Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees

Communications professionals are needed in virtually every industry to effectively inform and persuade the public. A communications degree allows you to pursue roles in fields such as media, marketing, or public relations.

While a degree in communications can be useful for many different career paths, educational expenses can be daunting. Luckily, there are many affordable online communications degree programs you can pursue.

This guide will outline the most affordable online communications degrees and factors to consider when choosing a degree program.

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

An online bachelor’s degree in communication trains you to critically analyze information and communicate clearly and effectively. Coursework emphasizes skills like critical thinking, writing, and research.

During a communication degree, you study journalism, writing tactics, mass communication and media, public relations, investigative reports, and press releases. In addition to strengthening your writing abilities, you also polish your public speaking skills.

With a communications degree, you can pursue careers in business, the nonprofit sector, media, and politics. Common jobs for communication majors include public relations specialist, journalist, and writer.

When researching the best communication schools offering online degrees, you must consider several factors. In addition to price, you should look into program requirements and distance learning delivery methods.

Some programs incorporate internship requirements to help you apply your knowledge in professional settings. Other programs may require an applied project to demonstrate your understanding of the course materials. Every program is different, so be sure to check the degree requirements.

Many schools offer flexible online communications programs. Asynchronous programs allow you to complete coursework around other responsibilities. An online format also means you can attend the best programs without relocating. However, some programs may require a few on-campus visits.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree is approximately $9,375 at a public university for in-state students, $27,091 for out-of-state students, and $32,825 at a private university.

Note that total costs for in-person college are typically higher considering room and board for students. However, pursuing a degree online can help you save money by reducing these expenses, allowing you to avoid lodging and travel costs. Many online students are also able to continue working while they study.

Earning a bachelor’s in communication generally takes four years for full-time students. Many programs allow you to shape your degree around your interests and career goals.

Some communication programs allow you to pursue a concentration or area of emphasis. For example, if you are interested in reporting, you may be able to choose a journalism concentration. Many programs also offer electives, which allow you to acquire specialty skills without committing to a full concentration.

Communication graduates have many options when it comes to building a career. For example, you can pursue opportunities in public relations, advertising, and marketing. Or, you can seek employment as a journalist, translator, writer, or editor.

Many of these career paths are in high demand and offer above-average salaries. In addition to the following communication careers, you can also pursue opportunities in business, politics, government, and tech.

Overall employment in communications is expected to grow similar to the national average in job growth. Public relations specialists are expected to see higher than average job growth, at 6%.

The median salary among all communication professionals is $66,320 (BLS), higher than the national median salary for all occupations.