The Department of Communication offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. Students wanting to major in Communication must decide which degree they would prefer to have. However, the decision is not irreversible. If a student declares a Bachelor of Science degree and later decides that a Bachelor of Arts (or vice-versa) would better suit certain career goals, then it is no problem to switch. The best thing for a student to do in deciding which degree program to pursue is to check with one of our advisors through the Advising Portal.
Is There Any Overlap Between the Degrees?
Students can choose whether they prefer the broader sweep of the Bachelor of Arts track or the more tightly focused approach of the Bachelor of Science track. Either way, the core courses that they take will be the same. Students who take a Bachelor Science must take 48 hours in Communication while those working toward a Bachelor of Science must take 36. However, at least the first 18 hours that a student takes (the core, required courses) will be the same. Also, many of the electives are the same. The difference is that a Bachelor of Science will require more Communication courses.
Which is Better?
A Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Science degree are equally valued. Both offer the students who earn them the opportunity to continue their education at the master’s degree level if they are so inclined. But, the two tracks do tend to hone different strengths. The coursework required for a Bachelor of Arts degree generally allows students to sharpen their oral and written communication skills. The demands of a Bachelor of Science degree include sharpening basic Communication skills as well as developing analytical skills relevant to Communication in a more in-depth manner.
When deciding which degree program is the best fit, students should think about what types of classes they have enjoyed in the past, what they are currently interested in studying and what future career options they would like to pursue. Understanding the difference between a B.A. and a B.S. can help students choose the degree program that is right for them. And they should consult the department advisors to help them make the decision.
Don't Forget the Minor
Students who like Communication but would rather major in some other discipline can always earn a minor in Communication. It is often a good idea to major in an area in which one believes will be a career path and then minor in something that one just enjoys. The Department of Communication has both a Communication Minor for people interested in various aspects of Communication and a Film Studies and Production Minor for those interested in learning about producing video and film.
