A degree in communication provides varied foundational skills and prepares individuals for numerous career opportunities and educational pursuits. With the right degree program, students can customize their learning experience to suit their professional goals while developing a well-rounded skill set and specialized knowledge.
Students in the William Paterson University (WP) online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication program choose four elective courses to tailor their degree to their interests. The elective courses cover organizational communication, interpersonal communication, business and professional communication, podcasting, journalism and reporting, public relations, and digital and social media communication. This article explores the value of a B.A. in Communication from WP and the perks of this degree’s customizable structure.
What Can You Do With a Communication Degree?
A communication degree can lead to a variety of career options such as roles in public relations, marketing, journalism, corporate communication and social media management. Graduates are well-prepared to enter dynamic roles that require strong communication skills, strategic thinking and the ability to convey information effectively to diverse audiences.
An Indeed career guide notes that a communications degree provides a broad skill set that applies to many roles. A degree in communication develops students’ soft skills that can transfer to various careers. A communication degree also develops hard skills, such as proficiency in video editing or graphic design software. Other skills gained by pursuing a degree in communications are those in written and verbal communication, critical thinking, interpersonal relations, time management, crisis management, attention to detail, research, teamwork, public speaking and design.
Customizing the Degree: Elective Courses at William Paterson University
One of the key benefits of WP’s online B.A. in Communication program is the ability to personalize the degree. Here’s a closer look at some of the elective courses available:
- Organizational Communication. According to Indeed, organizational communication focuses on the flow of information within organizations. Students learn about internal communication strategies, leadership communication and managing organizational change. This knowledge is vital for corporate communication, human resources and management roles.
- Interpersonal Communication. Interpersonal communication delves into the nuances of one-on-one interactions. Topics include conflict resolution, nonverbal communication and relationship building. These skills are critical for establishing and maintaining personal and professional relationships.
- Successful Business & Professional Communication. This course covers communication in professional settings including public speaking, business writing and professional etiquette. Students gain skills in creating presentations, conducting meetings and crafting business documents — which are crucial for business administration, sales and marketing careers.
- Podcasting I. Podcasting explores the production and dissemination of audio content. Students learn about audio storytelling, editing and distribution platforms. This elective is ideal for those interested in media production, journalism and digital content creation. PR firm Curator discusses how podcasting has become a powerful tool for engaging audiences and sharing information easily.
- Journalism. Journalism and reporting focus on news writing, investigative reporting and media ethics. Students develop research, interviewing and writing skills for various media outlets. This course is perfect for aspiring journalists, editors and content creators. Indeed explains that a career in journalism requires strong writing and investigative skills, as well as ethical judgment.
- Public Relations. Public relations involves managing an organization’s public image and communications strategy. Topics include media relations, crisis communication and campaign planning. These skills are critical for careers in PR agencies, corporate communication and nonprofit organizations. Investopedia emphasizes that public relations is about building and maintaining a positive public image for organizations.
- Digital & Social Media Communication. This course examines the impact of digital and social media on communication. Students learn about social media strategies, content creation and analytics. Knowledge in this area is essential for roles in social media management, digital marketing and online community engagement. Forbes highlights that social media creates long-lasting digital connections and engages with audiences.
WP’s online B.A. in Communication program offers a versatile and customizable education that prepares students for various careers. Students can tailor their degree to fit their career aspirations by choosing elective courses that align with their interests. Whether you are drawn to organizational communication, interpersonal communication, business and professional communication, podcasting, journalism, public relations, or digital and social media communication, WP’s program provides the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the dynamic field of communication.
Learn more about WP’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program.
