Explore interpersonal, group, organizational, public, and electronically mediated communication and consider the variety of contexts in which communication occurs, such as family relationships, cultural clashes, and political campaigns. Gain skills with proven application in business, film, theater, composition, advertising, education, foreign policy and computer science.

The IU Online Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies offers courses in communication theories, cross-cultural communication, public relations, gender and communication, propaganda and persuasion, and nonverbal communication. Develop interpersonal, organizational, intercultural, ethical, and media-savvy communication expertise that enhances your effectiveness in the workplace, at home, in the community, and in the world.

Your IU Online BA or BS in Communication Studies prepares you for such careers as: 

• Marketing director 
• Public relations specialist 
• Publications editor 
• Museum curator 
• Copywriter 
• Advertising executive 
• Newspaper publisher 
• Media relations specialist 
• TV producer 
• Event planner   

Degree Requirements

To graduate with the BA or BS in Communication Studies, you must complete a total of 120 credit hours. A minimum of 36 credit hours must be taken at the 300 level or above, with at least 18 in the major. If you pursue the BA, you take more courses in the liberal arts and humanities. If you pursue the BS, you take more courses in the sciences. You may be able to transfer an associate degree or up to 64 credit hours from a regionally accredited two-year college and up to 90 credit hours from a regionally accredited four-year college or university.

Requirements are broken down as follows: 

• Communication core courses (18 credit hours) 
• Communication specialized core courses (9 credit hours) 
• Communication electives 300/400 level (12 credit hours) 
• World language/culture courses (12 credit hours) 
• Communication elective course (3 credit hours)
• General education courses and electives, as needed to reach 120 credit hours

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Download a printable PDF summary of the BA, BS in Communication Studies.