Communications Degree Curriculum & Courses

Communication studies the process of sharing verbal and written messages. The field explores why we communicate the way we do. It also outlines strategies for effective interactions in personal and professional settings.

The course curriculum in a communication degree program covers foundational concepts like public speaking, communication theory, and interpersonal communication. Communications bachelor's degree programs also delve into specialty areas like journalism, public relations, and social media management.

Below, we'll explore the core courses for a bachelor's degree in communication, along with specialized classes and electives commonly found in these programs. We'll also look at the practical experience you can get to prepare for a successful career.

What Is a Communications Degree?

A communication degree prepares students for careers in the field. They learn to exchange ideas with individuals, small groups, and the general public in casual and work settings. Students develop writing, editing, speaking, and argumentation skills. This interdisciplinary degree also helps students strengthen their critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Communication degrees are offered at all academic levels. However, many entry-level roles require a bachelor's degree (Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science). Students who want higher-level positions or academic careers could consider a master's degree (Master of Arts or Master of Science) or a doctoral program (PhD).

When searching for degree programs, keep in mind that a school's department of communication might offer a general degree program � or, it could deliver specialty degrees in journalism, corporate communication, political communication, or even advocacy and activism.

Core Curriculum in a Communications Degree

The core curriculum teaches the foundational concepts and key skills to help students excel in the field. Core courses vary by school and degree program; however, the following are some you might encounter.

• Introduction to Communications

An introduction to communication course explores various aspects of the communication process. It examines how communication shapes thoughts and actions and teaches how to identify gaps in our understanding of human communication. Students also learn communication research methods.

• Public Speaking

A public speaking course prepares students to deliver effective speeches. They learn to organize public messages and present themselves as competent speakers. Students also learn how to keep an audience's attention.

• Media Studies

A media studies course examines how audiences consume media. It also discusses language techniques used in the media. Students could learn about communication technology, journalism, and media communication.

• Communication Theory

A communication theory course discusses theories behind organizational, group, and interpersonal interactions. Students learn how to apply these theories to enhance communication behavior.

• Interpersonal Communication

An interpersonal communication course teaches how to develop and maintain interpersonal relationships. Enrollees learn about speech and language, listening and feedback, and bias.

Specialized Courses in Communications

Degree programs offer specialized courses that let students focus on their interests within the field. These courses might be a part of a degree concentration or emphasis.

• Digital Media and Communication

A digital media and communication course explains the relationship between marketing, public relations, journalism, film, and TV. It looks at the ways these diverse fields impact our sociocultural behaviors.

• Journalism and News Writing

A course in journalism and news writing teaches students how to write and report for print and digital platforms. Enrollees can cover events, conduct interviews, and report stories for school or local publications.

• Public Relations

A public relations course explores how we present ourselves to the public and manage how we are perceived. Students also learn theories of human interaction and how to apply them to attain real-life results.

• Advertising and Persuasive Communication

An advertising and persuasive communication course explains the ways audiences process messages that encourage them to take action or adopt a certain viewpoint. Students learn foundational theories of communication and persuasion as they relate to advertising messages.

• Corporate and Organizational Communication

The corporate and organizational communication course teaches how people interact in work settings. Students learn how to work with co-workers and develop interpersonal business communication skills.

Popular Elective Courses and Specializations

Students can choose electives and specializations to enhance their degree. Programs typically let students decide which courses they'd like to take.

Electives

Electives are courses that are not listed in the degree requirements but can be counted toward the credit hours needed to graduate. Students can pick electives in various subjects that match their interests.

• Intercultural Communication

An intercultural communication course examines what it takes to develop a more inclusive society. It explores the meaning of intercultural dialogue. Students also learn how to manage conflicts between cultures.

• Visual Communication

A visual communication course explains how visual images influence us. Students learn the visual analytical language of images. They also discover how visual image creators use persuasion and rhetoric to guide their viewers' perceptions.

• Health Communication

Health communication courses examine interactions with other professionals in health settings. Students learn about effective health communication through social media, mass media, and other methods.

Specializations

Following enrollment in a degree program, students can often choose a specialization as an area of focus. Some include the following.

• Broadcast Journalism

Broadcast journalism teaches students how to write and edit news packages for broadcast. Students learn the journalism writing style and how to produce footage with visuals and sound.

• Social Media Management

Social media management examines the power of social media and shares strategies for creating a social media plan. Students also learn the engines working behind the scenes to drive social media.

• Strategic Communication

Strategic communication discusses the relationship between communication and consumer behavior. Other concepts examined include budgeting, planning, media, and the marketplace.

Practical Experience and Capstone Projects

Communication degree programs often help students to gain practical experience through practicums and capstones. During a practicum, a student could work on field-specific projects while supervised by a faculty member. Students might be required to complete prerequisites before taking a practicum course.

A capstone lets students show their knowledge of course materials in a final project. They might work alone or with other students and put their knowledge and skills to practice via a real-world campaign.

FAQs About the Curriculum for a Communications Major

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that some communication careers will experience employment growth from 2023 to 2033. For instance, public relations specialists expect a 6% jump in employment, while technical writers expect a 4% employment increase. If you're ready to start a communication degree program, review these FAQs.

What Can I Do With a Communications Degree?

A communication degree opens doors to numerous careers. Degree holders can find great jobs in copywriting, advertising, public relations, reporting, marketing management, human resources, and more.

How Much Flexibility Is There in Choosing Electives Within a Communications Program?

While students typically have little or no flexibility with general education courses, they can usually pick most of their electives. However, some programs have a specific number of credit hours students can use as electives.

Are Online Communications Degrees as Effective as On-Campus Programs?

Yes, most online communications degrees are as effective as on-campus degrees. Courses are typically taught by faculty members who teach in-person courses. Programs usually deliver the same coursework and students learn the same competencies. Online programs often provide the same or similar academic and career support.

Start Your Communications Degree Program Today

If you're ready to begin your journey as a communication major, explore the accredited degree programs listed on Learn.org. Contact one of these schools today to discover the steps you can take to start a communication degree program.