Online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

Build strong communication skills for real-world impact

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Credits required

120

Cost per-credit*

$281

Delivery

Online

Start terms

3 per year

Why choose the online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies at the University?

The online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from the University of Nevada, Reno equips students with the tools to navigate today’s complex communication landscape. Whether you aim to pursue a career in public relations, organizational communication or digital media, this fully online program prepares you to lead through connection, clarity and critical thinking.

This online degree program is designed for working professionals, transfer students and adult learners who seek the flexibility of asynchronous learning combined with the quality and rigor of a top public research university. Students build a foundation in communication theory and develop practical skills in interpersonal communication, media literacy, public speaking and digital communication.

Enrollment deadlines

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Program overview

Offered through the College of Liberal Arts, this communication degree online combines academic excellence with real-world application. The program is structured to support both first-time college students and those completing a degree in communication after transferring prior credits.

  • Program format: 100% online, asynchronous
  • Credits required: 120 (up to 90 transfer credits accepted)
  • Tuition: $288.50 per credit
  • Estimated tuition: $34,620 (tuition only)
  • Fees: Additional $1,200–$2,500 per year (approx.)
  • Course format: 12-16-week terms
  • Start dates: Three per year
  • Accreditation: NWCCU accredited
  • Internship/practicum: Optional, not required

Students complete a final capstone project that integrates communication theory and practice, addressing real challenges faced by Nevada-based organizations.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the program are prepared for roles that demand strong communication skills across sectors including public relations, social media, nonprofit communications, corporate training and advocacy.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth in media and communication occupations through 2033, driven by demand for professionals who can communicate clearly in a variety of formats and across audiences. View BLS data.

Common career pathways for communication graduates include:

  • Public relations
  • Social media management
  • Community relations
  • Corporate communications
  • Organizational training and development

While job titles and salaries vary by region and experience, the skills gained from a bachelor's degree in communication provide a competitive edge in today’s interconnected business and media landscape.

Job market outlook

While job titles and salaries vary by region and experience, the skills gained from a bachelor's degree in communication provide a competitive edge in today's interconnected business and media landscape.

Top Company Postings
Company Total Postings (Sep 2023 - Sep 2024) Unique Postings (Sep 2023 - Sep 2024) Median Posting Duration
Amazon 4,516 2,080 28 days
Google 4,098 727 29 days
Meta 2,188 624 30 days
Ford 420 379 16 days
Tiktok 1,014 377 42 days
Intuit 1,091 305 26 days
Microsoft 1,663 265 25 days

Statistics provided for the region including: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

Powered by Lightcast logo, a labor market analytics company

Program overview

Nevada Online offers a streamlined application process designed for flexibility and accessibility.

Admission requirements

To enroll in the online Bachelor of Arts in Communication studies, students must meet minimum GPA requirements.

Current undergraduate students: 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA

Transfer students: 2.5 GPA and at least 12 transferable credits

Application materials: Resume, unofficial transcripts and a 300-word goal statement

Test scores: SAT/ACT not required

Application timeline: Rolling admissions; apply year-round 

Admissions staff are available to assist with transfer credit evaluation and personalized degree planning.

What you'll learn

This online communication studies program explores how people interact, influence, and build meaning through spoken, written, and digital communication. The curriculum emphasizes adaptability across diverse contexts—interpersonal, organizational, intercultural and mediated communication.

  • Public Speaking, Argumentation, Communication Theory, Communication Research
  • Intercultural Communication, Nonverbal Communication, Conflict Resolution
  • Virtual Teams, Media and Public Discourse, Digital Literacy
  • Gender and Communication, Health Communication, Communication and Technology
  • Applied project-solving organizational challenges through strategic communication

Students graduate with the skills and knowledge to develop effective communication strategies, manage teams, deliver presentations and interpret communication across cultures and platforms.

Curriculum: Build on your communication experience

Graduates of the program are prepared for roles that demand strong communication skills across sectors including public relations, social media, nonprofit communications, corporate training and advocacy.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth in media and communication occupations through 2033, driven by demand for professionals who can communicate clearly in a variety of formats and across audiences.

Curriculum highlights:

  • Public relations
  • Social media management
  • Community relations
  • Corporate communications
  • Organizational training and development

Student support and online resources

Online students have access to the same support systems as on-campus students, including:

✓ Dedicated academic advisors

✓ 24/7 access to online learning tools

✓ Career development services and resume support

✓ Technical support for online platforms

✓ Faculty feedback and peer collaboration through Canvas and Zoom

Accreditation and University excellence

The University of Nevada, Reno is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The College of Liberal Arts, which houses the Department of Communication Studies, ensures that this online communication degree program maintains high standards in curriculum design, instruction and student outcomes.

Earn your communication degree online

Whether you are completing your degree, changing career paths or strengthening your skills, the online Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Nevada Online prepares you to succeed in the modern communication landscape. With flexible learning, dedicated faculty and real-world applications, this program helps you develop the strong communication skills needed to lead and thrive.

Why choose Nevada Online for your Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies?

Nevada Online offers a flexible, asynchronous BA in Communication Studies with multiple start dates. The program develops strong communication skills for careers and graduate studies, covering theory, public speaking and digital communication. Up to 90 transfer credits are accepted and a capstone is required. Career paths include PR, corporate communications and social media. Affordable tuition, financial aid and support services are available.

Classes taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty

Access to a Carnegie® R1 research university

Choose from accessible, fully online programs

Continue your education from anywhere in the world, free from a fixed schedule

Frequently asked questions