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.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 10/11/2023


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

Have questions about the Communication (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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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.

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.

A Bachelor of Science in communication provides you with an analytical view of communication. This includes a science-based curriculum and a focus on data analysis. In comparison, a Bachelor of Arts in communication provides you with an emphasis on a more humanistic approach to the study of human communication.

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.


COM 408: Quantitative Research Methods in Communication


COM 308: Advanced Research Methods in Communication (L)


COM 225: Public Speaking (L)


COM 250: Communication and the Workplace (SB)


COM 410: Interpersonal Communication Theory and Research (SB)


COM 450: Organizational Communication (SB)


COM 110: Elements of Interpersonal Communication (SB)


COM 310: Relational Communication (SB)


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:

Advocate


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $38,520

Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)


Growth: 7.2 %
Salary: $59,990

Community Health Worker


Growth: 14.1 %
Salary: $46,190

Compliance Manager


Growth: 3.3 %
Salary: $128,620

Freelance Writer


Growth: 3.7 %
Salary: $73,150

Marketing Associate


Growth: 1.9 %
Salary: $127,830

Medical and Health Services Manager


Growth: 28.4 %
Salary: $104,830

Public Relations Manager (PR Manager)


Growth: 5.9 %
Salary: $129,430

Public Relations Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $67,440

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. The Hugh Downs School of Human Communication is home to some of the nation’s top scholars in the study of Interpersonal, Organizational and Intercultural Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies, as well as Health Communication, Strategic Communication and New Media.

  • 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. The Hugh Downs School of Human Communication is home to some of the nation’s top scholars in the study of Interpersonal, Organizational and Intercultural Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies, as well as Health Communication, Strategic Communication and New Media.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

I am a future

You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).

1. Review competency requirements

2. Review other admission requirements

3. Complete online application

4. File your FAFSA

5. Request ACT or SAT scores

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.

A respected school for liberal arts

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 be socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140 million


in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


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.

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