Communications major
Communications: courses, careers, and where to study
Communications studies how messages move through media — combining writing, public speaking, and media analysis with hands-on training in PR, journalism, broadcasting, or strategic communication.
A Communications major covers strategic communication, mass communication theory, public relations, journalism, broadcast, digital media, public speaking, and media ethics. Programs typically allow students to specialize: PR, advertising, journalism, organizational communication, or digital/social media. Most programs include a portfolio-building capstone and an internship.
Graduates work across PR, marketing, broadcasting, journalism, content, internal corporate communications, and public affairs. The major pairs naturally with a Marketing or Political Science double major.
What you'll study
- Public speaking and persuasive communication
- Mass communication theory
- Public relations and crisis communication
- Journalism and reporting fundamentals
- Digital and social media
- Media ethics and law
- Media writing across formats
- Internship and portfolio capstone
Typical careers
- PR / Communications Specialist
- Journalist / Reporter
- Content Strategist
- Social Media Manager
- Internal Communications Manager
- Marketing Coordinator
Starting salary range: $48,000–$70,000 starting
Find a Communications program
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Related majors
Marketing
Marketing majors learn how to identify, reach, and convert customers — combining strategy, consumer behavior, digital channels, brand management, and analytics.
English & Literature
English develops critical reading, analytical writing, and rhetorical skill — a flexible major that feeds into law, publishing, education, marketing, and any field that values communication.
Political Science
Political Science studies governments, political behavior, and policy — preparing graduates for law school, public service, journalism, and policy research.