Upon completion of a bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia, many career options may open up. The ability to communicate effectively is a valuable skill for employers and it is a vital part of every business. Although most people think of journalists or reporters when they think about communication, excellent verbal and written skills are also important in the area of public relations, social media and sales.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for those who earn communications degrees can range from the mid-$30,000 range for announcers, photographers and reporters to almost $70,000 for technical writers and public relations specialists. In Georgia, there were almost 1,000 technical writers employed in 2016, earning an average salary of $72,840. Overall, there were over 11,000 people employed in communications-related fields in Georgia that year, earning an average of $61,072 per year.
Georgia College and State University
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at Georgia College and State University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fine and applied arts as well as humanities, behavioral, physical and mathematical sciences. Students are challenged to address the analytical and historical, along with cultural and philosophical, foundations of their field of study. In addition, students are encouraged to engage with the local community through fine arts, activities and partnerships in the area.
Mass Communications B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts in Communications offered through the College of Arts and Sciences at Georgia College and State University provides students with a curriculum that is marketable, engaging and rigorous. Students gain an understanding of the theory and practice applications in mass media. Students develop critical thinking skills and are able to communicate to a diverse audience. Students in the bachelor’s in communications degree program in Georgia understand theoretical and historical foundations as well as how to apply legal and ethical principles. They understand the use of technology in communication and methods for using technology to expand messages to a wide range of audiences. Courses required include:
- Advanced Strategic Writing
- Community Journalism
- Desktop Publishing
- Electronic Editing
- Enterprise Journalism
- Feature Writing
- Investigative Journalism
- Issues in the Strategic Communication Industry
- Mass Media Law and Ethics
- Media Design
- Media Interviewing and Listening
- Media Literacy
- Message Creation
- Media Management
- Multimedia Storytelling
- Narrative Journalism
- Pitching for Multiple Screens
- Producing for Digital Media
- Professional Media Writing
- Probability and Statistics
- Publication Editing
- Shooting for News
- Radio Operations
- Strategic Campaigns
- Strategic Media Planning
- Strategic Planning
- Theory and Research
- Web Design Tools
Students must also complete up to 12 hours in foreign language study and must complete an off-campus internship in order to successfully complete the program.
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Georgia College and State University
231 West Hancock Street
Milledgeville GA 31061
Telephone: 800-342-0471
Email: admissions@gcsu.edu
Georgia Institute of Technology – Main Campus
Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts
The College of Liberal Arts at Georgia Institute of Technology is named for Ivan Allen Jr. who served two terms as the Mayor of Atlanta, providing pivotal leadership during the Civil Rights Movement and helping to create a progressive New South. The college works to solve the complex problems that face the world today, encouraging students to examine principles, ethics and societal impacts. The school combines technology with issues facing society in order to create compassionate graduates who strive to improve the human condition.
Bachelor of Science Literature, Media and Communication
The Bachelor of Science in Literature, Media and Communication is designed for students with a desire to connect with others through historical, cultural and artistic contexts. Students are able to connect different areas of study to customize their program. Students can choose from the following areas:
- Communication
- Interaction Design
- Literature
- Media
- Science, Technology & Culture
- Social Justice
Combining the different threads offered at Georgia Tech, students can create a bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia that is unique to their needs. Students must include humanities, fine arts and social science courses in their plan of study as well as mathematics, science and modern language. All students must complete an ethics course as well. All students in the major must complete Introduction to Literature, Media and Communications, a seminar and a Capstone seminar. Students must choose two threads of study.
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Georgia Institute of Technology
North Avenue
Atlanta GA 30332
Telephone: 404-894-4154
Georgia Southern University
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Department of Communication Arts
The Department of Communication Arts, under the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Georgia Southern University provides students with skills they will carry with them throughout their lifetime. Students gain confidence in oral and written communication as well as critical analysis and problem solving. Students learn the skills and knowledge to relay messages in written, visual or verbal form to help promote an organization or business.
Communication Arts
The Communication Arts degree at Georgia Southern University creates graduates who are experts in oral and written communication. Students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to create messages that help grow businesses and organizations through many different media types. Students develop interpersonal and teamwork skills that will carry them throughout their career. Courses required for the bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia include:
- Argumentation
- Communication and Conflict
- Communication and Gender
- Communication and Leadership
- Communication in the Workplace
- Communication Skills
- Communication Theory
- Fundamentals of Acting
- General Semantics
- Global Engagement
- Health Communication
- Healthful Living
- Humanities, Fine Arts and Ethics
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Introduction to Communication Research
- Introduction to Film Studies
- Introduction to Human Communication
- Introduction to Journalism
- Introduction to Performance Studies
- Introduction to Public Relations
- Media and Society
- Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Technology
- Organizational Communication
- Performance, Culture and Communication
- Persuasion
- Philosophy of Communication
- Political Communication
- Principles of Public Speaking
- Rhetoric of International Relations
- Rhetoric of Social Movements
- Rhetorical Criticism
- Quantitative Skills
- Small Group Communication
- Social Sciences
Students must complete an internship as well in order to obtain their degree.
Contact
Department of Communication Arts
Sanford Hall
PO Box 8091
Statesboro GA 30460
Telephone: 912-478-5138
Email: commarts@georgiasouthern.edu
Kennesaw State University
School of Communication and Media
The School of Communication and Media at Kennesaw State University creates individuals who have a lifelong desire to communicate, lead and learn. Graduates are provided the skills to design, deliver and interpret message meanings whether those messages come through interpersonal, organizational or societal methods. Curriculum is designed to prepare students for highly competitive communication professions that are constantly changing.
Bachelor of Science in Communication
The Bachelor of Science in Communication at Kennesaw State allows students to emphasize their degree in two different concentrations. Organizational communication provides students with the knowledge and skill necessary to obtain leadership roles related to corporate productivity and employee satisfaction. Students learn to develop employee training programs, training manuals and employee handbooks as well as how to conduct audits in the area of communication in order to gauge employee satisfaction. The Media and Entertainment Studies program is a bachelor’s in communications degree program in Georgia that helps students navigate today’s media-rich culture. Students focus on three areas of competency and gain a focused knowledge of the increasingly complex world of media.
Technical Communication and Interactive Design Department
The Technical Communication and Interactive Design Department at Kennesaw State University offers programs that prepare students for careers in the interface and information design fields. Students apply critical technology theory and how to shape ways that humans process messages in digital concepts. Programs involve students in components of digital environments providing them with hands-on experiences.
Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication
The Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication offered at Kennesaw State University provides students with hands-on approaches to the field of technical communication. Students develop skills in data visualization, design and more as they apply to digital environments. Students are able to customize information so that it is easily understandable by a wide range of audiences. Traditional and modern technical practices, theory and applications are provided, allowing students to expand their knowledge as it relates to the creation of content. During their final semester, students create a portfolio in order to demonstrate to potential employers their skills and knowledge.
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges>li>
Contact
BS Communication
Social Sciences Building #402, Room 5016
School of Communication and Media
402 Bartow Avenue
Kennesaw GA 30144
Telephone: 470-578-6298
Email: socm@kennesaw.edu
BS Technical Communication:
Sarah Milligan Weldon
Student Community Engagement Specialist
Kennesaw State University
Marietta Campus
Atrium Building, J333
1100 South Marietta Parkway
Marietta GA 30060
Telephone: 470-578-5533
Email: sarah@kennesaw.edu
Mercer University
Penfield College
Penfield College is named for Josiah Penfield, the primary founder of Mercer University. The college was formerly known as the College of Continuing and Professional Studies. The college focuses on providing higher education to working adults who are seeking to advance professionally. Programs are offered on-campus, at interactive campus centers, online or in hybrid versions.
Communication, B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication program is available online, in traditional classrooms or a hybrid of both types. Students develop an understanding of organizational structure and how groups function. Students learn how to communicate effectively as well as an understanding of human interaction in many different contexts. Students in the bachelor in communications degree program in Georgia gain a broad-based understanding of how communication works, how it affects society, individuals and organizations. Courses include:
- Applied Research Methods
- Communication and Information Theory
- Communication and Society
- Communication for Business
- Gender Relations
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Mass Media and Society
- Nonverbal Communication
- Organizational Communication
- Popular Cultural Forms and Society
- Virtual Working Group Communication
- Working Group Communication
College of Liberal Arts
The College of Liberal Arts at Mercer University is dedicated to creating graduates who are dedicated to learning, service and faith. As the oldest of the colleges at Mercer, the College of Liberal Studies is considered the cornerstone of the university. Students enjoy a diverse community that promotes curiosity, dialog and responsible citizenship.
Communication Studies
The Communication Studies degree at Mercer University provides students with an understanding of codes, signs and symbols used in media and other modes of communication to relay messages. Students learn using theoretical and practical strategies, providing them with a strong liberal arts background as well as the professional knowledge they will need for a lucrative career in communication. In addition to general liberal arts studies, students must complete 27 hours of communication studies. Some of these may include:
- Argumentation
- Communication and Culture
- Communication and Family Systems
- Classical Foundations of Rhetorical Theory
- Discourse and Power
- Gender and Communication
- Group Communication
- Intercollegiate Debate
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Introduction to Communication
- Organizational Communication
- Persuasion in Campaigns and Social Movements
- Public Speaking
- Special Topics in Communication
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Mercer University
1501 Mercer University Drive
Macon GA 31207
Telephone: 800-MERCER-U (800-637-2378)
Website:
Middle Georgia State University
College of Arts & Sciences
The College of Arts & Sciences at Middle Georgia State University prepares students for careers in medicine, engineering and more. Students are provided a plan for their future through courses that are challenging and rigorous. Faculty is committed to the success of every student, but their standards are high so students develop a strong background in their field of study.
New Media and Communication (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in New Media and Communication is a bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia that trains students in both traditional and digital communication. Students are able to engage in media through courses like New Media and Communication, New Media Production as well as Communication and Culture. Not only are students provided an understanding of communication in today’s world, but they also gain an understanding of cultural forces and the need for professionals in an increasingly global economy. Courses required may include:
- 2D Computer Animation
- 3D Modeling and Animation
- Advanced Digital Storytelling
- Advanced Fiction Writing
- Advanced Interpersonal Communications
- Communication Theory
- Comparative Cultures
- Creative Non-Fiction
- Digital Media Studio
- Digital Photography & Criticism
- Digital Storytelling
- Documentary Film Production
- Fiction Film Production
- Film Analysis
- Graphic Imaging
- Human Communication
- Intermediate Fiction Writing
- Interactive Digital Media
- Intercultural Communication in a Global Society
- Introduction to Cultural Studies
- Introduction to Information Technology or Business Information Applications
- Introduction to Mass Communication
- Media Criticism
- News Writing and Reporting
- Popular Culture
- Professional Writing and Communication
- Public Relations Strategy
- Public Speaking
- Rhetoric and Argumentation
- Studies in Culture
- Writing for Digital Media
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Middle Georgia State University
Office of Admissions
100 University Parkway
Macon GA 31206
Telephone: 877-238-8664
Email: admission@mga.edu
Reinhardt University
Arts and Humanities
The Arts and Humanities Department at Reinhardt University creates graduates who are lifelong learners. Students are provided instruction in problem solving, critical thinking, communication and the use of technology. Faculty understands that students need to meet the needs in a modern world and that to succeed they will need more than just analytical skills as it will also take personal character. Students gain an understanding of the ethical and spiritual aspects of knowledge.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies (B.A.)
The Communication and Media Studies program at Reinhardt University provides students with a broad background in communication on a global scale. Students gain an understanding of media as well as intercultural and interpersonal communication. Students are provided instruction in journalism, film, television, print, public relations, advertising, graphics and digital media. Through their studies, they gain an understanding of storytelling and design as well as written, oral and visual communication. Students are required to complete an internship as part of the bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia. Students may choose to concentrate their studies in Digital Storytelling or Strategic Communication.
Accreditation
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Reinhardt University
Waleska Campus
7300 Reinhardt Circle
Waleska GA 30183-2081
Telephone: 770-720-5600
Savannah State University
College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
The College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences provides students with learning in a variety of subjects that are designed to encourage critical thinking, communication and community involvement. Students learn in small classroom settings so faculty knows students as individuals. The college offers undergraduate and graduate degrees designed for student success.
Concentrations
Through the Department of Mass Communications at the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences at Savannah State University, students may choose from several concentrations as part of their bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia. Students may choose from the following:
- Online Journalism – Students develop an understanding of online news media outlets and are able to participate in professional media internships or work on the “Tiger’s Roar,” the university newspaper. Instruction is available online and in the classroom.
- Audio/Video Production – Students are exposed to modern production environments and have access to a state-of-the-art television studio and production room. Students produce journalistic productions for television, radio and film.
- Public Relations and Advertising – Students gain an understanding of public relations as it affects stakeholders, both internal and external. Instruction is provided on how public relations influences and educates audiences.
Students may also choose to minor in Mass Communications.
Accreditation
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications
Contact
Joseph Barnwell
Admissions Specialist
Hill Hall 108
Savannah State University
3219 College Street
Savannah GA 31404
Telephone: 912-358-4088
Email: barnwelljo@savannahstate.edu
Shorter University
Department of Communication Studies
The Department of Communication Studies provides students with a unique experience. Students learn to analyze, evaluate and develop communication skills. Students are also provided the tools to express their own thoughts and ideas in order to promote the growth of businesses and organizations. Students are provided the expertise they need to become leaders in the communication field.
Communication Studies
The Department of Communication Studies at Shorter University offers two bachelors’ in communication degree programs in Georgia. Students may choose either the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies. In addition, students may concentrate their studies in:
- Advertising/Public Relations
- Digital Production
- Organizational Communication
Students gain an understanding of communication with a focus in liberal arts as well as critical thinking skills. Students become proficient in oral and written communication as well. They are provided the theoretical foundation necessary to promote communication at the individual, organizational and global level. Ethics are strongly emphasized as well.
Accreditation
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Dr. William Mullen, Interim Chair
Communication Studies
315 Shorter Avenue Northwest
Rome GA 30165
Telephone: 706-233-7336
Email: bmullen@shorter.edu
Toccoa Falls College
School of Arts and Sciences
The School of Arts and Sciences at Toccoa Falls College provides students with a rich diversity of disciplines that are united by a common thread. All disciplines at the school include the conviction that Christ affects and informs every area of human endeavor. Students gain intellectual knowledge with an understanding that faith and learning are interconnected. The school believes that the love of God is a holistic enterprise that connects the heart, soul and mind, creating strength and purpose.
Communication Studies
Through the School of Arts and Sciences at Toccoa Falls College, the Communication Studies program provides an understanding of how communication impacts all aspects of life. The bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia provide students with a general understanding of how communication can be applied to personal, organizational and community relationships. Students may concentrate their studies in Mass Communication which provides them with training in mass media and production techniques. The goal is to create graduates who understand how media and faith work together. Students may also concentrate their studies in Interpersonal & Public Communication. In this concentration, students gain insights into human interaction as it relates to communication. Students are provided hands-on experience through involvement in field-related opportunities.
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Toccoa Falls College
107 Kincaid Drive
Toccoa Falls GA 30598
Telephone: 706-886-7299
Email: admissions@tfc.edu
University of Georgia
Franklin College of Arts and Sciences
The oldest and largest college at the University of Georgia, the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is the heart of the university. In the early days of the university, the names Franklin College and University of Georgia were used to describe the school until 1859. Today, the school has 30 departments in five divisions and educates more undergraduates than any other college.
Communication Studies
The Communication Studies program through the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Georgia provides students with skills that go beyond personal communication. The bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia provides information on conflict negotiation, persuasive messages, teamwork, managing cultural differences and more. Students gain an understanding of theory and application. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in personnel, administration, sales, public relations and more.
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Franklin College of Arts and Sciences
Old College
University of Georgia
210 South Jackson Street
Athens GA 30602-1633
Telephone: 706-542-8776
University of North Georgia
Department of Communication, Media & Journalism
The Department of Communication, Media & Journalism offers degrees that are focused on getting messages out to a wide variety of audiences. Students may choose from film, digital media or communication with concentrations that include Organizational Leadership, Multimedia Journalism and Public Relations. All degrees provide a strong focus on liberal arts as well as in the core classes necessary to build knowledge in a chosen field of study. There are a number of organizations and events that also allow students to gain hands-on experience in their field.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Concentration in Multimedia Journalism
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Concentration in Multimedia Journalism provides students with an ethical understanding of journalism, preparing them for an evolving field. Students learn news-writing and media production as well as the methods for delivering messages to mass audiences. Students must earn a “C” or better in all courses in attempted in the program. Courses may include:
- Advanced Newswriting & Reporting
- Broadcast Journalism
- Communication & Media Theory
- Communication Research
- Diversity in the Media
- Foundations in Media Techniques
- Human Communication
- Intermediate Newswriting and Reporting
- Introduction in Media Techniques
- Introduction to Film & Digital Media Production
- Introduction to Media Studies
- Media History
- Media Law & Ethics
- Multimedia Journalism
- News Production III
- News Writing and Reporting
- Public Speaking
- Sports and Media
Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Concentration in Organizational Leadership
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Concentration in Organizational Leadership combines leadership skills with critical thinking and communication skills. Students develop the excellent communication skills they need to lead others in organizations as well as how to adapt to different cultures and the unique aspects of each organization. Students must earn a “C” or better in all courses. Classes that may be required include:
- Advanced Interpersonal Communication
- Advanced Public Communication
- Argumentation and Debate
- Business & Professional Communication
- Communication & Media Theory
- Computer Mediated Communication
- Environmental Communication
- Foundations in Media Techniques
- Fundamentals of Management
- Human Communication
- Intracultural Communication
- Introduction to Film & Digital Media Production
- Introduction to Media Studies
- Leadership Communication
- Managerial and Business Communication
- News Writing and Reporting
- Nonverbal Communication
- Organizational Communication
- Persuasion & Argumentation
- Principles of Conflict Resolution
- Public Opinion & Leadership
- Public Speaking
- Small Group Communication
- Training Methods in Communication
Bachelor of Arts in Communication with Concentration in Public Relations
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations is designed for students who wish to work in the field of public relations. Public relations builds a relationship between the public and organizations. Students gain an understanding of liberal arts and social sciences combined with communication skills designed to promote organizations and companies. Students may not earn less than a “C” in any course. Some of the courses that may be required for the bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia include:
- Acting for Camera I
- Advanced Newswriting & Reporting
- Advanced Public Communication
- Audio Production for Visual Media
- Broadcast Journalism
- Communication Research
- Editing
- Feature Writing
- Foundations in Media Techniques
- Human Communication
- Introduction in Media Techniques
- Introduction to Film & Digital Media Production
- Introduction to Film & Digital Media Post-Production
- Introduction to Public Relations
- Media Layout and Design
- Media Law & Ethics
- Multimedia Journalism
- News Writing and Reporting
- Photojournalism
- Principles of Conflict Resolution
- Public Relations Campaigns
- Public Relations Cases
- Public Relations Writing
- Public Speaking
- Social Media
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Contact
Communication, Media & Journalism
University of North Georgia
P.O. Box 1358
Gainesville GA 30503
Telephone: 706-946-5462
Email: cmsi-gvl@ung.edu
Website:
University of West Georgia
College of Social Sciences
The College of Social Sciences at the University of West Georgia offers students advanced studies in liberal arts and sciences, from political science to communication. The college offers flexible programs for adult learners and incorporates today’s challenges into the curriculum so students are prepared for what they will face in their field of study.
Bachelor of Science with a Major in Mass Communications
The Bachelor of Science with a major in Mass Communication provides students with an opportunity for hands-on experience with their experiential learning labs. The bachelor’s in communication degree program in Georgia offers theoretical and conceptual classes that encourage students to think critically, uses their creative abilities and work in team settings. The location of the university within 45 miles of Atlanta also gives students many opportunities for internships and networking events to further their knowledge. Students may concentrate their degree in the following areas:
- Convergence Journalism
- Digital Media & Telecommunication
- Film & Video Production
- Public Relations
Individuals who have successfully completed bachelor’s in communication degree programs in Georgia may find that they are more in demand with potential employers than those who have not completed the degrees, allowing them to move into a new career or advance in a current career more quickly.
See also: Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in Georgia (A-F)