Communication is crucial in nearly every aspect of life, from criminal justice to electronic media. Communication is also one of the top skills employers look for in the professional sector. Therefore, the best communication bachelor’s degrees give you a competitive edge in a wide variety of fields.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Communication allows you to explore many communication bachelor’s degree jobs, with roles in administration, politics, marketing, publishing, public relations, human resources, and more. Continue reading for a deeper look into some of the best communication bachelor’s degree programs, as well as their tuition costs and requirements.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
A few of the best schools you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication include Arizona State University, Colorado State University, University of Illinois, and Southern New Hampshire University. These schools feature in-depth curricula, vast learning resources, student support, and world-class faculty.
What Schools Offer the Best Communication Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Kansas State University
- Pennsylvania State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- University of Illinois
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication include GPA scores on a four-point scale and a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. The average GPA requirement for most institutions is 2.5 and above. Some universities will require standardized ACT or SAT scores, but for many schools this is optional.
Other requirements include an application fee, official or unofficial transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and a list of desired courses. International students and students with English as a second language (ESL) will have to submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam or equivalent for all degree programs.
Communication Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- GPA
- Online application
- SAT and ACT scores, depending on the school
- English proficiency test scores for ESL and international students
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Official and unofficial transcripts
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication
You get a communication bachelor’s degree by completing the required credit hours, including major, general, and elective course requirements. Communication students must also attain the required cumulative GPA and major GPA. Some programs will require students to complete a final communication senior capstone research project.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
You need a minimum of 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication. The minimum total credit hours may differ for some institutions, but 120 credits are the minimum for most schools. The credit hours are broken into general education requirements, core classes, major requirements, and elective courses.
Communication Degree Requirements
- General education requirements (42 to 60 credits)
- Major and minor requirements (30 to 50 credits)
- Electives (36 credits)
- GPA requirement (2.0 to 3.0, depending on the school)
Best Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State University | Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Communication | Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University | Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Arts in Communication | Middles States Commission on Higher Education |
| Husson University | Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication – Journalism | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Kansas State University |
Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northeastern University | Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Communication Studies | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Pennsylvania State University | Bachelor of Arts in Communication | Middles States Commission on Higher Education |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Arts in Communication | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Illinois | Bachelor of Arts in Communication | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Communication: Top Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Below you’ll find details on 10 of the best communication bachelor’s degree program providers in the United States. Employers respect communication bachelor’s degrees from these schools and students land lucrative roles after graduation. Continue reading for an overview of each school’s history, admission requirements, tuition rates, and course descriptions.
What Is a Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
A communication bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares you for various communication roles. In this degree program, you will explore various courses that focus on technical communication, public relations, and mass communication, and gain skills in written and oral communication, active listening, and non-verbal and visual communication.
Most bachelor’s degrees require a minimum of 120 credits, which is equivalent to eight semesters. In addition, this undergraduate degree is the precursor for students seeking to pursue a communication master’s degree in the future.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Communication is very important. Communication is one of the most sought-after skills in the professional sector, and many jobs rely on communication experts to create and interpret ideas, handle customer needs, and make business deals.
In addition, getting a communication bachelor’s degree opens the door to many exciting career fields such as public relations, administration, information technology, education, and law.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Communication?
You can get two types of degrees in communication, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS). The Bachelor of Arts in Communication focuses more on theoretical concepts, humanities, social science, and liberal art courses. BA programs often require students to study a foreign language as part of the credit requirements.
On the other hand, a BS in Communication is more technical than a BA degree. The BS track focuses on more math and natural science courses, as well as the specialized and technical skills and new technologies involved within the field of communication.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Communication?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Communication if you are pursuing a communication career in tech, computer science, or health services. Alternatively, if you wish to pursue a communication role in law, human resources, or management, a Bachelor of Arts in Communication may be more fitting.
Both BA and BS communication degrees will be effective for aspiring students. However, you should analyze your career goals, desired skills, continuing education path, and other related factors to decide which degree path is right for you.
What Is the Difference Between a Communication Bachelor’s Degree and a Communication Certificate?
The difference between a communication bachelor’s degree and a communication certificate involves the time, tuition costs, and specializations of both. A communication bachelor’s degree takes approximately four years to complete. You will also explore more courses and gain access to more opportunities because a bachelor’s degree is the most popular education requirement.
A communication certificate costs less money and takes less time to complete, with students graduating in a year or less. Certificates are typically pursued by professionals that wish to upskill or develop a specific skill within their field. Both options will improve your resume, but a degree will open more career opportunities.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
A Bachelor’s in Communication costs between $24,575 and $35,331 on average to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication across all institutions in the US, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, this figure is an average value, and institutions will vary greatly in tuition costs. You will also have to factor in costs for books and supplies, room and board, and other fees, which may increase your overall cost of attendance.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a communication bachelor’s degree. The entire program spans eight semesters and requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. You will typically cover at least 15 credits per semester or the equivalent of five 3-credit courses per semester. However, you can get your degree in less than four years if you pursue an accelerated program.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
It is not hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication. Although you will face some challenges of studying a program at a university level, undergraduate communication majors have an easier time in class than other majors. For the most part, the degree is easier because it doesn’t include advanced science, math, or technical courses that can be challenging for many students.
Why Should You Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a communication bachelor’s degree because graduates of these programs are highly valued in many industries. For example, you can work as a video editor, reporter, lawyer, public relations specialist, speechwriter, or HR manager. Pursuing a communication bachelor’s degree equips you with a wide range of skills that make you a better communicator across many different industries.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Communication?
Some of the most common courses you’ll need to take for a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication include public speaking, non-verbal communication, interpersonal communication, media graphics, and introduction to media. These courses cover the fundamental areas of the art of communication.
Public Speaking
Public speaking can be challenging, especially if you’re not a confident speaker. Therefore, pursuing a communication bachelor’s degree will help improve your confidence through this course. You will learn to develop, organize, and deliver captivating presentations by studying body language, curbing anxiety, engaging the crowd, speech writing, and utilizing rhetoric.
Interpersonal Communication
A course in interpersonal communication covers the practice of verbal and non-verbal communication and how they apply to relationships. You will learn effective listening, conversational style, conflict management, negotiation, and interpersonal communication habits.
Persuasion and Rhetoric
Persuasion and rhetoric are part of daily conversation and play a significant role in swaying people’s emotions. You will learn how to use the art of rhetoric and persuasion to appeal to people’s logic or emotion. You will gain critical communication skills and the confidence to lead conversations in the real world.
Communication Research Methods
This course explores different communication research methods, including participatory, quantitative, and qualitative research methods. You will also gain a broad understanding of how to use these interpersonal, intrapersonal, and mass media communication methods.
Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication involves all the unspoken actions that contribute to a conversation, including gestures, facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and personal space. You will learn how these non-verbal cues contribute to a conversation and how to apply them in different settings.
Continuing Education Paths for Communication Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Communication bachelor’s degree graduates can choose to pursue a Master’s Degree in Communication upon graduation, or as a combined degree program. Combined degrees are accelerated programs that allow you to pursue a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree simultaneously.
If you are not in a hurry to get a master’s degree, you can pursue certification and licensing courses related to your career path. There is a wide variety of online course providers like Udemy, Coursera, and edX, where you can enroll for free, short-term courses and enhance your skills in communication.
Related Communication Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs
You should look for the curriculum content, degree format, student services options, and graduation rates when choosing a program. The best communication bachelor’s degree programs are student-centered and focused on producing all-rounded graduates. Below is an in-depth description of five essential factors.
Flexibility
Flexibility involves the degree format, including in-person, hybrid, and online courses. The best communication bachelor’s degree programs offer flexibility, allowing you to find a format that best suits your availability. The programs should also provide part-time and full-time options to accommodate both working and full-time students.
Curriculum Content
The best communication bachelor’s degree curriculum includes all required communication courses, such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, and research methods. You should analyze the curriculum content to ensure all the courses contribute to your career aspirations.
Student Services
Student services include academic advising, career services, counseling, admissions help, tutoring programs, financial aid, resume advice, and peer support. These services are crucial in ensuring a fulfilling campus experience and a navigable job search after graduation.
Reputation of School
The reputation of the university matters because it contributes to your professional life upon graduation. You should research the accreditation status, retention rate, and general information about the school. How do students perform? How many thrive in employment after graduation? This information is crucial in helping you decide on the best communication bachelor’s degree.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate of a university can give you an overview of the communication bachelor’s degree performance. You will learn how many students complete the program on average and whether the degree is worth pursuing. Typically, a higher graduation rate indicates a well-performing institution.
What Is the Most Affordable Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable communication bachelor’s degree is offered by Appalachian State University. App State charges an average of $7,410 for in-state tuition and $23,017 for out-of-state tuition. Kansas State is a close second, charging $10,420 for in-state tuition and $20,491 for out-of-state applicants. Remember, this figure is exclusive of other costs, such as books, application fees, and accommodation.
Salary and Job Outlook for Communication Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Communication professionals are present in every industry. Employers spend millions of dollars on qualified employees in the US. Earning your degree equips you with a wide range of skills applicable in business, religious, political, and social settings. Continue reading for an overview of some of the best communication bachelor’s degree jobs and their average annual salaries.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a communication bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is applicable across several industries, which widens your job search post-graduation. In addition, the job outlook for most communication jobs is very promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% job growth rate between 2020 and 2030.
What’s the Average Communication Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary of a professional with a communication bachelor’s degree is $57,000 per year. However, if you earn a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, your annual salary averages $64,000, and with a Bachelor of Science in Communication, you can earn an average of $62,000 per year.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Communication Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can do with a communication bachelor’s degree include marketing director, public relations officer, spokesperson, lawyer, lecturer, speechwriter, author, and journalist roles. The list is endless for communication bachelor’s degree holders because most industries require a communication expert within an organization. It is a versatile career path that guarantees employment for all communication career goals.
Communication Degree Jobs
- Lawyer
- News analyst
- Fundraising manager
- Human resource manager
- Social media manager
Potential Careers With a Communication Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication?
You can make between $77,000 and $135,000 per year with a communication bachelor’s degree. Communication bachelor’s degree graduates can apply for entry-level, mid-level, and some senior roles, depending on their qualifications. Communication is a well-paying career path that also typically includes benefits and perks.
Highest-Paying Communication Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Communication Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $135,030 |
| Public Relations Manager | $128,160 |
| Lawyer | $127,990 |
| Management Analyst | $93,000 |
| Communication Professor | $77,560 |
Best Jobs for Communication Bachelor’s Degree Grads
Communication bachelor’s degree graduates have the opportunity to land very lucrative careers after graduation. The jobs above are an example of what you can expect after completing your four-year degree. Below are in-depth job descriptions explaining how a communication degree will influence your role.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication is worth it. Communication occurs in every aspect of life, and pursuing this degree will make you a better, more creative, and articulate communicator. Additionally, you have the opportunity to explore a wide range of career opportunities because every industry relies on communication experts to facilitate its growth.
Communication is a fun, creative, and diverse industry that goes beyond honing your skills for the job market. You will also grow in your personal life and create better relationships through the effective communication skills earned in a degree program.
Additional Reading About Communication
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Communication Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication is a good degree because it is highly employable and equips you with the skills to thrive in different settings. In addition, most jobs in the communication industry have a promising job outlook over the next 10 years.
Communication bachelor’s degree grads work in tourism, human resource management, administration, law, graphic design, film and video production, NGOs, and government.
Yes, communication majors are in high demand as organizations strive to hire more public relations specialists, journalists, and communication tech experts. In addition, communication skills are applicable and in high demand in the professional sector.
Yes, you can get a communication bachelor’s degree in under four years. Students can either enroll as transfer students from community colleges or pursue accelerated degree programs that allow them to complete their bachelor’s in less than four years. Alternatively, you can choose combined degree programs where you will earn your Bachelor’s in Communication in three years and immediately pursue a master’s for two years.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
