In this program, courses focus on how communication shapes relationships within organizations, communities and society. You’ll engage with faculty whose expertise spans interpersonal and intercultural communication, organizational communication, rhetorical studies, performance studies and health communication.
The curriculum blends liberal arts and social sciences to prepare you for roles in various fields. Upon graduating, you can use your ability to analyze and interpret communication patterns to drive meaningful change in business, international relations, nonprofit organizations, social services, human resources, advertising and more. Beyond the workplace, you’ll also be equipped to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively in personal contexts.
The skills you’ll develop as a communication major
This humanities-centered communication degree will transform your understanding of complex human interaction into practical applications. Ideal for problem-solvers, you’ll learn how to address communication challenges in various contexts. You’ll also expand your qualitative research skills using interviews, focus groups and ethnography to analyze and interpret data.
Additionally, you should expect to develop management skills in group communication, conflict resolution and leadership development. Graduates are equipped to convey information across diverse cultures and contexts, tailor strategies for different audiences and present confidently. Participating in experiential learning opportunities such as internships and research allows you to apply these skills in real-world settings.
How our BA and BS in communication compare to each other
Our BA and BS in communication foster global awareness while building skills in interpersonal communication, data analysis and critical thinking. However, there are key differences. The BS emphasizes using quantitative research methods such as surveys, data visualization and other tools to tell compelling stories through data. You’ll also complete a science and society elective.
In comparison, this BA takes a humanistic approach, exploring communication in culture and society. You’ll develop expertise in synthesizing qualitative research and engaging with diverse audiences. Additionally, the two-year foreign language requirement will enhance your global communication skills and increase your marketability for roles in the U.S. and abroad.
Both programs offer the opportunity to participate in our Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:
Are you curious about how people communicate, collaborate and interact in social and professional settings? Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in communication online may be your ideal fit. This program delves into the humanities side of communication and emphasizes qualitative research. You’ll learn to analyze complex communication issues, evaluate messages and develop solutions — skills highly sought across industries.
Your coursework will address topics within two focus areas:
- Communication and healthy relating: Courses demonstrate how communication creates, maintains and transforms nourishing relationships.
- Workplace, organizational and leadership communication: You’ll learn how communication and leadership build effective, just and responsive workplaces.
Additional topics may include interpersonal and intercultural communication, conflict and negotiation, gender and communication and civil communication. To culminate the program, you’ll complete a research project using qualitative methods.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”