Harvard University
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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Communication30 Nov, 2022
CharityUSYou get the best experience at harvardAmazing educators that go above and above for their pupils. There are many of enjoyable things to do and lovely locations to hang out for students both on and off campus. The lodging is well-designed and furnished efficiently. I’m having a blast here and will definitely tell my friends about it. The institution has first-rate facilities. Harvard University is the greatest option for students who wish to make the most of their time in college. Harvard’s world-class faculty members go above and beyond to ensure that their students thoroughly understand the material covered in class, and the university boasts a beautiful learning environment. Harvard University offers a top-notch curriculum and first-rate facilities.
View moreProgramme: CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2024Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Cambridge, Massachusetts -
Communication26 Nov, 2022
StudentUSAmazing learning EnvironmentStunning learning environment
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For students who want to get the most out of college, Harvard university is the best. Harvard has a stunning learning
environment, and its outstanding professors go above and beyond to make sure that their pupils fully grasp the intended course.
Harvard university has a top-notch educational program and excellent facilities.Programme: CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2024Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Cambridge, Massachusetts -
Communication20 Nov, 2022 JenniferBSPros and Cons of a Graduate School
Advantages: flexibility to decide research projects/travel/study abroad, graduate funding, incentives for administrative staff and teachers, ability to consult with other teachers, high quality teaching, many resources and collaboration between different schools and laboratories is much better. It gives you more. . Resources, great location, great social events, general department happiness. Our department really supports our graduates and provides them with everything they need. Cons: Sometimes too much freedom can be harmful, and effective time management is key to getting things done, according to the advisor. Classes can be time consuming… but it should mean you have to put off research or do it at another time. The split is not without its flaws. It’s a lot of work, but it’s fun. College challenges you, but it’s also very inspiring. It’s a great environment.”
View moreProgramme: CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Cambridge, Massachusetts
