Fastest Online Communication Programs

One of the most popular college majors, communication degrees teach students how to share information between individuals and organizations. An accelerated online communication degree provides knowledge and skills for students looking to launch their career quickly.

An accelerated online bachelor’s in communication can lead to graduation in 2-3 years instead of a four years in a traditional bachelor’s program. Accelerated programs may compact the same number of credits into a shorter timeline. Or, they function as degree-completion programs for students with associate degrees or significant transfer credits. Students can save time and tuition through a shorter enrollment period.

A bachelor’s in communication meets the minimum education requirement for popular jobs including communications director or specialist, public relations director, or social media specialist. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth of 14% for media and communication jobs from 2020-2030.

The length and time commitment of an accelerated online bachelor’s in communication vary.

While traditional programs take four years to complete, students can earn a bachelor’s in communication in 2-3 years through accelerated online coursework.

Accelerated bachelors degrees typically include heavier course loads. Most traditional degrees consider 12 credits per semester a full course load. However, an accelerated program may require 15-18 credits to graduate in less than four years. Both degree options require 120 credits, but accelerated programs may allow students to maximize transfer credits.

Accelerated online courses typically run for 5-10 weeks. Students may enroll in many courses at once and may take courses throughout the summer term to graduate faster. Many accelerated programs offer generous credit-transfer policies and adopt competency-based learning models to reduce completion times.

Accelerated programs are ideal for students looking for the fastest way to earn a communication degree. Schools may offer the bachelor’s in communication as a BA or BS degree.

Popular concentrations include digital media, interpersonal communication, and corporate communication. Yet, some accelerated programs offer limited or concentration options. Students enrolled in these programs may choose from electives in their preferred subjects. Some programs also offer an optional internship or field component.

Most students pursue an accelerated bachelor’s degree in communication with previous college credits. Accelerated programs offer students several paths to maximize credits, including applying transfer credits, placing out of general education courses, and/or year-round course completion. Some online programs may require campus visits.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Students identify and apply a variety of business communication styles. Topics include written and oral communication, technology used for communication, and critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Coursework builds skills in writing and delivering speeches. Students learn to engage an audience, use appropriate language, and consider body language to speak effectively. Courses also explore active-listening techniques.

Topics include cross-cultural methods of communication and historical traditions. Students compare and contrast scientific and interpretive communication theories and case studies. Many courses incorporate the metatheoretical foundation of communication.

Students examine how digital media disseminates social, political, economic, and cultural information in contemporary society. Coursework explores the impact of consuming media through social media, digital news outlets, and streaming platforms.

Topics include effective communication methods at the individual and relationship levels. Students explore techniques for maintaining positive interpersonal communication among family members, friends, romantic partners, and coworkers.

An accelerated online bachelor’s in communication qualifies graduates to pursue positions in communications, marketing, and PR. The BLS counts writers, editors, and journalists among the media and communication jobs projected to increase by 14% from 2020-2030, which is faster than the average 8% for all jobs.

Entry-level communication jobs value a candidate’s experience along with their education. Earning an accelerated communication degree prepares students for employment and highlights their drive and commitment to pursue a rigorous academic curriculum. Students can further distinguish themselves as job-seekers by completing an internship or practicum.

An accelerated communication degree covers the same knowledge and skills as a traditional degree but in less time. Students in degree completion programs can dive into major and upper-division coursework, emphasizing communication fundamentals for aspiring journalists, and PR and media professionals.

See where a bachelor’s in communication degree can take you.

Communications directors manage the presentation of an organization’s public image. They direct PR on behalf of the organization to internal and external sources. Duties may include hosting press conferences, writing press releases, and interfacing with journalists and reporters. Most communications directors hold a bachelor’s degree and marketing or PR experience.

Average Annual Salary (May 2022): $86,000

PR directors hold positions similar to communications directors. However, PR directors tend to have more specialized industry experience of up to 10 years. PR directors aim to project a positive image of their organization through consistent messaging and targeted press coverage. They may also help coordinate branding, fundraising, and marketing initiatives.

Average Annual Salary (May 2022): $94,281

Communications specialists develop consistent messaging to represent an organization across a variety of media platforms and marketing materials. They also manage online content on social media accounts. Many professionals also specialize in coordinating effective internal communication between employees, departments, and stakeholders.

Average Annual Salary (May 2022): $54,970

Marketing specialists represent an organization and help shape its public image. They also may develop marketing plans that include paid advertising, corporate sponsorship, and/or media partnerships. Many marketing specialists hold advertising experience and a bachelor’s degree.

Average Annual Salary (May 2022): $52,704

Social media specialists maintain positive communication with the public through its organization’s social media profiles. These professionals provide effective customer service, responding in a timely manner to comments, questions, and press requests. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

Average Annual Salary (May 2022): $46,632

Graduates of an online bachelor’s in communication can qualify for most entry-level jobs in PR, marketing, and communication. Though education requirements vary, bachelor’s degree holders with years of experience may also pursue senior advertising positions. Some graduates complete professional certification such as certified public relations manager.

Some students complete a master’s degree in communication to apply for executive positions. Earning a doctorate in communication helps graduates become postsecondary communication teachers.

Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team

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