The best communications schools can expose you to one of the most crucial industries in today’s day and age. With a communications degree, you can learn how to communicate effectively with audiences from a corporate perspective. Whether you’re interested in internal company management or public relations, this area of study is one of the most sought-after.
To help in your search for the perfect communications program, we’ve compiled a list of the five best options. Each of these schools meets the following criteria:
- An average annual cost of no more than $10,000
- A median starting salary no lower than $40,000
- Accredited programs by recognized bodies
Accredited Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Best Communications Schools
1. De Anza College
2 to 4 Year; Cupertino, CA
Average Annual Cost: $3,297
Obtaining an Associate Degree in Communications is a fabulous way to get a head start on your desired career. At De Anza College, you have the opportunity to explore the many fundamentals of communications. Students will complete a mixture of general education courses paired with specialty and communications studies courses.
Some of the most common course offerings you’re likely to encounter include:
- Public Speaking
- Mass Communication and Its Impact on Society
- Critical Decision Making in Groups
- Argumentation and Critical Inquiry in Oral Communication
- Fundamentals of Oral Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Intercultural Communication
- Effective Organizational Communication
As mentioned, De Anza College provides students with an Associate Degree in Communications. With this degree, you can then move on to a four-year college or university if you wish to further your studies. Alternatively, you can find entry-level employment at communications firms, within corporations, or with private sector clientele.
Approximately 32% of students graduate with their desired degree, with many making an average salary of $95,739/year. Undoubtedly, this is the type of program that offers hands-on experience to help you begin working right after graduation.
2. Foothill College
4 Year; Los Altos HIlls, CA
Average Annual Cost: $3,859
Foothill College offers many of the same learning opportunities as De Anza College when it comes to communications. Students will have the chance to acquire an Associate Degree in Communications during their studies. If you intend to move onto a four-year university afterward, you’ll want to consider the Associate Degree for Transfer.
With the AAT program, students can use their Associate degree to transfer to a Bachelor’s degree program at a California State University. From there, you can then decide whether to obtain a graduate degree or begin working. The unique design of the communications program at Foothill College will surely help to prepare you for your future career.
Students will learn how to identify communication patterns in various contexts during their studies. Also, this program will help you learn how to use critical thinking in communication situations to achieve specific objectives. Many graduates work in human resources, social services, public relations, healthcare, and many other sectors.
The communications curriculum at this school is also quite remarkable as it combines academic and hands-on experience. Students will collaborate with peers to create presentations and obtain a cross-cultural understanding of communicating. They will also focus on rhetorical analysis, professional communication, and argumentation.
3. University of Houston – Downtown
4 Year; Houston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $6,848
If you want to begin your career in communications with a four-year degree, the University of Houston – Downtown is a fabulous choice. Their Bachelor of Arts in Communication is available through the College of Humanities & Social Sciences. Students will receive a diverse education to create and interpret messages better to share specific meanings.
With the help of your classes, you’ll learn how to master communicating in several contexts while using different mediums. Also, it’s a remarkable program to help students better understand communication across various cultures. During your studies, you need to take core and major requirements to obtain your degree.
Some of the most common core requirements you’ll need in your course planner include:
- Mass Media
- Beginning Public Speaking
- Introduction to Speech Communication
- Principles of Public Relations
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
Approximately 43% of students graduate from the University of Houston – Downtown and pursue various notable careers. A few examples of job opportunities to consider with a BA in Communications include:
- Sales
- Human Resources
- Business Administration
- Marketing
- Advertising
- Law
- Writing and Editing
- Education
4. Amridge University
4 Year; Montgomery, AL
Average Annual Cost: $8,705
At Amridge University, students have the opportunity to earn a unique communications degree. Upon graduation, you can acquire a Bachelor of Science in Management. Within this program, you’ll receive a unique insight into communications in a corporate setting.
Students will grasp the importance of mastering emerging communication strategies to build successful careers worldwide. Many of the classes revolve around decision-making, teambuilding, critical thinking, and leadership. One of the largest advantages of this program is that you also get a strong foundation in business management for fast-paced workplaces.
You can dive into many careers with this degree, including public relations, sales, management, government work, and operations. If you wish to further your education, there’s also the opportunity of acquiring a graduate degree in:
- Leadership and Management
- Behavioral Leadership and Management
- Professional Counseling
When you graduate, you’ll have a strong understanding of organizational leadership and management. You will also feel comfortable making communications for public and private companies and clients. Undoubtedly, this degree option is one of the best for a well-rounded assortment of career opportunities post-graduation.
5. Utah Valley University
4 Year; Orem, UT
Average Annual Cost: $9,159
Every communications major deserves to study in a program that’s known for its exceptional course offerings. At Utah Valley University, students can enroll in an award-winning program that grants them a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Applied Communication. Students can also opt for a specialization in Public Relations and Strategic Communication.
During your studies, you’ll learn the skills that all leaders need to bring companies and organizations into the future. Let’s take a deeper look into both specialties to help you know which is best for your future career.
- Applied Communication (BA, BS, Minor)
Students will find their dream career in human resources, consulting, or education with the Applied Communication program. It’s also a fantastic option if you intend to get a graduate degree such as an MA or Ph.D. Some of the core classes included in the AC program include:
- Introduction to Communication
- Public Speaking
- Theories of Communication and Culture
- Intercultural Communication Encounters
- Public Relations and Strategic Communication (BA, BS, Minor)
If you’re more interested in a PR specialty, this degree program is a better alternative. In the PRSC program, students will find careers with global and in-house public relations firms. Some of the most common courses you’ll take include:
- Public Relations and Strategic Communication Campaigns
- Public Relations and Strategic Communication Writing
- Introduction to Public Relations and Strategic Communication
On average, students at Utah Valley University earn between $20,140 and $77,401 after graduating. Also, the school boasts an impressive 65% retention rate with a 35% graduation rate.
