B.A. in Communication at Georgian Court University
The B.A. in Communication at Georgian Court University is designed for students who want a relevant, flexible, and versatile degree that opens doors in today’s media-driven world. Our communication degree stands out for its strong liberal arts foundation, affordability, and commitment to your academic and personal growth.
Why Earn Your Bachelor’s in Communication at GCU?
Personalized Education
Experience small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, ensuring you receive individualized attention and mentorship.
Well-Rounded, Affordable Liberal Arts Foundation
Build a strong academic base that prepares you for dynamic careers with a bachelor’s in communication, all at a competitive tuition rate. 99% of full-time freshmen receive financial aid, with an average award of $39,506.
Holistic Student Support
We’re dedicated to your academic and personal success, offering comprehensive advising and wellness resources.
Professional Experiential Learning
Every B.A. in Communication major completes a semester-long, professional internship, gaining hands-on experience with organizations in New Jersey and beyond.
Career Readiness
Our dynamic community partnerships and focus on real-world learning ensure you graduate ready for the workforce.
Inclusive, Supportive Community
GCU’s diverse and welcoming campus is located in beautiful Lakewood, New Jersey—just minutes from the Jersey Shore and within easy reach of New York City and Philadelphia.
B.A. in Communication Careers & Salaries
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth in media and communication occupations from 2023 to 2033, with about 109,500 openings annually. The median annual wage for media and communication workers is $70,300, well above the national median.
Career Opportunities and Salaries in Communication & Media:
(Typical entry-level education: bachelor’s in communication)
- Producers & Directors – $83,480
- Advertising, Promotions & Marketing Managers – $159,660
- Broadcast, Sound & Video Technicians – $56,600
- Publication Editors – $75,260
- Film & Video Editors – $70,570
- News Analysts, Reporters & Journalists – $60,280
- Public Relations & Corporate Communication – $69,780
- Technical Writers – $91,670
- Writers & Authors – $72,270
- Business Communication Consulting – $80,350
- Digital Media Management – $66,415
- Strategic Communication Planning – $79,700
- Integrated Marketing Communication – $79,500
Why Study Communication at GCU?
- Small class sizes and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized learning
- Located in Lakewood, NJ—just minutes from the Jersey Shore and major media markets
- 99% of full-time freshmen receive financial aid; average award is $39,506
Communication Major Fast Facts
- Access to experienced faculty and hands-on media labs
- Flexible curriculum with internship opportunities and career support
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Shape Your Future with a
B.A. in Communication
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Internships and
Experiential Learning
Every B.A. in Communication major completes a semester-long, professional internship. GCU’s strong partnerships with New Jersey businesses, nonprofits, and media organizations provide students with real-world experience and valuable professional connections.
Dedicated Spaces for
Content Creation
GCU’s B.A. in Communication majors have access to three dedicated spaces for hands-on learning and personal content creation:
- The Storytelling Studio: A multi-purpose content creation space for media production, photography, podcasting, and editing. Features include a green screen, computers, video projectors, TV screens, and professional lighting gear.
- Media Labs: Two labs equipped with Macintosh computers loaded with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft 365, supporting all media needs from pre- to post-production.
B.A. in Communication Program Highlights
Transfer-Friendly Communication Degree
Our B.A. in Communication degree program is truly transfer friendly! We have a high transfer graduation rate, dedicated academic advising and support staff, articulation agreements with Brookdale Community College and Ocean County College, and a quick evaluation process for transfer credits from colleges in the U.S. or abroad.
Graduate Degree Pathway
Many communication graduates pursue advanced degrees to further specialize their expertise. The B.A. in Communication provides excellent preparation for master’s programs in film, communication, journalism, public relations, marketing, and related fields.
GCU faculty advisors help you plan your undergraduate coursework to align with your graduate goals, including our 100% online M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communication.
B.A. in Communication degree FAQs
Is the B.A. in Communication program at Georgian Court University transfer-friendly?
Yes! Our communication degree program is highly transfer-friendly, with dedicated academic advising and articulation agreements with Brookdale Community College and Ocean County College. We offer a quick evaluation of transfer credits from colleges across the U.S. and abroad.
What hands-on learning opportunities are available for communication majors?
Every communication major completes a semester-long professional internship. You’ll also have access to our Storytelling Studio and Media Labs for content creation, media production, podcasting, and more.
Can I specialize my communication degree at GCU?
Absolutely. You can choose from concentrations in Media & Visual Studies or Journalism & Public Relations, or add a minor in Communication, Film, Public Relations, or Sports Media to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at GCU?
Georgian Court University offers small class sizes with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and close faculty-student relationships.
Are there online or hybrid courses available in the communication program?
Yes! Select undergraduate courses are available online, and our graduate program in Integrated Marketing Communication is 100% online for maximum flexibility.
What career support does GCU offer for communication majors?
In addition to internships and experiential learning, students benefit from dynamic community partnerships, career advising, and networking opportunities with organizations throughout New Jersey and the region.
How does GCU support student success and wellness?
We’re committed to your academic and personal growth, offering comprehensive advising, wellness resources, and a supportive campus environment.
What are some typical careers for communication graduates?
Graduates work in public relations, journalism, media production, corporate communications, digital marketing, broadcasting, and more. Many also pursue advanced degrees in communication or related fields.
Highly Experienced Full Time Faculty
Dr. Marci Mazzarotto
Dr. Marci Mazzarotto is an award-winning media producer and has earned two terminal degrees – a PhD in related media studies and an MFA in film & television production. Dr. M has numerous interdisciplinary publications in the areas of film and media studies, critical pedagogy, avant-garde art, and popular culture. As an Associate Professor of Communication, Dr. M primarily specializes in the areas of film theory, media production, television studies, and mass media.
Dr. Ellen Bernhard
Dr. Ellen Bernhard earned her PhD in Culture, Communication, & Media Studies with a research focus on contemporary punk rock scenes and their relationship with social media and other influences such as popular culture and digital technology. As an Assistant Professor of Communication, Dr. B primarily specializes in the areas of public speaking, news writing and editing, organizational communication, and public relations.
One of the standout aspects of my communication program was the small class sizes, which fostered an environment where every voice mattered…the communication faculty at Georgian Court was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, always encouraging us to push our boundaries and explore new ideas…This experience has equipped me with the essential tools for my future and instilled in me a strong sense of belonging to an incredible community.”
B.A. in Communication Program Information
Major Curriculum
The communication degree at Georgian Court University provides a comprehensive foundation in communication theory and practice. Our strategic communication major prepares students for careers in diverse fields including sports media, public relations, and film production. You’ll develop effective communication skills for business environments and master integrated marketing communications—skills today’s employers demand.
To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.
To remain in good academic standing, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average in the major of at least 2.5 or higher, which is also the requirement for graduation.
Major Sequence
Includes 27 credits from the required core courses and a total of 15 credits from the student’s chosen concentration area of Journalism & Public Relations or Media & Visual Studies:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | ||
| CM100 | Fundamentals of Communication | 3.0 |
| CM101 | Introduction to Mass Communication | 3.0 |
| CM105 | Public Speaking | 3.0 |
| CM217 | Media Production 1 | 3.0 |
| CM305 | Media Law & Ethics | 3.0 |
| CM310 | Interpersonal Communication | 3.0 |
| CM401 | Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| CM404 | Communication Research | 3.0 |
| CM405 | Communication Internship | 3.0 |
| Concentration | ||
| Select one concentration: | 15.0 | |
Journalism & Public Relations | ||
Media & Visual Studies | ||
| Total Credits | 42.0 | |
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Communication majors may not use CM217 to fulfill the Visual & Performing Arts General Education category.
Concentration
Students must complete 15 credits total from one chosen concentration area.
Journalism & Public relations
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | ||
| Select 15 credits from the following: | 15.0 | |
CM/EN207 | News Writing & Reporting | |
CM/EN208 | News Editing | |
CM209 | Introduction to Public Relations | |
CM/EN210 | Writing for the Mass Media | |
CM/EN230 | Writing on the Web | |
CM252 | Organizational Communication | |
CM/EN309 | Public Relations Writing | |
CM317 | Advanced Media Production | |
CM350 | Special Topics | |
| Total Credits | 15.0 | |
Media & Visual Studies
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | ||
| Select 15 credits from the following: | 15.0 | |
CM/AR200 | Visual Communication | |
CM/AR205 | Transmedia Storytelling | |
CM/AR235 | The Art of Film | |
CM/AR244 | Women in Film | |
CM/EN245 | Writing About Television | |
CM251 | Intercultural Communication | |
CM302 | Mass Media & Social Issues | |
CM317 | Advanced Media Production | |
CM350 | Special Topics | |
| Total Credits | 15.0 | |
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Communication Degree Concentrations
Media & Visual Studies Concentration
Prepare for careers in film, broadcasting, storytelling, and media production. This concentration focuses on the analysis and creation of visual content across platforms. Coursework includes film and television studies, media production and analysis, and visual storytelling—making this a leading media career pathway in New Jersey.
Journalism & Public Relations Concentration
Prepare for careers in journalism, news, corporate communications, and PR agencies. Focus on the analysis and creation of written content across platforms. Develop practical skills in news writing and editing, media relations, and strategic public relations. Coursework covers journalism, organizational communication, and PR writing—ideal for students interested in a public relations degree or journalism career.
Course Rotation
| COURSE ID# | TITLE | FALL | SPRING |
|---|---|---|---|
| COMMUNICATION MAJOR | |||
| CM100 | WI: Fundamentals of Communication | X | |
| CM101 | WI: Introduction to Mass Communication | X | |
| CM105 | Public Speaking | X | |
| CM200 | Visual Communication | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM205 | Transmedia Storytelling | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM210 (EN210) | Writing for the Mass Media | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM207 (EN207) | News Writing & Reporting | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM217 | Media Production | X | |
| CM209 | WI: Introduction to Public Relations | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM208 (EN208) | News Editing | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM230 (EN230) | WI: Writing on the Web | X | |
| CM235 | WI: The Art of Film | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM244 | WI: Women in Film | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM245 (EN245) | WI: Writing About Television | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM251 | WI: Intercultural Communication | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM252 | WI: Organizational Communication | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM302 | WI: Mass Media & Social Issues | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM305 | WI: Media Law & Ethics | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM310 | WI: Interpersonal Communication | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM309 (EN309) | WI: Public Relations Writing | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| CM317 | Advanced Media Production | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM401 | WI: Communication Theory | EVEN YEARS ONLY | |
| CM405 | Communication Internship | ||
| CM404 | WI: Communication Research | ODD YEARS ONLY | |
| COMMUNICATION MINOR | |||
| CM100 | WI: Fundamentals of Communication | X | |
| CM101 | WI: Introduction to Mass Communication | X | |
| CM105 | Public Speaking | X | |
| plus any three other CM courses listed above | |||
Internships
- When you’re ready to pursue an internship, please meet with your academic advisor to gain an understanding of the internship process and requirements. Once you have found and secured a professional internship related to your major, be sure to let your advisor know specific details, as you will need to receive program approval prior to beginning the internship.
- Upon receiving approval from your academic advisor, you must then reach out to the Internship Coordinator for the School of Business and Digital Media (SBDM) to schedule an appointment and discuss the appropriate next steps.
- After completing the two steps above, you will fill out the Internship Registration and Contract online, per below:
- Go to collegecentral.com/georgian
- Select “I am a Student.”
- If this is your first time signing in, enter your GCU password and select “Activate” account to complete your profile and create a College Central password.
- If you have already set up a College Central profile, sign in using your GCU username and the College Central password you created for this account (not your GCU password).
- Once logged on, select “Experiential Learning” from the action menu. Be sure it is for the Communications BA.
- Complete the appropriate Approval Form online. Once approved, you will receive e-mail confirmation.
- Students register for the internship course by first requesting permission from SBDM’s Internship Coordinator, and then going back into Self-Service and completing the registration process.
- Communication majors will register for CM405.
- During the internship, you should maintain a weekly journal of hours worked, tasks performed, and personal reflections. Regularly review your progress with the internship coordinator, as well as your employer.
- Toward the end of your internship and at least two weeks before the end of the semester, go back into CareerLink to submit the Internship Evaluation Form online.
- At the conclusion of the semester, you will prepare a PowerPoint presentation on your internship experience containing:
- a detailed job description.
- an overview of the organization.
- an explanation of how you achieved each of your specific learning objectives.
- a self-reflection on the impact of the internship on your career choice, goals, and plans.
Minor in Communication
The number one key skill all employers look for: strong communication. Complete this flexible and versatile communication minor and increase your employability by strengthening your overall written and verbal communication skills—from public speaking to content creation.
Boost your writing, speaking, and media skills with a minor in communication from GCU. This focus complements a wide variety of majors and positions graduates for career success in a variety of professional settings.
Minor Sequence
To earn a minor in Communication, students must successfully complete a minimum of 18 credits including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CM100 | Fundamentals of Communication | 3.0 |
| CM101 | Introduction to Mass Communication | 3.0 |
| CM105 | Public Speaking | 3.0 |
| Any nine additional credits of CM courses | 9.0 | |
| Total Credits | 18.0 | |
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Minor in Film
Join the booming film and content creation industry in New Jersey by complementing your degree with a Film Minor. Focus on video-based productions and critical analysis to prepare for a wide range of jobs in the field.
Curriculum coming soon.
Minor in Public Relations
Gain hands-on experience in press release writing, social media management, and navigating communication challenges. The Public Relations Minor is a perfect complement for students interested in business, marketing, journalism, political science, English, and health.
Curriculum coming soon.
Minor in Sports Media
Perfect for students interested in sports, the Sports Media Minor is an interdisciplinary collaboration between Communication and Sport Management. Prepare for careers from television broadcasting to content creation.
Minor Sequence
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses: 1 | 6.0 | |
CM217 | Media Production | |
SM375 | Sport in Society | |
| Choose two courses from among the following: | 6.0 | |
SM213 | Principles of Sport Management | |
SM241 | Sport Marketing | |
SM416 | Research in Sport | |
MK246 | Social Media Marketing | |
| Choose two courses from among the following: | 6.0 | |
CM/EN207 | News Writing & Reporting | |
CM209 | Introduction to Public Relations | |
CM/EN210 | Writing for the Mass Media | |
CM317 | Advanced Media Production | |
| Total Credits | 18.0 | |
- 1
Communication majors and Sport Management majors are welcome to complete the minor in Sports Media, but must meet with their academic advisor to discuss course selection. Only CM217 Media Production and SM375 Sport in Society (a maximum of six credits) may count for both major and minor program requirements.
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Have questions? Contact us
Georgian Court University
900 Lakewood Avenue
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Campus Map
Contact Information
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Phone: 732-987-2700
E-mail: admissions@georgian.edu
Office Hours
- Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: *By appointment only
- Sunday: Closed
*Check tour schedule for specific dates/times.