Best Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
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.

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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.
Appalachian State University
Boone, NCAppalachian State University , commonly known as App State, is a four-year public university founded in 1899. The university is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. More than 20,000 students are enrolled at App State and enjoy its popular education, psychology, and science major programs. The US News & World Report ranks App State Online, an extension of App University, among the best online universities in the US .
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
In this communication program, you will learn different theories and real-world applications of communication skills, such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, persuasion, nonverbal communication, and small group communication. Students will also select an undergraduate minor in topics such as sociology, business, political science, or English.
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $4,242/year (in state); $19,849/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%
Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.82 recommended
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Unofficial and official transcripts, interest statement, list of activities, residency confirmation, and criminal background check
Applying to Appalachian State University
- Review application deadlines.
- Complete the application using the Common Application.
- Submit all required documents through the application portal, email, or mail.
- Pay the application fee.
- Complete the FAFSA application.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZArizona State University (ASU) is a public university founded in 1885 and is the parent institution of over 10 ASU campuses. It is also one of the best research universities in the Phoenix metropolitan area and prides itself on a student population of over 74,000 undergraduate and graduate learners.
Bachelor of Science in Communication
This BS in Communication program will teach cultural diversity, global awareness, public speaking, communication research methods, and organizational communication. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers the degree at the Tempe Campus, but students can also pursue the same degree online or in a hybrid format through ASU Local. This program is also offered as an accelerated degree option, allowing students to obtain a diploma in three years.
Bachelor of Science in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $10,710/year (in state); $28,800/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 3 - 4 years
- Learning Format: In person or online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%
Bachelor of Science in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT and SAT (optional)
- Application Fee: $50 (residents); $70 (non-residents); $85 (international students)
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
Applying to Arizona State University
- Complete the online application through the Common Application, Coalition Application, or ASU’s Application for Admission.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Submit all the transcripts and test scores.
- If desired, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, COColorado State University (CSU) was established in 1870 and is one of the country’s highly-ranked public research universities. It enrolls over 33,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs. CSU offers a 17:1 student-to-teacher ratio and is known for its research facilities, world-class faculty, and initiation of First Generation scholarships .
Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies
The Communication Studies major at CSU teaches students the history and practice of communication in film and media studies, rhetoric and civic engagement, and relational and organizational communication. You will also develop critical thinking, oral, and written communication skills to prepare you for real-world experiences after graduation.
Prospective students can also choose to pursue the Speech Teacher Licensure concentration, where they will learn interpersonal communication, advanced public speaking, critical media studies, film, and social change. The degree also offers an accelerated program, allowing any full-time student to complete the degree in three years.
Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $638.21/credit (in state); $1,691.71/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 3 - 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 70%
Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.4 recommended
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, personal statement, one letter of recommendation
Applying to Colorado State University
- Review application deadlines on the school website.
- Complete your application via the Common Application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your test scores and all required documents.
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PADrexel University is a four-year, private university located in the heart of Philadelphia. Drexel offers state-of-the-art R1 research facilities and is also known for its degrees in management, computer science, visual and performing arts, social sciences, and psychology. Additionally, the US News & World Report ranks Drexel University 103rd on the list of National Universities .
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Prospective students of this program can choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree track in communication. They can also select a specific concentration, including public relations, journalism, technical and science, or communication. The communication concentration is great for students who are unsure of an area of study in the field. In this concentration, they will learn about civic engagement, English composition, political communication, new technologies, and mass media and society.
Drexel University also offers this program as part of an accelerated degree plan to earn a BA or BS in Communication and a Master of Science in Strategic and Digital Communication in five years.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Middles States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $17,956/term
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (optional)
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Personal essay, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts
Applying to Drexel University
- Review the admission requirements and application deadlines.
- Read the application requirements for first-year students.
- Complete the application or Common Application and pay the application fee.
- Submit all required documents.
Husson University
Bangor, MEHusson University is a private university located in the suburban area of Bangor, Maine. The university began in 1898 and is known for its outstanding faculty, wide variety of programs, varsity sports, and experiential learning experience. Husson has a small-to-medium population of over 3,400 students.
Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication – Journalism
In this journalism and communication program, prospective students will gain core values based on professionalism, diversity, experiential and immersive learning, industry focus, creativity, and a broad-based curriculum. Core courses include general psychology, photography, ethics in media, and TV news writing. Students will also gain technical writing and interviewing skills through hands-on training in Husson’s online campus newspaper.
Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication – Journalism Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $650/credit hour
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 58%
Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication – Journalism Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional until 2023)
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, one letter of recommendation, one 250-word essay
Applying to Husson University
- Create an account on the application page.
- Review application requirements.
- Complete the school’s application or via the Common Application.
- Submit all the required documents.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KSKansas State University is a four-year, public land-grant university in Manhattan, Kansas. Kansas State was founded in 1863 and currently admits over 20,000 students. KSU sits on over 600 acres and includes additional campuses in Olathe, Salina, and global online campuses. Kansas State ranks 78th in the US News & World Report’s list of the best public schools in the United States.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication
Prospective students of this mass communication program will pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree track. The coursework covers popular communication topics like theories of human communication, senior colloquium, freedom of speech, noteworthy studies in human discourse, professional speaking, and legal communication. Students in this program will gain the technical and practical skills needed for a lucrative career in mass communication.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $316.30/credit (in state); $852/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 68%
Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.25
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Unofficial transcripts, signatures from parents and high school officials, list of desired courses
Applying to Kansas State University
- Select the program and review the deadlines.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit all the required documents.
Northeastern University
Boston, MANortheastern University is a private university founded in 1898. Northeastern is a selective university with an 18 percent acceptance rate and is known for its commitment to professional education through successful co-op programs. The university’s experiential learning experience allows graduates to gain the skills needed to thrive in the professional sector as employees or freelancers.
Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Communication Studies
This BA degree program prepares students for various jobs in interactive arts, narrative arts, and communication and media. Students in this program will gain valuable skills in research, production, camera operations, studio lighting, time management, printing, and design. The coursework is divided into media art courses, communication studies courses, and integrative studies.
Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Communication Studies Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $28,250/term
- Required Credits: 128 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 90%
Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Communication Studies Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, official transcripts, essay, portfolio
Applying to Northeastern University
- Review the application deadlines.
- Complete your application through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit required materials.
- Check your application status.
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PAPennsylvania State University is a world-renowned public research university known for its Greek System, with over 70 sororities and fraternities. Penn State was founded in 1855 and prides itself on over 20 campuses across the United States. Penn State’s University Park campus has an enrollment of over 47,000 students.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
This degree tackles communication fundamentals while incorporating technological details, employer requirements, and basic theoretical foundations of communication. The degree is available at all Penn State campuses, but students will end their studies on the Beaver, New Kensington, Greater Allegheny, or Brandywine campuses.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Middles States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $18,898/year (in state); $36,476/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT and ACT (optional until 2023)
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)
Applying to Pennsylvania State University
- Review admission requirements and deadlines, and select a suitable Penn State campus.
- Create a Penn State account and complete your application. You can also apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Submit all required materials.
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NHFounded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is one of the most affordable and rapidly-growing private universities in the United States. SNHU has an enrollment of 3,000 on-campus students and over 135,000 online students. The university is known for its numerous online degree programs and offers several in-person degrees, including a BA in Communication.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
In this communication program, you will gain written and oral communication expertise from a highly-qualified faculty and intriguing curriculum. Southern New Hampshire University's coursework covers communication theory, industry concepts, public speaking, professional writing, presentation, and practical interview skills. Students will gain a foundation to launch a career in information technology, marketing, journalism, graphic design, advertising, and film
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $15,000/year
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, one letter of recommendation
Applying to Southern New Hampshire University
- Review application deadlines.
- Complete your application through the Common Application.
- Submit all required documents.
- Explore financial aid options.
- Review application status.
University of Illinois
Champaign, ILThe University of Illinois – Urbana, Champaign is a four-year public university with a student population of over 50,000. The university is known for its engineering and business programs and offers exceptional student support services that allow students to experience a fulfilling and productive campus experience.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
This communication program covers communication fundamentals from a broad liberal arts perspective. The degree track tackles different areas of study, including communication and culture, communication and health, communication and organizations, interpersonal communication, mediated communication and technology, and rhetoric and public discourse.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $17,138/year (in state); $35,110/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 86%
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.5 recommended
- Standardized Tests: SAT and ACT (optional)
- Application Fee: $50; $75 (international students)
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Unofficial transcripts, proof of extracurricular activities, short essay questions
Applying to the University of Illinois
- Gather your application materials.
- Complete the application by creating an account on the school website or through the Common and Coalition Applications.
- Submit required documents and pay the application fee.
- Review additional application requirements related to the major.
- Check your application status.
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
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
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.
Marketing Manager
Average Salary: $135,030Marketing managers handle the marketing aspect of a business, product, or service. They play a significant role in creating unique marketing and pricing strategies, organizing promotion campaigns, and leading a team in implementing creative ideas. A communication bachelor’s degree will enhance your communication skills, improve your negotiation skills, and make you a better leader.
- Average Salary: $135,030
- Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 31,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California
Public Relations Manager
Average Salary: $128,160A PR manager is responsible for creating and maintaining an appealing public image for an organization or individual client. They develop a favorable client image, help clients improve their communication strategies, write press releases, and design advertising programs.
- Average Salary: $128,160
- Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 89,000
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York
Lawyer
Average Salary: $127,990Lawyers spend most of their time communicating, making a communication bachelor's degree beneficial for their career. By pursuing the degree, you will learn to communicate with clients, judges, and peers. In addition, you will gain knowledge on crucial research methods, writing sermons, interpreting laws, analyzing cases, and public speaking. A communication bachelor’s degree is an excellent precursor to a law degree.
- Average Salary: $127,990
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 804,200
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, New York, California
Management Analyst
Average Salary: $93,000Management analysts, also referred to as consultants, facilitate an organization's effective management and operation. They develop solutions and favorable practices, make recommendations through presentations and reports, interview personnel, and advise managers. A communication bachelor's degree teaches you problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal, and time management skills that will aid you in this type of profession.
- Average Salary: $93,000
- Job Outlook: 14% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 907,600
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York
Communication Professor
Average Salary: $77,560Communication professors work in secondary or post-secondary institutions in the United States and around the world. As a lecturer in the university, professors teach communication fundamentals, assign assignments, administer exams, and help students reach their full potential. A communication degree will teach you practical interpersonal skills research methods, and polish your mentoring skills to help you excel in this role.
- Average Salary: $77,560
- Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
- Highest-Paying States : California, Alaska, New York
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-bachelors-degree-in-communications/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/everything-about-communications-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-masters-in-communication/
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.