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North-West University - NWU
speciality: Communication

4.1

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.

15 Student Reviews

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  • Communication
    Boipelo
    Nwu experience

    My first semester at university was a mix of growth, challenges, and exciting new experiences. Adjusting to the academic workload was tough at first, with higher expectations and a faster pace than high school, but I gradually developed better time management and study habits. Lecturers were mostly supportive, and online resources helped me keep up with coursework. I enjoyed the social side of campus life and meeting new people, joining clubs, and attending events made the transition easier. Although there were moments of feeling overwhelmed, especially during exams, the experience taught me resilience. Support services like mental health and academic guidance could be improved, but overall, the semester was rewarding, and I’m looking forward to the next one with more confidence.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2026
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    Palesa
    Lovely Environment

    I study at North West University Potchefstroom Campus, and I must say , everything is good and I love the environment, lecturers and all resources available to make sure students succeed in their academics.
    I high recommend NWU.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2026
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    M
    It's a great school!!

    My time at NWU was honestly such a great experience. The university has a strong sense of community, and what stood out to me is how it really opens doors for students from all kinds of backgrounds. A lot of students are on NSFAS, which makes the campus very diverse and gives everyone a fair shot at education. NWU also runs outreach and volunteer programmes where students get involved in giving back, like tutoring school learners and helping them prepare for university life.

    The lecturers are approachable and supportive, and they constantly give feedback that pushes you to improve. There are also loads of clubs, sports, and societies to join, so it’s easy to find your crowd and feel like you belong. Life on campus can feel like a little bubble at times, where everyone knows each other and you build friendships that last well beyond university. For me, NWU was more than just a place to study, it was a community that shaped me both personally and academically

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Short Course
    Graduation: 2022
    Delivery Type: Blended
    Campus: Vanderbijlpark
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  • Communication
    Jana
    Supportive, Worth it and Fantastic

    NWU genuinely cares about student well-being. The support systems including academic advising, career services, counseling, and health services are robust and easy to access. They have excellent programs to help first-year students transition smoothly into university life. I always felt there was someone to turn to for guidance, both academically and personally.

    North West University is more than just a degree factory.It’s a place where you can grow intellectually, build lifelong friendships, and discover your potential. It provides a world-class education within a uniquely South African context. If you’re looking for a university that combines academic challenge with a warm, engaging community, NWU should be at the very top of your list.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2025
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    avatar
    A Strong, Hands-On Foundation in Visual Arts

    My experience in the History of Art programme was defined by its practical approach. A major strength was the direct access to the North-West University Gallery. Courses weren’t just theoretical; we installed exhibitions, engaged with visiting artists, and learned curation firsthand through projects like co-curating for the Momentum Aardklop festival. This provided invaluable real-world skills.

    The faculty, particularly in the Art History department, were supportive and pushed for critical thinking. However, being a smaller department, course options could sometimes feel limited compared to larger universities.

    I would recommend it to students who want a hands-on, intimate learning environment where you can build close relationships with lecturers and gain immediate gallery experience, which is rare at the undergraduate level.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2026
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    avatar
    My experience at North West University

    As a former student of North-West University’s Mahikeng Campus, I appreciated the strong sense of community and support throughout my studies. The campus has a welcoming atmosphere that made it easy to connect with both classmates and lecturers, especially in smaller classes. It’s particularly great for students interested in social sciences and community development, as there’s a strong focus on practical involvement and outreach.

    One thing I valued most was how affordable campus life was. From meals prepared by local vendors to student-friendly resources, it was easy to manage financially without sacrificing the university experience. The vibe on campus was positive and relaxed — not overwhelming or too fast-paced.

    While the academic side was generally solid, there were occasional delays in admin processes that required patience. Still, the staff were approachable and willing to help when needed.

    Overall, my time at the Mahikeng Campus helped shape both my academic and personal growth. If you’re looking for a down-to-earth, community-driven place to study, I’d definitely recommend it.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2014
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Mahikeng
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  • Communication
    avatar
    Library facilities

    Great learning environment with affordable fees. Lecturers are helpful in my course (not sure about others 😅), and the library isn’t well-equipped, most charging points don’t work and the loud are can get loud at times and can end up smelling like urine (only during peak hours). But even with that said, the coaches are really comfortable, is warm during winter and the library provides water fountains!!! 😱

    Even with that said, it still is a good uni

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2025
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    avatar
    NWU REVIEW

    NWU is really inclusive, and I like that you can speak your mind without feeling judged for who you are or where you come from. It honestly makes the campus feel safe and welcoming. The only thing I don’t always enjoy is the pressure to do well, because NWU has such a big reputation and you feel like you constantly have to live up to it.

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2027
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    Mpho
    Amazing

    NWU offers a vibrant student life with strong academic support. Lecturers are approachable, and the diverse campus culture makes learning feel inclusive and exciting. I highly recommend North West University. The experience is amazing .

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2028
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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  • Communication
    Johouna
    Lovely

    NWU builds community. Residence life, campus events, and student organizations make it easy to connect and form lifelong friendship with both lecturers , professors, students and all staff . I greatly recommend

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    Programme: Communication
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2028
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Potchefstroom
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