Program Overview
Communication, BA
The Bachelor of Arts program in communication focuses on how message processes create, maintain, and transform identities, relationships, workplaces, and communities through a humanistic approach to the art of communication.
Program Description
Students explore many fascinating concepts, such as how messages can optimally advocate for a cause, sports team, or organization; how people can communicate creatively in various settings and styles; how valid messages differ from invalid messages; how and why cultural differences make communication difficult; and why some topics are difficult to discuss and consistently lead to conflict.
At a Glance
- College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe or Online
- Second language requirement: Yes
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
- First required math course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics or any math course that meets the MATH designation
- Math intensity: General
Curriculum
View 2025 - 2026 curriculum. View curriculum archives.
Concurrent Program Options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated Program Options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
- Communication Studies, MA
- Communication, MA
- Public Administration, MPA
Admission Requirements
- General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
- Additional requirements: Students who have attended ASU previously and are returning to the university with transfer credit must have a minimum ASU cumulative GPA of 2.00 in order to be admitted into the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication.
- Transfer admission requirements: Students who are transferring into ASU must meet current university admission requirements.
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major Requirements
Current ASU students who would like to change their major to the BA in communication must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.
Attend Online
ASU Online offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
Global Opportunities
With more than 300 Global Education program options available to them, students may engage in a distinct and exciting opportunity to gain intercultural experience through international programs of study, which they can tailor according to their experience and specific interests and skills.
Career Opportunities
Graduates often attend leading graduate schools in communication, law, or business or find gainful employment in the areas of:
- campaign management
- community leadership
- diplomacy
- event planning
- health care management
- human resource management
- intercultural relations
- nonprofit management
- public relations
- sales
- training and development
Example job titles and salaries:
- Community Health Worker: 11.3% growth, $51,030 median salary
- Corporate Trainer: 10.8% growth, $65,850 median salary
- Event Planner: 4.8% growth, $59,440 median salary
- Human Resources Manager: 5.0% growth, $140,030 median salary
- Medical and Health Services Manager: 23.2% growth, $117,960 median salary
- Public Relations Manager (PR Manager): 5.0% growth, $138,520 median salary
- Public Relations Specialist: 4.8% growth, $69,780 median salary
- Sales Manager: 4.7% growth, $138,060 median salary
- Social Services Director: 6.4% growth, $78,240 median salary
- Travel Agent: 2.2% growth, $48,450 median salary
What are Accelerated Programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree. These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years.
What are Concurrent Programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees, and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are Joint Programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.