Communication Studies

The program emphasizes critical thinking, effective writing, and effective oral communication skills, providing students with the ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate information effectively in a variety of contexts. Students who complete the program will be well-prepared for a wide range of careers, including public relations, media, marketing, and many other fields that require strong communication skills.

What is Communication Studies?

Communication studies is a field of study that explores how people interact with each other through various forms of communication, including verbal, nonverbal, and mediated communication. It covers a wide range of topics such as interpersonal communication, mass media, rhetoric, persuasion, and cultural communication. Communication studies aims to understand the complexities of communication and how it shapes our identities, relationships, and society. It also provides practical skills to improve communication effectiveness in various contexts, including personal relationships, organizations, and public discourse.

Is Studying Communication Studies Right for Me?

A Communication Studies Associate in Arts for Transfer degree is beneficial for individuals who are interested in developing their communication skills and pursuing a career in fields that require effective communication. This degree is suitable for individuals who enjoy working with people, are interested in media and technology, have a passion for social justice and advocacy, and are interested in exploring the complexities of human interaction. It is also a good fit for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor's degree in communication studies or related fields such as public relations, advertising, journalism, or media studies.

Students who are successful in Communication Studies tend to have certain personality traits and skills that help them excel in the field. These include:

• Curiosity
• Critical thinking
• Writing skills
• Oral communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Adaptability
• Open-mindedness

Communication Studies Degree and Certificate

Communication Studies Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer

The Associate in Arts in Communication Studies for Transfer is intended for all students who plan to complete an AA in Communication studies. This degree is especially valuable for those students planning on completing a bachelor’s degree in Communication or a similar major at a CSU campus.

Communication Studies 2.0 Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer

The Associate in Arts in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer is intended for all students who plan to complete an AA in Communication studies. This degree is especially valuable for those students planning on completing a bachelor’s degree in Communication or a similar major at a CSU campus.

Communication Certificate of Achievement

The Communication Certificate is designed to enhance a student’s ability to communicate in social, professional, and relational contexts.

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Communication Studies Careers

Graduates with an Associate of Arts (AA) in Communication Studies have a range of career options available to them. Some common careers include:

• Public Relations Specialist: Develop and implement communication strategies to build and maintain positive relationships between organizations and their stakeholders.
• Marketing Coordinator: Help organizations promote their products and services through advertising, events, and other communication channels.
• Event Planner: Plan, coordinate, and execute events, including weddings, conferences, and community events.
• Media Relations Specialist: Manage relationships between organizations and journalists, and develop and implement communication strategies to promote organizations and their products and services.
• Customer Service Representative: Assist customers with product and service inquiries, and provide information to help resolve customer complaints and issues.
• Sales Representative: Sell products and services to customers, either face-to-face or over the phone.
• Fundraiser: Develop and implement fundraising strategies to support organizations and their missions.
• Human Resources Coordinator: Assist with the recruitment, training, and development of employees within organizations.
• Social Media Manager: Develop and implement social media strategies to promote organizations and their products and services.
• Speech Pathologist Assistant: Work with speech pathologists to help individuals who have communication disorders, including speech impediments, stuttering, and voice problems.

These are just a few examples of the many careers available to graduates with an AA in Communication Studies. With a strong foundation in communication skills and strategies, graduates are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of careers in the fields of marketing, public relations, event planning, and more.

Transfer Pathways

Graduates with an Associate in Arts in Communication Studies for Transfer from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. Students with an Associate in Arts for Transfer degree “are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus or to a program that is deemed similar to their community major” (Bakersfield College Catalog, Educational Options). See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.

Academic Department: Communication

Career & Learning Pathway: Arts, Communication, and Humanities (ACH) Pathway

Courses: Communication (COMM)