Nova School of Social Sciences and Humanities - FCSH
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.
7 Student Reviews
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Communication Sciences4 months ago
NwadikeNova fcsh for international studentsNOVA School of Social Sciences and Humanities offers a rich academic environment with strong programmes in social sciences and humanities and a diverse international community. The campus is well-located in Lisbon and fosters a welcoming atmosphere with opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds. Overall, it’s a reputable choice for students who value academic depth and cultural experience, especially in humanities and research-oriented field
View moreProgramme: Communication SciencesDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2028Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Lisbon -
M.Sc. in ...4 months ago
StudentNGNova fcsh for international studentsNOVA FCSH offers a modern and supportive academic environment, especially strong in humanities and social sciences. The lecturers are knowledgeable and approachable, and the courses encourage critical thinking and active participation.
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The school has a diverse international community and good academic resources. Being located in Lisbon also gives students access to rich cultural and professional opportunities. Overall, NOVA FCSH is a great choice for quality education in a vibrant city.Programme: M.Sc. in Communication ScienceDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2027Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Lisbon -
Communication4 months ago StudentPTVery liberal environment
I studied Communication in FCSH and have to say I really enjoyed my time there, the people were great, the environment very liberal. It was great being able to express myself any way I saw fit. The campus is very well located as well.
In terms of the courses I feel like I learned a lot but would say there is space for improvement.
View moreProgramme: CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2020Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Lisbon -
Communication Sciences6 months ago StudentPTNOVA FCSH
I just loved studied at nova fcsh. it was the best option and it will be a great option if you like meeting some different people, learning more about social sciencies and humanities. you will be able to work with some excellent teatchers.
View moreProgramme: Communication SciencesDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2025Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Lisbon -
Communication and ...04 Jan, 2024GuilhermePTGreat for making connections
My experience was pleasent, the content of the course is a little scattered, due to the 4 different paths you can choose within the course.
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It’s a great place to meet people from different backgrounds, who have different interest than yourself. So, it’s great to start projects with people, or integrate yourself in projects that may already exist.Programme: Communication and MediaDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2020Delivery Type: BlendedCampus: Lisbon -
Communication and ...11 Nov, 2019 renataToo much theory!
The campus is really cool, really green and in an extremely good location! I really like that I only have 3/4 month of classes per semester because basically means I get more vacations 🙂 however, I think the uni is too much theory, nothing related to work market and that’s really frustrating for me. They do not offer accommodation, the career prospect is really good as is one of the most well knowns uni in Portugal!
View moreProgramme: Communication and Media StudiesDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2019Campus: Lisbon -
Communication Sciences25 Sep, 2019 StudentAmazing atmosphere
The university is very inclusive.Everybody is the same, no matter age, race, gender, sexuality, style etc… This inclusivity also makes the atmosphere in the faculty great! Every break there is someone playing music, singing, drinking and smoking (responsibly) The teachers are also very nice. The classes are always relaxed and we even get a few laughs.
View moreProgramme: Communication SciencesDegree: Bachelor'sCampus: Lisbon
