Online Bachelor of Science in Communication
Learn how to analyze and respond to complex issues within relationships, workplaces and communities with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in communication degree. Gain a solid foundation in effective communication skills that will transfer across a variety of careers.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
What will I learn in a BS in communication degree?
A communication degree equips you with the foundational skills necessary for success at all levels within your career. In this BS in communication, you’ll learn how communication impacts every facet of your daily life. You’ll also acquire the ability to write clear, compelling and persuasive arguments and master the skills needed to think strategically through complex communication issues. Additionally, you’ll develop a range of skills, including:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Implementation of diversity, equity and inclusion into your personal and work life experiences.
- Leadership and conflict management.
- Management of interpersonal relationships.
- Oral and written communication.
- Teamwork and collaboration.
Are communication majors in demand?
Yes, communication majors are in demand. In fact, communication is ranked as one of the top five most sought-after career skills in a variety of industries. With a BS in communication degree, you’ll enter the workforce with skills that are highly valued by top employers and necessary in implementing communication plans in all job markets.
This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:
What is the difference between a BA and a BS in communication?
Both a BA and BS in communication emphasize social science and critical thinking with regard to human communication. However, the research and coursework required for these two programs differ.
Will my communications degree say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Communication degree courses
You’ll complete courses covering a variety of communication topics, including conflict and negotiation, leadership in group communication, gender and communication, training and development and more. You’ll also gain a greater understanding of relational communication, persuasion and social influence.
What can I do with a communication degree?
As a graduate with a communication degree, you’ll bring strong writing, critical thinking and presentation skills to the job market. You’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to work in a wide range of industries, such as government, education, health care, human resources and marketing. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Business Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Event Planner
Fundraising Consultant
Human Resources Manager
Marketing Associate
Marketing Manager
Public Relations Manager (PR Manager)
SEO Specialist
Learn from distinguished communicators from many industries
From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to accomplished students and faculty members. In the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, our faculty are some of the top scholars in interpersonal, organizational and intercultural communication, rhetoric and performance studies, as well as health communication, strategic communication and new media. Faculty highlights include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Learn from distinguished communicators from many industries
From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to accomplished students and faculty members. In the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, our faculty are some of the top scholars in interpersonal, organizational and intercultural communication, rhetoric and performance studies, as well as health communication, strategic communication and new media. Faculty highlights include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students.
$170 million
in research expenditures in 2022.
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments.
100+
undergraduate degrees.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
