A communications teacher at the postsecondary level instructs students in writing, speaking, media, and interpersonal skills. You'll need a master's degree and a passion for helping others develop their communication abilities. It's intellectually demanding and deeply rewarding.
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Communications teachers design and deliver courses in public speaking, writing, journalism, media studies, and related subjects. You'll spend time preparing lesson plans, grading assignments, and giving feedback on student work. Your days involve lecturing, leading discussions, and thinking creatively about how to engage learners. You'll also document student progress, stay current with communications theory and practice, and work with computers to manage coursework and research. Many teachers also conduct their own research and contribute to their field's knowledge.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $78,580 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 2,700 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a master's degree in communications, English, journalism, media studies, or a related field. Most programs require you to complete coursework in communications theory, research methods, and specialized topics. During your studies, you'll develop expertise in your subject area and gain teaching experience, often through assistantships or internships. Some programs emphasize practical skills like media production or rhetoric, while others focus on research. After earning your degree, you'll apply for faculty positions at colleges and universities.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree followed by a master's program, though some people combine their studies differently. If you're exploring whether this route fits your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the communications teacher, postsecondary path that fits you and work through it with your school counselor to build a realistic plan.
You do not need a license to work as a communications teacher, postsecondary, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to teaching and helping others learn. You enjoy working with people, value education, and want to make a meaningful impact through instruction and mentorship.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).