Online Bachelor’s in Communication Programs in 2025
Communication is one of the country’s most popular choices for bachelor's degrees for 2025. A wide-ranging subject of study, a bachelor's in communication degree prepares students for careers in business, media, arts, and the law. Students can choose from Bachelor of Arts degrees that focus on interpersonal communication, corporate communication, and the humanities or Bachelor of Science programs that provide students with technical and science-based communication skills. Aside from bachelor’s degree types, communication students also have a variety of schools, program specializations, and program formats to choose from, including online bachelor's degree programs. The choice to pursue a bachelor's in communication online versus a traditional on-campus communication bachelor’s program may make sense for students with many unique circumstances, including those who need to work while taking classes, parents of young children, and those who live in rural areas far removed from a college or university. There are several high-quality bachelor's programs in communications for these students to consider.
Online bachelor's in communication programs prepare students for some potential careers, such as:
- Writer and Journalist
- Sales & Marketing Executive
- Public Relations Manager
- Advertising Executive
- Web Designer & Website Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Consumer Researcher
- Public Affairs Officer
- Video Producer & Content Creator
2026 Best Online Bachelors in Communications Programs
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO - Public 4-Year - missouristate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri State University's online Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing empowers students to craft precise, impactful content across diverse industries. The program provides comprehensive training in technical and professional communication, preparing graduates for expanding career opportunities with a projected 12% job growth. Students develop advanced writing, editing, and technological skills applicable in business, healthcare, technology, and government sectors. This flexible online degree allows students to complete 36 credit hours with both BA and BS options. Entrance requirements include standard ACT or SAT exams, ensuring students possess foundational academic skills for success in professional writing.
- BA and BS degree options
- Online and face-to-face learning
- 36 credit hour program
- Technical writing career focus
- Skills for multiple industries
- 12% job growth projection
- Writing and technology skills
- Diverse career opportunities
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
Concentration: health communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri State University's online Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies with a Health Communication concentration offers a strategic pathway for aspiring healthcare communicators. This comprehensive program develops advanced communication skills specifically tailored to medical and wellness environments. Students explore verbal, nonverbal, and written communication techniques crucial in healthcare settings. The fully online curriculum provides flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards, enabling students to customize their learning experience. Military-friendly and financially accessible, the program requires a complementary minor and prepares graduates for diverse roles in healthcare communication, management, and patient engagement.
- Customizable communication degree
- Multiple career track options
- Full online program availability
- Accredited four-year institution
- Requires minor with degree
- Affordable tuition options
- Flexible elective courses
- On-campus curriculum replicated online
- Multiple professional pathways
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
Concentration: public relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri State University's online Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies featuring a Public Relations concentration equips students with comprehensive strategic communication skills. This dynamic program prepares professionals for careers in marketing, nonprofit administration, and corporate communications. Students develop advanced messaging techniques, media relations strategies, and organizational communication principles through a flexible, fully online curriculum. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the program offers customizable elective tracks and requires a complementary minor. With affordable tuition and robust faculty development, graduates gain versatile skills applicable across multiple professional domains.
- Online and on-campus options
- Customizable elective tracks
- Requires minor degree
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
- Full-time faculty development
- Diverse career preparation
- Affordable tuition options
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Missouri State University's online Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing provides comprehensive training for content creation professionals. Students master advanced writing, editing, and technological skills essential for producing specialized documentation like technical manuals, grant proposals, and marketing materials. The program offers both BA and BS options, reflecting its versatility across industries including business, healthcare, technology, and government. With a projected 12% job growth in technical writing and potential median salaries around $74,650, graduates are positioned for dynamic career opportunities. The 36-credit-hour program ensures students develop practical, marketable communication expertise.
- Bachelor of Arts/Science options
- Online and on-campus formats
- 36 credit hour program
- Technical writing job growth
- Multiple industry career paths
- Writing and technology skills
- Specialized content creation
- Flexible degree completion
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies delivers a comprehensive program designed to cultivate versatile communication professionals. Spanning 120 credit hours with an affordable $282 per-credit tuition, this degree prepares students for diverse career opportunities in media, marketing, and public relations. Students will develop advanced interpersonal, organizational, and electronic communication strategies through research-based coursework. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals and career changers, offering transferability of up to 90 credits. Entrance requirements typically include SAT/ACT scores and a high school diploma or equivalent, ensuring accessible yet rigorous academic preparation.
- Online Bachelor of Arts degree
- 120 total credit hours
- $282 per credit tuition
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- Versatile career preparation
- Flexible 7-week course format
- Skills in oral/written communication
- Technical writing focus
- Social media platform expertise
- Public relations training
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification provides a cutting-edge digital communications curriculum. Students gain industry-recognized certifications in Google Analytics and Hootsuite while mastering multimedia platforms and strategic messaging techniques. The 120-credit program offers flexible online learning at $282 per credit, with opportunities to transfer up to 90 credits. Specifically focused on social media management, the degree equips students with advanced digital marketing skills, preparing them for dynamic careers in communication technology. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and standard high school academic achievements.
- Online Strategic Communication degree
- Google and Hootsuite certifications
- Per credit tuition $282
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- 120 total credit hours
- Multiple career path options
- Social media strategy focus
- Digital marketing skills
- Flexible online learning
- Comprehensive communication curriculum
Bachelor's - Bachelor of General Studies
Concentration: Communications - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of General Studies with a communications emphasis offers a multidisciplinary approach to professional development. This flexible degree allows students to customize their curriculum while focusing on critical communication skills essential for public relations, marketing, and media management careers. The program emphasizes strategic messaging, interpersonal communication, and professional writing techniques. With potential career paths offering median salaries ranging from $67,440 to $129,430, students can strategically position themselves for significant professional growth. The online format accommodates working professionals seeking comprehensive communication skill development.
- Fully online flexible degree
- Two subject area emphases
- Communications career preparation
- Multiple professional pathways
- Strategic messaging skills development
- Interpersonal communication focus
- Coursework in promotional writing
- Career advancement potential
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication
Concentration: PR and Advertising - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication specializing in PR and Advertising delivers a comprehensive digital communication curriculum. This 120-credit program focuses on developing advanced strategic messaging techniques across multiple platforms, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in advertising and public relations. Students earn a valuable HubSpot content marketing certification while gaining practical expertise in digital and social media communication. The affordable $282 per-credit tuition and 100% online learning format provide an accessible pathway to professional advancement. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and standard application requirements.
- 100% online strategic communication degree
- $282 per credit hour
- HubSpot content marketing certification
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- 120 total credit hours required
- Prepare for advertising/PR careers
- Focuses on digital media communication
- Flexible accelerated coursework
- Multiple program start dates
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification provides an innovative digital communication curriculum. Designed for career-driven individuals, the program equips students with cutting-edge skills in social media strategy, content creation, and digital marketing. Students earn Google Analytics and Hootsuite certifications while developing comprehensive communication expertise. The 120-credit program offers flexible learning at $282 per credit, with options to transfer up to 90 credits. The curriculum prepares graduates for roles in social media management, marketing, and digital communications, emphasizing practical, industry-relevant skills.
- Online Bachelor's degree format
- Google Analytics certification
- Hootsuite certification
- 120 total credit hours
- Per credit tuition $282
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- Multiple start dates annually
- Social media marketing focus
- Strategic communications core
- Career-focused curriculum
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design with a Social Media concentration offers an innovative program bridging technology and communication. Students develop comprehensive skills in multimedia production, user experience design, web development, and social media management. The 120-credit curriculum combines practical design and coding skills with strategic digital insights, preparing graduates for competitive careers in digital strategy and communication technologies. Offered at $282 per credit with flexibility to transfer up to 90 credits, the program welcomes diverse students. The online format and no advanced math requirement make this an accessible pathway to digital proficiency.
- 100% Online Program
- $282 Per Credit Hour
- 120 Total Credit Hours
- Transfer Up to 90 Credits
- Social Media Concentration
- Multimedia Production Skills
- Web/App Development Focus
- Career-Ready Portfolio
- No Advanced Math Required
- Flexible Start Dates
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO - Public 4-Year - umsl.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-St. Louis delivers a comprehensive online Bachelor of Arts in Communication that empowers students to excel in diverse professional environments. This program offers flexible learning with both online and on-campus formats, featuring ACT/SAT entrance requirements. Students develop critical communication skills through strategic messaging, digital content creation, and interpersonal communication techniques. Graduates benefit from potential scholarship opportunities, internship experiences, and a curriculum designed to prepare them for dynamic careers in media, marketing, public relations, and corporate communications. The program's four specialization areas and accelerated dual degree option provide students with versatile academic pathways.
- Bachelor of Arts degree
- On-campus and online formats
- Four specialization areas
- Accelerated dual degree option
- Real-world experience opportunities
- Median annual salary $66,750
- Multiple career path options
- Undergraduate certificates available
- Scholarships for qualified students
- Comprehensive career services support
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Applied Visual Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Missouri-St. Louis's online Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Applied Visual Communication concentration provides a targeted curriculum for aspiring media professionals. Requiring standard ACT/SAT entrance exams, this program equips students with advanced digital media skills, content creation techniques, and strategic communication strategies. The Applied Visual Communication track emphasizes practical visual storytelling, design principles, and multimedia production. Students gain hands-on experience through internships, student-run media projects, and real-world assignments, preparing them for careers in graphic design, digital marketing, advertising, and visual media industries.
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Online and on-campus formats
- Four emphasis area options
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Affordable degree program
- Accelerated dual degree option
- Practical skills-focused curriculum
- Scholarships available
- Internship opportunities
- Median annual salary $66,750
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication focusing on Interpersonal Communication, designed for students seeking to master human interaction dynamics. Requiring standard ACT/SAT entrance exams, this program develops advanced communication skills for professional and personal contexts. Students explore communication theories, conflict resolution, relationship management, and nonverbal communication strategies. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications across various professional settings, including organizational communication, counseling, human resources, and leadership development. Graduates emerge with sophisticated interpersonal skills, preparing them for roles requiring exceptional communication expertise.
- BA in Communication degree
- Four emphasis area options
- 100% online or on-campus
- Accelerated dual degree pathway
- Median salary $66,750
- Scholarships available
- Internship opportunities
- Real-world skills training
- Student-run PR firm experience
- Career services support
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Mass Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Missouri-St. Louis's online Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Mass Communication concentration provides comprehensive media training for aspiring journalists, broadcasters, and media professionals. Requiring standard ACT/SAT entrance exams, this program covers multimedia storytelling, digital journalism, media ethics, and contemporary communication technologies. Students develop critical skills in news reporting, digital content production, media analysis, and strategic communication. The curriculum integrates practical experiences through internships, media projects, and collaborative assignments, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for dynamic careers in print, broadcast, digital media, and communication industries.
- BA in Communication available
- On-campus and 100% online options
- Four specialized emphasis areas
- Internship and practical experience
- Accelerated dual degree pathway
- Communication scholarships available
- Median annual salary $66,750
- Flexible degree program
- Career services support
- Student organizations available
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-St. Louis delivers an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Strategic Communication concentration, targeting students interested in public relations, corporate communications, and marketing. Requiring standard ACT/SAT entrance exams, this program emphasizes advanced communication strategy, brand management, and persuasive messaging techniques. Students learn to develop comprehensive communication campaigns, analyze audience engagement, and leverage digital platforms for effective communication. The curriculum includes practical experiences through internships, student-run PR firm projects, and strategic communication workshops, preparing graduates for leadership roles in communication, marketing, and corporate communication sectors.
- Bachelor of Arts degree
- Online and on-campus formats
- Four emphasis area options
- 100% flexible curriculum
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Median annual salary $66,750
- Accelerated dual degree option
- Scholarships available
- Student-run PR firm experience
- Comprehensive career services
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Bachelor's - Communication in Organizations
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's online Communication in Organizations program offers a comprehensive degree completion pathway tailored for professionals seeking strategic communication skill enhancement. Students explore advanced organizational communication techniques, developing critical leadership and interpersonal competencies applicable across diverse workplace environments. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill application, enabling graduates to navigate complex professional interactions effectively. Designed flexibly for working adults, the program facilitates career advancement through comprehensive training in communication dynamics, team collaboration, and organizational strategy. No specific entrance exam requirements are highlighted, making the program accessible for motivated professionals aiming to elevate their communication expertise in corporate, governmental, and non-profit sectors.
- 100% Online Degree Completion
- Develops Organizational Communication Skills
- Career Advancement Focused
- Flexible for Working Adults
- Enhances Leadership Potential
- Applicable Across Multiple Sectors
- Interpersonal Skills Development
- Team Collaboration Preparation
- Marketability Enhancement
Utah State University
Logan, UT - Public 4-Year - usu.edu
Bachelor's - Communicative Disorders
Online Learning - Visit Website
Utah State University's online Communicative Disorders bachelor's degree provides a comprehensive pre-professional pathway for aspiring speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Designed for students seeking advanced healthcare careers, the program offers strategic training across communication sciences. Prospective students must maintain a competitive 3.0 GPA for admission. The curriculum prepares graduates for diverse professional settings including hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Students explore specialized tracks in speech-language pathology and audiology, gaining skills to support patients across different age groups. SAT/ACT entrance exams are required for undergraduate admission.
- Pre-professional bachelor's degree
- Two specialized career tracks
- 100% online option available
- Multiple campus locations
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepare for graduate studies
- Work with diverse patient populations
- Career paths in healthcare
- Professional certification potential
Bachelor's - Communicative Disorders
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Online Learning - Visit Website
Utah State University's online Bachelor's in Communicative Disorders with a Speech-Language Pathology concentration provides targeted professional development for future clinicians. The program emphasizes practical skills in addressing communication challenges across diverse populations, from pediatric to geriatric patients. Students learn to diagnose and support individuals experiencing neurological and developmental communication disorders. With flexible online learning options, the curriculum prepares students for graduate-level professional certification. A 3.0 GPA is required for admission, and students must complete SAT/ACT entrance examinations to qualify for the undergraduate program.
- Pre-professional undergraduate degree
- Focus on speech-language pathology
- Audiology concentration available
- Online and campus options
- Admission GPA of 3.0 required
- Junior year program entry
- Career paths in healthcare settings
- Preparation for graduate studies
- Multiple campus locations
- 100% online program option
Bachelor's - Communicative Disorders
Concentration: Audiology - Online Learning - Visit Website
Utah State University's online Communicative Disorders Bachelor's degree with an Audiology concentration equips students with specialized skills to support individuals with hearing and communication challenges. The program offers comprehensive training in diagnosing and managing audiological disorders across different life stages. Students develop advanced clinical skills through a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for graduate studies and professional certification. The fully online format provides flexibility for working professionals and students. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, and SAT/ACT entrance exams are mandatory for undergraduate enrollment.
- Pre-professional undergraduate degree
- Focus on speech-language pathology/audiology
- Online and campus options
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Preparation for graduate studies
- Work with diverse patient populations
- Multiple career pathway options
- Available at multiple USU locations
Bachelor's - Journalism, BS
Online Learning - Visit Website
Utah State University's online Journalism Bachelor's degree provides a dynamic, comprehensive program preparing students for diverse communication careers. The curriculum emphasizes practical reporting, multimedia production, and ethical storytelling techniques applicable across media and strategic communication industries. Students develop professional writing and analytical skills through a structured 60-credit program. With a competitive tuition of $405 per credit, the degree offers exceptional value for aspiring journalists, media professionals, and strategic communicators. Faculty bring real-world experience, ensuring students receive industry-relevant training. SAT/ACT entrance exams are required for undergraduate admission.
- Online Bachelor's degree program
- 60 major credits required
- $405 per credit cost
- Faculty with professional experience
- Versatile communication skills
- Prepares for multiple career sectors
- Multimedia production focus
- Ethical storytelling emphasis
- Deadline-driven skill development
- Strategic communication training
Choosing an Online Bachelor’s in Communication Program
Enrollment in online higher education courses continues to grow. According to the latest data by the NCES, roughly 30 percent of all online bachelor’s education students in 2020 took at least one distance education course. With this rise in online college popularity (in part because of the recent pandemic), many colleges and universities offer high-quality bachelor’s degrees in communication. If you are considering enrolling in an online bachelor's program, be sure to keep the following considerations in mind when researching schools and programs:
Accreditation
Especially important with an online degree program is accreditation. A program's accreditation by a reputable third-party organization means the program has been evaluated according to high academic standards and has met or exceeded the organization's criteria for a high-quality educational program. Any program you consider should be accredited by an accrediting organization such as the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, specialized communication program accreditors such as the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, or the Public Relations Student Society of America, or a regional accrediting organization like the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Cost
Another critical factor for many students is the program cost. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average price of undergraduate education in the U.S. was estimated to be $16,757 at public institutions, $43,065 at private non-profit institutions, and $23,775 at private for-profit institutions during the 2015-2016 academic year. Tuition costs can vary widely from school to school. In addition to school type, other factors influencing program costs are a school's geographic location, reputation, residency status, and whether a student takes online courses. In some cases, earning your bachelor's degree online can be more cost-effective than a traditional on-campus program, particularly when you factor in the cost savings on housing and commuting to campus.
Whether you are considering an online or an on-campus program, research the total cost of any program. That includes tuition, mandatory fees, estimated cost of books and materials, and housing costs. Take the time to contact your school's financial aid officers to ask about scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, student loans, and other programs that can save you money and make your degree program more affordable.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for online bachelor's in communication programs are the same as their on-campus counterparts, which include:
- High school diploma and transcripts of all high school coursework
- GPA of 3.0 or higher in college preparatory coursework
- Standardized test scores from ACT or SAT at or above the school's minimum requirements
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or other writing samples
Be sure to verify all the admissions requirements and application deadlines with your school of choice to ensure you have met all requirements and submitted your application by the appropriate deadline for consideration.
Classes & Courses
Bachelor's degrees in communication include general education courses in humanities, math, science, and social studies and communication degree courses. Specific communication courses vary from school to school depending on a particular program concentration, such as journalism, public relations, advertising, business communication, etc. As one example, the online bachelor's in communication program at Purdue University Global offers the following courses:
- Communication Concepts and Skills
- Mass Media and Broadcasting
- Interpersonal Communication
- Communication of Research Skills
- Public Speaking for the Professional
- Technical Communication
- Tools for the Digital Age
- Organizational Communication
- Strategic Communication
- Communicating in a Diverse Society
Real World Experience
One of the benefits of distance learning is the ability to take classes on a flexible schedule, which allows students the time for on-the-job experiences in the communications field. Like their on-campus counterparts, many online schools also allow students to earn credit for internships in their chosen field. For example, Montana State University in Billings' online B.S. in Public Relations program provides students with internship opportunities throughout their studies. This real-life experience in the communication industry can go a long way toward helping recent graduates find full-time employment.
2026 Affordable Online Bachelor's in Communication Program Options
| Arkansas State University |
|
|
| San Diego State University |
|
|
| Missouri State University |
|
|
| Florida International University |
|
|
| Utah Valley University |
|
|
2026 Shortest Online Bachelor's in Communication Program Options
| San Diego State University |
|
|
| Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College |
|
|
| University of Central Florida |
|
|
| DePaul University |
|
|
| Appalachian State University |
|
|
Advantages of Online Bachelor’s in Communication Programs
Online bachelor's degree programs offer many advantages to students, including the convenience of completing assignments and watching lectures from home, according to their own busy schedules. For working students and those with family commitments, this convenience can make earning a bachelor's degree attainable. For students living in rural or remote locations, an online degree program saves student’s long commute times and puts a wider variety of schools and programs within reach. Online degree programs offer the same rigorous coursework as on-campus programs, as well as internship opportunities near a student's home, allowing them to gain hands-on and professionally-supervised experience in their chosen field. Additionally, online programs save students the cost of campus housing, commuting, and parking which can make getting a bachelor's degree in communication more affordable.