An online bachelor’s degree in communications may provide students with skills needed to communicate effectively both to the general public and to the workforce. In this four-year program, students may learn how to write and speak in a way that most accurately conveys the message from an organization. Program coursework may include general education coursework as well as core communications courses including public relations, organizational communication, and mass media.

Upon graduation, students may either seek upper-level employment in a communications position or enroll in a graduate degree program. Students who graduate from bachelor’s degree programs may gain employment in social media, marketing, journalism, public relations, and media.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 21% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for bachelor’s-level communications degree programs may combine general education requirements alongside core communications courses. These courses may teach students how to speak publicly, become efficient in both verbal and non-verbal communication, and utilize social media in order to get a message to its intended audience. Core communications courses may include the following:

• Communications for Business Professionals
• Persuasion and Social Influence
• Introduction to Public Speaking
• Social Media
• Public Relations
• Organizational Communication
• Advanced Public Speaking

Career Options

Bachelor’s degree graduates may explore career opportunities in media, public relations, advertising, healthcare, and marketing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in communication are expected to increase at a rate of 21% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Announcer
• Public Relations Specialist
• Journalist
• Editor
• Technical Writer

Continuing Education

Successful graduates of a bachelor’s degree program in communications may have the opportunity to further their education by pursuing a master’s degree. A master’s degree program in communications may provide students advanced skills in public speaking, strategic communication, and global marketing. Employers may require a bachelor’s degree for upper-level communications positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook