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

You have online options if communication is your strength and you’d like to learn strategic communication techniques. Finding the best online communication bachelor’s degree will give you practical experience in everything from political communication to intercultural communication.

If you want to study part-time, you can take an online bachelor’s degree in communication program. Flexible online learning allows many students to attain a bachelor’s degree, including full-time employees, business owners, and homemakers.

Business communication graduates are in-demand across various industries. Communication bachelor’s degree jobs are diverse and include writing, broadcasting, editing, photography, translating, public relations, and journalism.

More schools are starting to offer fully-online bachelor’s degree programs in communication. This guide presents a comprehensive list of schools that provide the best online communication bachelor’s degrees. Discover the best career path, relevant jobs, and average salaries in this article.

Where Can I Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Online?

You can get a communication bachelor’s degree online at many accredited private and public universities. These universities have separate online campuses that cater to students who can’t attend traditional on-site learning programs due to geographic, economic, or other life factors.

What Schools Offer the Best Online Communication Bachelor’s Degrees?

• Arizona State University
• PennState World Campus
• Drexel University
• University of Maryland Global Campus
• University of Texas at San Antonio

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree?

The basic admission requirements for an online communication bachelor’s degree are a high school diploma or GED, transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. Prospective students may also need to take an entrance exam and pay admission fees, as well. Keep in mind that admission requirements vary between schools.

A transfer student may have different requirements than new students. Some schools may require an English proficiency test from international students as English is their mode of instruction. There are two English proficiency tests: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Transcripts
• SAT or ACT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• English language test results (for international students)

How to Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Online

You get a communication bachelor’s degree online by meeting the requirements for an online school, completing all required credits, and maintaining the minimum GPA score. You don’t need any technical skills for admission to an online communication degree. 

Communication Degree Requirements

• Meet all enrollment requirements 
• Complete all required credits
• Maintain the required GPA score 

Best Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School	Program	Accreditation
Arizona State University	Bachelor of Arts in Communication	Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Columbus State University	Bachelor of Arts in Communication	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Drexel University	Bachelor of Science in Communication	Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Florida International University	Bachelor of Science in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Mississippi College	Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Generalist Concentration	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Oregon State University	Bachelor of Arts in Digital Communication Arts	Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities (NCCU)
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus	Bachelor of Arts in Organizational and Professional Communication	Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Regent University	Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
University of Maryland Global Campus	Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies	Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
University of Texas at San Antonio	Bachelor of Arts in Communication	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Best Schools for Communication: Top Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs

In the above table, we’ve given a rundown of the best schools offering online communication bachelor’s degrees. Online education is becoming more popular as it gives people options to further their studies without giving up their day job. Below we’ll explore some of these options.

What Is an Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree?

An online communication bachelor’s degree is a four-year college credential that’s earned through the successful completion of the associated college program. Some schools offer a hybrid format that takes place on-campus and online. The online communication bachelor’s degree develops organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills focusing on public relations and training in everything from visual communication to crisis communication.

Online programs in communication train students in writing media releases, social media posts, scripts, speeches, and other forms of technical writing. They are also trained in public speaking skills to address a diverse audience, maintain a public image, and effectively explain an organization’s position.

Online vs In-Person Bachelor’s Degrees 

There are significant differences when choosing online versus in-person bachelor’s degrees, including tuition and expenses, mode of instruction, and hands-on training. It is a major decision to make, as your success depends on how well you thrive in learning through an online format. To help you decide if an online program is for you or not, we’ve outlined the top benefits of online versus on-campus programs.

Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Communication

• Accommodates various students. Online programs accommodate a wide range of students to help them accomplish their dreams of earning a bachelor’s degree. Full-time workers, homemakers, business owners, international students, and people with disabilities might find an online program more accommodating than an in-person program.
• Fewer expenses. Taking online courses means less dorm, transportation, book, and food expenses. The online courses can be comfortably taken online at home without additional costs.
• Flexibility. Students have the flexibility to study the modules at their own pace and work on projects during their free time on weekends or after work hours.
• Developing different skillsets. There is a certain level of self-discipline and time-management skills required for online learning. Students develop self-motivation and online research skills, and they adapt faster to online tools to accomplish tasks.
• New teaching methods. Online programs utilize online tools such as gamification and language apps to help instructors better explain concepts that can be difficult to express outside of a traditional classroom setting.

Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Communication

• Hands-on learning. On-campus students can have hands-on practical experience handling media production equipment such as cameras and editing tools. They can practice communication skills with face-to-face peer interaction and talking in front of an audience.
• More elective choices. In-person communication students have more elective courses to help them strengthen their core skills. These immersion activities include small group communication and leadership in group communication.
• Connection with professors. In-person access to professors and advisers helps form a connection where students feel guided and supported throughout their university years.
• Fewer distractions. When you’re in a classroom, you’re in an environment that has been carefully cultivated for learning. This allows students to focus as there aren’t environmental distractions that would otherwise exist at home. 
• Socialization. Having classmates to talk to and study with is motivating for many students. Communication students love to interact and a classroom setting provides a space for a deeper connection.

What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Communication?

The types of online bachelor’s degrees you can get include a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Communication. While the general courses are similar, the academic focus and skills training differs.

Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Communication?

It is better to get a Bachelor of Arts if you enjoy a more practical application to communication. If you prefer to focus on critical thinking and analytical communication, then a Bachelor of Science will be better for you. The difference is in the training, methodologies, and skills focus.

A bachelor of arts degree focuses on the general concepts of communication. It develops critical thinking and practical application of communication skills. BA graduates can become public relations specialists, marketing managers, human resources specialists, or work in various roles in media.

How Much Does a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

The average cost of a bachelor’s degree, including tuition and other school fees, is $36,700 for private nonprofit institutions, $19,100 for private for-profits, and $9,400 for public universities. The National Center for Education Statistics provides the average cost based on data from all 50 states.

Online degrees cost less due to fewer fees, although the difference is minimal. In-state residency can significantly lower tuition and fees, along with scholarships and financial aid. Tuition fees will also differ for public universities, private colleges, and community colleges.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Online?

You can get a communication bachelor’s degree online in eight semesters, or four years. The time it takes depends on the school’s credit requirements and whether the student enrolls full-time or part-time. For instance, Drexel University requires 180 credits to graduate, while Mississippi College requires 130 credit units. A full load is typically 15 units per semester.

Are Online Communication Degrees Respected?

Yes, online communication degrees are respected. Prospective students in online programs can calm their doubts because an online degree holds as much credit and respect as traditionally-earned degrees. 

Is Communication Hard to Learn Online?

No,  communication is not hard to learn online. Every academic field has its demands and challenges, but it won’t be too difficult if you enjoy the subject. Full-time students will do a lot of research focused on communication theory, ethics, social studies, rhetorical theories, and research methodologies. The course challenges will involve lots of reading, research, writing, presentations, and learning the fundamentals of communication.

Communication Bootcamp vs Online Communication Bachelor’s  Degree: Which Is Better?

There is a huge difference between a communications degree and a bootcamp. The one you enroll in will depend on your goals, as they serve different purposes. Earning a degree in the communications field far outweighs a bootcamp certificate, however, each has its benefits.

Top 5 Benefits of an Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree

• Caters to a wide variety of students. Online bachelor’s degree programs open doors to a wide range of full-time, part-time, and working students.
• Minimum job credential. When you earn a bachelor’s degree, you attain the minimum job requirement that most employers seek, giving you a better chance of getting hired.
• Flexible learning schedule. Classes follow a particular schedule, but the online setup allows students to study and attend classes anywhere, even at a coffee shop.
• Immersive educational experience. Students still need to follow and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students so they won’t miss out on the immersive learning experience.
• Innovative teaching methods. Online teaching promotes resourcefulness for both teachers and students by using online tools and apps to make learning more interactive and ensure student success.

Top 5 Benefits of a Communication Bootcamp

• Learn skills faster. You can complete an online bootcamp in a matter of weeks and learn specific communication skills that you can apply immediately to real-life scenarios. 
• Flexible class schedules. Bootcamp enrollees are often working professionals who want to upskill, so schools provide a flexible mode of learning that allows students to learn at their own pace and time.
• Professional community. Learning is more inspiring knowing you have a community of fellow professionals learning with you. You can exchange ideas and expand your professional network. 
• Intensive and focused training. Bootcamp training focuses on specific skills and topics. Those working full-time will appreciate being able to upskill in a shorter time.
• Variety of learning materials. Online bootcamps use various learning materials such as video lectures and lessons, worksheets, interactive activities, and online resources.

Why You Should Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Online

You should get a communication bachelor’s degree online if your career goals include being part of the dynamic media landscape. Communication students have a variety of careers open to them. They can learn corporate communication and work in a corporate setting, healthcare, politics, government service, or law fields.

Even if you’re dealing with circumstances that make committing to a degree program challenging, you can still achieve your academic goals if you enroll in an online communications program. Earning a bachelor’s degree is your first step to academic excellence and a wide range of career opportunities.

What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Communication?

The courses you take in an online bachelor’s degree program in communication include general subjects like English, math, and science, as well as the major courses in communication described below. Most schools require the completion of 120 credits to earn this degree.

Introduction to Human Communication

In this course, students are introduced to the fundamentals, theories, and concepts of human relational communication, interaction, and general behavior. 

Communication Research Methods

This course teaches research methodologies in interpersonal, intrapersonal, and mass communication. It helps students develop the necessary skills to participate in and evaluate communication research.

Communication Ethics

The communication ethics course tackles communication regulation and ethical issues in public and private communication. It teaches students ethical laws across various industries and practices, including print media, journalism, and digital communications media.

Public Relations Writing

Public relations writing is part of the journalism course that covers how to write press releases, news articles, and email pitches. It teaches how to spread news items strategically through various media channels.

Technical Communication

Technical communication has a practical application in various aspects of communication. It includes training in the publication processes, research analysis, social media applications, and content creation for digital and print formats. Technical communication is intensive and involves hands-on training.

Continuing Education Paths for Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

Continuing education paths for online communication bachelor’s degree graduates could lead to specialized master’s degrees. Communication programs open doors to a wide variety of fields. For instance, you can focus on studying communication law and pursue a legal career or  you can study corporate communications if you want to work at big companies. 

The field of communication also focuses on studying the core fundamentals of communication. This could lead you to become a communication specialist or pursue a career in education.

Communication fields are extensive, so you’ll need to pick a specialization. 

Related Online Communication Degrees

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What to Look For in the Best Communication Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Some of the factors you should consider when choosing a communications bachelor’s degree program include graduation rate, acceptance rate, financing options, accreditation, and connected career paths. We’ll explore these concepts in detail below.

Graduation Rate

A graduation rate reveals the quality of education and support that a school provides its students to meet their academic goals and ensure success. A school with a high graduation rate means students can cope with the school’s teaching methodologies and have a high chance of graduating.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate is a reflection of how difficult it is to get admitted into a particular school. The more popular schools have a lower acceptance rate because many more students apply than get accepted. These schools have a stringent student screening process and only select the best students. However, a school’s popularity does not determine the quality of education.

Financing Options

Education does not come cheap. Thankfully, many schools offer scholarships, grants, and other financing options to help students pay their tuition fees.

Accreditation

School accreditation is one of the most important things to consider before enrolling in undergraduate or graduate programs. Accreditation ensures that the school meets and provides an acceptable level and quality of education. Hiring companies will check your resume to ensure your education is accredited.

Career Path

Before embarking on a degree in communication program, check the possible career path after graduation. For instance, if you want this to be a pre-law degree, you should enroll in a bachelor of science program. If you’re going to pursue journalism, you’ll have more training under a bachelor of arts in communication. 

What Is the Most Affordable Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree?

The most affordable online communication bachelor’s degree is offered by Columbus State University, with a tuition of $182 per credit. Oregon State University follows this school at $331 per credit. Similarly, Regent University has a tuition rate of $395 per credit. 

Can I Get a Communication Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?

No, you can’t get a communication bachelor’s degree online for free. However, schools offer student financial aid, scholarships, and grants to make it easier for students to pay their tuition. You can get free communication short courses and certificate programs online to add to your credentials through massive open online courses (MOOCs).

Salary and Job Outlook for Online Communications Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

An online communication bachelor’s degree will give you real-world experience for your future career. Online programs have the same reputation as traditional programs, as you need to meet the same education requirements to graduate. Below you’ll learn more about a wide range of careers for communications graduates.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Communications Bachelor’s Degree?

It’s not hard to get a job with a communications bachelor’s degree. All industries need good communicators on their teams. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be 151,500 new communication jobs between 2020 and 2030.

What’s the Average Online Communications Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average online communications bachelor’s degree salary is $61,310 across various industries. There would be no difference in median salary if you graduated with an online degree versus an on-campus degree.

What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Communications Bachelor’s Degree?

Jobs you can get with an online communications bachelor’s degree include writing, editing, public relations, and film and video editing. You can choose to work in industries such as corporate, healthcare, legal, media, public relations, or politics.

Communication Degree Jobs

• Technical Writers
• Writers and Authors
• Editors
• Public Relations Specialists
• Film and Video Editors

Potential Careers With an Online Communications Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest median salary for a bachelor’s degree holder in media and communications fields is $78,060 for technical writers. The lowest is $41,950 for announcers. A higher salary is possible with a promotion, which may require you to complete a graduate study.

Highest-Paying Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Communication Bachelor’s Degree Jobs	Average Salary
Technical Writers	$78,060
Writers and Authors	$69,510
Editors	$63,400
Public Relations Specialists	$62,810
Film and Video Editors	$61,900

Best Jobs for Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Grads

Below you will find an overview of the best jobs for communication majors with information on their job outlook and annual salary.

Best Jobs According to Your Major

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Is an Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree Worth It? 

Yes, an online communication bachelor’s degree is worth it. Earning a degree can significantly advance your career, raise your salary, and help you reach your career goals. Beyond a bachelor’s degree, you could get a communication certification to help boost your credentials.

If you have an associate degree and are looking to further your education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication would be the next step. Many associate programs enable you to transfer credits to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Additional Reading About Communication

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Online Communication Bachelor’s Degree FAQ