A Business Communication program goes hand in hand with marketing, merchandising, and sales programs to teach people to promote goods and services. Because over 90 percent of CEOs begin their careers in marketing or sales, the degree is a highly lucrative option for many college students.

Programs are fun, and focus on the human side of business, including a wealth of psychology, communication, and liberal arts classes. Additionally, the program covers economic principals, marketing, and advertising; students are expected to master spreadsheets and database software during the course of the program. An MBA will let students further specialize in fields like marketing, merchandising, and sales. Preparation for this program is minimal, but it is recommended that students have interest, or previous experience in:

• Business
• Computer Applications
• Public Speaking
• Economics

Psychology

Students who have obtained a Degree in Business Communications may be qualified to work as a Public Relations Manager, Communications Equipment Operator, or Systems Analyst.

Communications Managers

Communications managers are responsible for gaining the support of groups and individuals that are important to an organization's success including stockholders, consumers, or employees. Communications managers have strong communication skills and analytical abilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, job opportunities will be better than average and the average annual earnings for communication managers were $60,640 in 2002.

Communications Equipment Operator

Communications equipment operators work for many types of organizations as telephone operators, switchboard operators, satellite communications equipment operators or telegraph communications equipment operators. Such workers must posses a level of expertise with the unique technology they operate and have an ability to excel under pressure. The job outlook in this area is changing as more sophisticated technology continues to emerge. Earnings vary significantly according to the industry and type of technology used.

Systems Analyst

A systems analyst that specializes in communications equipment may evaluate a firm's communication technology and seek ways to enhance business performance through such technology. Systems analysts have strong analytical and quantitative abilities and also a foundation in the fundamentals of business. They use these skills, combined with their technical expertise, to develop, coordinate and implement communication systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,www.bls.gov, opportunities in this field will be better than average. Average annual earnings of systems analysts reached $62,890 in 2002.