Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology - JKUAT
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.
4 Student Reviews
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Journalism, Communication, ...5 months ago
MissKEHands-On and Practical LearningJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology is one of the best universities in Kenya, as a personal opinion and one that is recommended nationally. I went there first because it was a few kilometres away from home and I wanted the experience of living alone and generally to feel like an adult.
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It was home away from home, that I even stayed one year later even after graduation.
The lecturers were quite tough which was a good thing because I almost didn’t graduate because I had missed a few classes. All my practical units that required extra coursework outside class always had the lecturers in attendance even when they didn’t have to. My lecturers were very friendly and very practical on what the course I did would translate to once I finished. The security was very good especially for a single female young lady miles away from home. There was plenty of room to study, from parks all around the university, the student centre and the library. You could also easily access help from the administration and get to the staff offices for extra help from our lectures without going through loops. I loved it there and yes, I would recommend it to a family or friend, depending on the course they plan to do. I was an introvert in campus but I remember trying things like rollball, table tennis, pool, drama which are available and active even till date.Programme: Journalism, Communication, and MediaDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Nairobi -
Journalism and ...6 months ago
IanKEGeneral ReviewThe learning experience was good since I got to interact with people
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The infrastructure was good however.
Security was good.
Resolving of student issues was fair
Education quality was excellent.
Campus environment was friendly.Programme: Journalism and Digital MediaDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2027Delivery Type: BlendedCampus: Nairobi -
Communication and ...28 Jan, 2025 BobbyKEExcellence
Excellence at Kenyatta University (KU) is driven by a commitment to academic rigor, innovation, and community engagement. As one of Kenya’s leading institutions of higher learning, KU fosters an environment where students are encouraged to excel not only in their academic pursuits but also in leadership, research, and service to society. The university offers a wide range of programs that equip students with relevant skills to thrive in the global job market. KU’s faculty, composed of highly qualified professionals, ensures a transformative learning experience, promoting critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. The institution also emphasizes research, with students and faculty actively contributing to solving national and global challenges. Through partnerships with local and international organizations, Kenyatta University provides students with opportunities for internships, work experience, and global exposure. The university’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its contributions to the development of a skilled workforce and empowered communities.
View moreProgramme: Communication and Information SciencesDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2014Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Nairobi -
Journalism and ...23 Jun, 2022 Studentbest Media studio
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology is located in Nairobi, Kenya. JKUAT has a lot of diverse programs namely agriculture, Business, Agriculture, Medicine and Media studies. The university has the best media studio where media students get on hand practical skills and knowledge. Journalism students get all the necessary support from experienced media personalities who engage students from time to time.
View moreProgramme: Journalism and Mass CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2024Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Nairobi
