Communication Studies
Associate Degree

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Why NCC’s Associate in Communication Studies Program?

Lay the groundwork for a creative and impactful career in advertising, politics, journalism, public relations, sales and so much more! The Associate in Arts (AA) in Communication Studies degree program at Northampton Community College (NCC) forms a solid foundation on which you can build an exciting career.

In this program you will develop essential skills in communication, writing, and leadership that will serve you as you move into the next phase of your journey. Learn about interpersonal relationships, diverse cultures, and teamwork while you take courses both in-person and online in this program that mirrors the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program at a fraction of the cost.

 

Customizable Curriculum to Fit Your Career Goals

Open up your future potential through your choice of 25+ electives in mass communications, business, psychology, sociology, communication technology and the performing arts. Our flexible course offerings empower you to prepare for a career in business, marketing, human resources, social media management, and just about any other communication path you can imagine.

 

Transfer With Confidence

Jump-start your education in one of the most successful community college transfer programs in Pennsylvania. Our communication studies associate degree is nearly identical to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program—and empowers you to save up to $40,000!

NCC holds over 100 signed transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities across the country, and your academic advisors can help you navigate the requirements and deadlines for your desired transfer program.

Learn more about transferring from NCC

 

What You’ll Learn in the Communication Studies Degree Program

Develop coherent perspectives and critical thinking techniques for communication theory and practice in individual and group contexts. NCC’s communication studies major equips you to communicate vital concepts in healthcare, education, media, sales, and management settings. Gain practice in diverse specialty areas, from technology and business to sociology, as you plan for studies at a four-year institution and your career beyond.


Program Details

Semesters: 4

Credits: 62

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem | Fully Online

Program Overview:

Build up the general knowledge and subject expertise typical of the first two years of a communication-related bachelor’s degree program, including fundamentals of communication and core courses in psychology, statistics, science and sociology. With the help of your academic advisor, choose further communication electives to prepare for your intended transfer program.



Resources to Support Your Learning

Find support from your first days on campus to graduation! Northampton Community College’s robust student services support your communication associate degree through online and on-campus tutoring and academic success programs, individualized advising with faculty experts, peer support groups and our future-focused Career Services team.

smiling student holding books

What Can You Do With a Degree in Communication Studies?

Exercise your creativity in media and communication roles that range from corporate marketing and advertising to journalism, sales, politics, law, film and more. This field remains in consistent demand even as the media and communications landscape rapidly shifts—some jobs evolve over time, but they don’t disappear!

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for media and communication workers is over $66,000, and managers in training and development, human resources, and public relations average over $134,000 per year—both higher than the median annual wage for all occupations. Some communication studies career paths include:

  • Brand Manager
  • Human Resources
  • Insurance
  • Social Media Manager
  • Training and Development
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Event Planning
  • Politics
  • Journalist
  • Non-Profits
  • Marketing Specialist
  • Education
  • Consulting
  • Law

Student Spotlight

I've always wanted to find a way to take a message and best communicate it to an audience. I've had jobs in data, public relations, teaching, and it's always been the same. Everything I've done has just made me more well-rounded. When I thought about teaching, I realized the only place I'd want to teach was NCC. Returning to my roots where NCC helped me find my way, knowing that I could help a student along their

Will Careri, Alumni
Communication Studies

Will Careri

Need Help Deciding?

Our helpful teams of academic and career experts can answer your questions about the communication studies degree, other programs and opportunities on campus, and life at NCC!


Contact a Career Counselor Connect with an Academic Advisor

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Next Steps

With 120+ high-quality programs at a highly affordable cost, you can build specialized skills to advance in your career path — fast. And with flexible class formats and convenient locations, it's never been easier to join us.