Best Online Communication Programs

The best online communication programs offer high academic quality in a flexible format. An online bachelor’s in communication can help even the busiest professionals reach their career goals.

During a communication degree, undergraduates gain a broad foundation in multiple fields along with advanced training in communication. The degree strengthens interpersonal, research, and writing abilities. After earning a communication degree, graduates can pursue opportunities in public relations, business communication, writing, and editing.

Professionals with a communication degree benefit from strong career demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), media and communication occupations reported faster-than-average growth and a median salary of over $62,000 per year as of May 2021.

Many of the best online schools offer communication degrees. Our list ranks the top online bachelor’s in communication programs. Prospective students can use the ranking to find a program that fits their unique needs and professional goals.

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

Earning a bachelor’s degree online offers greater flexibility for students. Many prefer the online format because it reduces commute time and allows learners to complete courses from the comfort of their home. Working professionals often benefit from the flexible schedule of an online program.

During a communication degree, majors take a minimum of 120 credits. The graduation requirements include communication classes, general education courses, and electives. Full-time students typically graduate in four years.

Communication majors can focus their studies with a concentration. Many programs offer the following popular concentrations:

Some programs offer both a BA and BS track for communication majors. The two degrees offer similar major coursework with different general education requirements. BA majors typically take more humanities and social science courses, including foreign languages. BS majors often take more math and science classes. Students interested in more technical topics may benefit from a BS.

Communication majors benefit from strong reading, analytical, and writing skills. Online learners draw on organizational abilities and self-motivation to stay on track during their degree. The best online colleges also support students with academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling services.

In this course, students examine core concepts in the field. The course introduces learners to mass communication, business communication, and journalism. Students gain foundational knowledge for further courses in the major.

Mass communication gives learners a historical perspective on the topic by examining technological innovations like the printing press, telegraph, and television. The course examines the impact of mass communication on culture and media.

Technical writing requires strong communication skills. In this course, students explore key topics in the discipline, including business-to-consumer communication and technical terminology. The class prepares graduates for careers as technical writers.

In professional settings, individuals communicate information through presentations and reports. This course explores professional communication in organizational settings, examining the intersection between professional and organizational communication.

In public relations classes, learners examine public image, PR research, and branding. The course also explores the role of social media in public relations. Students gain industry-specific training for careers in public relations.

Online bachelor’s programs typically ask for an application, test scores, and official transcripts. Many programs also request letters of recommendation and essays. By understanding the admission requirements for a communication degree, prospective students can plan ahead. For example, some online programs conduct interviews as part of the admissions process.

Prospective students complete an undergraduate application that lists personal and background information. Most applications ask about educational history, work history, and extracurricular activities. Some may also request financial aid information. Colleges and universities generally use an online application form and give the option to submit a hard copy.

Many online colleges ask for test scores from the most common college entrance exams. At most schools, applicants can either provide SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students with at least one year of college experience typically do not provide test scores. Many schools also now offer test-optional admission.

Applicants generally provide 1-3 letters of recommendation when applying to four-year colleges. These letters should come from former instructors or supervisors who can speak to the applicant’s ability to succeed in college. Make sure to ask for letters of recommendation several weeks before the application deadline.

Colleges often ask for application essays. Some schools request an essay on a specific topic, while others ask for a statement of purpose that explains the applicant’s reason for pursuing a communication degree. Schools may also request a writing sample. Make sure to closely review the application instructions to submit the correct essays.

Applicants provide high school transcripts when applying to communication programs. Most schools require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Those with prior college experience also provide college transcripts. Schools review these transcripts to award transfer credit. Programs with generous transfer credit policies can save students time and money on their degree.

It’s easy to see why communication remains one of the most popular online majors. After earning a bachelor’s in communication, graduates work in public relations, journalism, marketing, and sales. The major also leads to opportunities in editing and writing, including technical writing. Some communication majors pursue careers as teachers, trainers, and public speakers.

A professional’s earning potential with a communication degree depends on their job title and industry. Overall, professionals in media and communication occupations reported a median pay of $62,340 in May 2021, or more than $16,000 per year higher than the median wage for all occupations.

Media and communication professionals may also see strong demand over the next decade. According to BLS projections, the field will grow 14% from 2020-2030.

See where you can go with a bachelor’s in communication. Learn more about communication careers.

Public relations specialists help clients build a positive public image. They craft press releases, write speeches, and respond to media queries to shape the public’s view of their client. Public relations specialists also help clients communicate their mission and accomplishments. With experience, public relations specialists can move into roles like public relations manager.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021):$62,800

Technical writers create informative content that instructs users and customers on technical products and services. They write instruction manuals, documentation procedures, and how-to guides. Technical writers also conduct research on user needs and work with developers and engineers to clearly describe products. They update technical documentation based on user feedback.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021):$78,060

Writers create content for books, magazines, entertainment programs, and other media. They specialize in areas like biographical writing, copywriting, and script writing. Some focus on content writing, while others create works of fiction. Writers rely on their research and communication skills to craft accurate, readable, and compelling work.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021):$69,510

Advertising sales agents sell ad space. They work with clients to provide advertising services and provide estimates on costs. Advertising sales agents act as the point of contact for clients, communicating throughout the pitch and delivery process. Like other sales fields, the career requires exceptional communication skills.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021):$52,340

Editors develop content ideas and work with writers to revise material for publication. They specialize in several areas, including copyediting, fact checking, and executive editing. Some editors evaluate submissions to make publishing decisions, while others focus on improving copy for publication. Editors need strong communication skills.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021):$63,350

With a bachelor’s in communication, graduates qualify for roles in many industries. However, continuing education can help professionals enhance their skills and advance their career. For example, professional certifications demonstrate experience in specialized areas like social media management or public relations. Learners can also consider a graduate degree.

A master’s in communication provides advanced training in strategic communication, brand management, or public relations. Students can also consider master’s programs in fields like journalism, writing, marketing, or education. Graduate-level coursework helps professionals move into supervisory roles and take on increased responsibilities at work.

According to 2021 data from the Education Data Initiative, earning a bachelor’s degree online costs an average of about $51,000. Tuition at in-state colleges typically costs the least, while private colleges cost the most. In addition to considering tuition when comparing programs, make sure to factor in books, fees, and other expenses. Ask schools about the total cost of a degree.

When enrolling in an online program, degree-seekers have several options. They can take classes full time or part time. Many schools also provide accelerated bachelor’s programs. Learners choose between synchronous and asynchronous classes. Synchronous classes hold set meeting times, while asynchronous classes do not require students to login at specific times.

Does location matter for an online program? Some students may prefer a program close to home. A nearby school makes it easier to meet with faculty and classmates in person. You can also attend networking events and participate in local partnerships with employers.

However, an out-of-state program might better serve your unique needs, and distance learners concerned about affordability might find cheaper options outside their local area.

Online students should always choose an accredited college. Accredited institutions meet high standards for academic excellence. Independent agencies evaluate colleges on their student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic standards. In addition to high-quality programs, students at accredited institutions qualify for more financial aid.

The best online colleges provide strong student support services. These include academic advising, online tutoring, library access, and career counseling. Online learners also benefit from internship programs and mentorship opportunities. Make sure to ask prospective schools about their student services.