Humans communicate across several channels for various purposes. Communication certificates are an excellent way to further understand the human condition and build a solid career in media, business, or management.
This article discusses undergraduate and graduate communication certificate programs that cater to the educational needs of novices and experts alike. Discover the best communication college certificates, certifications, and career prospects in the field.
What Is a Communication Certificate College Program?
A communication certificate college program is a non-degree educational program that prepares students to become effective communicators. Students learn about communication strategies, techniques, and skills. The program covers both non-verbal and verbal forms of communication.
What’s the Difference Between a College Communication Certificate and Professional Certification in Communication?
The difference between a college communication certificate and a professional certification in communication is that the former indicates completion of a communication course. In contrast, certification is the completion of an exam that demonstrates proficiency or mastery of a communication field.
Professionals benefit from enrolling in certificate programs and brushing up on theoretical communication aspects. Additionally, industry novices can study for and take certification exams to improve their professional profiles.
Communication College Certificate vs Communication Certification: Key Differences
| Communication Certificate | Communication Certification |
|---|---|
| Certificate programs are typically administered by an academic institution. | A professional certification body or agency is in charge of overseeing and awarding certifications to qualified candidates. |
| Communication certificate programs cater to industry professionals and novices alike. | Certifications are mostly for experienced professionals as they have the required knowledge and practical skills to take the assessment. |
| It takes about a year to complete a communication certificate program. You pay for the program once and get the certificate for life. | You can obtain a certification in just the few hours it takes to pass the examination. Applicants may have to sit for the exams annually or bi-annually to renew their certification. |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Communication Certificate at College?
It typically takes six months to one year to get a communication certificate. Program length is determined by the school, the program, and the number of credits required. Students that decide to study part-time will take longer than full-time students.
Best Communication Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Caldwell University | Certificate in Communication and Media Studies | $725/credit |
| Harvard University | Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Communications | $495/credit |
| Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis | Undergraduate Certificate in Technical Communication | $296/credit (in state); $1,031/credit (out of state) |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | Online Undergraduate Certificate in Communication | $392/credit hour |
| Lawrence Technological University | Undergraduate Certificate and Minor in Technical and Professional Communication | $973/credit hour |
| Ohio State University | Certificate in Health Communication | $12,462/year (in state); $36,698/year (out of state) |
| Pennsylvania State University | Certificate in Organizational Communication | $632/credit |
| Thomas Edison State University | Undergraduate Certificate in Communications | $399/credit (in state); $519/credit (out of state) |
| University of Kansas | Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Communication | $336/credit hour (in state); $899/credit hour (out of state) |
| University of Kentucky | Undergraduate Certificate in Health Communication | $12,610/year (in state); $31,608/year (out of state) |
Best Undergraduate Communication Certificate Programs: Explained
The best undergraduate communication certificate programs focus on foundational communication courses and usually require between nine and 12 credit hours of coursework. Graduates of these programs can expect success in entry-level jobs in the field. The section below discusses these programs in more detail.
Students can enroll in and complete this certificate program without committing to a degree program. It contains courses like intercultural communication, digital filmmaking, and contemporary mass media. Students are provided a basic knowledge of visual communication and production skills.
Certificate in Communication and Media Studies Details
- Cost: $725/credit
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: High school transcripts
Applicants to this program are not required to study communication majors to enroll. The program consists of three individual courses that help students hone their public speaking, writing, and practical skills. These courses cover a range of communication contexts.
Undergraduate Professional Communications Certificate Details
- Cost: $495/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus, online
- Minimum Education: Open admissions
- Other Requirements: Must complete all courses within three years
This certificate teaches students the skills, knowledge, and professional practices necessary to succeed in technical communication. Students learn about general technical communication applications and career development. Graduates can pursue roles in many STEM fields, such as technical content manager, documentation specialist, and technical trainer.
Undergraduate Certificate in Technical Communication Details
- Cost: $296/credit (in state); $1,031/credit (out of state)
- Length: 19 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Application essay, official transcripts, English proficiency tests
This certificate program develops a student’s proficiency in oral and written communication. It provides excellent foundational knowledge in communication theory. It is available to both non-degree seeking and degree-seeking students and only requires 15 credit hours of coursework.
Online Undergraduate Certificate in Communication Details
- Cost: $392/credit hour
- Length: 15 credit hours
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Proof of high school graduation
This program is a smart choice for those who want practical skills and to get professional experience. It sticks to the principle of theory and practice and students learn concise communication techniques. The program includes a wide array of persuasive messaging, interpersonal communication, and public relations courses.
Undergraduate Certificate and Minor in Technical and Professional Communication Details
- Cost: $973/credit hour
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Test optional for Fall 2022 and Fall 2023, registration fee, transcripts
This program caters to students who plan to get advanced educational degrees in the health sector. It includes interpersonal and intrapersonal communication, health message design, and media courses. Students finish the program with well-developed marketing and communication skills to fit into several healthcare positions.
Health Communication Certificate Details
- Cost: $12,462/year (in state); $36,698/year (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
This certificate program helps students build practical communication channels with colleagues, superiors, and customers. It teaches research-based skills and valuable insights to help you improve internal and external communication. The program can ease your transition into life as a communications professional.
Certificate in Organizational Communication Details
- Cost: $632/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: SAT or ACT scores
This program contains courses in mass communication, digital media, and intercultural communication. Students learn to communicate in various settings such as crisis communications and organizational communication with external audiences. Graduates can utilize these skills in roles across media, advertising, and human resources management.
Undergraduate Certificate in Communications Details
- Cost: $399/credit (in state); $519/credit (out of state)
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: N/A
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Be at least 20 years old
This interdisciplinary certificate focuses on human communication in various organizational settings. Courses include Foundations of Technical Writing and Introduction to Organizational and Professional Communication. These will help you improve your writing, speaking, and presentation skills.
Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Communication Details
- Cost: $336.40/credit hour (in state); $898.65/credit hour (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.25, ACT or SAT recommended, transcripts
Students who complete this program can apply communication strategies across areas like health awareness and disease prevention and control. The program analyzes the impact of effective communication on patient healthcare quality and public health.
Students can complete the 15 credit hours of coursework while enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. Students will only receive their certificate if they have or will complete a degree program.
Health Communication Undergraduate Certificate Details
- Cost: $12,610/year (in state); $31,608/year (out of state)
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, application processing fee, optional test scores.
Communication College Certificate Program vs Communication Associate Degree
A college certificate program is a non-degree program that advances a student’s knowledge and skills in a specific area. It can be completed within a year. A communication associate degree typically takes two years and covers the theoretical aspects of several areas in one subject. Below, we discuss the differences between a certificate and an associate degree.
- Curriculum. The curriculum in a college certificate program focuses on practical, technical knowledge. An associate degree curriculum delves into theoretical concepts and covers broader elective topics.
- Qualification earned. You get a certificate of completion or achievement when you finish a certificate program. You receive an academic degree when completing an associate degree program.
- Length. College certificate programs typically run for a year, while an associate degree takes two years to complete.
- Career options. You have fewer career options with a college certificate as it proves your proficiency in a specific field. An associate degree qualifies you for numerous career paths within your chosen field.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Communication Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate communication certificate is worth it because students can earn extra credits that count towards an undergraduate degree or graduate program. Regardless of academic pursuit, a certificate teaches critical skills that are valuable to entry-level positions.
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Best Communication Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | Graduate Certificate in Business Communication | $775/credit |
| Indiana University Kokomo | Online Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies | $323/credit hour (in state); $760/credit hour (out of state) |
| Johns Hopkins University | Certificate in Teaching Writing | $3,484/course |
| Minnesota State University, Mankato | Graduate Certificate in Communication Education | $748/credit |
| Northeastern University | Graduate Certificate in Organizational Communication — Online | $14,100 for the program |
| Northern Arizona University | Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies | $13,080/year |
| Purdue University | Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication Management | $520/credit hour (in state); $820/credit hour (out of state) |
| University of Kentucky | Graduate Certificate in Instructional Communication | $685/credit (in state); $1,015/credit (out of state) |
| University of North Texas | Graduate Certificate in Interactive and Virtual Digital Communication | $8,496 (in state); $15,182 (out of state) |
| University of San Francisco | Professional Certificate in Internal and Executive Communications | $995/continuing education unit |
Best Graduate Communication Certificate Programs Explained
The best graduate communication certificate programs are available online, in person, or a hybrid format. Professional students can advance their skills in a program that suits their needs and lifestyles. Below, we discuss the best graduate communication certificate programs.
This online program is suitable for working professionals as it offers academic and practical knowledge at convenient times. The three courses in the program are all geared toward improving your business communication skills and utilizing effective communication techniques.
Business Communication Graduate Certificate Details
- Cost: $775/credit
- Length: 9 credits
- Learning Format: On campus, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0, online application, transcripts, application fee
Students can use the knowledge gained from this program to become full-fledged communications professionals. The award-winning faculty at this school administer courses using social media and conflict management principles. Students learn the best communication strategies, practices, and techniques.
Online Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies Details
- Cost: $323/credit hour (in state); $760/credit hour (out of state)
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, personal statement, minimum GPA of 3.0
This program caters to the educational and professional needs of certified educators. It includes innovative teaching, writing techniques, and best practices in teaching writing. Students learn alongside professional writers and grow their professional network.
Certificate in Teaching Writing Details
- Cost: $3,484/course
- Length: 20 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Application fee, online application form, resume, writing sample, letters of recommendation, official transcripts
This graduate certificate is for students who already have a post-secondary degree. It provides advanced knowledge of teaching writing and all earned credits count towards a communication master’s degree. Students learn about teaching techniques and advanced communication methods.
Graduate Certificate in Communication Education Details
- Cost: $748/credit
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0, personal statement, resume
This program incorporates real-life case studies and employer-based projects into the curriculum. Students study communication dynamics in multi-layered organizations. Courses include information management, assessment strategies, communication ethics, and negotiation.
Graduate Certificate in Organizational Communication — Online Details
- Cost: $14,100 for the program
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Application essay, professional resume, official undergraduate transcripts, statement of purpose, proof of English language proficiency
This program focuses on various communication contexts, including public and interpersonal communication nuances. It helps students understand the history and complexities of human communication and communication theory.
Communication Studies Graduate Certificate Details
- Cost: $13,080/year
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Hybrid, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume/CV, personal statement
This certificate program doubles as a professional development course. Its curriculum caters to the educational needs of graduate students and industry professionals. It examines theoretical and practical aspects of strategic communication such as evaluating and implementing communication campaigns.
Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication Management Details
- Cost: $520/credit hour (in state); $820/credit hour (out of state)
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, English proficiency test score, transcripts, application fee, resume, three letters of recommendation
Professionals who work in healthcare, education, and public organizations will benefit the most from this certificate program. Students must complete 12 credit hours in communication leadership studies, training, and consulting to earn the certificate.
Graduate Certificate in Instructional Communication Details
- Cost: $685/credit (in state); $1,015/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, personal statement, test scores (optional), proof of English proficiency, minimum GPA of 3.0
This certificate teaches students to use communication-sharing trends in interactive and digital media. It discusses effective written and verbal communication methods and marketable skills necessary to becoming an effective leader in digital communication.
Graduate Certificate in Interactive and Virtual Digital Communication Details
- Cost: $8,496 (in state); $15,182 (out of state)
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official college transcripts
Students can complete this professional certificate program in as little as six weeks. It covers productivity and communication for remote workforces, executive information dissemination, and effective integrated communication channels. This affordable program is offered completely remotely.
Professional Certificate in Internal and Executive Communications Details
- Cost: $995/continuing education unit
- Length: 6 weeks (one continuing education unit)
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, statement of purpose, resume, two letters of recommendation, GRE or GMAT scores
Communication Graduate Certificate Program vs Communication Master’s Degree
A communication graduate certificate is a short-term academic program where students further their education and learn more about specific communication fields. It typically lasts between one and two semesters, and you can register without committing to a full-length degree program.
A Master’s Degree in Communication is a degree-granting program that focuses on teaching students professional skill development, research methods, and communication theory. Below, we discuss the differences between the two.
- Length. A graduate certificate program lasts for a year or less. A master’s program may take between one and three years to complete, depending on the institution and program requirements.
- Qualification earned. Completing a graduate certificate program gets you a non-degree graduate certificate, while a master’s program awards you an advanced academic degree.
- Cost. Certificate programs are shorter than master’s degree programs, meaning they are typically much cheaper to obtain.
- Skill-sets. You typically learn practical, industry-relevant skills and principles in a certificate program. A master’s program focuses on academic work and research methods.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Communication Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate communication certificate is worth it because it improves your professional skills in digital media and public speaking. It enhances your understanding and ability to articulate various communication contexts. PayScale states that communication graduate certificate holders can earn up to $47,000 a year.
Communication Certificate Program Coursework
Different types of communication certificate programs offer courses on various topics. Common courses include organizational communication, advanced health communication, audience behavior, executive communication, and general communication studies. We describe some typical courses in the section below.
Strategic Communication Management
This course discusses theoretical and practical applications of persuasion, stakeholder theory, and communication planning. Students learn about the best ways to utilize organizational communication tools in the modern digital era. They also analyze the ever-changing roles of communication to internal and external audiences.
Communication for Professionals
Students learn to use technology for professional communication in various settings such as during presentations and conferences. The course curriculum focuses on communication theory and representation techniques, helping you assimilate vital business and communication skills.
Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
This course deals with constructive conflict management, interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution techniques. Furthermore, it explores the relationships between human personalities and potential conflict triggers in modern organizations.
Organizational Communication Theory and Research
This course focuses on effective communication within an organization. Modules include the analysis of communication theories and intelligent communication. At the end of the program, students submit a communication audit that demonstrates their comprehension of the principles the course examines.
Foundations of Technical Writing
Organizing, writing, editing, and proofreading technical documents is the focus of this course. Students also learn to use technical-writing software and utilize relevant tools to develop publications.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Communication Certificate from College?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the advertising, promoting, and managing sectors are expected to grow by 10 percent over the next decade. Those with communication certificates can work as college tutors or sales associates. Below, we discuss several occupations available to communication certificate holders.
Best Communication Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Advertising Manager | $133,380 |
| Public Relations Manager | $119,860 |
| Senior Copywriter | $69,510 |
| Copy Editor | $63,350 |
| Public Relations Specialist | $62,800 |
Best Communication Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
The best communication certificate jobs are in the private sector. The top-paying jobs include advertising manager or public relations manager. Below, we discuss career options for those with a Certificate in Communication, their salaries, and job outlooks.
Advertising managers oversee writers, editors, graphics designers, and other creative team members in an advertising agency. The role often requires experience in media or marketing, necessary skills that can be acquired in a graduate certificate program.
- Average Salary: $133,380
- Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree, work experience in advertising, marketing, promotions, or sales
A Certificate in Communication provides public relations managers with the skills needed to be effective leaders. Certificate programs typically include courses on valuable skills like digital communication and social media management, which are vital to succeeding in the role.
- Average Salary: $119,860
- Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s or master’s degree, several years of related work experience
A communication certificate teaches communication theory and strategy expertise, both of which can be translated into a senior copy writing position. The role involves working with infographics, text, computer software, and editing tools. These professionals create engaging stories and articles for organizations and individuals.
- Average Salary: $69,510
- Job Outlook: 9% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: College degree, certificate, previous writing experience
Copy editors must be organized, detail-oriented, and have excellent interpersonal skills, all of which you can learn during a communication certificate program. Editors work with writers and other literary professionals to create engaging literary content across various media.
- Average Salary: $63,350
- Job Outlook: 5% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree, previous writing, editing experience
This role requires extensive knowledge of effective external communication strategies and applications. A public relations specialist can benefit from a communications certificate program as it prepares students to take a professional certification.
- Average Salary: $62,800
- Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree and professional certification
Should I Also Get a Professional Certification in Communication?
Yes, you should also get a professional certification in communication as it signifies your expertise in the subject area. It is helpful and sometimes even required for specific positions and is an excellent addition to your professional portfolio. Below, we discuss three of these certifications.
Best Communication Certifications
- Communication Management Professional (CMP®). Candidates seeking this certification must have at least eight years of education or professional experience. Administered by the Global Communication Certification Council, it costs between $700 and $1,000 annually to write and renew the certification.
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) Foundation. The Society for Technical Communication administers this certification. It measures a candidate’s ability to work efficiently in technical communication teams within organizations. The certification consists of a 40-minute, 50-question examination. It costs $260 for current STC members and $515 for non-members.
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) Practitioner. This Society for Technical Communication (STC) certification tests whether a candidate can analyze and apply technical communication principles. It consists of a 100-minute, four-question exam. It costs $410 for current STC members and $615 for non-members.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Communication Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for communication is worth it because it teaches a wide range of communication skills useful in your professional and personal life. These programs typically include communication theory, conflict management, and critical thinking courses. Short and affordable, they are well-suited for communications professionals.
Communication Certificates FAQ
Yes, you can get financial aid for a certificate program in communication. Students can apply for scholarships, grants, and federal student aid programs through FAFSA. These financial aid options are available to students across undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs.
No, you do not have to get a communication certificate to sit for a certification exam. However, you must have experience working in communication roles and be familiar with the industry. Some certification agencies have training requirements for candidates who want to get certified.
Yes, communication bootcamps are useful. These bootcamps typically contain workshops and courses to help candidates upskill and stay ahead of the curve. Some bootcamps like MIT’s Persuasive Communication Bootcamp, allow students to assist technical professionals like scientists and engineers.
Strategic, health, intercultural, political, and corporate communication are available as certificate specializations in communication. You may learn them individually or as part of a broader communication studies curriculum.
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