8 answers
Asked
1372 views
What kind of good paying jobs are out there for a media communication major ?
I am pursuing a degree in media production, but does this degree realistically open up opportunities to get a good paying job ? I love the degree and learning about and doing media but wanted to know am I wasting time on a non-useful degree.
8 answers

Barry Abrams
Host/producer - "In The Gate" thoroughbred podcast at ESPN
33
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Barry’s Answer
Hi, Lindsey!
How are you? Thanks for the inquiry. These days, media jobs are sadly trending away from what I do - journalism - and more toward public relations/media relations jobs.
Journalism jobs, with few exceptions, have never paid exceptionally well. Those of us who pursue that kind of career see it as a calling more so than a way to make big money.
Further, media is becoming more of a “gig economy” industry, with fewer so- called “legacy media” companies around. I happen to work for one of those (ESPN, owned by The Walt Disney Company), but I am rapidly becoming a dinosaur. Boutique operations that do content production, PR, etc are becoming de rigueur. Individual freelance “consultants” are also very common, if not the majority, among media professionals.
Since you are presumably young, your primary jobs right now are to learn how to execute your craft and make connections… in that order. What that means is that you should not worry as much about the connections. If you keep doing good things, you’ll naturally meet the people you need to know. Just make sure that whenever that door cracks open, even just a sliver, that you are ready to break that door down because you can do the job.
I hope this helps!
Best always,
Barry Abrams
ESPN/voice artist
How are you? Thanks for the inquiry. These days, media jobs are sadly trending away from what I do - journalism - and more toward public relations/media relations jobs.
Journalism jobs, with few exceptions, have never paid exceptionally well. Those of us who pursue that kind of career see it as a calling more so than a way to make big money.
Further, media is becoming more of a “gig economy” industry, with fewer so- called “legacy media” companies around. I happen to work for one of those (ESPN, owned by The Walt Disney Company), but I am rapidly becoming a dinosaur. Boutique operations that do content production, PR, etc are becoming de rigueur. Individual freelance “consultants” are also very common, if not the majority, among media professionals.
Since you are presumably young, your primary jobs right now are to learn how to execute your craft and make connections… in that order. What that means is that you should not worry as much about the connections. If you keep doing good things, you’ll naturally meet the people you need to know. Just make sure that whenever that door cracks open, even just a sliver, that you are ready to break that door down because you can do the job.
I hope this helps!
Best always,
Barry Abrams
ESPN/voice artist
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Passionate about media production can lead to well-paying jobs in various fields. A media production degree is not a waste of time, as the media landscape constantly evolves, creating new career paths. Some good-paying jobs for media production majors include film and television, digital media and content creation, corporate and commercial video production, motion graphics designer, and multimedia specialist.
To maximize your earning potential, focus on developing in-demand skills such as video editing, motion graphics, sound design, and digital storytelling. Software proficiency is essential, and building a strong portfolio is crucial. Gain experience through internships, freelance work, and volunteer opportunities, and start building your resume early. Network with professionals on LinkedIn and attend industry events to open doors to job opportunities.
Specialize in a particular area of media production that you're passionate about and have good job prospects. Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the media landscape. Consider further education in a specialized area, such as film production or digital media, but weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
Location matters, as major media hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta often have more job opportunities and higher salaries, but they also have a higher cost of living. With hard work, dedication, and a strategic approach, you can turn your passion for media production into a successful and financially rewarding career.
In summary, a media production degree can lead to good-paying jobs in various fields, including film and television, digital media and content creation, corporate and commercial video production, motion graphics, and multimedia specialist. To maximize your earning potential, develop in-demand skills, build a strong portfolio, gain experience, and network.
To maximize your earning potential, focus on developing in-demand skills such as video editing, motion graphics, sound design, and digital storytelling. Software proficiency is essential, and building a strong portfolio is crucial. Gain experience through internships, freelance work, and volunteer opportunities, and start building your resume early. Network with professionals on LinkedIn and attend industry events to open doors to job opportunities.
Specialize in a particular area of media production that you're passionate about and have good job prospects. Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the media landscape. Consider further education in a specialized area, such as film production or digital media, but weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
Location matters, as major media hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta often have more job opportunities and higher salaries, but they also have a higher cost of living. With hard work, dedication, and a strategic approach, you can turn your passion for media production into a successful and financially rewarding career.
In summary, a media production degree can lead to good-paying jobs in various fields, including film and television, digital media and content creation, corporate and commercial video production, motion graphics, and multimedia specialist. To maximize your earning potential, develop in-demand skills, build a strong portfolio, gain experience, and network.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Lindsey !
I hope you don't mind me saying this, but if you were really serious about a broadcasting career you would not be worrying about your future or if it is "a waste of time" or how much money you'd make. That mindset will not help you in the future, but I would love to give you some advice and some things to consider if you are thinking about not going into it. Perhaps you haven't made strong connections so far and maybe that's what is making you second guess this career plan.
Although, excluding having your own podcast, the large areas for broadcasting are still in New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA, but Birmingham is good to obtain your initial experience. I am advising you on being on air talent as you didn't mention which aspect of broadcasting you intend to do. If you are currently in college as a Media Studies major, your college is a wealth of information and opportunity. You will need to make stronger connections in your department and start getting experience to see if this really is a field you want to continue with. Explore opportunities for experience at WVTM-TV, AL .com, The Birmingham News, Birmingham Weekly, Weld for Birmingham (this is a new outlet), Birmingham Business Journal, Southern Living, Magic City Post, Alabama Media Group or you can produce your own podcast on You Tube or any video platform.
This is a career in which no one can tell you now how much money you'd be making so you'll have to decide if you still want to pursue it on that basis. No one is able to tell you your salary now even before you get your degree and not knowing how many projects you'd work on at the same time. That's how it is with all careers - you'd have to go on interviews and the company will tell you what they're offering. Information about salaries online is inaccurate and not based on company or area/state/town the job is in. Try not to rely on such generalized, most times old and irrelevant information. Pursue the career as an open book if your passion is strong enough. It is misleading to tell you what your salary would be four or five years from now and when you don't know where you'd be working.
A degree in Media Studies, in my opinion, is a very valuable and exciting degree, one in which the purpose is to communicate to the public nationally and internationally, so it is high on my list as being quite an important degree. But you'd have to feel that way and right now you're not sure even though you are involved in studying for it. Many opportunities can come from what you learn as a media studies major. It's all in what you put into it, your drive, your tenacity, and how strongly you want to communicate information, stories, issues and anything that needs to be communicated. You will not know your opportunities until you start applying for things, networking and making strong connections with your professors and fellow media students.
My big advice to you is to ask work-based questions about this career because wanting to know your future now can be a barrier in taking the first steps to making it real. Focus on your presentation skills so that you stand out and have something special that makes you stand out in this exciting field of work. Experiment with producing your own podcast which can be any format and about any subject. The main thing is not to worry if you really feel drawn to this career. Worrying can stop you in your tracks and you've already invested in your academics this far, so think about it more and it should be your own decision as to what to do.
I hope this is something to consider that helps you make a decision about this career. I wish you all the best in all you do !
I hope you don't mind me saying this, but if you were really serious about a broadcasting career you would not be worrying about your future or if it is "a waste of time" or how much money you'd make. That mindset will not help you in the future, but I would love to give you some advice and some things to consider if you are thinking about not going into it. Perhaps you haven't made strong connections so far and maybe that's what is making you second guess this career plan.
Although, excluding having your own podcast, the large areas for broadcasting are still in New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA, but Birmingham is good to obtain your initial experience. I am advising you on being on air talent as you didn't mention which aspect of broadcasting you intend to do. If you are currently in college as a Media Studies major, your college is a wealth of information and opportunity. You will need to make stronger connections in your department and start getting experience to see if this really is a field you want to continue with. Explore opportunities for experience at WVTM-TV, AL .com, The Birmingham News, Birmingham Weekly, Weld for Birmingham (this is a new outlet), Birmingham Business Journal, Southern Living, Magic City Post, Alabama Media Group or you can produce your own podcast on You Tube or any video platform.
This is a career in which no one can tell you now how much money you'd be making so you'll have to decide if you still want to pursue it on that basis. No one is able to tell you your salary now even before you get your degree and not knowing how many projects you'd work on at the same time. That's how it is with all careers - you'd have to go on interviews and the company will tell you what they're offering. Information about salaries online is inaccurate and not based on company or area/state/town the job is in. Try not to rely on such generalized, most times old and irrelevant information. Pursue the career as an open book if your passion is strong enough. It is misleading to tell you what your salary would be four or five years from now and when you don't know where you'd be working.
A degree in Media Studies, in my opinion, is a very valuable and exciting degree, one in which the purpose is to communicate to the public nationally and internationally, so it is high on my list as being quite an important degree. But you'd have to feel that way and right now you're not sure even though you are involved in studying for it. Many opportunities can come from what you learn as a media studies major. It's all in what you put into it, your drive, your tenacity, and how strongly you want to communicate information, stories, issues and anything that needs to be communicated. You will not know your opportunities until you start applying for things, networking and making strong connections with your professors and fellow media students.
My big advice to you is to ask work-based questions about this career because wanting to know your future now can be a barrier in taking the first steps to making it real. Focus on your presentation skills so that you stand out and have something special that makes you stand out in this exciting field of work. Experiment with producing your own podcast which can be any format and about any subject. The main thing is not to worry if you really feel drawn to this career. Worrying can stop you in your tracks and you've already invested in your academics this far, so think about it more and it should be your own decision as to what to do.
I hope this is something to consider that helps you make a decision about this career. I wish you all the best in all you do !
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
A degree in media communication, especially with a focus on media production, can open up a variety of well-paying job opportunities, depending on your skills, interests, and how you apply your education. Fields such as film and television production, digital marketing, public relations, content creation, and broadcasting are all in need of skilled professionals. Positions like video editor, content strategist, social media manager, producer, or communication specialist are just a few examples of roles where you can apply your media production expertise. These roles can lead to solid earning potential, especially as you gain experience and build a portfolio.
It’s important to recognize that the media and communication industry is evolving rapidly with the rise of digital platforms and online content creation. This growth offers new and exciting career paths, but it also means that the industry can be competitive. Having practical skills, a strong portfolio, and an understanding of the latest technology and trends will help you stand out and increase your chances of landing a well-paying job. Internships, networking, and continually expanding your skill set will be crucial to maximizing your opportunities.
You’re not wasting your time if you love the field and are passionate about what you’re learning. Passion and enthusiasm often lead to success, and media production is a versatile degree that allows you to work in a variety of industries, including entertainment, advertising, education, and even corporate settings. As long as you're proactive about gaining experience and building connections in the industry, you can turn your degree into a rewarding and financially stable career.
It’s important to recognize that the media and communication industry is evolving rapidly with the rise of digital platforms and online content creation. This growth offers new and exciting career paths, but it also means that the industry can be competitive. Having practical skills, a strong portfolio, and an understanding of the latest technology and trends will help you stand out and increase your chances of landing a well-paying job. Internships, networking, and continually expanding your skill set will be crucial to maximizing your opportunities.
You’re not wasting your time if you love the field and are passionate about what you’re learning. Passion and enthusiasm often lead to success, and media production is a versatile degree that allows you to work in a variety of industries, including entertainment, advertising, education, and even corporate settings. As long as you're proactive about gaining experience and building connections in the industry, you can turn your degree into a rewarding and financially stable career.
Updated
Nik’s Answer
I had a satisfying 20-year career working with a non-profit (a church) and directing their media. My degree was in communications. It was good paying, not great paying, but allowed a lot of creative freedom and really allowed you to see the impact of your work.
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hey Lindsey!
First off, you’re definitely not wasting your time —a degree in media production can absolutely lead to well-paying careers. The media industry can be competitive, but if you develop strong skills, build a portfolio, and network effectively, you can find great opportunities that pay well and allow you to do what you love.
There are several career paths within media communication that offer solid salaries. Film and video editing, for example, is in high demand, especially with the rise of streaming platforms. Skilled editors who work on films, TV shows, and online content can make six figures with experience. Producing is another lucrative path—whether in television, film, or digital media, producers can earn well over $100K once they establish themselves. Media directors, who oversee content creation for brands or companies, often make between $80K and $150K. Similarly, content strategists, who help businesses shape their media presence, can earn upwards of $75K, with even higher salaries in corporate settings.
If you have an interest in the creative and technical aspects of media, cinematography, directing, or even UX/UI design could be rewarding paths. Cinematographers working in film, commercials, or branded content often earn six figures, while UX/UI designers with media skills can land jobs paying between $90K and $150K. The podcast and radio industry is also growing, with experienced producers making $70K or more.
To increase your chances of landing a high-paying job, focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your work. Networking is key—making connections in the industry can open doors to opportunities you might not find otherwise. Additionally, staying adaptable and learning new skills, such as marketing, animation, or even coding, can make you more valuable in the job market. Internships, freelance work, and personal projects also help you gain hands-on experience and stand out to employers.
The most important thing is that you love what you’re studying, and that passion will push you to find the right opportunities. Media is always evolving, and as long as you stay proactive and build your skills, you can absolutely turn your degree into a well-paying career. Keep going—you’re on the right track!
Best wishes!
First off, you’re definitely not wasting your time —a degree in media production can absolutely lead to well-paying careers. The media industry can be competitive, but if you develop strong skills, build a portfolio, and network effectively, you can find great opportunities that pay well and allow you to do what you love.
There are several career paths within media communication that offer solid salaries. Film and video editing, for example, is in high demand, especially with the rise of streaming platforms. Skilled editors who work on films, TV shows, and online content can make six figures with experience. Producing is another lucrative path—whether in television, film, or digital media, producers can earn well over $100K once they establish themselves. Media directors, who oversee content creation for brands or companies, often make between $80K and $150K. Similarly, content strategists, who help businesses shape their media presence, can earn upwards of $75K, with even higher salaries in corporate settings.
If you have an interest in the creative and technical aspects of media, cinematography, directing, or even UX/UI design could be rewarding paths. Cinematographers working in film, commercials, or branded content often earn six figures, while UX/UI designers with media skills can land jobs paying between $90K and $150K. The podcast and radio industry is also growing, with experienced producers making $70K or more.
To increase your chances of landing a high-paying job, focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your work. Networking is key—making connections in the industry can open doors to opportunities you might not find otherwise. Additionally, staying adaptable and learning new skills, such as marketing, animation, or even coding, can make you more valuable in the job market. Internships, freelance work, and personal projects also help you gain hands-on experience and stand out to employers.
The most important thing is that you love what you’re studying, and that passion will push you to find the right opportunities. Media is always evolving, and as long as you stay proactive and build your skills, you can absolutely turn your degree into a well-paying career. Keep going—you’re on the right track!
Best wishes!
Updated
Fazal’s Answer
Hi
A Media Correspondence major can prompt a few lucrative vocation ways, particularly on the off chance that you gain insight, foster solid abilities, and influence organizing open doors. Here are the absolute best-paying position in the field:
1. Corporate Interchanges and PR
Corporate Interchanges Director ($70K-$120K)
Advertising (PR) Chief ($80K-$150K)
Emergency Interchanges Director ($80K-$140K)
2. Promoting and Publicizing
Promoting Chief ($90K-$180K)
Advanced Advertising Supervisor ($75K-$130K)
Brand Planner ($70K-$120K)
Publicizing Administrator ($80K-$150K)
3. Media and Amusement
Media Chief ($90K-$150K)
TV/Film Maker ($80K-$200K)
Broadcast News Chief ($70K-$140K)
Content Chief ($80K-$160K)
4. Advanced Media and News coverage
Senior Proofreader ($70K-$120K)
Analytical Writer ($60K-$120K)
Webcast Maker ($60K-$110K)
Online Entertainment Chief ($75K-$140K)
5. Innovation and UX Correspondence
Client Experience (UX) Author ($80K-$140K)
Corporate Coach (Media and Correspondence) ($75K-$130K)
Speech specialist (for Chiefs/Legislators) ($90K-$160K)
6. Business and Counseling
Media Advisor ($80K-$140K)
Political Correspondence Planner ($90K-$180K)
Corporate Representative ($85K-$150K)
A large number of these positions major areas of strength for require, narrating, key correspondence, and computerized media abilities. Could you like suggestions on which specializations or abilities to zero in on for a more lucrative job?
A Media Correspondence major can prompt a few lucrative vocation ways, particularly on the off chance that you gain insight, foster solid abilities, and influence organizing open doors. Here are the absolute best-paying position in the field:
1. Corporate Interchanges and PR
Corporate Interchanges Director ($70K-$120K)
Advertising (PR) Chief ($80K-$150K)
Emergency Interchanges Director ($80K-$140K)
2. Promoting and Publicizing
Promoting Chief ($90K-$180K)
Advanced Advertising Supervisor ($75K-$130K)
Brand Planner ($70K-$120K)
Publicizing Administrator ($80K-$150K)
3. Media and Amusement
Media Chief ($90K-$150K)
TV/Film Maker ($80K-$200K)
Broadcast News Chief ($70K-$140K)
Content Chief ($80K-$160K)
4. Advanced Media and News coverage
Senior Proofreader ($70K-$120K)
Analytical Writer ($60K-$120K)
Webcast Maker ($60K-$110K)
Online Entertainment Chief ($75K-$140K)
5. Innovation and UX Correspondence
Client Experience (UX) Author ($80K-$140K)
Corporate Coach (Media and Correspondence) ($75K-$130K)
Speech specialist (for Chiefs/Legislators) ($90K-$160K)
6. Business and Counseling
Media Advisor ($80K-$140K)
Political Correspondence Planner ($90K-$180K)
Corporate Representative ($85K-$150K)
A large number of these positions major areas of strength for require, narrating, key correspondence, and computerized media abilities. Could you like suggestions on which specializations or abilities to zero in on for a more lucrative job?
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hello,
It’s totally understandable to want to make sure that your degree leads to solid career opportunities, especially with something as specific as media production. Here’s a breakdown of how a degree in media production could work for you in the real world:
1. Industry Demand
The media and entertainment industries continue to grow and evolve, with digital platforms, streaming services, social media, and content creation being massive drivers. Whether it's film production, digital media, journalism, or social media management, there are always opportunities for people with media production skills. Here are some areas where your degree can open doors:
- Film and Television Production: Opportunities to work in production houses, TV networks, film studios, or as a freelance filmmaker.
- Digital Marketing and Content Creation: Companies need video production skills for ads, social media, websites, etc.
- Broadcasting: Radio and TV stations, including news, entertainment, and sports networks.
- Social Media Management: With your media skills, you can help brands create compelling content and grow their digital presence.
- Corporate Media and Internal Communications: Many companies hire media professionals for their internal video content, training materials, or marketing videos.
2. Salary Potential
Salary potential in media production can vary depending on the specific field, location, and level of experience. In general, though:
- Entry-Level Positions: You may start in lower-paying positions like assistant producer, production assistant, or video editor, but these can lead to higher-paying roles.
- Mid-Level: As you gain more experience, you can aim for roles like video producer, content manager, director, or even specialized roles like scriptwriting, cinematography, or editing.
- High-Level Roles: Once you've built a network and a portfolio, you could land higher-paying positions such as a senior producer, director of photography, or creative director.
For example, in places like the U.S., entry-level positions can start at around 40,000 annually, but with experience and the right connections, salaries can rise significantly to70,000–$100,000 or more, especially in film production or high-end digital content creation.
3. Skillset and Flexibility
One of the advantages of a media production degree is the variety of transferable skills it provides, like:
- Creative Skills: Filmmaking, editing, storytelling, and graphic design.
- Technical Skills: Audio/video production, editing software (like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, etc.), lighting, and camera work.
- Communication: Collaborating with teams, managing projects, and working with clients or artists.
These skills can be applied in many different sectors—not just entertainment—like advertising, corporate training, digital marketing, and even education.
4. Building a Portfolio and Networking
Media production careers often rely heavily on your portfolio. The more projects you work on (whether in school, internships, or side gigs), the stronger your portfolio becomes, increasing your chances of landing a good job. Networking within the industry is also key, whether through internships, industry events, or online communities.
5. Not Just About the Degree
While a degree gives you a structured foundation, many people in media also get by through hands-on experience, freelancing, and building a personal brand or portfolio. If you love the subject and you’re passionate about the craft, that enthusiasm will likely keep you motivated, even when the going gets tough.
Final Thoughts
- Not a Waste: A degree in media production isn’t a waste—if you're passionate about it, and the industry excites you, that’s a great start. The key is leveraging your skills and networking to find the right opportunities.
- Balance Passion and Practicality: While you may have to start in entry-level positions or with freelancing, if you're dedicated to learning and growing your network, the payoff can be substantial in terms of both satisfaction and salary.
If you love what you're doing and are putting in the effort to learn and build a strong portfolio, you're on a path that can lead to great opportunities. Let me know if you'd like advice on building a portfolio or other ways to maximize your degree’s potential!
It’s totally understandable to want to make sure that your degree leads to solid career opportunities, especially with something as specific as media production. Here’s a breakdown of how a degree in media production could work for you in the real world:
1. Industry Demand
The media and entertainment industries continue to grow and evolve, with digital platforms, streaming services, social media, and content creation being massive drivers. Whether it's film production, digital media, journalism, or social media management, there are always opportunities for people with media production skills. Here are some areas where your degree can open doors:
- Film and Television Production: Opportunities to work in production houses, TV networks, film studios, or as a freelance filmmaker.
- Digital Marketing and Content Creation: Companies need video production skills for ads, social media, websites, etc.
- Broadcasting: Radio and TV stations, including news, entertainment, and sports networks.
- Social Media Management: With your media skills, you can help brands create compelling content and grow their digital presence.
- Corporate Media and Internal Communications: Many companies hire media professionals for their internal video content, training materials, or marketing videos.
2. Salary Potential
Salary potential in media production can vary depending on the specific field, location, and level of experience. In general, though:
- Entry-Level Positions: You may start in lower-paying positions like assistant producer, production assistant, or video editor, but these can lead to higher-paying roles.
- Mid-Level: As you gain more experience, you can aim for roles like video producer, content manager, director, or even specialized roles like scriptwriting, cinematography, or editing.
- High-Level Roles: Once you've built a network and a portfolio, you could land higher-paying positions such as a senior producer, director of photography, or creative director.
For example, in places like the U.S., entry-level positions can start at around 40,000 annually, but with experience and the right connections, salaries can rise significantly to70,000–$100,000 or more, especially in film production or high-end digital content creation.
3. Skillset and Flexibility
One of the advantages of a media production degree is the variety of transferable skills it provides, like:
- Creative Skills: Filmmaking, editing, storytelling, and graphic design.
- Technical Skills: Audio/video production, editing software (like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, etc.), lighting, and camera work.
- Communication: Collaborating with teams, managing projects, and working with clients or artists.
These skills can be applied in many different sectors—not just entertainment—like advertising, corporate training, digital marketing, and even education.
4. Building a Portfolio and Networking
Media production careers often rely heavily on your portfolio. The more projects you work on (whether in school, internships, or side gigs), the stronger your portfolio becomes, increasing your chances of landing a good job. Networking within the industry is also key, whether through internships, industry events, or online communities.
5. Not Just About the Degree
While a degree gives you a structured foundation, many people in media also get by through hands-on experience, freelancing, and building a personal brand or portfolio. If you love the subject and you’re passionate about the craft, that enthusiasm will likely keep you motivated, even when the going gets tough.
Final Thoughts
- Not a Waste: A degree in media production isn’t a waste—if you're passionate about it, and the industry excites you, that’s a great start. The key is leveraging your skills and networking to find the right opportunities.
- Balance Passion and Practicality: While you may have to start in entry-level positions or with freelancing, if you're dedicated to learning and growing your network, the payoff can be substantial in terms of both satisfaction and salary.
If you love what you're doing and are putting in the effort to learn and build a strong portfolio, you're on a path that can lead to great opportunities. Let me know if you'd like advice on building a portfolio or other ways to maximize your degree’s potential!
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