American University United States

Communication Studies (BA)

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 Communication Studies (BA) at American University offers you a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic intersection of communication, culture, policy, and technology. This program is ideal for students eager to understand how media shapes society, politics, and digital culture, preparing you for a world where effective communication is paramount. By leveraging the rich resources of Washington, DC, you will gain practical skills in areas like digital media, strategic communication, and research methods, grounded in scholarly analysis of contemporary issues. You will be immersed in a liberal arts environment that fosters critical thinking and analytical abilities.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over four years, providing a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. You will engage with core subjects such as Understanding Media, Writing for Communication, and Digital Skills, alongside electives in Media Studies and practical experience through internships like the Communication Careers Internship. Your academic journey culminates in a Senior Research Capstone Seminar, where you will apply your learning to a significant research project. You will graduate with a Bachelors Degree, prepared for diverse career paths in fields like public relations, digital marketing, journalism, and policy analysis.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Communication Studies BA program provides a comprehensive foundation in communication theory and practice. Students will explore core concepts in media, digital skills, and research methods, alongside developing essential communication proficiencies. The curriculum further allows for specialization in media studies, offering diverse perspectives on cinema, culture, and societal influences, culminating in a capstone research seminar.

1 Core (18 credit hours)

Understanding Media
Writing for Communication
Digital Skills
Decisive Moments in Communication
Digital Media and Culture
Introduction to Communication Research Methods

2 Skills (6 credit hours)

Visual Literacy
Quantitative Methods for Journalists
Writing for Visual Media
Communication Field Experience
Principles of Photography
Communication Careers Internship
Data-Driven Journalism
Multicultural Strategic Communication Campaigns
Senior Professional Internship
Social Marketing for Social Impact
Communication and Social Change

3 Media Studies (12 credit hours)

Survey of International Cinema
Communication and Society
History of Documentary
History of Cross-Cultural Cinema
Children, Youth, and Digital Culture
Political Communication
Foreign Policy and the Press
Communication, Copyright and Culture
Musical Cultures and Industries
Independent Study Project in Communication
Censorship and Media

4 Capstone (3 credit hours)

Senior Research Capstone Seminar

5 Related Requirements

6 United States History

History of American Popular Culture
American Encounters: 1492-1865
African American History: to 1877
African American History: 1877 to Present
Ethnicity in America
Social Forces that Shaped America
Women in America to 1850
Women in America since 1850
The West in Crisis, 1900-1945
Oliver Stone’s America

7 Economics

Macroeconomics
The Global Majority
Microeconomics
Fundamentals of Marketing and Business for Communications

8 Outside Minor or Second Major

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 ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsEmployment & Labor LawFamily & Civil LawInternational & Human Rights LawLive Events & ConcertsMuseums & Cultural HeritageReal Estate & Property LawSports & AthleticsTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Actors' Equity Association

Why Study Communication Studies (BA) 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 Communication Studies (BA) at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks without special permits. Off-campus work may be allowed after the first year but needs university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, Duolingo scores must be at least 120 overall, and TOEFL scores need to be a minimum of 85 overall. Various other tests like IELTS and PTE have specific score requirements as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers in public relations, digital marketing, journalism, and policy analysis.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program covers essential subjects like Understanding Media and Writing for Communication, equipping students with critical skills in digital media and strategic communication. It's designed to blend theoretical learning with practical experience, including internships.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Communication Studies (BA) program at American University has intake months in January and August. You can apply for either of these start times.
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