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 degrees 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 bachelors program may make sense for students with a number of special 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 in communications programs for these students to consider.
Online bachelor's in communication programs prepare students for a number of 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
2025 Best Online Bachelors in Communications Programs
Looking for the best online bachelor's in communications programs in 2025? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We've ranked the top programs to help you find the perfect fit for your career goals. Our list highlights schools that offer flexibility, quality education, and strong support for online students. Start your journey in the communications field with confidence by exploring our top picks. Learn more about our ranking methodology to see how we chose the best programs for you.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Bachelor's - Communication Sciences and Disorders
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Florida's online Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders prepares students for impactful careers helping individuals with communication challenges. This comprehensive program serves as a critical pathway to graduate studies in speech-language pathology and audiology, offering foundational skills in understanding speech, language, and hearing processes. Students explore communication disorders across all life stages, gaining essential knowledge for clinical and research careers. Admission requires a strong academic background, including prerequisite courses in psychology, biology, and statistics. With competitive entry standards and a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program equips students to work with diverse populations in healthcare settings like hospitals, schools, and clinics.
- Online Bachelor of Health Science
- Pathway to graduate studies
- Works with communication disorders
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Multiple prerequisite courses
- Career options in healthcare
- Faculty with clinical experience
- Limited access program
- Full-time enrollment expected
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Bachelor's - Communication in Organizations
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's Communication in Organizations program provides a flexible, 100% online degree completion option designed for working adults seeking career advancement. This innovative program develops critical communication skills essential for success in modern, dynamic workplaces. Students gain transferable expertise in organizational communication, leadership, and interpersonal relationships that are highly valued by employers across private, government, and non-profit sectors. The curriculum integrates theory and practice, preparing graduates to effectively manage complex workplace interactions and lead in diverse team environments.
- 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
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO - Private 4-year - lindenwood.edu
Bachelor's - Advertising and Public Relations
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lindenwood University's Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations prepares students for dynamic careers in communication and media. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience in digital media, strategic communications, and brand storytelling. Students engage with real-world projects, learning to navigate the ever-changing landscape of advertising and public relations. The degree covers essential skills in research, creativity, writing, and management, with opportunities to develop professional campaigns and gain industry certifications. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in account services, digital media, content development, and strategic communications.
- Bachelor of Arts degree offered
- On-campus with some online classes
- Industry-focused curriculum
- Real-world project experience
- Digital media skills emphasized
- Professional events integration
- Advertising ethics certification
- Nine career opportunity areas
- Strategic team player development
Bachelor's - Social Media Marketing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lindenwood University's Social Media Marketing Bachelor of Science provides a comprehensive pathway into digital content strategy, equipping students with cutting-edge skills in content creation, audience analysis, and marketing optimization. Students develop robust capabilities in information gathering, data analysis, and strategic communication across digital platforms. The program prepares graduates for dynamic roles in digital marketing, focusing on crafting compelling social media campaigns and understanding audience engagement metrics. With a curriculum designed around real-world applications, students learn to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape, making them highly competitive in today's job market.
- Bachelor of Science degree
- On-campus and online formats
- Digital content strategy focus
- Real-world marketing skills
- Data analysis techniques
- Audience targeting expertise
- Hybrid learning environment
- Professional faculty backgrounds
Bachelor's - Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lindenwood University's Communications degree provides comprehensive training in modern media landscape, equipping students with critical skills in digital content creation, strategic communication, and professional writing. The program covers essential areas like web page development, video editing, reporting, and public speaking. Students gain versatile skills applicable to marketing, public relations, publishing, and social media careers. Graduates develop strong critical thinking and interpersonal communication abilities, preparing them for dynamic professional environments across various communication sectors.
- Bachelor's in Communications offered
- Online degree program available
- Covers digital media skills
- Strategic communication focus
- Professional writing training
- Versatile career preparation
- Nearly 200 years academic history
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 offers a versatile Bachelor of Arts in Communication that prepares students for diverse career paths across multiple industries. This comprehensive degree equips students with critical skills in digital content creation, strategic messaging, and interpersonal communication. Graduates gain practical experience through real-world projects, internships, and specialized emphases in areas like Applied Visual Communication and Strategic Communication. With flexible online and on-campus options, affordable tuition, and potential scholarship opportunities, this program provides an accessible pathway to a dynamic communication career.
- 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
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts in Communication that prepares students for diverse career paths in media, marketing, and beyond. Students develop critical skills in content creation, strategic communication, and digital media adaptation. The flexible program allows specialization in areas like Applied Visual Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Mass Communication, and Strategic Communication. With both online and on-campus options, the degree provides affordable, comprehensive training that equips graduates for roles in public relations, journalism, marketing, and corporate communications.
- 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 a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Communication that equips students with versatile skills for today's dynamic media landscape. Students can specialize in four distinct areas: Applied Visual Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Mass Communication, or Strategic Communication. The flexible, affordable program provides both online and on-campus learning options, enabling students to develop high-quality content creation, strategic communication, and interpersonal skills. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in marketing, public relations, media, and beyond, with potential median annual salaries around $66,750 and promising job growth projections.
- 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
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts in Communication that equips students with versatile skills for today's digital landscape. Designed for flexibility, the program allows students to specialize in areas like Applied Visual Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Mass Communication, or Strategic Communication. With both online and on-campus options, students can develop high-quality content creation abilities, craft compelling communication strategies, and gain real-world experience through internships and practical coursework. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in marketing, media, public relations, and beyond, with opportunities for competitive salaries and career growth.
- 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 offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Communication that prepares students for diverse career paths in media, marketing, and public relations. Students develop critical skills in content creation, strategic communication, and digital media adaptation. The flexible program can be completed online or on-campus, with affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities. Students can specialize in areas like Applied Visual Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Mass Communication, or Strategic Communication, gaining practical experience through internships and capstone projects.
- 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
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock your potential with Arkansas State University's online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. This versatile degree equips you with critical communication skills employers desperately seek, preparing you for diverse career paths across multiple industries. With a comprehensive curriculum covering interpersonal, organizational, and electronic communication strategies, you'll develop research-based understanding and practical applications. The program offers flexibility with 120 total credit hours, per-credit tuition of $282, and the ability to transfer up to 90 credits. Ideal for working professionals and career changers, this degree opens doors to roles in media, marketing, public relations, and beyond.
- 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 offers a comprehensive program that prepares students for dynamic careers in digital communications. Students master multimedia platforms, develop strategic messaging skills, and gain industry-recognized certifications in Google Analytics and Hootsuite. The affordable, career-focused degree provides flexible online learning with a per-credit tuition of $282, transferable credits up to 90 hours, and a total program requirement of 120 credit hours. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA for transfer students or specific 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 flexible pathway for working professionals to advance their careers. This multidisciplinary degree prepares students for diverse communication roles like public relations, marketing, and media management. Students can craft a customized curriculum that includes in-depth communications coursework, developing critical interpersonal and strategic messaging skills. With potential median salaries ranging from $67,440 for entry-level positions to $129,430 for public relations managers, this program provides a strategic opportunity for career growth and professional 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 with PR and Advertising Certificate equips students with critical communication skills essential in today's digital landscape. The 120-credit hour program focuses on developing strategic messaging techniques across various platforms, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in advertising, public relations, and media management. Students gain practical expertise in digital and social media communication, earning a HubSpot content marketing certification. With affordable tuition at $282 per credit hour and the flexibility of 100% online learning, this program offers an accessible pathway to professional growth. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and completion of 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
- Ranked #4 in Arkansas communication programs
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock your potential in the dynamic world of digital communication with Arkansas State University's Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with Social Media Management Certification. This comprehensive online program equips students with cutting-edge skills in social media strategy, content creation, and digital marketing. Designed for career-driven individuals, the degree prepares graduates for roles in social media management, marketing, and communications. Students gain practical experience through industry-relevant coursework, earning valuable Google Analytics and Hootsuite certifications. With an affordable per-credit tuition of $282 and the flexibility to transfer up to 90 credits, this program offers an accessible pathway to professional success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
- 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 Concentration in Social Media offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for dynamic digital careers. This innovative degree combines practical design and coding skills with strategic social media insights, equipping graduates to excel in today's competitive digital landscape. Students learn multimedia production, user experience design, web development, and social media management at an affordable tuition rate of $282 per credit hour. With a flexible online format and 120 total credit hours, the program welcomes transfer students and provides pathways to careers in digital strategy, app development, and communication technologies.
- 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
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 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 in communication degrees. 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 important factor for many students is the program cost. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost 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. Obviously, tuition costs can vary widely from school to school. In addition to school type, other factors that can influence program costs are a school's geographic location, reputation, a student's 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 program or an on-campus program, make sure to 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 as well as 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 an internship in their chosen field. For example, Montana State University in Billings' online B.S. in Public Relations program makes sure to provide students with internship opportunities throughout their course of study. This real-life experience in the communication industry can go a long way toward helping recent graduates find full-time employment.
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.