Planning Your Career

One of the great advantages of a degree or certificate in Information Design & Communication is the flexibility it offers. IDC graduates go on to pursue careers in diverse fields, including technical writing, corporate communications, usability testing, instructional design, marketing, web development, and media. Meet some of our graduates and learn about their current jobs.

To make the most of your IDC experience, it's important to start your career planning right away. With a career plan in mind, you'll be able to select your elective courses more strategically. You'll also be able to approach course projects with your career goal in mind, so when you complete IDC you'll enter the job market with a focused portfolio of work samples.

Getting started

First, spend some time learning about careers related to Information Design & Communication. These include:

Publications editor	Speech writer	Usability researcher
Journalist	Graphic designer	Information architect
Instructional designer	Corporate trainer	Communications consultant
Public relations executive	Direct mail writer	Director of corporate communication
Media placement specialist	Video script writer	Medical writer
Grant writer	Content developer	Marketing copywriter
Public opinion researcher	Advertising executive	Crisis communications specialist
Media spokesperson	Public information officer	Proofreader
Communications strategist	Project manager	Community relations specialist

Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook for information on job growth and earnings in these fields. Also research employment Web sites like Wet Feet, Monster, and Career Builder.

Even if you're not ready to begin your job search now, review job postings regularly. This smart strategy will help you stay abreast of job opportunities and provide invaluable information on the skills employers want. Once you've identified these skills, you can choose elective courses and class projects in IDC that help you develop them.

Getting connected

It's never too early to join a professional organization related to Information Design & Communication. These national organizations publish journals and other resources for members, and their local chapters hold regular professional development programs and networking events. Be sure to inquire about discounted memberships for students.

As an IDC student, you're eligible for free membership in T-COMmons, an association of SPSU professors, students, alumni, and industry friends in technical communication. As a member, you'll receive invitations to private T-COMmons events and have access to the online T-COMmons job board. Register now and don't miss this opportunity to connect.