Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Communication Studies
Majors Overview February 5, 2015Students in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Communication Studies will be provided with the communication theories that explain how people understand, think, and listen. Areas of focus may feature nonverbal communication, group dynamics, and semantics. Students will be prepared for careers in sales, public relations, advertising, and marketing.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Communication Studies
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in communication studies are taught from a social and critical perspective about the ways in which behavior is affected by communication. The contribution of written communication and dialogue to political, professional, and personal dimensions of life in contemporary times is also investigated. Students can expect to become adept in the analysis of communication styles and direction of clients toward more effective modes of communication.
Apart from effective communication, coursework includes techniques aimed at enhancing the communication skills of members in the organization. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.
Coursework
The curriculum may include internship opportunities or fieldwork. Apart from core coursework, general education classes may also have to be completed by students in subject areas such as social science, science, math, history, and English.
Students enrolled in some schools are allowed to opt for customization of coursework in accordance with their professional goals. Coursework may include the following topic areas:
•Speech communication
•Behavioral science
•Debate and argumentation
•Interpersonal communication
•Humanities
•Voice, diction, and articulation
•Written communication
•Public speaking
•Theories of communication
Career Choices
Those that successfully complete a communication studies bachelor’s degree program can seek entry-level careers in television, advertising, public relations, professional writing, radio, and broadcast journalism. They may aspire for job titles such as:
•Director of communications
•Public relations specialist
•Political speechwriter
•Organization spokesperson
Job and Wage Outlook
A 12% job growth rate is predicted for public relations specialists over the decade from 2012 to 2022 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); the high growth projection is attributed to an increase in customer relations and communication outlets due to the use of social media.
In May 2012, public relations specialists banked an average annual wage of $54,170 (BLS). Over the 2012 to 2022 decade, a 3% job growth rate is predicted for writers (BLS). In 2012 writers, including political speechwriters working with federal government agencies, banked an average annual wage of $55,940 (BLS).
Continuing Education
Graduates can seek continuing education for more job opportunities and enhance their skills and knowledge through completion of graduate certificate programs. Communicative public relations, advertising communication, organizational communication, and communication strategies are explored by these programs.
Those seeking higher management careers or jobs in academia or communication research can enroll in a master’s degree in communication, rhetoric, media, or public affairs.
 Degree in Communication Studies on http://educationcareerarticles.com "Pin It")
