2023 Most Affordable Online Communications Degrees

Ohio University - Main Campus (OHIO) is a public institution with a Bachelor of Science in Communication. This online degree requires 120 credit hours, and students can finish it in approximately four years on a full-time schedule.

OHIO Online uses Blackboard's learning management system (LMS) for online coursework, which is asynchronous. The curriculum provides students with an understanding of theory-based communication strategies alongside practical applications. Some core classes include Using Communication Tools, Fundamentals of Public Speaking, and Precision Language for Journalists. Graduates will be eligible for careers in public relations, digital media, editing, and brand strategy.

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public institution with several communication degree options. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication requires 120 credit hours, and students can complete it in as little as two years with relevant transfer credits. This program focuses on the humanities side of communication and teaches qualitative research methods, such as interviewing, focus groups, and ethnography. Conversely, the Bachelor of Science in Communication revolves around crafting strategic messages and solving complex communication issues.

ASU uses Canvas LMS for its online coursework. Required classes for both degrees include Relational Communication and Interpersonal Communication Theory and Research. Graduates may go on to apply for professional roles as compliance managers, freelance writers, or marketing associates. Other online degree options for communication include ASU's Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and Media Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Business – Communication, and Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication.

Columbus State University (CSU) is a public school with an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Students enrolled in the communications track are required to complete 123 credit hours, which can take up to four years on a full-time schedule.

Students at CSU utilize CougarVIEW as their primary LMS, where classes are completed fully online. This communications degree focuses on the theoretical foundations of various forms of communication as well as the concepts and applications used in professional communication careers. Core courses include Communication Theories, Family Communication, and Free Speech and Free Expression. Before graduation, students must complete a senior internship and exit assessment. Career opportunities include communication manager, human resources, and community relations organizer.

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is a public institution offering a Bachelor of General Studies - Business Communication. Since the program requires 120 credit hours, students generally take four years to graduate if they maintain a full-time schedule.

FHSU uses the Blackboard LMS for its flexible, online coursework. The curriculum for this communications degree combines a liberal education with technology, business, and communication studies. Core classes include Global Business Communication, Database Applications, and Professional Development. Graduates of this online program can seek career opportunities in human resources, public relations, and communications management.

Utah Tech University (UT), formerly Dixie State University, is a public institution offering a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies that requires 120 credit hours. It's designed to be completed in four years on a full-time schedule.

At UT Online, students use the Canvas LMS, which allows for fully online coursework. This communications degree program uses both theory and application to guide students' understanding of communication in its various forms, such as written, design, verbal, and oral. Required courses include Critical Thinking and Communication, Small Group Communication, and Ethics in Communication. In order to graduate, students are required to complete a senior capstone project and a communications internship. Career opportunities include marketing planner, public relations specialist, and admissions counselor.

Southern Utah University (SUU) is a public institution. They offer a Bachelor of Science in Communication requiring 120 credit hours. Students can complete the program in around three years on a full-time schedule.

SUU students use Canvas for their 100% online coursework, which can be completed at their own pace. This program teaches students how to create content on digital platforms, develop strategies for public outreach, and effectively manage social media accounts. Core classes include Communication Theory, Research for Communication Careers, and Writing for Communication. Graduates may go on to explore careers as media planners, copywriters, or journalists.

The University of Arkansas (U of A) is a public university with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. This program requires 120 credit hours, and students typically finish in four years if they have a full-time class schedule.

U of A students use Blackboard as their digital learning platform — which is 100% online. The curriculum aims to teach students effective messaging techniques and strategies for a variety of industries by using new media technologies and discussing relevant ethical and legal issues. Core coursework includes Interpersonal Communication, Public Speaking, and Argumentation and Advocacy. Graduates may explore careers in public relations, media planning, sales, and corporate communications.

Central Methodist University (CMU) is a small, nonprofit school with religious affiliations. They offer a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Communication, with each program requiring 120 credit hours. Students can complete a communications program online in four years at a full-time pace.

CMU students use Canvas for their fully online coursework. The curriculum aims to develop skills in research, writing, speaking, and interpersonal communication. Core classes include Mass Media, Argumentation and Debate, and Public Relations. A senior thesis is also required, which may involve either a research paper or an audio/video project. Graduates of either the BS or BA in communications may go on to work in journalism, marketing, or broadcasting.

Valley City State University (VCSU) is a small public institution with two degree options in communications. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies offers three concentrations: (1) Corporate Cognate, (2) Digital Media Management Cognate, and (3) Journalism and Media Cognate. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies - Composite Major takes facets from all cognates to provide a wide array of communication experience. Each program requires 120 credit hours, and students with a full-time schedule may finish in four years.

VCSU uses Blackboard for its coursework, which can be completed 100% online. The curricula described above each feature core classes in Fundamentals of Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Intercultural Communication. Senior capstone projects are also required before graduation. Career opportunities range from marketing manager to writer.

Louisiana State University - Alexandria (LSU Alexandria) is a public institution with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. This degree requires 120 credit hours and may take four years to complete on a full-time schedule.

At LSU Online, students utilize the LMS Moodle for all online coursework. There are options to attend classes synchronously. The above degree teaches oral, written, and mediated communication skills alongside a look at research methods and the legality of mass media. LSU Online also has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies - Human Relationships, which focuses on building personal and professional relationships. Each degree option has required classes in Visual Communication, Media Writing, and Persuasive Communication. Graduates may go on to apply for positions as multimedia journalists, web developers, or event planners.