More than ever, instant communication rules our workplaces, whether over digital platforms and videoconferencing or in-person meetings and discussions. In fact, the ability to effectively communicate is considered one of the top soft skills needed to thrive in the modern workplace. Individuals who can accurately relay information, provide valuable feedback, and listen to ideas can often leverage their professional advantage into increased opportunities and higher salaries.  

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, however, employers report that on average, entry-level candidates struggle with knowing how to listen carefully. Good communication can influence a workplace’s level of morale, employee engagement, client relationships, and productivity. A 2012 McKinsey report found that proper communication by management and the use of social technologies increases employee productivity by up to 25%. 

If you’re ready to develop your professional communication skills, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication can help.  

Communication in the digital age is an ever-changing field, and it’s important to know the ins and outs before you enter the workforce. Our online program will hone your critical thinking and research skills by exploring a wide variety of communication topics, including small group communication, crisis communication, public relations, and interpersonal communication. You’ll also explore the dark side of this multi-faceted field and discover the importance of an ethical approach to messaging.  

Customize Your Communication Degree 

Did you know that our online BA in communication program lets you choose from four specialization options? Read on to see which track is best tailored to your interests and aligned with your passions and how each specialization can translate to a successful future profession. 

Communication Studies 

If professional versatility is your priority, consider our general Communication Studies track. With this specialization, you’ll gain a broad understanding of diverse methods of communication and develop in-demand skills applicable to just about any profession.  

Our communication degree will guide you through the logistics behind content and advertising strategies and the psychological aspects of everyday information exchanged all around us. If you want to work in media, you may want to consider reporting, television or radio broadcasting, or copywriting. If you love organizing and coordinating events, you may even want to pursue a position as an event planner. Career choices for individuals pursuing our Communication Studies track include: 

Professional Communication Track 

Our Professional Communication track is one of the few undergraduate specializations in existence that focuses specifically on workplace communication.  

One of the most important applications of good communication in the workplace is establishing and expressing consistent expectations for your employees. Students specializing in our Professional Communication track will learn how to build skills in leadership, interpersonal communication, and communication within teams and how to address and resolve conflict.  

According to Gallup research, only 22% of employees strongly agree that their manager has a clear direction for their organization. Four out of five employees report that they begin looking for a new job when their manager provides negative feedback. Professionals who specialize in our Professional Communication track will learn how to build a transparent and inspiring work culture that makes employees feel committed and engaged. 

With this specialization, you’ll be able to manage and supervise just about any department. You may also want to venture into job recruitment, fundraising, or even work as a nonprofit manager who helps coordinate and promote company brands. Job options for those pursuing our Professional Communication track include: 

Strategic Messaging Track 

Communication majors with a passion for social media, marketing, writing, and advertising will want to explore our Strategic Messaging track. You’ll learn how to craft clear, concise messaging for audiences and how to promote your company’s vision, services, and products. 

In our Strategic Messaging track, you’ll develop strategies for effective brand building and communication strategies that will help you thrive in the competitive world of marketing and advertising. Our BA in communication program specializes in crisis management, so you may even want to branch out into a crisis management position and help brands preserve their reputation during challenging times. Careers students in our Strategic Messaging track may want to pursue include: 

Sports Media Track 

Communication majors with a passion for sports can combine their interests with our unique and versatile sports media track. You’ll study sports messaging from both sides through our curated sports electives, diving into topics like sports broadcasting, media writing, sports communication, and public relations. Whether you want to work as a sportswriter or as a marketing professional for a major sports organization, this track will equip you with the skills you need to pursue a number of sports-related careers, including: 

Our classes are entirely online and asynchronous, meaning you can conveniently pursue your degree from anywhere in the world, even if you have a busy schedule. Whichever track suits your dream career best, you can be sure UTPB’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication will prepare you for success.  

Sources: 
https://www.coursera.org/articles/what-can-you-do-with-a-communication-degree 
https://www.betterup.com/blog/why-communication-is-key-to-workplace-and-how-to-improve-skills 
https://leadershipchoice.com/power-good-communication-workplace/ 
https://pumble.com/learn/communication/communication-statistics/