Communications vs. Business Degree: Which Should You Major In?

Deciding between a communications bachelor's degree and business bachelor's degree can be difficult. These undergraduate degrees teach many similar skills. They also prepare students for comparable career opportunities in fields such as:

• human resources
• public relations
• data science
• digital media

Interestingly, these two broad areas intersect in the corporate communications field. Choosing between a business and communications program will depend on your career goals, financial situation, and interests. You may benefit from studying both majors or declaring one as a minor, especially if you want to pursue business communication careers.

Overview of a Communications Degree

Communications degree programs focus on how human beings transmit information to each other through various channels. Some of these mediums are verbal, and others are nonverbal. Many degree programs teach the impact of modern interactions through social media and how the internet has revolutionized communication.

Core Focus and Curriculum

The core focus of a communications degree is understanding the fundamentals of how people convey and interpret messages. The main topics in core and elective coursework include:

• communication theory
• media studies/literacy
• public speaking
• writing

Content creation has become a major component of many communications programs. People now commonly interact online via social media posts and messages. Visual communication is more significant than ever with the advancement of technology and networking landscapes.

Key Skills Developed

Key skills developed in communications degree programs include:

• interpersonal communication skills
• understanding of mass communication studies
• critical thinking
• market research skills

The skills from a communications degree apply to various potential career paths. Effective communication is necessary for gaining real-world connections and experiences.

Career Paths for Communications Majors

Communications majors have several career options, including:

• public relations specialist
• social media manager
• business communications officer
• content writer or editor

Many industries want candidates with strong writing, public speaking, and market research skills. A great way to start your communications career is by seeking internships. An internship will give you good experience and may lead to a full-time job.

Overview of a Business Degree

Students in business degree programs study fundamental concepts in management, finance, and entrepreneurship. Business graduates are in demand because of their broad knowledge and leadership skills. This versatile major leads to many career opportunities and possible specializations.

Core Focus and Curriculum

The core focus of a business degree is to provide students with a fundamental understanding of operations management and finance. This degree is optimal for students who aspire to work in managerial roles. Some course topics taught in business school include:

• principles of business administration
• business law
• microeconomics and macroeconomics
• data analysis

Key Skills Developed

The key skills learned in business degree programs are:

• problem-solving
• financial literacy
• project management
• adaptability

You can adapt these skills to various business management roles. Students can become dynamic leaders after learning how to apply these skills. Business professionals must have a well-rounded education that combines technical knowledge and soft skills to thrive in this competitive market.

Career Paths for Business Majors

Once you finish studying, you can dive into the business world. Business degree programs prepare students for various professions. Some career paths for business majors are:

• financial analyst
• human resources manager
• management consultant
• business analyst

Communications and business degrees are similar because they require many of the same soft skills to succeed. These skills include strategic communication, conflict resolution, and time management. They are also comparable because they apply to numerous roles in different fields.

Pros and Cons of Each Degree

Some pros of a communication degree are gaining a versatile skill set, strong network building, and cultural awareness. These degrees open students up to a world of possibilities regarding employment opportunities. One of the cons is that many people pursue this degree, which has saturated the market.

The benefits of earning a business degree include an increased earning potential, a global perspective, and an understanding of economics. Aspiring business owners and professionals should pursue this degree to advance their careers. A downside to business degrees is the high tuition cost.

Business vs. Communications: How To Choose

Before choosing between a business or communications degree, you should:

• evaluate your skills
• assess your interests
• consider your career goals
• seek advice

Speak with professionals in both fields about the job expectations and market. Research which degree has a higher ROI (return on investment) and aligns more with your dream job. You may even find a school that offers a business communication degree, where you can learn concepts from both disciplines.

FAQs About Communications vs. Business Degrees

Here are some frequently asked questions about communications versus business degrees.

Is Communications a Business Degree?

Communications is not a business degree, but they share many similarities. This major is commonly referred to as a liberal arts degree because of the emphasis on human behavior and society. Creative elements are present in a communications degree that are not in a business degree.

Despite it not being considered a business degree, the two pair well as double majors or as a major and minor combination. They blend well since they intersect in media, public relations, digital communication, marketing, and more.

What Is the Difference Between Business and Communication?

The main difference between business and communication is that one focuses on managing organizations while the other concentrates on decoding messages. Exceptional communication skills are necessary for a business to prosper, but they are not the same.

Business and communication share many soft skills (e.g., teamwork and critical thinking). Since they are so similar, people struggle to differentiate between the two disciplines. Whether you pursue business or communications, you should develop skills in both areas.

Can I Combine a Communications Degree With a Business Minor (or Vice Versa)?

Yes, you can combine a communications degree with a business minor and vice versa. This option is ideal for people struggling to choose between the two majors. By declaring a minor, you can study your other interests besides the main one.

Another option is to double major. However, this may require more work, time, and money than declaring a minor. Assess your career goals and interests to determine what is best for you.

Is It Possible to Switch Between These Fields After Graduation?

Yes, it is possible to switch between business and communications after graduation. Each degree has transferable skills that you can bring into a new role. Consider finding a new job in a field that blends both disciplines, such as public relations or marketing.

Identify job market trends to determine what field has a higher worker demand. You may have to pursue further education if you switch between fields, which may involve getting new certifications or degrees.

What Is the Job Market Like for a Business Degree Vs. a Communications Degree?

According to the U.S. News and World Report, there is a high demand for MBA graduates in various industries. Some common roles companies are hiring for include information technology managers, health services managers, and personal financial advisors.

Communications degree holders have many career paths they can pursue, but unfortunately, the job market is saturated. Communications degree holders are in demand, but not as much as business degree holders. Nevertheless, you should narrow down which jobs you like and do research.