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What are the Core Courses for a BA in Communications?
What are the Core Courses for a BA in Communications?
The academic field of communications explores a wide array of topics that can serve as a foundation for careers in fields that include journalism, advertising and public relations. Read on to find out about some of the core courses included in a B.A. in Communications program.
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications Overview
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communications program is designed to offer a well-rounded education with an emphasis on the field of communications. Communication is critically important in almost every job environment, from local nonprofits to international corporations. Students seeking a B.A. in Communications are required to complete core communication courses in order to graduate, and they often supplement these courses with electives or theses that allow for in-depth study of a selected topic.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutB.A.DegreesInCommunications">Important Facts About B.A. Degrees in Communications</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Degree Fields</td><td> Some degree programs focus on business, health or marketing fields</td></tr>
<tr><td>Concentrations</td><td>Examples include public relations, new media, leadership and professional writing</td></tr>
<tr><td>Online Availability</td><td>Programs are offered entirely online as well as in a hybrid format</td></tr>
<tr><td>Possible Careers</td><td>Journalist, public relations specialist, marketer, copywriter</td></tr>
<tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td>$62,340 <i>(media and communications workers)</i>*</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td>6% <i>(media and communications workers)</i>*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---CommunicationsCoursework">Communications Coursework</h3><p>Although specific courses will vary from school to school, most degree programs require completion of a number of general education courses such as English composition, mathematics and social sciences. Students will also examine the impact of communication in society, including how culture shapes communication. The following list includes some of the courses that may be included as part of a B.A. in Communications program:
</p><h3 id="section---CommunicationPrinciples">Communication Principles</h3><p>This course is designed as an introduction to the many ways in which humans communicate. Mediated and non-mediated contexts are explored, and you'll learn the fundamental theories and concepts of private and public communication. The process, character, function and practice of communication will all be examined.
</p><h3 id="section---PublicSpeaking">Public Speaking</h3><p>You'll learn how to successfully prepare and deliver speeches for a variety of audiences. Presentation technology is explored, and you'll examine how physical presentation and content work together to affect the overall tone of a speech. Emphasis will also be placed on audience analysis.
</p><h3 id="section---CommunicationResearch">Communication Research</h3><p>This class will introduce you to the many techniques involved with academic, communication-related research. You'll learn to identify and evaluate possible research findings and efficiently gather data. Research design, strategy and methodology are explored.
</p><h3 id="section---CommunicationInSociety">Communication in Society</h3><p>This course explores the many roles of communicative action in contemporary society. A variety of functions and structures of communication are examined, and the relationship between culture and communication is also explored.</p>
