Communications Degree

What is a Communications Degree?

Have you ever wondered how Britney Spears is able to keep reviving her career, even after so many public mishaps? She simply has a good public relations specialist and media specialist who builds and maintains positive relationships with the public for her.  These specialists are considered Communication specialists and a bachelor's degree in Communications is required before you can become the public face for an A-list celebrity.

Communication specialists don't always work for celebrities or athletes—their clients may be nonprofit organizations, businesses, hospitals, universities and other organizations. As a business grows and gains notoriety, a positive reputation and public contact is the most beneficial for success.  Communication specialists are relied on heavily by these businesses for their communication expertise.  Communication specialists are tasked with the following:

• Contact the media and draft press releases for businesses   
• Address concerns for radio or TV reports
• Organize events to maintain relationships between clients and the public
• Represent local employers at public events
• Create visual presentations for meetings and assemblies
• Plan conventions
• Schedule speaking engagements
• Occasionally, write speeches

How can I get a Communications Degree?

The coursework included in a Communications Degree program will help students develop the skills needed to succeed in the communications field.  Of course, Communications degree students will need to take the general courses required of all majors, such as, math, science, social studies, and English.  More specific to the communications degree program are classes that incorporate:

• Interpersonal and relational communication
• Communication theory
• Courses on media and society
• Rhetorical studies and public advocacy
• Speaking and listening skills
• Presentation skills
• Nonverbal and verbal interaction
• Persuasion and argumentation

• Advertising
• Business
• Health Care
• Education
• Electronic Media/Radio & Television Broadcasting
• Government/Politics
• High Technology Industries
• International Relations and Negotiations
• Journalism (Print or Electronic)
• Law
• Public Relations
• Social and Human Services
• Theater/Performing Arts