Online Communications Degree Program Information

Communications students interested in online degree programs have opportunities in both undergraduate and graduate programs. A degree in communications can lead to careers in writing, public relations, advertising, marketing or in other media-related occupations.

Overview of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Communications Program

An undergraduate degree in communications provides skills in communication techniques, innovative research and understanding mass media. Students in this program learn about theories and models of communication, social theory, communication ethics, business communication and critical reasoning. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.

Program Information and Requirements

Students may complete programs fully online or through a hybrid of online and classroom work. The program is 120 credits and takes four years to complete. In addition to communication courses, students are also required to complete general education requirements in English, math and humanities.
Online bachelor's degree programs require students to have Internet access and an up-to-date operating system. Students attend lectures, classes, submit assignments, and contact their instructor and fellow classmates through a school's web-based system. Instructors may require students to purchase software and textbooks for specific courses.

List of Common Online Bachelor-Level Communications Courses

Cultural Communication and Diversity Course

This course teaches students about the theories and problems related to communications and cultural diversity. Global issues are addressed, such as miscommunication, inequality and intercultural conflict.

Mass Communication and Media Course

Students explore the impact of new information technology in digital, broadcast and print media in this course. Additional topics include social and political effects, ethnicity, race, gender, class, sexuality, propaganda and public opinion.

Organizational Communication

The organizational communication course studies the success of effective communication systems and teaches students how individual behaviors affect group dynamics. Topics covered include conflict management, human relations, decision making and organizational diversity.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates from online communications bachelor's degree program can choose from a variety of careers involving media, public relations and journalism. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median annual wages for entry-level careers related to communications were $34,850 for reporters and correspondents, $51,260 for broadcast news analysts and $51,280 for public relations specialists (www.bls.gov).

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Overview of an Online Master's Degree in Communications Program

Graduates of an online bachelor's degree program in communications are prepared for master's-level work. Careers are often available in management and leadership roles. In addition to completing courses, most programs require students to complete a thesis to graduate. Some programs offer concentrations in public relations, media, journalism and integrated marketing. Those interested in enrolling in this program must have a bachelor's degree in communications or related field.

Program Information and Requirements

Online communications master's degree programs offer flexibility of full-time or part-time schedules. Internet access is necessary, and courses are usually available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some schools require unique software and computer specifications to access their learning systems. Students communicate with instructors through chat rooms, discussion forums and instant messenger. Additional technical requirements include a web cam, microphone and headset.

List of Common Online Master's-Level Communications Courses

Communications Research Course

Graduate students learn advanced research methods in fact-finding, data analysis and data collection. Students learn how to systematically investigate topics using library resources, focus groups, interviews, surveys and experiments.

Persuasion Course

Theories, concepts and approaches in persuasion are the concentration of this course. The course also explores, compares and evaluates why certain approaches are psychologically persuasive.

Communication and Social Responsibility Course

Students in this course study the legal and ethical issues in mass media. The course teaches students about conflicts of interest, advertising practices and privacy.

Career Information for Graduates

A master's degree in communications may offer career advancement opportunities in executive and managerial roles. The BLS reported in 2008 that median wages in communications related positions were $80,220 for advertising and promotions managers and $108,580 for marketing managers.

Continuing Education

A Doctorate in Communications program is available for graduates with a master's degree. Applicants must submit GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, transcripts and a resume. Graduates are able to teach at the university level and perform research in communications. Online programs at this level are rare, and students may need to enroll in a traditional on-campus program.