Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Updated October 23, 2023
Edited by
Communications professionals are needed in virtually every industry to effectively inform and persuade the public. A communications degree allows you to pursue roles in fields such as media, marketing, or public relations.
While a degree in communications can be useful for many different career paths, educational expenses can be daunting. Luckily, there are many affordable online communications degree programs you can pursue.
This guide will outline the most affordable online communications degrees and factors to consider when choosing a degree program.
Featured Online Communications Programs
Benefits of Getting a Communications Degree
- A communications degree teaches you how to effectively deliver information in a variety of ways.
- Along with developing your verbal skills, this degree helps you strengthen your technical and storytelling writing abilities.
- A communications degree is highly versatile and makes you marketable to employers in many fields.
- Communications majors can work in a variety of roles, such as public relations professionals, speechwriters, or journalists.
The Most Affordable Online Communications Degree Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, The University of Texas Permian Basin supports in-person and online study across 32 bachelor's degree options. The bachelor of arts in communication is an impressive online program, equipping enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a communications career. After graduating, alumni can pursue careers or post-graduate study relevant to the communications field.
Students seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources while enrolled. Eligible degree-seekers can benefit from financial aid opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. The typical undergraduate leaner receives an average of $11,509 in financial aid.
The University of Texas Permian Basin at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 88%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,530
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,438
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,800
#2 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Colorado State University Global
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Colorado State University Global, boasting a main campus in Aurora, offers 15 bachelor's programs across in-person and online learning modalities. The online bachelor of science in communications connects participants with industry-relevant knowledge and skill sets needed to succeed in the communications field. Enrollees can apply their learning to a career or towards a graduate degree.
Undergraduate students benefit from institutional support throughout their studies in numerous areas, including in academic and career advising. Learners also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility. The average undergraduate is awarded $4,518 in financial aid.
Colorado State University Global at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 98%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,400
#3 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Trine University Online
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Trine University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 16 bachelor's programs. The virtual bachelor of arts in communications connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skillsets needed to succeed in careers or graduate studies in the communications field.
Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources while enrolled in the program. Enrollees also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility.
Trine University Online at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 39%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,576
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,576
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,000
#4 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
Walden University, featuring a main campus in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers 20 in-person and online bachelor's degree options. The bachelor of science in communications connects participants with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the communications field. The program prepares attendees for careers and further graduate education.
The college supports students through institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. Enrollees may also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Walden University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,139
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,139
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,100
#5 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
The University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Minnesota Crookston facilitates in-person and online learning across 38 bachelor's programs. For those interested in the communications field, the school's bachelor of science in communication is a wise choice. The program also prepares participants to complete graduate studies.
Resources such as career services, academic advising, and other success-geared programs can help students succeed while enrolled in the program. The financial aid office can assist learning in connecting with funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. The institution reports that 93% of all enrollees receive aid, with an average financial aid package being $11,628.
The University of Minnesota Crookston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 72%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,438
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,500
#6 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mississippi College offers 64 bachelor's programs, seven of which are available online or in hybrid form. For those interested in the communications field, the school offers two programs: a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science. Both allow students to apply their knowledge to a communications career or graduate studies.
Undergraduate degree-seekers benefit from institutional support throughout their studies in numerous areas. Prospective enrollees may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Contact the school's financial aid department for more information.
Mississippi College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 29%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $18,200
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,500
#7 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
The University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois Springfield supports in-person and online study across 33 bachelor's degree options. For individuals seeking to advance in the communications field through flexible, hybrid study, the bachelor of arts in communication studies may be a good fit. Students can apply their knowledge and skillset to graduate-level studies in communications.
The school offers learners guidance throughout their studies through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Enrollees also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility. The college's undergraduate cohort receives an average of $12,371 in financial aid award package, per person.
The University of Illinois Springfield at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,592
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,120
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,500
#8 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
The University of Missouri–St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals seeking flexible study can choose from a number of in-person or online bachelor's programs at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, including the bachelor of arts in communication. This robust degree equips graduates with industry-relevant knowledge that will serve them in their future communications careers.
Distance learners still have access to many institutional benefits, including career services and academic advising. Prospective enrollees should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. The institution reports that 96% of all students receive aid, with an average financial aid package of $12,284.
The University of Missouri–St. Louis at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,328
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,970
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,700
#9 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University, located in Bellevue, Nebraska, provides 61 bachelor's degree options in both in-person and online formats. The school's bachelor of arts in communication studies features rigorous study to prepare enrollees for future careers. The communications program also prepares students for the discipline needed to complete graduate studies if they choose that path.
Distance learners can still access the school's success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,176
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,200
#10 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 93 bachelor's degrees. The communications concentration in the bachelor of science in business administration program equips graduates with industry-relevant knowledge. The communications program prepares students for the demands of the workplace and further graduate studies.
The college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible degree-seekers, including scholarships and fellowships. Learners can also access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 50%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,791
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,800
#11 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for flexible study in an online format can choose from one of Northeastern University's 18 bachelor's degree options. The school's bachelor of science in digital communication and media is a great choice for those interested in communication careers. For participants interested in advanced studies, the program prepares them for postgraduate education as well.
Career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources are available to learners while enrolled in the program. Students also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on their eligibility.
Northeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,984
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $57,800
#12 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for flexible study opportunities can choose from one of Arkansas State University's 73 bachelor's degrees. The online bachelor of arts in communication studies is one such program, equipping enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a communications career.
Prospective students should contact the school's financial aid counselors to find opportunities for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. Financial aid enables student success, with 98% of all learners receiving aid and 53% of all degree-seekers graduating.
Arkansas State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,232
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,800
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $30,900
#13 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Grand Forks, University of North Dakota supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 99 bachelor's degrees. The school's online communications program offers a flexible way for learners to prepare for future careers and graduate study.
The college provides comprehensive support for new students, including financial aid advising. Degree-seekers can connect with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The college reports that enrollees are awarded $6,245 in financial aid, on average.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 87%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,540
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,810
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $45,400
#14 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana Wesleyan University boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education opportunities across 19 bachelor's degree options. For individuals seeking to advance in the communications field through flexible study, the school offers a relevant bachelor of science. The program prepares participants for their postgraduate path, whether that be a communications-specific career or graduate studies.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their academic journey, even remotely. The financial aid office can assist degree-seekers in connecting with funding opportunities and determining their eligibility.
Indiana Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,871
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,871
#15 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
National Louis University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
National Louis University, a leader in hybrid education, offers 23 bachelor's programs, 13 of which are available online. Distance learners who want to study communications should take advantage of the school's bachelor of arts in communication and media degree, whether they are looking for a career or future graduate-level education.
Online students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources while enrolled in the program. They can also contact a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities, available scholarships, and eligibility requirements.
National Louis University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 97%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,419
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,200
#16 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Upper Iowa University
Fayette, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Fayette, Upper Iowa University facilitates in-person and online learning across 47 bachelor's degree options. The school's bachelor's in communication studies program equips participants with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The knowledge and skills gained from these studies can benefit graduates in a communications career or in further educational pursuits.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering student success. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree; contact the school's financial aid office for more information.
Upper Iowa University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 65%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $31,950
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,200
#17 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs, a public four-year college, supports both in-person and online learning across 40 bachelor's degree options. The school's online bachelor of arts in communications prepares graduates for the demands of a career in communications and related fields. The program also prepares participants for the discipline needed to complete graduate studies for more advanced career opportunities.
Students at this college seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources while enrolled, even online. Prospective applicants should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. The college reports that 85% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid, with $6,334 being the average award package.
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 90%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,208
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,572
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,300
#18 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern Illinois University, a public, four-year college located in Charleston, offers 61 bachelor's degree options, including programs that support both in-person and online opportunities for study. The school's online bachelor of arts in communication studies with a communication in organizations concentration is great for learners interested in careers in the communications field.
Even when learning online, degree-seekers can receive guidance throughout their studies from the school's career and academic professionals. Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities, available scholarships, and eligibility requirements. The institution reports that 98% of all enrollees receive aid, with an average financial aid package being $10,511.
Eastern Illinois University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 56%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,036
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,231
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,500
#19 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dallas Baptist University, a private college, boasts 64 bachelor's degree options. The school's bachelor of applied science in communication is an ideal choice for individuals seeking to advance in a communications career or undertake further studies in a master or doctoral program.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering student success. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Dallas Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 99%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $30,690
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,900
#20 Most Affordable Online Communication Degrees
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for flexible online study can choose from 39 bachelor's degree options at University of Phoenix. For students seeking to advance in the communication field, the bachelor of science in communication program is a great choice. It prepares participants for the demands of the field or for graduate studies in communications.
Throughout their studies, undergraduate degree-seekers can access institutional resources geared towards student success. Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore partial or full funding opportunities, determine their eligibility, and apply for student loans.
University of Phoenix at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 77-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,552
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,200
Affordable Online Bachelor's in Communication Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Featured Online Communications Programs
What Is a Communications Degree?
An online bachelor's degree in communication trains you to critically analyze information and communicate clearly and effectively. Coursework emphasizes skills like critical thinking, writing, and research.
During a communication degree, you study journalism, writing tactics, mass communication and media, public relations, investigative reports, and press releases. In addition to strengthening your writing abilities, you also polish your public speaking skills.
With a communications degree, you can pursue careers in business, the nonprofit sector, media, and politics. Common jobs for communication majors include public relations specialist, journalist, and writer.
How to Choose an Online Communications Program
When researching the best communication schools offering online degrees, you must consider several factors. In addition to price, you should look into program requirements and distance learning delivery methods.
Program Requirements
Some programs incorporate internship requirements to help you apply your knowledge in professional settings. Other programs may require an applied project to demonstrate your understanding of the course materials. Every program is different, so be sure to check the degree requirements.
Program Structure
Many schools offer flexible online communications programs. Asynchronous programs allow you to complete coursework around other responsibilities. An online format also means you can attend the best programs without relocating. However, some programs may require a few on-campus visits.
How Much Does an Online Communication Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees for a bachelor's degree is approximately $9,375 at a public university for in-state students, $27,091 for out-of-state students, and $32,825 at a private university.
Note that total costs for in-person college are typically higher considering room and board for students. However, pursuing a degree online can help you save money by reducing these expenses, allowing you to avoid lodging and travel costs. Many online students are also able to continue working while they study.
What Else Can I Expect From a Bachelor's in Communication Program?
Earning a bachelor's in communication generally takes four years for full-time students. Many programs allow you to shape your degree around your interests and career goals.
Some communication programs allow you to pursue a concentration or area of emphasis. For example, if you are interested in reporting, you may be able to choose a journalism concentration. Many programs also offer electives, which allow you to acquire specialty skills without committing to a full concentration.
Communication Concentrations
- Journalism: A journalism concentration lets you explore media studies, investigative journalism, and reporting. You examine modern media, journalism ethics, and theoretical frameworks in journalism. This concentration prepares you for careers like journalism, reporting, or editing.
- Public Relations: This concentration teaches you how to use your communication training to shape public opinion. You explore public relations techniques, digital media strategy, and social media production. You can find work in public relations agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and event planning.
- Digital Media: Digital media concentrations explore digital technologies and methods of communication in digital environments. Coursework usually includes new media writing, film production, and trends in social media. You can pursue a career as a digital media specialist, social media specialist, and digital media consultant.
- Broadcast Media: A concentration in broadcast media trains you to work in television, radio, and other media platforms. During the degree, you explore broadcast communication, media analysis, and writing. Graduates often work for television networks and nonprofit media companies.
- Global Communication: Also referred to as "international communication," global communication emphasizes cross-cultural communication and media strategies. You learn about transnational communication networks and mass media operations. This concentration may also incorporate foreign language training or study abroad opportunities.
Communication Curriculum
- Writing for Media: This class helps you strengthen your reporting and writing abilities. You learn to write in different styles, apply journalistic techniques, and build communication skills through writing assignments and critiques. You also gain familiarity with AP style, write articles, and craft press releases.
- Mass Communication: Mass communication courses explore mass media, the evolution of the media, and techniques used to study the media. Coursework also examines the social and cultural contexts that shape mass communication. Many communication programs require a course in mass communication.
- Gender, Communication, and Culture: This course explores the relationship between gender and culture, how gender and identity shape communication, and how cultural institutions communicate theories of gender and identity. It also helps you strengthen your critical thinking skills and understand the role cultural and gender bias can play in communication.
Jobs With a Communication Degree
Communication graduates have many options when it comes to building a career. For example, you can pursue opportunities in public relations, advertising, and marketing. Or, you can seek employment as a journalist, translator, writer, or editor.
Many of these career paths are in high demand and offer above-average salaries. In addition to the following communication careers, you can also pursue opportunities in business, politics, government, and tech.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Editors | $73,080 | -4% |
| Interpreters and Translators | $53,640 | 4% |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $55,960 | -3% |
| Public Relations Specialists | $67,440 | 6% |
| Technical Writers | $79,960 | 7% |
| Writers and Authors | $73,150 | 4% |
Communications Salary Outlook
Overall employment in communications is expected to grow by 3%, similar to the national average in job growth. Public relations specialists and interpreters and translators are expected to see higher than average job growth, at 6% to 4%, respectively.
The median salary among all communication professionals is $52,840 (BLS), higher than the national median salary for all occupations.
Featured Online Communications Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Communications Degrees
What are the highest-paying jobs with a communication degree?
One of the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's communication degree is technical writing, with a median salary of $79,960 (BLS).
Executive communications professionals can earn even higher salaries. However, these jobs often require advanced degrees, such as a master's in business or communications.
What can I do with a bachelor's in communication degree?
With a bachelor's degree in communications, you can pursue jobs in media, journalism, and writing. You can also work as an interpreter or translator if you're proficient in a foreign language.
Public relations firms, which span across many different industries, also hire communications professionals to help effectively deliver information.
Is communication a hard major?
Communication degrees typically lean heavily on liberal arts-related courses. If you tend to excel in areas like math and science but struggle in English or writing classes, you may have a harder time completing this degree.
Alternatively, creative students with strong writing and public speaking skills may have an easier time completing this degree.
Is a communications degree worth it?
Determining whether a degree is "worth it" is a personal decision, but a communications degree can be useful for many reasons. A communications degree can help you develop stronger writing and verbal skills, which is valuable no matter what career path you decide to pursue.
Since a communications degree primarily focuses on how to deliver information effectively, it can be especially useful for a career in public relations, media, or journalism.
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