Communication studies is an interdisciplinary discipline which provides students with a thorough knowledge of the understanding of human communication and interaction. Communication studies includes a broad range of topics such as face-to-face conversation and media broadcasting. This discipline is comprised of information drawn from various subject areas including anthropology, psychology, sociology, political science, humanities, and fine arts. Students in communications study the symbol systems by which communication functions, environments where communication occurs, its media, and its interpretations, limitations, effects, and influence on others. Through communication, individuals are better able to understand each other which then strengthens the bond between different cultures and humanity as a whole...Read More
Communication studies educates students in examining, managing, and enhancing communication in personal, professional, and public interaction. Communication studies thoroughly prepares students for future participation in any number of diverse fields, including (but not limited to) public relations, law, consulting, marketing, management, political organizing, public affairs, and advertising. As seen here, professional opportunities abound for a student with a background in communications resulting in a vast range of career opportunities for the student to choose from.
Communications Degree Levels Available
• Two-Year Associate of Arts Communications Degree
There are many colleges and technical schools which offer an associate’s degree in communications. Positions available with an associate’s degree include digital media artist, public relations associate, journalist, blogger, and social media consultant. However, this two-year degree is somewhat limited as far as opportunities and salary; a student with an associate’s degree who would like to advance to a higher position in the communications field along with a higher salary, should continue onto the bachelor’s degree in communications.
• Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree in Communications
Numerous colleges and universities offer a four-year bachelor’s degree in communications. A student enrolled in this program will learn about business communication, diversity, intercultural communication, conflict resolution, legal and ethical issues, media and culture, and future trends in communication technology. Positions available with a bachelor’s degree include media relations officer, publicity agent, public relations professional, translator, assistant editor, and social policy researcher.
• Two-Year Master’s Degree in Communications
A master’s degree in communications offers practical and applied knowledge, and allows students to tackle real-life communication issues, develop usable communication skills, and build a strong portfolio. Students conduct extensive research to design and ultimately implement the most effective communication strategies possible.
• Three- or Four-Year Ph.D. Program in Communications
The Ph.D. program encompasses three disciplines in communications: media, technology, and democracy. Students analyze the complex interactions among news media, entertainment media, digital communications, nonprofit organizations, government, and business. The curriculum combines humanistic and social scientific approaches to the study of communication resulting in an interdisciplinary education. Students who graduate with a Ph.D. in communications usually secure a faculty position in academia.
Admission Requirements
Although various colleges and universities may vary slightly, one can expect fairly standard admission requirements when applying to obtain a degree in communications. Successful completion of high school or an academic equivalent (such as a GED) is required along with high school transcripts displaying grades obtained in various courses. SAT or ACT test scores are almost always required as well. If student fulfills these requirements then an application form from the college or university must be completed and submitted along with an application fee, which of course varies depending on the institution. Prior experience in writing, public speaking, or journalism is viewed as an asset and will be beneficial to the student in the application process.
Tuition and Accreditation
An associate’s degree in communications can cost between $5 000 and $35 000. A bachelor’s degree can cost between $28 000 to $80 000. A master’s degree can cost anywhere between $50 000 to $100 000 or more in tuition and fees. A doctoral degree in communications can cost between $25 000 to $100 000 (depending if the student is enrolled in the three or four year doctoral program).
Colleges and universities which offer an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or the doctoral degree must hold ACEJMC (Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications) Accreditation. Most employers only hire students who graduated from an ACEJMC-accredited institution.
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