applying disciplinary standards and providing constructive feedback for academic development.
  • MindsetModel ethical communication practices and professional standards through classroom instruction, research mentorship, and public engagement.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize communications research from multiple theoretical frameworks to advance scholarly knowledge through publication and conference presentations.
  • MindsetEngage diverse student populations in active learning experiences adapting instructional methods to accommodate varied learning styles and cultural backgrounds.
  • KnowledgeApply multimedia technologies and learning management systems to deliver hybrid and online course content effectively.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of broadcast equipment, video editing software, and digital media production tools when instructing students in journalism and media production laboratories.
  • KnowledgeAssess student learning outcomes and program effectiveness using formative and summative assessment strategies aligned with accreditation standards.
  • MindsetAdvocate for student academic success and professional development through academic advising, career mentorship, and recommendation writing.
  • KnowledgeDevelop collaborative partnerships with media organizations and communication professionals to provide students with internship opportunities and industry connections.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Communications Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

29,260

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,100. 25th percentile: U.S. $60,060. 50th percentile: U.S. $77,800. 75th percentile: U.S. $103,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $160,210. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$47,100
10% of workers earn the following or more$160,210
Workers on average earn$90,340

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • English Language4.9/5
  • Education and Training4.7/5
  • Communications and Media4.3/5
  • Psychology3.9/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Adobe Audition
  • Apple Final Cut Pro
  • Audacity
  • Avid Technology Media Composer
  • Avid Technology Pro Tools
  • Blackboard Learn
  • Blackboard software
  • Calendar and scheduling software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Audio compressors
  • Audio mixers
  • Audio monitors
  • Audio speakers
  • Broadcast cameras
  • Broadcast mixing boards
  • Carousel slide projectors
  • Channel frequency tuners
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment