A Multimedia and Visual Communications Career

Multimedia is a popular, productive new field of study that offers a wide range of career possibilities. While those earning their information technology (IT) degree can specialize in a range of possible concentrations, specializing in visual communications and multimedia is a good choice for those who want to be at the cutting edge of the IT industry.

Careers in Multimedia and Communications

Professionals in the visual communications/multimedia fields create just about every single thing you hear, read and watch. If you're looking for a hot career, visual communication multimedia careers offer jobs covering all facets of media, providing highly varied and abundant work for job seekers. People who work in these fields usually work for media organizations, including:
  • newspapers
  • radio
  • TV
  • Web-based businesses.

These jobs include creating media in many different forms, such as graphics, text, animation, video and music. Multimedia and communication careers can include jobs in any of the following industries:

  • Animation
  • Graphic Art (developing logos, marketing, banners, etc.)
  • Journalism (Internet, print, TV or radio)
  • Web development (including creating Web sites for companies).

Multimedia Job Opportunities

People working in these types of jobs have a higher salary than the U.S. national average. Many people in the multimedia industry make around $51,750 to $74,520 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that these jobs will still be hot through 2014. This information makes jobs in the multimedia industry look very stable in the coming years.

Training

Most careers in visual communication and multimedia require a bachelor's degree. While students can earn their bachelor's degree in information technology (with a multimedia concentration) in traditional colleges or universities, they can also enroll in online programs available through accredited institutions. These courses can cost around $1,000 to $2,000 per semester, depending on the school and course load.
 
Some of the more common courses students take when earning this degree can include:
  • computer science
  • graphic design
  • journalism
  • visual art.
Some people go an alternate route and take technical or assistant positions after completing a two-year degree program or a one-year certificate programs. They then progress in the company with hands-on, on-the-job training.
 
Often, graphic designers and other professionals in the field take classes on a regular basis to stay up-to-date with trends and new technology so that they can have more earning potential.

Finding a Job

Multimedia job opportunities are usually found on the Internet, in keeping with the high-tech nature of these jobs. Companies post jobs on Web sites devoted to the specific job in question. Employers often ask for a resume, clips and a coversheet to be emailed to them for review. Later, the top applicants will be given an appointment to be interviewed. During the interview, the applicant is often expected to present a portfolio.
 
During training, or when completing your degree, it is important to make a portfolio of completed work done in class. A good portfolio is often the best way to get a foot in the door during a job search in the communications industry. For example, a journalist would have a portfolio of news clips that he had done for the college paper. A graphic artist would have a portfolio filled with printed images she had made in class.
 
Jobs in communication and multimedia offer a wide range of possibilities and competitive salaries that are great for those who are looking for a stable career.
Share |