View a complete list of program courses, major requirements, and more.
This program requires 120 total credits.
Majoring in another subject? You can pair a 15-credit minor in communication studies with another major at UMGC.
In today’s interconnected world, strong communication skills are more important than ever. That’s why employers are constantly searching for working adults who know how to communicate in a variety of professional contexts. Our program directors refresh and update the curriculum regularly, with a focus on helping students achieve the following:
This program is designed to help prepare you for careers in a number of professional contexts, including in mass media, journalism, public relations, business, and corporate communication. The skills that you’ll learn in this program may be transferrable to multiple industries and potential job titles that include public affairs specialist, copy editor, SEO analyst, technical writer, and creative director.
Throughout your curriculum, your instructors will assign hands-on coursework that may help you prioritize real-world skills and experience. Coursework may help students gain experience with new media tools, problem-solving skills, public communication, interpersonal communication, and more skills expected with a communication degree. In past courses, students have been able to complete the following course projects:
Get answers to questions that current and prospective students are asking about program admission, credibility, student organizations, and more.
An online bachelor’s degree in communication can help students build a firm knowledge base and prepare for a career in communications in a wide variety of sectors. This 120-credit program was designed with input from employers, industry experts, and scholars and combines theories with real-world applications and practical skills. Whether you’re interested in journalism, public relations, business, or digital communication, this program may be the right fit for you.
In this 120-credit degree program, courses are offered year-round. The time it will take you to complete your degree will depend on several factors, including your goals, how many transfer credits you have, your course load each semester, and whether you are able to benefit from one or more of our fast paths to credit, including credit for prior learning and credit for military education and training.
Tuition rates for this program are very competitive and appear at the top of this page. We offer a low in-state rate for Maryland residents and a reduced tuition rate for military service members and their spouses and dependent children. We also offer scholarships for those who qualify, an interest-free monthly payment plan, and no-cost digital materials in place of most textbooks to help make online bachelor's degrees even more affordable.
You do not need any background or experience in communications to apply for and graduate with an online bachelor’s degree in communication. As long as you meet our undergraduate admission requirements, you can enroll in this program.
You do not need any prior certifications to enroll in or complete this program.
The Communication Student Association hosts several activities that provide students with information to guide them toward working in communication-related professions. It is available to graduate or undergraduate students, alumni, staff, and faculty members. Students and alumni can join the Communication Student Association group on CareerQuest.
