American University United States

BA in Communication, Language, and Culture

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The BA in Communication, Language, and Culture at American University is designed for students eager to understand the intricate ways humans communicate across diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes. You will explore the power of language in shaping societies, analyse media representations, and delve into intercultural communication dynamics. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in communication theory, linguistic analysis, and cultural studies, preparing you to navigate and contribute to our increasingly interconnected world.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, allowing you to specialise in areas like Broadcast Journalism, Communication Studies, Film and Media Arts, or Public Relations & Strategic Communication, alongside a chosen language track such as Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Russian, or Spanish. You will engage with practical skills through coursework in digital media, reporting, and strategic campaign development, culminating in a capstone project or internship. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, ready for careers in global media, international relations, marketing, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA in Communication, Language, and Culture program offers a comprehensive exploration of how humans communicate across diverse cultural contexts. Students will engage with foundational concepts in media and communication, delve into the complexities of contemporary global cultures, and examine the intricate relationship between language, culture, and power. The curriculum provides specialized tracks in language acquisition, communication studies, film and media arts, and journalism, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests and career goals.

1 Foundation (3 credit hours)

Understanding Media

2 Contemporary Culture (6 credit hours)

Culture and Power
Culture, History, Power, Place
African Literature
African-American Literature
Asian American Literature
Literature, Film and Globalization
Literatures of the Global South
Power, Discourse, and Popular Culture
Topics in World Literature
Topics in Cultural Studies
Advanced Studies in Contemporary Literature
Advanced Studies in World Literature
Intercultural Communication
Civilizations of Africa
Contemporary Latin America
Contemporary Middle East
Contemporary Russia
The World of Islam
Contemporary Africa
Language, Culture, Power

3 Linguistics (3 credit hours)

Language and Human Experience
Language and Culture
Language, Culture, Power
Principles of Linguistics
English Language Teaching I

4 Language Track (18 credit hours)

Advanced Arabic I
Advanced Arabic II
Introduction to Arabic-Islamic Civilization
Arabic Topics
Advanced Chinese I
Advanced Chinese II
Newspaper and Media Chinese
Chinese Civilization: Tradition and Transformation
Advanced Chinese Topics
Advanced French I
Advanced French II
Civilisation Francaise I
French Topics
French Translation: Concepts and Practice
French Translation Workshop
Business French
German Conversation and Composition I
German Conversation and Composition II
Introduction to German Translation
Business German
Studies in German Film
German Civilization I
German Civilization II
Russian Conversation and Composition I
Russian Conversation and Composition II
Russian Media and Political Translation
Russian Business Translation
Russian Topics
Advanced Spanish I: Spain in Context
Advanced Spanish II: Latin America in Context
Spanish Introductory Topics
Introduction to Latin American Literature
Contemporary Spain: Local, Regional, and Global Perspectives
Spanish Topics
Introduction to Spanish Translation
Advanced Spanish Translation
Introduction to Spanish Linguistics
Colloquium on Latin America

5 Communication Track (27 credit hours)

Writing for Communication
Quantitative Methods for Journalists
Digital Skills
Reporting
Communication Law
Journalism Ethics
Advanced Broadcast Production
Digital Audio and Podcast Production
Backpack Video Journalism
Journalism Capstone
Writing for Communication
Digital Skills
Decisive Moments in Communication
Digital Media and Culture
Introduction to Communication Research Methods
Senior Research Capstone Seminar
Visual Literacy
Communication Field Experience
History of Documentary
Data-Driven Journalism
Censorship and Media

6 Film and Media Arts

Visual Literacy
Survey of International Cinema
Digital Imaging
Writing for Visual Media
Principles of Photography
Film and Video Production I
Advanced Portfolio: Visual Media
Advanced Portfolio: Large Format and Commercial Photography

7 Journalism

Writing for Communication
Quantitative Methods for Journalists
Digital Skills
Reporting
Communication Law
Journalism Ethics
Advanced Reporting
Journalism Capstone

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 241,080.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesData Science & AnalyticsGaming & Interactive MediaInsurance & Risk ManagementMuseums & Cultural HeritagePrivate Equity & Venture CapitalProduct Management & UXTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Actors' Equity Association

Booz Allen Hamilton

Smithsonian Institution

Why Study BA in Communication, Language, and Culture at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

American University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at American University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA in Communication, Language, and Culture at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs do not require separate work permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test scores, including a Duolingo overall score of 120 or TOEFL overall score of 85. Other accepted tests include IELTS and PTE, with their own score requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Communication Specialists, Public Relations Officers, Media Analysts, Marketing Coordinators, or Film and Media Producers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers communication theory, linguistic analysis, and intercultural communication dynamics. You'll also have the opportunity to specialise in areas like Broadcast Journalism and Public Relations.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA in Communication, Language, and Culture accepts students in January and August. You can choose to start your studies at either of these times.
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