Université du Québec à Montréal - UQAM
speciality:
Communication
What is a Communications degree?
Communications is a universal degree, which explores the traditional forms of communication such as verbal, physical, visual and written communication but also extends beyond that to cover mass communication and social media. There are different types of communications degrees depending on the degree level.
Overall, Communications focuses on teaching effective communication through social media, web, print, mass media and verbal communication. However, there are two types of Communications degrees that exist. For instance, a Bachelor of Arts in Communications in the US is focused on preparing students for careers that are connected to writing, marketing, promotions, journalism and public relations. In contrast, Bachelor of Science in Communications is dedicated to the technology used in the science behind modern communication and prepares students for careers in production or sound engineering.
A Communications degree teaches students about how media and communication influences cultures, societies and people’s identities. It involves a significant amount of critical writing and research and covers different disciplines such as journalism, public relations, entertainment production, marketing, event planning and so many more disciplines, which are somehow connected to exchanging information and conveying messages. There are also different specialization options associated with this degree, including political communication, mass media, journalism, health communication, etc.
It is worth noting that a Communications degree has many intersection points with psychology, sociology, linguistics and in some cases politics.
Benefits of a Communications degree
The main benefit of a Communications degree is its universal nature. It applies to almost any subject or professional setting. For example, some of the top careers in the field of Communications include announcers, art directors, editors, broadcast and sound engineering technicians, reporters, correspondents, broadcast analysts, technical writers, writers and authors, interpreters, translators, etc. Therefore, it keeps students’ career options open and doesn’t require them to have a predetermined career path that they want to follow.
Communications degrees prepare students to make an impact from the start of their careers unlike other degrees, which require further training. This is possible thanks to the multitude of professionally accredited degrees in Communications, which develop students’ abilities based on the established standards in the field. Moreover, there are many Communications courses, which offer work placement opportunities that enable students to gain the required professional skills before they have even started their career.
Another benefit associated with Communications degrees is the fact that they develop students’ written and verbal communication skills significantly.
A major advantage of Communications over other degrees is that in most cases there are no prerequisites required to study Communications.
Communications degree structure
The duration of a Communications degree varies depending on the country and degree level. For example, Higher Education Institutions in the UK offer 3-year Bachelor’s courses. In some cases, the course may extend to four years if students are given the opportunity to spend a year abroad or in industry between the second and third year through a sandwich course. Bachelor’s degrees in Communications in the US usually take around four years to complete.
Over the duration of a Bachelor’s Communications degree, students are expected to learn and be able to apply the established communications theories by developing the technical skills required to work in a professional setting. In the first year of their studies, students learn predominantly how media and communication influences cultures, societies and people’s identities. Optional modules may introduce them to professional communication, journalism, documentary, film-making, marketing, etc. In addition to the introductory topics, this degree allows students to learn about more complex areas of communications such as interpersonal relations, brand management and linguistics at a later stage. For instance, the second and third years enable students to get a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts related to media and culture and develop practical skills in research and communications. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to take optional modules and pursue their interests in different areas related to Communications such as gender, race, youth, culture, digital media, political communication, public relations, etc.
The most common duration of a Master’s degree in Communications is between 1 and 2 years depending on the mode of study (full-time or part-time) and country.
PhD and MPhil degrees in Communications require students to dedicate anywhere between 3 and 6 years to their studies depending on the mode and country of study.
2 Student Reviews
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Communication and ...27 May, 2024
VincentCAUQÀM: Pioneering the CultureThe Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) has established itself as a trailblazer in integrating cultural studies within the production environment, transforming these insights into a globally renowned marketing and economic program. This pioneering approach has significantly contributed to UQAM’s esteemed reputation in the academic and professional spheres.
UQAM’s expertise in cultural studies is deeply rooted in its innovative Communications Department, which stands as a beacon of excellence. The department’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and practical application has enabled it to develop cutting-edge programs that address the complex interplay between culture, media, and the economy. By examining cultural phenomena and production processes, UQAM has been able to create marketing strategies that resonate deeply with diverse audiences, both locally and internationally.
The success of UQAM’s programs is reflected in the prominence of its alumni, who are influential figures in the media and cultural landscapes. Graduates from UQAM’s Communications Department are known for their profound understanding of cultural dynamics and their ability to translate these insights into effective marketing and economic strategies. Their contributions span various sectors, including media, advertising, and cultural management, highlighting the practical impact of their education.
UQAM’s emphasis on cultural studies within its production environment not only enriches its academic offerings but also equips its students with unique perspectives and skills. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate and shape the ever-evolving cultural and economic landscapes. As a result, UQAM continues to shine as a leading institution that bridges the gap between cultural theory and practical application, making a lasting impact on the global stage.
View moreProgramme: Communication and Media StudiesDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2026Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Montreal -
international and ...14 Feb, 2023
StudentBEA university where everything is possible!UQAM is a university for students that combines studies and student life. Indeed, beyond the quality of the academic programs, student life is great. UQAM allows students to have a space to express themselves (need for visibility for a cause, space to realize their passions, space to express their disagreements). As you can see, it is difficult to summarize UQAM in a few lines…
View moreProgramme: international and intercultural communicationDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Montreal
