Program Overview
Crafting captivating messages. Influencing audiences. Building strong brands. These are just a few of the exciting possibilities you can pursue with a bachelor’s degree in communication.Â
From public speaking to social media to emailing, our lives are dependent on communication. While clear communication is a valuable skill in any job, Youngstown State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree program goes beyond the basics, offering four distinct tracks to tailor your learning experience to your unique passions and interests.Â
Our major in communication is ideal for students interested in social or digital media, journalism, public relations, marketing, or similar fields. If any of these paths sound appealing to you, keep reading to discover how YSU can help you launch a rewarding career in communication.Â
Communication intertwines social sciences and humanities, and as an academic discipline, it refers to the study of how information is conveyed among people, groups, organizations, and societies. In today’s hyperconnected world, communication studies majors are vital to any organization or company. Â
These skilled professionals manage crucial internal communications, such as emails, interviews, and calls, ensuring smooth operations within the organization. Additionally, they handle external communications like marketing, advertisement, and media relations, which are essential for an organization’s public image and outreach.Â
Communication might seem like a broad field, but that’s what makes it such a versatile career path. A major in communication opens doors to a vast array of exciting opportunities, and the skills you develop are valuable in any industry. Here’s why a major in communication could be the perfect fit for you:Â
Speak to a Faculty Member
Dr. Mary Beth Earnheardt
Chair
mearnheardt@ysu.edu
While courses vary depending on the school you attend, communication studies degree programs typically offer a blend of general education requirements, such as math and writing, alongside communication-specific classes.Â
At Youngstown State University, communication studies majors take courses in communication theory, social media literacy, and interpersonal communication, among other classes. YSU’s program also emphasizes writing, research methods, sociology concepts, and communication theories and applications.Â
At YSU, communication studies majors can also choose from one of four specialized tracks to tailor their studies, including Media, Persuasion, Social Media, or Interpersonal/Organizational Communication. While all tracks share a core foundation in communication principles, each offers focused courses to deepen your knowledge in your chosen area. For example, the Media track includes upper-level courses like media analysis and social media campaigns.Â
Additionally, each track culminates in a senior project, allowing you to showcase the skills you’ve acquired throughout your communication studies degree program.Â
A career in communication offers diverse and fulfilling opportunities to make a real impact. Consider this: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continuous growth in media and communication occupations over the next decade. Additionally, the median annual salary in this field was more than $18,000 higher than the national average in 2023.Â
This positive outlook translates to ample opportunities for communication studies graduates. While your chosen track can influence where you land, here’s a glimpse of some of the many career paths available for communication studies majors:Â
Want to take your communication skills to the next level? YSU’s Master of Arts in Professional Communication builds upon the foundation provided by our bachelor’s degree in communication studies, career earning, and growth potential. The program emphasizes research methods, analysis, and media persuasion, as well as communication theories and their relevant applications.Â
The Master of Arts in Professional Communication provides two options to complete your program:Â
Whatever path you choose with a communication degree, YSU offers abundant resources to support your success—both during your studies and as you begin your communication career. Â
Explore the Williamson College of Business Administration to learn how you can connect with student organizations, participate in study abroad opportunities, and engage with current communication majors. You can also delve deeper into our list of programs and discover valuable information about internships and communication career opportunities.Â
Join us today at YSU and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in communication.Â
Program Options
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
Bachelor of Arts
Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in the Williamson College of Business Administration. Scholarships come from a variety of sources, vary in amount, and are available to both incoming and current WCBA students. Below, you will find further information regarding the opportunities that may be available to you through the college.
Nearly 11,000 students
Over $8 Million in Scholarships Given Annually
21 Average Class Size
5 University Residence Halls with plenty of nearby apartments
14:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Tuition and fees may vary by major, college, area of study or based on your location. The university reserves the right to assess fees for special services and programs applicable to students. First-time International undergraduate students’ tuition rate is established based on first enrollment and remains unchanged for four consecutive years. Graduate students should plan for a yearly tuition increase of approximately 5%.
For a complete list of additional fees and detailed tuition information please visit the University Bursar website here.
Cost of the most popular room and meal plan combination; Your cost will depend on the plans you select. Costs in the box cover the most popular room and meal plan combination (on-campus); If you choose to live off-campus, the estimated cost of room and meals will be around $12,000 based on 12 months.
Based on average books & supply costs
Health insurance is required for international students.
Estimate based on one academic year of study
9 Months – based on 12 – 18 credit hours
*Estimate
+1 330-941-2336
www.ysu.edu/ifs
intadm@ysu.edu
Applicants must have graduated from high school or have successfully completed the General Education Development (GED) test to be considered for admission. Freshman applicants applying for admission to Youngstown State University must submit a high school transcript or GED transcript. Submission of American College Test (ACT) or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores is optional. Please note: some majors require test scores to be admitted into the program.
Applicants must have a cumulative weighted high school grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher, a core unweighted grade point average* of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher and have an ACT composite score of 17 or higher or a SAT composite score of 920 or higher (evidence-based writing and reading and math) to be admitted unconditionally. (*Core gpa is calculated based on grades earned in the following courses – English, mathematics, science, social science and foreign language, if applicable, from 9th through 12th grade).
Fall Application Deadline is
August 1
