Bayero University, Kano - BUK
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.
3 Student Reviews
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Journalism and ...5 months ago
Muhammed TaufikNGBUK: A True Home for CommunicatorsBayero University Kano (BUK) is one of the most reputable universities in Nigeria, known for its academic excellence, discipline, and commitment to producing well-rounded graduates.
The learning environment is inspiring, the facilities are up to standard, and the institution continues to set a high standard for quality education in the country.
As a Mass Communication student, I’m especially proud of my department. It perfectly combines theory with practice, truly preparing students for the media industry. We are privileged to have a well-equipped studio, a standard radio station, and BUK Television, which give us real-life exposure to broadcasting, journalism, and media production.
The lecturers in the department are exceptional. They are dedicated, approachable, and deeply committed to helping students succeed. Among them, Dr. Abubakar Danlami Alhassan stands out as my favorite. He taught us International Communication and Writing Reviews and Criticism in Level Three, and he is currently my final year project supervisor. He always gives his absolute best, ensuring that we understand not only the course content but also its practical relevance. He is truly a communication guru, passionate about teaching and mentorship.
Overall, the Faculty of Communication at BUK represents excellence, creativity, and growth. I am grateful for the experience and would wholeheartedly recommend Bayero University Kano to anyone seeking a strong academic and professional foundation in communication, most especially in my field of study, mass communication.
View moreProgramme: Journalism and Mass CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2026Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Kano -
Journalism and ...10 Oct, 2024 BintaNGMy Review of my time at BUK
I speak highly of my school any time any day, ofcourse there are things that need to be done better such as overcrowding of classrooms and student hostels there should be this urgency to make students transcripts available as soon as possible. Bayero is not known for going on strikes like other universities kudos to them for that.
View moreProgramme: Journalism and Mass CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2004Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Kano -
Communications and ...21 Jul, 2023
StudentOk experienceOverall good experience. Might have been a little stifling for a college but they are at par with a lot of good federal universities in the country. I would suggest they relax a bit as most students are legal adults and can handle themselves without all the rules. I would recommend it if you’re already used to the culture of the people.
View moreProgramme: Communications and Media StudiesDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2017Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Kano
