What is Communication?
The Communications major explores the many different ways that people share information, from the spoken word to the written word to body language. The courses in such a degree program will explore Internet communication, how people communicate with one another, and how the media communicates with its audiences. Students will look at communication from many different angles: the science of communication, the psychology of communication, and communication’s relationship with society. Students also explore theories of communication and become skilled at critiquing the communications of themselves and others.
Is Communication a Good Major / Degree for Me?
Are you a strong communicator? Do you love to read and write? Do you enjoy critical thinking? Do you find yourself analyzing political speeches? Do you find yourself analyzing advertisements? Do you enjoy research? Do you enjoy social media and blogging? Do you enjoy classroom discussions? Are you comfortable speaking in front of people? If you’ve answered yes to some of these questions, then a degree in Communications might be for you!
High School Classes Needed for a Communication Degree in College:
- 4 English Credits
- 3 Math Credits
- 3 Science Credits
- 3 Social Studies Credits
- 2 Foreign Language Credits
- If your high school offers the following courses, take advantage!
- Computer Classes
- Psychology
- Sociology
- If your high school offers the following co-curricular activities, take advantage!
- Theatre / Drama
- Speech Team
- Debate Team
- Yearbook Staff
- School Newspaper
- Student Government
Common Communications Courses in College:
- Advertising and Society
- Argumentation and Persuasion
- Business Communication
- Communication and Technology
- Communication Research
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Nonverbal Communication
- Oral Communication of Literature
- Professional Writing
- Public Communication
- Public Relations
- Sex, Gender, and Communication
- Visual Communication
(Many Communications degree programs also require internships.)
Similar Degree Programs You Might Want to Explore:
- Advertising: the study of how to create persuasive messages
- Business Administration: the study of how to plan, organize, and control a company in order to earn a profit
- E-commerce: the study of how to use the Internet and information technology in business
- Human Resources: the study of topics related to employment
- International Business: the study of business in the global community
- International / Intercultural Communication: the study of communications, with a focus on communications within and between nations
- Journalism: a course of study that prepares students to communicate the news in a variety of media
- Psychology: the study of the human mind and of human behavior
- Sociology: the study of societies and of human social behavior
Communications Careers:
A degree in Communications is a great way to kick off a business career. Individuals who earn Communications degrees go on to work in sales, human resources, social work, and business management. Some go to work for the government; some join political staffs; and some become Communication Consultants. Some go to work in television or radio. Some start their own businesses. A degree in Communications can open many doors.