Credits required
18
Cost per-credit*
$288.50
Delivery
Online
Online Communication Studies Minor
Enhance your degree with essential communication skills
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The Online Communication Studies Minor from the University of Nevada, Reno, offers students a flexible, 18-credit program that complements any undergraduate major. Grounded in the study of communication, this minor equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed across industries and roles that require clear, ethical and strategic communication.
Whether your career goals include business, health services, education, public advocacy or nonprofit leadership, this minor in communication studies provides a competitive advantage. Students explore interpersonal, organizational and intercultural communication while developing skills in public speaking and message analysis.
*Program tuition. Base in-state tuition cost. Does not include student fees. Please note everyone's net tuition costs are specific to their own situation and will be different for each person. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Program Overview
The communication studies minor is offered through the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Nevada, Reno and is available to undergraduate students across many majors except communication studies. It is designed to be completed alongside a bachelor’s degree and provides immediate value through skills that enhance written, oral and digital communication in academic and professional contexts.
No prerequisites are required for the required courses, and the minor is open to students who wish to broaden their skillset with communication training.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fees | Additional fees apply |
| Course Length | 12-16 week terms |
| Completion Timeline | Typically, 6 to 12 months |
| Transfer Credits | Up to 9 credits may apply |
| GPA Requirement | 2.0 |
| Grade Requirement | C or higher in all minor courses |
What You’ll Learn
Students in the online communication studies minor develop strong, adaptable communication skills supported by theory, critical thinking, and applied practice. The curriculum emphasizes the foundations of communication across public, interpersonal and organizational settings.
Upon completion, students will be able to:
- Communicate effectively across interpersonal and professional contexts
- Apply foundational theories in human and organizational communication
- Analyze audience needs and adapt messaging accordingly
- Understand the role of communication in identity, culture, and leadership
- Engage ethically and persuasively in both oral and written communication
Courses include core requirements and electives focused on interpersonal communication, nonverbal messaging, intercultural dialogue, group dynamics and communication research.
Program Requirements
To complete the minor, students must fulfill the following:
| Requirement | Details |
| Core Coursework | 9 credits (lower-division required courses) |
| Upper-Division Electives | 9 credits (at least one 400-level course) |
| Grade Minimum | C or higher in all courses |
| Total Credits | 18 credits |
All courses must be selected from the approved list of communication studies courses published in the university catalog. Students are encouraged to work with an academic advisor to choose courses aligned with their career and academic goals.
Who Should Consider This Minor
The communication studies minor is ideal for undergraduate students seeking to:
- Complement their major with communication training
- Prepare for leadership roles in nonprofit, corporate, or public service sectors
- Strengthen interpersonal, public speaking and writing skills
- Build confidence in digital and intercultural communication
- Pursue graduate study in law, education, or business
Students in business, education, health sciences, psychology and liberal arts fields frequently add this minor to enhance their marketability and professional readiness.
Career Relevance
Effective communication is one of the most sought-after competencies in the workplace. Communication is central to professional success, whether presenting ideas, managing conflict, or leading a team.
Graduates with communication training pursue careers in human resources, nonprofit communications, education, community relations, advocacy and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication roles are projected to grow 14% through 2032—faster than the average for all occupations. View BLS Data
This minor supports long-term success by helping students develop transferable skills that enhance any undergraduate degree.
Student Experience and Online Support
All courses are delivered in Canvas through an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule. Department of Communication Studies faculty guides students through interactive lessons, group discussions and skill-based assignments designed for academic and practical success.
Students also benefit from:
- Personalized academic advising
- Technical support for online platforms
- Career development resources
- Optional access to discounted Adobe Creative Cloud licenses for personal use (available free on-campus computers)
No campus visits or internships are required to complete the program.
Build Confidence in Every Conversation
The Online Communication Studies Minor is your opportunity to sharpen your communication skills, enhance your degree and prepare for a career grounded in clarity, ethics and leadership. With flexible scheduling and 100% online delivery, Nevada Online helps you earn a respected academic credential that works for your life and goals.
Why choose Nevada Online for your Communication Studies Minor?
The Department of Communication Studies and Nevada Online offer an 18-credit online Communication Studies Minor for all majors, developing skills in public speaking, interpersonal communication and theory. The curriculum includes rhetoric, argumentation, intercultural communication and organizational behavior, preparing students for leadership and diverse careers.
Benefits of Learning Online with Nevada Online
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