Online Communication Program

Academic title: Communication major, B.A.A.; B.S.

120 Credits

to Graduate

January 11

Next start date

*Recommended apply date is minimum 6 weeks prior to next start date.  

two pairs of people looking at a laptops

CMU's online communication program

Every organization depends on people who can explain ideas clearly, understand audiences, navigate conflict and build productive relationships. Our online communication degree helps you develop those skills through the study of persuasion, interpersonal communication, group dynamics, workplace communication and media.

Throughout the program, you'll also develop practical skills in public speaking and writing. Choose from four academic tracks to tailor your bachelor's degree to your interests and career goals.

After graduation, you'll be prepared for roles like training and development specialist, campaign manager and business development representative and many others across a wide range of fields. 

Communication degree online overview

Core credits3
Elective credits36
General education credits81
Total credits to graduate 
120

How much does an online communication degree cost?

The cost shown below is based on the current tuition and fee estimate. Your actual cost of attendance for financial aid purposes may vary based on your assigned tuition rate, the number of credits you're enrolled in and the length of your enrollment period. If you're enrolled in a single module instead of a full semester, your housing and food, transportation and personal expenses will be adjusted based on the number of weeks you're enrolled (for example, 12-week or 8-week modules). If you're enrolled less than half-time, your cost of attendance will not include housing and food, personal expenses or loan fees.

  • Military tuition benefits: Active duty, veterans and military-affiliated students may qualify for reduced tuition, waived fees and need-based awards.
Estimated annual cost $23,730

What can you do with an online communication degree?

Communication, speaking and writing skills are valuable in almost every industry. As a result, studying communication can lead to a broad range of professional opportunities. 

 Career Projected Salary
  Marketing Communications Director $76,160
  Communications Campaign Manager $69,780
  Director of Digital Communications $70,300
  Communications Analyst $76,950
  Communications Consultant $69,780

All data and statistics in this section are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics


Online communication program tracks

In addition to core courses in communication essentials, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in one of four tracks. Tracks can help you further refine your skills in areas related to your specific career goals.

Interested in pursuing a career in the health professions? Focus your communication studies on topics like health communication, presenting data and communication for organizational change. 

Learn more about how good communication and good leadership go hand-in-hand. You'll study topics like communicating in workplaces, virtual team communication, consulting and more. 

Study how identity, culture and social influence overlaps with communication. You'll focus on topics like gender communication, intercultural communication, persuasion and social change. 

Fully customize your studies by selecting 12 credit hours from the entire communication course catalogue. You'll be able to focus your studies on the topics that matter the most to you and your career goals. 


Admission Requirements

Transfer Admission Requirements 

  • Submit a completed application for admission 
  • Submit the application fee
  • Submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities 

Applicants with a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher are eligible for admission following a standard application and background review. Applicants with a GPA below 2.0 may be asked to submit additional materials demonstrating their academic and professional experience, such as a résumé or personal statement. 


Freshman Admission Requirements 

  • Submit a completed application for admission 
  • Submit the application fee
  • Submit official high school transcripts 

Applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.8 or higher are eligible for automatic admission following a standard application and background review. Applicants with a GPA below 2.8 will be considered for admission and may be asked to submit additional materials demonstrating their academic and professional experience, such as a résumé or personal statement.