Online Communications Degrees
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Communications focuses on how people exchange and disseminate messaging across various mediums and platforms. The field also concentrates on how people respond to communication on humanistic, social, and aesthetic levels.
Bachelor’s in communications programs prepare students for a variety of jobs in diverse industries. Graduates of communications programs can work as editors, public relations specialists, reporters, and technical writers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), communications professionals earn a median annual salary of $59,230, which is higher than the median annual wage for all occupations. The BLS projects communications jobs to grow 4% between 2019-2029.
This page covers the best online bachelor’s in communications degrees, including common courses and scholarships for communications students.
Why Get a Degree in Communications?
Many students earn a degree to demonstrate knowledge of a specific skill set to future employers. A communications degree builds skills needed to break into industries such as media and writing. Learners refine their writing and public speaking skills throughout their coursework. Many programs also offer specializations, such as journalism, media studies, and media production. This helps graduates enter high-earning careers like technical writing, public relations, and editing.
Earning any degree online often helps enrollees save time and money. Many online programs run asynchronously, allowing working professionals to earn a degree without leaving their careers. Online students also do not incur additional expenses for room and board or commuting to campus.
How Much Does a Communications Degree Cost?
The cost of a communications degree varies based on factors such as location, school, and program type. Students often save money on tuition by attending a local college. Many colleges offer reduced tuition rates to state residents.
Some communications programs require enrollees to complete an internship. Students may pay for transportation to and from their internship, which can add to the price of their education. Online programs may also ask learners to pay a technology fee.
How Much Do Communications Majors Make?
Communications programs offer various possible career paths based on specializations, interest, and technical knowledge. Students enrolled in an on-campus or online communications program gain skills in writing, public speaking, camera operation, and photography. Graduates with a bachelor’s in communications degree can pursue careers in high-earning fields such as technical writing and public relations.
Technical writers help communicate complex information through manuals and other documents. According to the BLS, these professionals earn a median annual salary of $72,850. The BLS projects jobs for technical writers to grow 7% between 2019-2029, which is faster than average. Learning more about technical fields, such as science or engineering, can help graduates enter this field.
Professionals with a bachelor’s in communication can also work as public relations specialists. These professionals work with organizations to create a positive public image. Public relations specialists earn an annual median salary of $61,150, and the BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 7% between 2019-2029. A degree, certificate, or experience in business can help professionals enter this career.
Courses in Communications
Courses in communications programs build skills needed to effectively and efficiently communicate. Many courses help students cultivate writing and public speaking skills with papers, presentations, and other relevant assignments. Enrollees also typically study communication theory, research, and communication across cultures.
Many communications bachelor’s programs allow students to specialize in a particular area. Common specializations include journalism, media studies, public relations, and marketing. After completing foundational courses, learners generally transition to courses in their specialization. Depending on their specialization, enrollees may complete a thesis or capstone project.
While specific courses vary by program, most bachelor’s in communications programs offer the courses below.
Public speaking courses help students develop their verbal communication skills. Enrollees learn how to effectively present appropriate material for specific audiences based on culture, age, and knowledge of material. This typically includes the analysis, composition, and delivery of speeches. Learners often provide peer feedback based on what they learned in the class.
Public Speaking
Communication theory courses introduce students to different types of communication. Degree-seekers learn how to apply communication theory in research and practice. Topics typically include overviews of mass communication, human communication, and new media. Learners may also explore interpersonal communication, public communication, and issues related to the field. Introduction to Communication Theory
This course focuses on the relationship between communication and organizational theories. Students learn how to address communication issues in organizational leadership, culture, and structure. Organizational communications courses also teach learners how to address issues of conflict, change, decision-making, and external relations in organizations. Organizational Communications
Certifications and Licensure for Communications
Obtaining licensure or certification helps communications professionals advance in their careers. Many communications professionals also apply for a license or certification to specialize in a particular area. See below for some licenses and certifications to assist communications professionals in their careers.
Certified Television Operator
Television operators can obtain certification to work at a broadcast station. The Federal Communications Commission does not require television operators to receive certification. However, this certification demonstrates effective knowledge of operation and can help professionals gain employment. Each broadcast station offers individual policies and procedures, but this certification helps CTOs demonstrate knowledge of basic procedures.
American Translators Association Certification
Graduates seeking a career in translation can obtain ATA certification. This certification demonstrates knowledge in a specific language pairing, such as into or from English. ATA offers a three-hour exam to gain certification. This exam assesses translation techniques, writing, and language comprehension.
Medical Interpreter Certification
Professionals interested in a career in medical interpretation can gain certification from the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters. Medical interpreters translate complex medical information to patients who speak a foreign language. Professionals must pass an exam to gain certification. The National Board allows certification in six languages, including Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin.
Scholarships for Communications
Scholarships help students finance their college education. Degree-seekers can apply for scholarships based on financial need, academic interest, and career prospects. The following list includes scholarships available to students pursuing a bachelor’s in communications.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Ford Emerging Voices Scholarships | Up to $3,000 | The Alliance for Women in Media partners with the Ford Motor Company Fund to offer this award. This scholarship helps young women based on essays written on a particular topic. |
The Interpublic Group Scholarship and Internship | Varies | College juniors with an interest in communications may apply for this scholarship. Recipients of this award also receive a paid internship in New York City with IPG. New York Women in Communications awards two scholarships each year. |
Edward O. Fritts Award | $1,000 | Sponsored by Edward O. Fritts Endowment, this award is open to communications students pursuing a degree in TV/radio broadcasting. Applicants must submit transcripts, two reference letters, current GPA, and a 250-word goals statement. |
Online Bachelor’s in Communications Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The undergraduate programs at Florida International University help professionals move into new careers or advance in their current field. In an online communications program, participants complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Students receive specialized training and learn core communications topics.
Degree-seekers typically complete the bachelor of arts in communication arts in about four years. However, learners with previous college experience can transfer credits to complete the degree in an accelerated timeframe. State residents pay $4,721 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Enrollees use an average of $8,958 in aid to pay for their education.
The school offers affordable, high-quality bachelor's programs that are accessible to distance learners. Online and on-campus students can access support services from the institution. Enrollees can access peer tutoring to excel in their classes. Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$4,721
- Out-of-state$16,529
- In-State$8,912
- Out-of-state$21,393
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled58,711
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida offers in-person and remote undergraduate degrees. Among these options is a virtual bachelor of arts in communication and conflict. In an online communications program, learners complete coursework in a flexible learning environment.
Curricula help enrollees in the bachelor of arts in communication and conflict gain the transferable knowledge and skills that employers value. Students can typically pursue a minor. Distance learners watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times.
Hopeful applicants can expect admission rates of 44% at the school. A bachelor’s degree typically requires 120 college credits. The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Undergrad School Tuition: $4,478 in-state; $19,810 out-of-state
Average Aid Awarded: $9,728
Average Price With Financial Aid: $11,617
Percent of Students Who Graduate: 72%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled69,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its Boone, North Carolina, campus, Appalachian State University enrolls students in its top-ranked online communications degree. At the public institution, degree-seekers choose from in-person and online courses. With a degree from the bachelor of science in communication studies program, graduates pursue careers in communications.
Created with working professionals in mind, the program's flexible format puts more control in the students' hands. The online communications curriculum builds in-demand, industry-specific knowledge and skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. Program participants benefit from support services like online academic advising and career services.
Since the school is an accredited institution, enrollees may qualify for federal financial aid programs. Distance learners also pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans. Prospective applicants should contact the financial aid office to see what funding options are available to them.
Appalachian State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,490
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$19,049
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$18,271
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled19,280
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY College at Oswego
- Oswego, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
SUNY College at Oswego educates students through 141 online and on-campus programs. Among these many options is a bachelor of arts in online broadcasting and mass communication. The program curriculum covers core topics and specialized training in communications.
Learners at the school enroll in affordable bachelor's programs that meet high standards of quality. The school offers support services for online and on-campus enrollees. Students can access peer tutoring to excel in their classes.
Degree-seekers transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18–36 months. State residents pay $7,070 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. The school’s average aid package of $8,569 helps learners pay for their education. SUNY College at Oswego is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled7,830
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs enrolls students in several top-ranked online programs, including a bachelor's in communication. The public institution offers degree-seekers the choice between on-campus and virtual programs. The bachelor of arts in communication prepares professionals for entry-level careers in communications.
The distance learning format appeals to people who require a more flexible schedule. During an online communications degree, learners build career-ready knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help enrollees design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. The school's online student services include experiential learning opportunities, academic advising, and career counseling.
Students pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should contact the financial aid office to see what funding options they qualify for.
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,854
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
- In-State$9,284
- Out-of-state$20,082
- In-State$13,912
- Out-of-state$24,438
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled12,807
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Minnesota Crookston
- Crookston, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Minnesota Crookston, a leader in online learning, offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Among the bachelor's-level options is a virtual bachelor of science in communication. Online learners complete communications coursework in a flexible learning environment.
While earning a communication degree, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field. Degree-seekers can specialize their bachelor's studies by pursuing a minor. Program participants watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times.
A four-year bachelor’s degree requires 120 credits, but online enrollees can complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months by transferring credits. State residents pay $10,438 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees at the institution. The school’s average aid package of $11,781 helps students pay for their degree. Prospective applicants should expect a 68% admissions rate and a 26% admissions yield rate. The school has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$10,438
- Out-of-state$10,438
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled2,768
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its Gainesville campus, the University of Florida offers multiple online degrees, including a top-ranked online communications degree. At the public institution, students choose from in-person and online courses. The bachelor of health science in communication sciences and disorders offers a rigorous curriculum designed around industry-specific skills.
The distance learning format benefits working professionals and other busy students. During the online communications program, learners gain career-focused knowledge and skills. Degree-seekers work with faculty advisors to design an individualized course of study. Academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services support allow online students to meet their educational goals.
Online enrollees use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid like the Pell Grant to cover costs. Prospective applicants should contact the financial aid office to see what funding options they qualify for.
The University of Florida at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 24,310
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 42
Admission Rate: 37%
Graduation Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled52,407
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online programs at Bellevue University prepare degree-seekers for new career opportunities and advancement. One of the virtual programs offered is a bachelor of arts in communication studies. In an online communications program, participants complete coursework in a flexible learning environment. Program coursework teaches core communications topics and specialized training.
In the communications program, students gain the knowledge and skills they need to secure roles in their field. Online learners can specialize their curriculum by pursuing a minor. Program participants watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. A four-year bachelor’s program requires at least 120 credits, but enrollees can transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in 18-36 months.
Bachelor’s degrees cost $7,176 for in-state tuition. Prospective applicants can meet with a financial aid advisor to locate funding options for their education, such as scholarships, grants, or loans. Bellevue University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$7,176
- In-State$10,530
- Out-of-state$10,530
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,637
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
Valley City State University
- Valley City, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online communications degree, offered by Valley City State University from its Valley City campus in North Dakota, ranks among the best programs in the country. Degree-seekers take classes remotely and in-person at the public institution. In the bachelor's in communication, majors gain the knowledge and skills required for communications careers.
The distance learning format benefits working professionals and other busy students. Online communications courses focus on discipline-specific knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors help students design a custom degree plan based on their interests and career goals. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online enrollees often qualify for scholarships, grants, and loans, including Pell Grants and federal loans. Prospective applicants should talk to a financial aid counselor to see what funding options they qualify for.
Valley City State University Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 915
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Online Master's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
- In-State$5,884
- Out-of-state$10,297
- In-State$5,872
- Out-of-state$5,872
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled1,665
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Northern Arizona University provides a comprehensive catalog of 237 online and on-campus programs. An virtual communications program provides students with a flexible learning environment. The bachelor of arts or science in communication studies prepares graduates for entry-level communications positions.
The online school offers several enrollment terms. Distance learners can expect an 85% admission rate. The school requires submission of school transcripts. Prospective students can use entrance scores to bolster their application. The school has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Northern Arizona University Facts:
Student Graduation Rate: 57%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Aid: 95%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 42%
Average Net Price With Aid: $14,236
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Mississippi College
- Clinton, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Clinton, Mississippi College offers multiple online programs, including a top-ranked degree in communications. At the private institution, degree-seekers take classes in person and online. The bachelor of science in communication prepares professionals for entry-level communications careers.
The online learning format helps working professionals and busy students make time for their coursework. During the online communications program, learners gain career-focused knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors work closely with enrollees to select electives and minors that individualize the degree. The online school also supports remote degree-seekers through academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online students can pay for school with scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss what funding opportunities they may qualify for.
Mississippi College Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,635
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 42%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$17,550
- Out-of-state$17,550
- In-State$11,250
- Out-of-state$11,250
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate42%
- Students Enrolled4,733
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Park University
- Parkville, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top-ranked program, the online communications degree is offered by Park University, located in Parkville, Missouri. The private institution enrolls degree-seekers in on-campus and online programs. The bachelor of arts in organizational communication trains students for careers in communications.
The distance learning format benefits working professionals and other busy students. The online communications curriculum builds in-demand, industry-specific knowledge and skills. Faculty advisors recommend a custom degree plan to meet each student's interests and career goals. Distance learners benefit from the school's support services, which include academic advising, experiential learning opportunities, and career services.
Online learners qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should meet with a financial aid officer to talk about what funding options they may qualify for.
Park University Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,894
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Online Master's Programs: 10
Graduation Rate: 62%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
- In-State$7,999
- Out-of-state$7,999
- In-State$6,012
- Out-of-state$6,012
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,415
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southern Utah University educates degree-seekers through 85 online and on-campus programs. Two of these many options are the bachelor of arts and bachelor of science in communication studies programs. Communications programs provide online learners with a flexible learning environment. The program curriculum teaches core communications topics and specialized training.
With transfer credits, students can finish bachelor’s degrees in 18-36 months. Enrollees pay $6,006 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. The school’s average aid package of $4,951 helps degree-seekers pay for their education. Distance learners receive online support services such as tutoring and career advising.
Most students complete the bachelor's program in about four years. The school may allow degree-seekers to earn credit for internships and service-learning experiences. Students transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. The school is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
- In-State$6,006
- Out-of-state$19,822
- In-State$7,574
- Out-of-state$23,784
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled11,224
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin-Superior
- Superior, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Wisconsin-Superior enrolls students in an online communications program, one of the best of its kind. Learners enroll in on-campus and online programs at the public institution. The bachelor of arts and bachelor of science in communicating arts programs offer a flexible route to a college degree.
Busy students and working professionals benefit from the program's flexible learning format. The degree's major courses and general education requirements strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Faculty advisors work with majors to choose electives and customize the degree. Student support services like academic advising and career counseling help degree-seekers complete the program and transition into the workforce.
Students pay for their degree with scholarships, grants, and loans, including federal programs like the Pell Grant. Prospective applicants should meet with the financial aid office to see what funding options they qualify for.
The University of Wisconsin-Superior at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,231
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 48%
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$6,535
- Out-of-state$14,108
- In-State$7,640
- Out-of-state$16,771
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled2,614
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A degree from National University helps graduates advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. An online communications program provides students with a flexible learning environment. Coursework in the bachelor of arts in integrated marketing communications program teaches core communications topics and specialized training.
Learners can choose from multiple start terms. Applicants submit school transcripts. Degree-seekers can use college admissions tests to strengthen their application. National University holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
National University Fast Facts:
In-State Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $13,320
Out-of-State Undergraduate Tuition Rate: $13,320
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 33%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 30%
Rate of Admission: 89%
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- In-State$15,480
- Out-of-state$15,480
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled16,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
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