What can you do with a Communication degree from Northwestern University?

First, some facts. Of the Communication graduates from Northwestern University we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:

These are estimates based on AI analysis of 14 LinkedIn profiles (see below).

The verdict? Below average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 61%, Communication graduates from Northwestern University have a lower likelihood (-6%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:

And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.

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Also, after graduating, 50% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests you may need more than just a Bachelors degree to be competitive as a Communication graduate.

See the details:

• What jobs can you get with a Communication degree from Northwestern University?
• What do Communication graduates from Northwestern University do 1, 5 or 10 years out?
• How hard is a Communication degree from Northwestern University? How long does it take?
• How much money can you make with a Communication degree from Northwestern University?
• What are the best colleges for Communication?

View a random Communication graduate from Northwestern University and our analysis:

Relevance score: 50% We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree. DEGREE INFO Graduated in 2015 from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication. Also pursued further education since (see below). JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATION Marketing Effectiveness Analyst Nielsen Jul 2015 - Nov 2016 As a Marketing Effectiveness Analyst at Nielsen, the job involves analyzing data related to marketing performance, which may indirectly apply some communication skills but does not require specific expertise in communication. Marketing Effectiveness Senior Analyst Nielsen Dec 2016 - Jul 2017 The role of Marketing Effectiveness Senior Analyst at Nielsen similarly uses analytical and communication skills, but it is not fundamentally requiring the core qualifications taught in a communication degree. Project Coordinator, Foundation Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Sep 2017 - Apr 2018 The position of Project Coordinator at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital involves some aspects of communication, particularly in coordinating projects, but does not utilize specific communication studies knowledge extensively. Project Manager, Foundation Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Apr 2018 - Aug 2019 As a Project Manager at the same hospital, while effective communication is important, the role primarily focuses on project management rather than core communication skills. Performance Improvement Leader I Northwestern Medicine Aug 2019 - Aug 2020 The Performance Improvement Leader I role at Northwestern Medicine may involve some communication tasks, but its focus is on performance metrics rather than applied communication knowledge. Performance Improvement Leader II Northwestern Medicine Aug 2020 - May 2022 The role of Performance Improvement Leader II also utilizes some communication skills but centers on performance and operational assessments more than on communication-specific tasks. Manager, Performance Northwestern Medicine May 2022 - May 2023 As Manager of Performance at Northwestern Medicine, the job does include elements of team communication, but primarily deals with performance management rather than communication theory or practice. Director, Operations Northwestern Medicine May 2023 - Present The Director of Operations position encompasses management and operational duties with some communication aspects, yet it is not primarily aligned with the specific qualifications gained in a communication degree. FURTHER DEGREES DONE SINCE GRADUATING Master of Science - MS Northwestern University 2017 - 2018 ABOUT No information provided.

What jobs can you get with a Communication degree from Northwestern University?

The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:

• Executive Assistant
• Company Manager
• Manager
• Soccer Coach
• Research Assistant
• Resident Physician
• Admission Database Manager
• Admission Counselor
• State Digital Lead
• Technology Specialist

Looking at the profiles of graduates with a Communication degree from Northwestern University, it’s clear that they’ve ventured into quite a range of jobs. Some common roles include marketers, managers, and people in political positions, like advisors or directors. Many of these roles, particularly in marketing, advertising, and political advocacy, require effective communication skills, making them relevant to their degree. For instance, positions like Business Development Manager and Marketing Coordinator leverage the communication strategies learned during their studies to engage audiences and convey messages effectively.

However, not every job they’ve taken directly relates to their Communication degree. Some have drifted into roles focused more on technical or analytical abilities, like Data Management Analyst or Performance Improvement Leader, where the focus is less about communication principles. Many times, graduates had jobs that called for a mix of skills where communication played a role, but wasn’t the core of the job. Overall, while there are definitely quite a few pathways that align well with their degree, there are also several instances where the connection isn't as strong, suggesting that their degree can serve as a launching pad into various fields, not all strictly linked to communication. This shows that a Communication degree can be versatile, but it can lead to jobs that might not utilize the learned skills to their full extent.

Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Communication graduates (this is across all Communication graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Northwestern University):

What kind of career trajectories do Communication graduates from Northwestern University have? What do they do 1, 5 or 10 years out?

Looking at the career trajectories of graduates from Northwestern’s Communication program, it seems like most people are finding their way into roles that really connect with their degree. When they first graduate, many alumni start off in positions that are closely linked to communication, such as marketing, public relations, or even political roles. For example, those who graduated in 2010 and 2013 quickly moved into jobs with political organizations, marketing firms, or as communication specialists. This early phase often reflects a lot of variety, ranging from working in education to more niche roles in digital media and community organizing.

Fast forward five to ten years, and it appears that a significant number of these graduates continue to climb the ladder within fields that relate to communication. Many have transitioned into managerial or director-level positions at prominent organizations. Notably, some pursue roles in politics or entertainment that leverage their skills in communication effectively. However, there are also graduates whose paths have diverged somewhat, moving into positions that, while still professional, may not have a direct connection to their Communication degree, such as roles in data management or healthcare. Overall, despite some deviations, a majority of these grads seem to be doing well, taking on roles that resonate with their studies and leveraging their skills in exciting careers.

How hard is a Communication degree from Northwestern University?

Honestly, a Bachelor’s degree in Communication at Northwestern University can be pretty challenging, but it also depends on how you tackle it. Northwestern is known for its rigorous academics, and while communication might sound straightforward, it involves a lot of critical thinking, research, and writing. You'll be diving into topics like media theory, interpersonal communication, and even public speaking, which can be tough if you're not super passionate about the subject. Plus, the workload can be pretty demanding, especially when you're balancing group projects and presentations. So, while it might be more manageable than some STEM degrees, you definitely have to put in the effort and stay engaged to really succeed.

How long does it take?

Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Communication.

Do Communication graduates from Northwestern University tend to make good money?

So, looking at the career paths of these Communication graduates from Northwestern, it’s kind of a mixed bag when it comes to money. Some of them, especially those who jumped into politics or high-level organizational roles, seem like they're raking in a decent salary, like that Chief of Staff at Congress or the Director at Northwestern Medicine, which probably come with pretty hefty paychecks. Others, like those in teaching and coaching roles, might struggle a bit more financially, especially early on. The media and marketing folks have potential for good earnings too, but many started out with internships and entry-level roles, which usually don’t pay as well. Overall, while some are definitely seeing the $$$, others might just be making ends meet.

What buzzwords do Communication graduates use to describe themselves?

Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Communication (this is across all Communication graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Northwestern University). This may or may not be useful:

What are the best colleges for Communication?

Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Communication (ordered by the average relevance score of their Communication graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates:

College	Score	Count
New York University	82	14
Western Carolina University	81	10
Boston University	80	15
University of Florida	78	15
La Salle University	77	10
Moody Bible Institute	77	11
Virginia Commonwealth University	76	16
University of Wisconsin-Madison	75	22
Longwood University	75	10
University of Southern California	74	37
Utah Valley University	74	18
Wichita State University	74	10
Louisiana State University	73	40
Queens College	73	17
Gonzaga University	73	10
Penn State University	72	62
Southern New Hampshire University	72	25
Auburn University	72	34
Brigham Young University	71	25
University of Missouri-Columbia	71	29
Georgia Southern University	71	12
University of Alabama at Birmingham	71	10
Southeastern Louisiana University	71	14
Pace University	71	20
Florida International University	70	38
The University of Alabama	70	12
Northeastern University	70	19
California State University-Northridge	70	22
The University of Memphis	70	10
University of California, San Diego	70	11
University of Hawaii at Manoa	70	15
UC San Diego	70	13
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point	70	14
Stockton University	70	16
Biola University	70	12
The University of Texas at Austin	69	18
University of California, Berkeley	69	22
Cornell University	69	13
Missouri State University	69	11
Southern Connecticut State University	69	16
Salisbury University	69	14
University of Denver	69	14
Worcester State University	69	18
Penn State Erie, The Behrend College	69	10
Florida State University	68	46
Purdue University	68	13
University of North Texas	68	15
The University of Georgia	68	11
University of Arkansas	68	39
Azusa Pacific University	68	15
Santa Clara University	68	11
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	67	16
George Mason University	67	17
University of Maryland	67	19
University of Maine	67	11
Loyola Marymount University	67	20
Tulane University	67	11
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville	67	10
University of Arizona	66	28
Central Michigan University	66	18
California State University, Northridge	66	44
University of Virginia	66	14
University of Utah	66	29
Northern Illinois University	66	12
University of San Diego	66	23
Texas A&M University	65	56
University of Houston	65	18
DePaul University	65	15
California State University-Fullerton	65	18
University of California, Santa Barbara	65	26
University at Albany, SUNY	65	17
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse	65	11
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania	65	14
Eastern Illinois University	65	15
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi	65	12
Valdosta State University	65	18
Marymount Manhattan College	65	11
James Madison University	64	31
California State University, Fullerton	64	39
University of Kentucky	64	29
Appalachian State University	64	24
University of Massachusetts Amherst	64	22
Wake Forest University	64	12
University of South Florida	63	74
Towson University	63	39
East Carolina University	63	27
Clemson University	63	17
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities	63	35
University of Connecticut	63	30
Sam Houston State University	63	33
Baylor University	63	12
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale	63	11
California State University-San Bernardino	63	19
Utah State University	63	11
Fordham University	63	22
University of Tennessee-Knoxville	63	14
University of North Carolina Wilmington	63	13
State University of New York College at Cortland	63	11
University of Montevallo	63	10
Brigham Young University - Idaho	62	29
The University of Texas at San Antonio	62	29
Bowling Green State University	62	20
University of Rhode Island	62	38
San Diego State University-California State University	62	13
Western Kentucky University	62	10
University of Massachusetts, Amherst	62	23
Coastal Carolina University	62	25
The College of New Jersey	62	12
Radford University	62	20
Hunter College	62	11
University of Illinois Springfield	62	11
Texas State University	61	35
Grand Canyon University	61	26
University of Colorado Boulder	61	29
California State University-Sacramento	61	40
University of Pittsburgh	61	22
West Chester University of Pennsylvania	61	30
Northwestern University	61	14
St. Cloud State University	61	19
University of West Georgia	61	21
Saint Joseph's University	61	12
University of Houston-Clear Lake	61	10
Arizona State University	60	123
North Carolina State University	60	24
Ohio University	60	56
University of Oklahoma	60	24
University of Maryland College Park	60	25
UC Santa Barbara	60	37
California State University, Fresno	60	17
California State University-Los Angeles	60	11
Curry College	60	12
University of Washington	59	67
University of California, Los Angeles	59	32
University of Michigan	59	20
Florida Atlantic University	59	25
University of Delaware	59	17
University of North Carolina at Charlotte	59	25
Boston College	59	16
California State University San Marcos	59	36
The University of New Mexico	59	13
Wright State University	59	15
University of Northern Iowa	59	10
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania	59	20
Fairfield University	59	10
Wittenberg University	59	10
Texas A&M International University	59	10
University of Central Florida	58	49
University of Cincinnati	58	46
Kennesaw State University	58	25
Portland State University	58	17
California State University, Long Beach	58	30
California State University, Chico	58	16
Saint Louis University	58	11
University of San Francisco	58	15
Christopher Newport University	58	22
Temple University	57	42
Illinois State University	57	25
Northern Arizona University	57	12
Eastern Michigan University	57	20
Rutgers University	57	12
Boise State University	57	31
University of Louisville	57	30
Florida Gulf Coast University	57	25
Texas Christian University	57	15
Cleveland State University	57	13
East Tennessee State University	57	14
Bridgewater State University	57	24
Bowie State University	57	14
Michigan State University	56	45
Old Dominion University	56	30
St. John's University	56	14
Villanova University	56	16
Southeast Missouri State University	56	11
Tennessee State University	56	12
University of Phoenix	55	32
Liberty University	55	16
San Jose State University	55	47
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee	55	27
University of North Florida	55	23
University of New Hampshire	55	21
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)	55	11
Stephen F. Austin State University	55	13
Northern Kentucky University	55	15
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	55	13
California State University-Dominguez Hills	55	13
Sonoma State University	55	18
Prairie View A&M University	55	13
Indiana University Bloomington	54	10
Texas Tech University	54	21
Iowa State University	54	13
Kent State University	54	25
Washington State University	54	11
College of Charleston	54	37
Indiana University of Pennsylvania	54	13
University of Colorado Denver	54	13
Virginia State University	54	13
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign	53	30
Western Washington University	53	30
University at Buffalo	53	31
Eastern Kentucky University	53	11
Millersville University of Pennsylvania	53	12
Winston-Salem State University	53	11
State University of New York College at Oneonta	53	10
San Diego State University	52	29
University of Iowa	52	33
University of Tennessee, Knoxville	52	29
University of Mississippi	52	10
Oakland University	52	37
Wayne State University	52	13
University of Maryland University College	52	11
Minnesota State University, Mankato	52	23
Southern Utah University	52	10
San Francisco State University	51	59
California State University-Long Beach	51	33
University of Nevada-Las Vegas	51	12
University of North Carolina at Greensboro	51	29
Kean University	51	22
Eastern Connecticut State University	51	19
University of California, Davis	50	28
University of North Carolina at Wilmington	50	16
University of Missouri-Saint Louis	50	17
Western Illinois University	49	13
The Ohio State University	48	18
The University of Akron	48	10
University of Maryland Baltimore County	48	11
University of Tampa	48	21
University of Washington Tacoma	48	10
Clark Atlanta University	48	15
Colorado State University	47	30
West Virginia University	47	19
Delaware State University	47	12
State University of New York at Fredonia	45	10
University of Colorado Colorado Springs	44	13
Rowan University	43	19
SUNY Oneonta	43	19
Grand Valley State University	42	16
Mississippi State University	42	10
Southern Oregon University	30	10