Communication

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at North Carolina State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the dynamic field of communication. This degree program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, effective writing, oral communication, and digital media skills essential for understanding and manipulating the complex media landscape of today’s world. Throughout the program, students gain a solid foundation in communication theories, research methods, and the ethical considerations that underpin responsible media practices. The curriculum offers a balanced mix of core courses, electives, and practical experiences, allowing students to customize their education to align with their career interests, whether in journalism, public relations, advertising, media production, or corporate communication.

Students enrolled in the Communication program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including multimedia labs and broadcasting technology, which facilitate hands-on learning and real-world skill development. The program also encourages internships and cooperative education opportunities with local media outlets, businesses, and nonprofit organizations, bridging the gap between academic concepts and industry practices. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Graduates of the Communication program at NC State are well-equipped to pursue careers in media organizations, government agencies, corporations, non-profit institutions, and entrepreneurship. Alternatively, they may choose to continue their education through graduate programs in communication, media studies, or related fields. The program aims to produce versatile communicators capable of adapting to fast-changing media environments and contributing ethically andinnovatively in their chosen professions. With a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community engagement, NC State’s Communication degree prepares students to become informed, effective, and responsible communicators in a global society.

Bachelor of Arts students have the opportunity to gain expertise in the following six curriculum areas:

1. Communication As a Field
   Communication as a phenomenon, as an academic discipline, as a system of processes and practices,and as a profession. Students should be able to describe and explain why people study communication,types of communication processes, and careers in communication.
2. Theory  
   Theoretical analysis of communication processes and practices. Students should be able to use a variety of communication and other disciplinary theories to describe, explain, and predict communication processes and outcomes in a variety of contexts.
3. Research Methods
   Research methods as they relate to and inform communication processes and practices. Students should be able to identify, describe, and explain research methods used by communication scholars and professionals and use some of these methods to produce independent research and generate knowledge.
4. Diversity and Globalization
   Multiple cultural contexts and global processes and their implications for communication processes and practices. Students should be able to articulate the challenges and opportunities inherent in communication with diverse global participants and audiences.
5. Ethics
   Critical thinking about ethical problems in communication. Students should be able to apply their understanding of ethical responsibility in interpersonal, group, organizational, public, and mediated contexts.
6. Communication Competencies 
   Targeted communication skill areas and competencies. Students should be able to use the theories, methods, analytical tools, and skills from their coursework  across a variety of contexts.

Program Requirements: Communication at North Carolina State University encompasses a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective communication in diverse contexts. The undergraduate program typically requires completion of core courses such as Introduction to Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Media and Society, and Public Speaking. Students must also select from a variety of electives that may include Strategic Communication, Organizational Communication, Health Communication, and Digital Media. To ensure a well-rounded education, students often engage in hands-on projects, internships, or research opportunities facilitated by faculty experts. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and technological proficiency. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in student organizations, communication labs, and workshops to enhance professional development. Graduate requirements usually involve advanced coursework in areas like Communication Theory, Research Methods, Media Law and Ethics, and Specialized Topics in Communication. Master's students are typically expected to complete a thesis or comprehensive examination to demonstrate mastery of the field. Throughout their studies, students are advised to develop strong written, oral, and visual communication skills, applicable to corporate, non-profit, governmental, and media industries. The university’s program also promotes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to combine communication with fields such as political science, marketing, or computer science, thereby broadening employment prospects. Students planning for careers in media production, corporate communication, public relations, or academia should fulfill specific course and internship requirements detailed in their program plan. Accreditation details and additional institutional requirements can be obtained directly from North Carolina State University’s Department of Communication.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Communication degree program at North Carolina State University offers a variety of financial aid options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students may be eligible for federal and state grants, such as the Federal Pell Grant and the North Carolina Need-Based Grant, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of tuition and related expenses. In addition to grants, students can apply for federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, which enable them to finance their education with manageable repayment plans after graduation. The university also provides scholarship opportunities specific to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, which encompasses the Communication program. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need, and they help to offset the cost of tuition, books, and living expenses.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for various financial aid packages. NC State University also offers work-study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities on campus, allowing students to earn money while gaining valuable work experience related to their field of study. Additionally, many students seek external scholarships from private organizations, foundations, and industry associations, which can provide supplementary funding to support their educational pursuits.

Graduate students in the Communication program can access teaching and research assistantships, which often include stipends and tuition waivers, reducing the overall cost of their education. Tuition rates at NC State are competitive and vary depending on residency status and program level. The university provides detailed tuition estimates and financial planning resources to help students budget effectively.

Overall, the Communication program’s financing options at North Carolina State University aim to make higher education accessible and affordable through a comprehensive system of financial aid, scholarships, and employment opportunities. Students are advised to explore all available resources early in their academic planning to maximize their financial assistance.

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles and practices of communication across various contexts. Designed to prepare students for diverse careers in media, public relations, advertising, corporate communication, and related fields, the program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Students engage with courses that cover areas such as interpersonal communication, organizational communication, mass communication, media studies, and digital communication technologies. The curriculum aims to develop critical thinking, effective writing, verbal communication skills, and an understanding of how information is created, disseminated, and received in different societal settings.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities for hands-on learning, including internships, projects with industry partners, and participation in student organizations related to communication fields. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge from psychology, sociology, and technology to better understand the complex landscape of modern communication. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and supporting their academic and career goals. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in media production, corporate communication, public relations, advertising, digital content creation, and further graduate study in communication or related disciplines. The program benefits from North Carolina State University’s strong connections to media industries and corporate sectors, providing students with valuable networking opportunities. Overall, the Communication program at NC State emphasizes critical analysis, ethical considerations, and innovative use of communication tools, preparing graduates to excel in a rapidly evolving communication environment.