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Class Type100% online, 6 & 12-week courses
Next Start Date
About Start Dates
Additional future start dates include:
Fall 2024
Nov 11, 2024Spring 2025
Jan 6, 2025Feb 17, 2025
Mar 31, 2025
Summer 2025
May 19, 2025Jun 30, 2025
Fall 2025
Aug 18, 2025Sep 29, 2025
Nov 10, 2025
Spring 2026
Jan 5, 2026Feb 16, 2026
Mar 30, 2026
Summer 2026
May 18, 2026Jun 29, 2026
Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.
Cost Per Credit
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The Franklin University Tuition Guarantee locks-in your first-term tuition rate for the duration of your associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree program, for as long as you remain actively enrolled.
Lock-In Your Tuition Rate from Day One
The Franklin University Tuition Guarantee locks-in your first-term tuition rate for the duration of your associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree program, for as long as you remain actively enrolled.
Execute effective messages with a bachelor's in communications degree
At the forefront of pretty much anything in life or business is communications. It holds the power to inform, inspire and influence. With Franklin's transfer-friendly online B.S. in Communications, you'll be prepared to shape, lead and deliver integrated communication plans, strategies and tactics within a fast-changing, media-centric world. Change the way business "talks" and you could literally change the world.
Program Availability
A Personalized Program
Choose your electives to tailor the program to your interests.
Real-World Practitioners
Learn from veteran communication professionals.
100% Online Classes
Take classes that fit with your busy life.
Gamification
Learn how and why to use applied games.
Accredited Online University
Nearly 80% of our students take online courses.
Communications Bachelor's Program Overview
Craft messages that move business forward in a mobile, multiscreen world
Franklin University's online Communications bachelor's degree program equips you to shape, lead, and execute integrated communications plans, strategies, and tactics through a variety of mediums including print, digital, and social media.
Take online Communications courses that teach you to effectively use social and collaborative tools
Throughout your Communications degree program coursework, you’ll engage in real-world professional practices such as communications planning, audience research, and message development. You’ll also learn how to reach and inspire others to action, collaborate in business-like work groups, and align business objectives within a mobile, multi-screen world.
The online Bachelor of Science in Communications degree program curriculum is broad-based, emphasizing ethical, collaborative, and creative communications; which means at the completion of your studies you’ll be well prepared to deliver strategic communications programs, create targeted messaging for all types of outlets including blogs, websites, and social media, and develop comprehensive campaigns for internal and external audiences.
Customize your Communications major to meet a variety of careers & jobs
With Franklin’s Communications program, you can tailor a rich set of electives to suit your individual interests and goals. Choose from a wide variety of flexible options including marketing, writing, public relations, psychology, human resources management, and more.
Earn your online Bachelor of Science in Communications from a university built for busy adults
Earn your degree on your terms by taking classes 100% online. Accredited and nonprofit, Franklin was built from the ground-up to satisfy the needs of adult learners. Our seamless transfer process and team of academic advisors will help ease your transition to becoming a student, while our flexible course schedules help to balance your education with work, family and life. Get started on your future today.
1 Source information provided by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI).
Courtney
B.S. Communications Graduate
"Learning online not only gave me flexibility, it also provided a sense of community along with the support and motivation I needed."
Future Start Date
Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.
Your Best Value B.S. Communications
Choose Franklin's B.S. Communications and get a high-quality degree that fits your life and budget.
Keep the Credit You've Earned
On average, students transfer in 1/2 of the credits required.
Transfer MORE Credits, Pay LESS tuition*
Have Credit? Save Time!
Previously earned credit saves you time toward your degree.
Completion time is calculated based on full-time status and average transfer credits.
Full-Time, One-Class-at-a-Time
Focus on one 6-week class at a time and maintain full-time status by taking 3 courses per term.
80% of the program can be completed by taking six-week course, one class at a time
Tuition Guarantee
Inflation-proof your degree cost by locking-in your tuition rate from day one through graduation.
Highly Recommended
98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.
Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023)
B.S. in Communications Courses & Curriculum
In this course, students acquire the writing competencies necessary for completing analytical and argumentative papers supported by secondary research. A variety of assignments, beginning with personal reflections, build upon one another, as students develop ideas that respond to, critique, and synthesize the positions of others. Students systematize and organize knowledge in ways that will help them in all their courses. The course also emphasizes the elements of critical reading, effective writing style, appropriate grammar and mechanics, clarity of language, and logical and cohesive development. It culminates in submission of an extended, documented research paper.
This course introduces you to statistics with applications to various areas. The course covers both descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics included are: sampling techniques, data types, experiments; measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, graphical displays of data, basic probability concepts, binomial and normal probability distributions, sampling distributions and Central Limit Theorem; confidence intervals, hypothesis tests of a mean, or a proportion for one or two populations, and linear regression.
This course is designed to prepare students for Applied Calculus and Discrete Mathematics and to provide the mathematical background needed for the analytic reasoning used in other courses. Topics include functions and their graphs, including exponential and logarithmic functions; complex numbers; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; basic principles of counting and probability; and other selected topics. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).
Choose either MATH 140 Introduction to Quantitative Reasoning or MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite to MATH 215. Choose MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite to MATH 160. Course can count as a University Elective.
6 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. Must select at least two different disciplines to meet requirements.
6 credits from the following types of courses:
Two courses from the Science discipline. One course must have a lab component.
6 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Art, English Literature, Fine Arts, Humanities, Music, Philosophy, Religion or Theater disciplines.
This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferrable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for time management, goal setting, reading comprehension, and advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments.
This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments. The assignments and activities in the course are created to closely simulate teamwork found in the workplace.
By using applied critical and creative thinking, students in this course will develop a set of communication skills that will enhance their personal and professional relationships and endeavors. This course will focus on skill development in key areas such as self, perception, listening, verbal messages, conversations, relationships, conflict management, persuasion, and presentation skills.
This basic public-speaking course intends to improve the student's ability to think critically and to communicate orally. Theory and practice are provided in various speaking situations. Each student is required to speak before an audience, but class work also involves reading, gathering and organizing information, writing, and listening.
This is an advanced composition course focusing on writing for business and professional purposes. Students will review the writing conventions commonly expected within business and professional environments, as well as strategies for analyzing rhetorical situations within those environments. Coursework includes analysis, revision, and research exercises, as well as substantial practice in composing business correspondence. The final project is an extensive, researched business proposal developed in stages and presented to the class. Students will be encouraged to relate course materials to their major programs and workplace experiences.
This is an intermediate course focusing on the composition of research papers. Students in this course prepare to be active participants in professional discourse communities by examining and practicing the writing conventions associated with their own fields of study and work. By calling attention to the conventions of disciplinary writing, the course also prepares students for upper-division college writing and the special conventions of advanced academic discourse. Course activities include three extended research papers, semi-formal writing addressing interdisciplinary communication, and readings fostering critical engagement with disciplinary conversations.
In this course students learn how to critically engage and make sense of the media around us and become media literate consumers who are knowledgeable and self-critical of mass media content. In addition to introducing students to the use of media, in both contemporary and historical contexts, this course will help students develop the analytical tools that they can use to examine media content, intent, context, and subtext in order to explore what and how we learn from the media, and how media shape our perceptions in regard to race/ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality, geography, and education as well as how media operate and exert their influence on individuals and society.
In this course students will learn how to apply principles of intelligent visual design to professional communication and self-presentation. The focus will be on helping students reframe how to look outward to the professional world, and how to get professionals to view them as great employees and collaborators. How do you seek information to better understand organizations and professional opportunities? How do you present yourself to employers or prospective clients? Throughout the course students will receive professional mentoring and participate in an informational interview. Students will enhance their skills in impression management and communication through social media such as Linked In, blogs, and digital portfolios. Each assignment is tailored to fit the students? professional goals and career path. This course is intended for all academic majors.
A course in the technique of establishing and maintaining public relations with an examination of the public relations functions of some of the large concerns. Exercises in practical application of public relations techniques are included.
In this course, we address what communication theory is and learn more about several specific theories applied in current communication research. Students analyze communication artifacts like songs and movies, also exploring how theories of communication and media can be useful in practice in the context of relationships and organizations.
This course explores the basic concepts and processes of management. Students will explore the functional roles and processes of planning, leading, organizing, and controlling comprising the manager role. Students develop skills related to the manager function that are required in today's competitive environment.
This course is a systematic study of theories, models, and approaches to motivation. The course includes the development of motivation, as well as neurological aspects of motivation. The student will explore internal and external factors that contribute to motivation and a variety of strategies that can be used to become a successful motivator.
Theory, strategies and methods are foundational to the informed practice of marketing. Students investigate the importance of marketing to an organization or cause, the interrelationship of the difference phases of marketing, the marketing of goods versus services, analysis and identification of markets, pricing strategies and digital marketing tactics.
Complete the following:
8 credits from the following types of courses:
Computer programming and/or computer literacy, Journalism and Media, Digital Arts or Digital Communication Arts, Graphic design, web development, video game design, video production, and/or video camera use or photography.
This course examines the strategies involved in effective, ethical communication in professional contexts. Students examine principles of ethical organizational communication and the temporal/cultural/social forces behind those principles, as well as apply reasoning and critical thinking in individual and group assignments. Comparing values and perspectives from diverse cultures, students will respond to cases in an intercultural professional environment.
The course examines current theories and best practices of working collaboratively in professional contexts. Students apply these concepts to analyze their own work experience, generating strategies for how to improve their performance in work groups. Students will learn basic project management skills and work in online virtual teams to complete a final communication project.
This course gives students the opportunity to apply prior learning to address communications challenges facing organizations today. Leading-edge concepts in influencer marketing and integrated media strategies are introduced, and students apply their learning through case-study-based assignments to produce career-relevant work samples. Students complete their portfolios, demonstrating program learning outcomes and skills relevant to their career goals.
The course examines the role of communication in organizations. Students will learn the major theories of organizational communication, identifying and defining primary concepts, and applying them to discussions of real-world situations. The role of technology, corporate culture, leadership, teamwork, ethics, and diversity in communication is examined. Effective communication in global organizations and critiques of organization communication systems and structures are also presented.
This course provides an overview of issues, processes, and theories involved with communicating with individuals from different cultures. Topics include thinking and communicating in global contexts and professional relationships in diverse environments.
Applied Research Methods introduces students to the basic research designs and data collection techniques involved in human subjects? research common to social research environments. After completion of this course, the student should know the basics of social research ethics, the steps of the research process, the strengths and weaknesses of selected types of qualitative and quantitative research strategies, issues of selecting or creating and refining instruments of measurement, how to properly select an appropriate sample of subjects, and how to interpret selected statistical measures utilized in hypothesis testing.
This course introduces the fundamentals of Business and Data Analytics. Students will learn business problem framing, data wrangling, descriptive and inferential statistics, data visualization, and data storytelling in analytics.
12 credits from the following types of courses:
Students may enroll in any course from any focus area and are not limited to just one area of focus.
*Other courses may be accepted as Major Electives upon review by the Program Chair.
Optional Focus Areas include: Human Communication: This focus area prepares students for careers in general management of communication and information across various contexts. Digital Communication: This focus area compliments the foundations of communication covered in the program and emphasizes data-informed digital communications. Health Communication: This focus area complements the foundations of communication covered in the program by helping students understand the healthcare landscape, including major stakeholders and interconnected organizations in public health. Strategic Communication: This focus area complements the foundations of communication covered in the program by helping students connect management perspectives, digital marketing strategies, and promotional tactics that are applied in the strategic communication function. Public Relations (new focus area 2023): This focus area complements the foundations of communication covered in the program by enabling students to develop skills needed for a career in public relations, including audience research, writing press releases and promotional copy, and designing PR campaigns. For the PR focus, complete 12 credit hours at 300 or 400 level in PBRL (e.g.: PBRL 350 – Media Research & Writing (4), PBRL 425 - Media & Crisis Communication (4), PBRL445 - Public Relations & Promotional Strategy (4), or COMM/PBRL 410 Internship (cross-listed with INTE 410).
Students with 90+ credit hours and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 may choose to take a graduate-level course. The following courses are recommended: PUAD 701 - Foundations of Government & Nonprofit Administration (4) MGMT 707 - MBA Foundations (4) MCM 707 - Marketing Communication Foundations (4) PSYC 601 - Introduction to Business Psychology (4)
PR Focus students must complete a minimum of 16 credit hours in PBRL, not including the capstone. Students can meet this requirement by selecting any 300 or 400-level PBRL courses as major electives (e.g.: PBRL 350 – Media Research & Writing (4), PBRL 425 - Media & Crisis Communication (4), PBRL445 - Public Relations & Promotional Strategy (4), or COMM/PBRL 410 Internship (cross-listed with INTE 410)
28 credits from the following types of courses:
Any undergraduate courses offered by the University except developmental education courses.
Students can customize their Human Communication focus by choosing 12 semester hours from at least two different disciplines.
AND
Complete the following:
12 credits from levels 300-400 in the following subjects: BSAD, COMM, COMP, ENG, HUMN, INFA, ITEC, MKTG, PBRL, PSYC, PUAD, SPM, DATA, AMGT, MGMT, ACCT, FINA.
AND
Complete the following:
At least 1 of the following courses:
Digital Communication 2
In this course, students will explore and experience the techniques for integrating Social media marketing as an integral component of a robust digital marketing campaign. Through an investigation of tools which include Internet forums, message boards, blogs, wikis, podcasts, picture sharing, video sharing, and social networking, students will have the opportunity to create and present a written plan for achieving business goals through the use of a social media marketing campaign. Also, by actively engaging in a hands-on simulation, the student will see the results of their social media marketing decisions.
This course introduces data visualization fundamentals using the leading visualization tools in the industry and focuses on project-based learning. Students will learn how to develop dashboards and discover insight effectively based on data.
AND
Complete the following:
This course introduces the fundamentals of Business and Data Analytics. Students will learn business problem framing, data wrangling, descriptive and inferential statistics, data visualization, and data storytelling in analytics.
Students investigate and evaluate various digital marketing and communication strategies and tactics. An emphasis is placed on critical evaluation skills, as well as social media, search marketing, websites, email, and the evaluation of digital marketing initiatives. Students create a full digital marketing plan for a real-world company.
Theory, strategies and methods are foundational to the informed practice of marketing. Students investigate the importance of marketing to an organization or cause, the interrelationship of the difference phases of marketing, the marketing of goods versus services, analysis and identification of markets, pricing strategies and digital marketing tactics.
AND
Complete the following:
At least 1 of the following courses:
Health Communication 1
This course will introduce the foundations of medical terminology nomenclature and use. Emphasis will be on the fundamentals of prefix, word root, and suffix linkages to build a broad medical vocabulary.
This course provides qualified students with an opportunity to receive academic credit for supervised professional training and experience in an actual work environment. This Internship is an ongoing seminar between the student, the faculty member and the employment supervisor. It involves an Internship Application and Learning Agreement, periodic meetings with the faculty representative, professional experience at a level equivalent to other senior-level courses and submission of material as established in the Internship Application and Learning Agreement. Participation cannot be guaranteed for all applicants.
The focus of this course is on the effective management of projects and the teams responsible for project implementation. This course covers the fundamental theory and practice of project management in an organizational setting. Students learn to apply knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques necessary for effective functioning in a project environment. The course will also provide insights into the management processes related to project team development as well as the project team lifecycle and its dynamics. Accordingly, activities and assignments in this course are designed in alignment with the Project Management Institute’s PMBOK® Guide to help students understand the nature of successful project planning and execution, as well as project team formation and management. Completion of this course can be used as one of the qualifications needed to apply for the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification exam (35 hours of project management education/training).
AND
Complete the following:
This course provides a basic introduction to public health concepts and practice by examining the philosophy, purpose, history, organization, functions, tools, activities and results of public health practice at the national, state, and community levels. The course also examines public health occupations and careers. Case studies and a variety of practice-related exercises serve as a basis for learner participation in practical public health problem-solving simulations.
This course will provide students with an overview of how the social and behavioral sciences contribute to primary prevention in the rapidly expanding field of health behavior. Emphasis will be placed on theory-driven approaches that are supported by empirical investigations. Students will acquire a working knowledge of foundational theories used in public health practice as well as the ability to measure key theoretical constructs.
AND
Complete the following:
At least 1 of the following courses:
Strategic Communication 1
This course analyzes the forces that drive organizations to change, examines impediments to change, and surveys a range of approaches for making organizational change more effective. Students will develop an understanding of change processes and develop practical skills for becoming an organization change agent.
This course focuses on the relationship between an organization's culture and its performance. The challenges and opportunities presented to both leaders and followers in adapting to and implementing organizational cultural change are addressed in this course. The impact culture has as a mediating factor between a leader's style and the effective performance of an organization is examined in this course.
AND
Complete the following:
At least 1 of the following courses:
Strategic Communication 2
Students investigate and evaluate various digital marketing and communication strategies and tactics. An emphasis is placed on critical evaluation skills, as well as social media, search marketing, websites, email, and the evaluation of digital marketing initiatives. Students create a full digital marketing plan for a real-world company.
In this course students will explore the process of analyzing the Internet Data that is obtained from Google Analytics. Marketers want to know if their websites are attracting visitors and whether or not their investment is paying off. With web analytics, you can identify website trends. You will also understand how visitors interact with your website. You can identify the navigational paths or problems that prevent visitors from completing their conversion goals. By segmenting visitors, you can also find out how profitable your search marketing campaigns are across search engines.
AND
Complete the following:
At least 1 of the following courses:
Strategic Communication 3
Today’s public relations professionals have entered a new era where preparedness to respond rapidly to various levels of crisis is essential. Building a positive reputation through the strategic management of communications with internal and external audiences during good times is a necessary foundation for withstanding negative press. Utilizing analysis techniques, public relations tactics, and hands-on projects, you will evaluate crisis situations, create and implement a strategic crisis communication plan, and learn to coach the corporate spokesperson and manage the media, while maintaining the organization’s reputation.
In this course students will research, develop, and implement persuasive public relations campaign strategies appropriate to corporate, governmental, and/or not-for-profit organizations. This advanced course is designed for professionals who require specialized skills in public relations and promotional communication.
This course provides qualified students with an opportunity to receive academic credit for supervised professional training and experience in an actual work environment. This Internship is an ongoing seminar between the student, the faculty member and the employment supervisor. It involves an Internship Application and Learning Agreement, periodic meetings with the faculty representative, professional experience at a level equivalent to other senior-level courses and submission of material as established in the Internship Application and Learning Agreement. Participation cannot be guaranteed for all applicants.
All students are required to pass College Writing (ENG 120), and either Basic Learning Strategies (PF 121) or Learning Strategies (PF 321) prior to enrolling in any course at the 200 level or above. Students who enroll at Franklin with 30 or fewer hours of transfer credit are required to pass PF 121 Basic Learning Strategies in place of PF 321 Learning Strategies. Interpersonal Communication (COMM 150) or Speech Communication (SPCH 100) must be taken prior to enrolling in any course at the 300 level or above. Students must also meet the University algebra competency requirement.
Academic Minors
Personalize your degree with a minor. Explore available minors, learn how minors can benefit you, and find out what requirements you must meet to earn a minor.
Microcredentials Align with Job Essentials
In today's dynamic work environments, adaptive professionals thrive. A microcredential - either as a stand-alone course or integrated into your degree program - is a short, skill-specific recognition that enables you to demonstrate your competency in a distinct area. Like Franklin's degree programs, microcredentials are aligned with market and industry demand to ensure what you learn can be put to use right away. Microcredentials are easily shared via digital badges and can be stacked to create a unique portfolio of in-demand skills.
B.S. Communications Program Details
2023 - 2024 Tuition | Cost Per Credit |
---|---|
Standard tuition | $398 |
B.S. in Nursing | $298 |
Current service members | $250 |
International students | $526 |
2024 - 2025 Tuition | Cost Per Credit |
---|---|
Standard tuition | $398 |
B.S. in Nursing | $298 |
Current service members | $250 |
International students | $526 |
See How Franklin Compares
67% LESS IN TUITION
For students taking 31 credits per year, Franklin University’s undergraduate tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $12,338. According to Collegeboard.org, that's about 67% less than the national average private, nonprofit four-year college tuition of $38,070.
A learning outcome map functions as a roadmap to help guide students' progress through their program of study. Click HERE to view the B.S. Communications matrix.
1. To be awarded an undergraduate degree, students must:
- Successfully complete all courses required in the major program, including:
- General Education
- Business or Professional Core
- Major Area and Elective Courses
- Technical transfer credit (for specific degree completion programs only)
2. Meet these grade point average (GPA) requirements:
- All students must attain a minimum Franklin University cumulative GPA of 2.00
- All students must attain a minimum GPA of 2.25 in the major area, and each major area course must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to count toward degree requirements
3. Complete the residency requirement
- Students seeking a bachelor’s degree must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at Franklin University to be eligible for a degree. Students seeking an associate’s degree must earn 20 credit hours overall in residence at Franklin University to be eligible for a degree.
4. Complete the payment of all requisite tuition and fees
5. Not be under disciplinary dismissal due to academic dishonesty or a violation of the Student Code of Conduct
Program Chairs and Academic Advisors are available for consultation to provide information and guidance regarding the selection of courses, the accuracy of schedules, and the transfer process. However, students are responsible for understanding and meeting the degree requirements of their major program or degree and for planning schedules accordingly.
Overall Residency Requirements
Students seeking a bachelor’s degree must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at Franklin University to be eligible for a degree. Students seeking an associate’s degree must earn 20 credit hours overall in residence at Franklin University to be eligible for a degree.
Course Level Requirements
A student must have 40 credit hours overall that are equivalent to 300/400 level Franklin University courses for a bachelor’s degree. A student must have a minimum of 12 credit hours of courses that are equivalent to 200 level or above for an associate’s degree.
Business Core Requirements
Majors that have Business Core requirements are Accounting, Applied Management, Business Administration, Business Economics, Business Forensics, Energy Management, Entrepreneurship, Financial Management, Financial Planning, Forensic Accounting, Human Resources Management, Information Systems Auditing, Logistics Management, Management & Leadership, Marketing, Operations & Supply Chain Management, and Risk Management & Insurance. The Business Core is the foundation of the related academic disciplines appropriate for a baccalaureate degree in business. The purpose of the Business Core is to provide students with a conceptual understanding of organizations, how the functional areas interrelate to achieve organizational goals, and how to apply professional decision-making competencies and technical skills in today’s environment. After completing the Business Core, graduates will be able to:
- analyze an organization’s accounting information in order to develop sound business decisions
- identify and apply valuation models relevant to an organization’s financial decisions
- identify the impact of forces influencing the major functional areas of business (e.g., ethical, legal, technological, economic, global and social)
- apply marketing activities to the delivery of goods and services in business-to-business and business-to-consumer markets
- apply interpersonal and resource management skills to enhance business success
Business Principles (BSAD 110) is a Business Core prerequisite. Transfer students with the equivalent of four business courses are not required to take Business Principles.
Major Area Requirements
A student must have 20 credit hours in the major area that are equivalent to 300/400 major level Franklin courses for a bachelor’s degree. A student must have 12 hours of major area courses that are equivalent to 200 level or above for an associate’s degree. A minimum 2.25 GPA is required in the major area for students enrolled in either the associate’s or bachelor’s degree programs, and each major course must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to count toward degree requirements.
Capstone Requirement
Every major has a capstone experience for which credit cannot be transferred into the University. This is a Franklin course designed to integrate and assess the learning outcomes specific to each major as a whole. This course should be taken as the last major course. If, given the academic scheduling process and the student’s projected graduation date, this is not possible, then the student should have Senior Standing (90 or more credit hours), plus the skill-based General Education courses (COMM, SPCH, WRIT, MATH, COMP), all business or professional core courses, and the capstone prerequisite courses.
Subsequent Degree Requirements
Students pursuing subsequent bachelor’s degrees must earn in residency at Franklin University a minimum of 30 credit hours at the 200 level or above, of which a minimum of 16 credit hours must be major area courses equivalent to 300/400 level courses.
Additional Degree Requirements
Students seeking an additional bachelor’s (or associate’s) degree must successfully complete a minimum of 30 credit hours (including the major requirements) beyond the first bachelor’s (or associate’s) degree. (See the “Subsequent Degree” section of the Academic Bulletin.)
Transfer Credit
Transfer credit and credit awarded on standardized exams, proficiency exams or portfolio credit awarded by another institution will not count toward the residency requirement at Franklin University. Credit awarded based on proficiency examination or portfolio evaluation conducted by Franklin University may apply as appropriate major area credit, but will not reduce the hours required toward the residency requirement.
A student who meets at least one of the following criteria is eligible for admission as a degree-seeking student:
- Has provided official documentation of graduation from an accredited high school or its equivalent (see Documentation Required below), or
- Has an associate, bachelor or master’s degree from an institutionally (formerly regionally) accredited institution of higher education, an institution recognized as a candidate for accreditation, or an institution recognized by the Council of Higher Education Accreditation
Documentation Required
- Documentation of high school graduation or equivalence - required for applicants who are transferring fewer than 60 semester hours that apply towards a Franklin degree.
- If the student has transferable hours of 60 credit hours or more from an institutionally (formerly regionally) accredited institution of higher education, then they will not have to provide a high school diploma or equivalence. Acceptable forms of documentation of high school graduation or high school equivalence for undergraduate admission must include one of the following:
- Official high school transcript listing the date of graduation
- Official GED certificate
- Official documentation of having passed a State High School Equivalency examination
- Official documentation of a home school completion certificate/transcript
- Official transcripts from all educational institutions (college, universities, professional schools, etc.) previously enrolled in, regardless if credit was earned.
A student classified as degree seeking will not be permitted to register for courses until all transcripts are received and placement tests completed (see specific requirements under “Placement Testing”).
Admission Process
Admission procedures should be started early to maximize scheduling options and financial planning. Learn more about the undergraduate admission process.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
Prospective students must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. The requirement is met through any of the following:
- The applicant is a citizen of a country where English is the official language.
- he applicant has received a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution located in an English-speaking country in which the courses were taught in English.
- The applicant has earned appropriate scores on language proficiency exams taken within the last two years, as listed below.
Undergraduate face-to-face: Students must earn a minimum overall TOEFL score of 500 (paper-based), 60 (Internet-based), 5.5 IELTS, ACCUPLACER ESL 259, or Cambridge 160 with at least the following scores on each of the exam subsections. Prior to registration, students will be given a language placement exam to determine whether ESL studies are required.
TOEFL | IELTS | ACCUPLACER | Cambridge English Scale | |
Reading | 15/30 | 5.5 | 85 | 160 |
Writing | 15/30 | 5.5 | 4 | 160 |
Listening | 15/30 | 5.5 | 85 | 160 |
Speaking | 15/30 | 5.5 | n/a | 160 |
Sentence Meaning | n/a | n/a | 85 | n/a |
Global or Online International students must take Reading Comprehension and Writing placement exams.
Students must earn a minimum overall TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) /79 (Internet-based), 6.5 IELTS, ACCUPLACER ESL® 105, or Cambridge 180 with at least the following scores on each of the exam subsections.
TOEFL | IELTS | ACCUPLACER | Cambridge English Scale | |
Reading | 20/30 | 6.5 | 00 | 180 |
Writing | 20/30 | 6.5 | 5 | 180 |
ACCUPLACER Assessments for Admission
- Prospective students may demonstrate English language proficiency through the ACCUPLACER ESL® examinations administered by Franklin University. The ACCUPLACER ESL® suite of examinations are internet-based, computer-adaptive assessments designed to properly assess students’ English language competencies.
- Testing fees and any related administrative or proctor fee will be assessed for the administration of the
- ACCUPLACER examinations. Students are also responsible for all fees incurred for retake examinations.
- Students who do not meet the minimum score requirements may retake the examination(s) once within a two-week period. Subsequent examination retakes will be considered after a three month waiting period. Passing scores will remain valid with Franklin University for a period of two years.
- All ACCUPLACER examinations must be administered by an approved proctor that meets specific criteria, as defined by our proctor expectations. An alternative to finding a proctor in your area is Virtual, an online proctoring service, approved by ACCUPLACER. For additional information, contact the Office of International Students and Programs.
The University employs a team approach to planning, developing and maintaining its academic curriculum. An essential element of this process – and a key to the institution’s quality assurance practices – is the Program Advisory Board (and the associated Alumni Advisory Board). A diverse array of business and industry leaders make up these discipline-specific boards that provide guidance on theory-to-practice ideas, global business perspectives, and emerging topics in the field. Each academic year, Program Advisory Boards meet with Division Chairs and faculty for lively and engaged conversations, thus bringing members’ substantial professional experience and expertise into the classroom. In addition, some Division Chairs elect to engage Program Advisory Board members in the assessment of academic program outcomes.
Name | Organization | Title |
---|---|---|
Lachandra Baker | Lachandra B. Baker Edutainment Llc | Founder + Lead Consultant |
Douglas Edwards | Ologie, LLC | Exec. Strategic Director |
Annie Gallagher | Gallagher Consulting Group, Inc. | President |
Chevonne Harris | ||
Niccole Hyatt | Franklin University | Mgr., Client Partnerships |
Sue Jablonski | Ohio Health | Sr. VP, Chief Mktg., Comm. Officer |
Patrick Jarvis | Battelle | Sr. VP, Mktg. + Comm. |
Christopher Jones | Warhol & Wall St. | COO |
Marie Keister | Murphy Epson | President |
Donna Teach | Nationwide Children's Hospital | Chief Mktg. + Comm. Officer |
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Communications Career Opportunities
Community Relations Specialist
Community Relations Specialists plan, execute, and manage outreach programs to promote organizations, bring awareness to intended audiences, and create positive community connections.
Copywriter
Copywriters create a variety of content, including direct mail, emails, advertisements, press releases and articles in support of marketing, advertising and public relations campaigns.
Corporate Communications Manager
Corporate Communications Managers collaborate in planning, creating, and delivering specific messages to internal and/or external audiences.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Trainers educate, inspire, and guide employees to achieve maximize productivity, efficiency, and ability.
Interactive Communications Manager
Interactive Communications Managers oversee the planning, implementation, budgeting, and resourcing of interactive projects, leading teams to successful project completion.
Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists help create and communicate information to internal stakeholders, the public and the media on relevant topics and issues.
Recruiter
Recruiters fill job openings by developing recruiting plans and employing sourcing strategies to locate, interview, test, place, and assimilate qualified employees.
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicators translate complex data into written text, including instruction manuals, reference materials, and articles for both technical and non-technical audiences.
Web Content Developer
Web Content Developers create optimized text for websites, social network groups, blogs, and other interactive media in order to reach intended audiences, support interactive campaigns, and improve search engine rankings.
Communications Employment Outlook
From 2021-2031, jobs in Communications are expected to increase by 5%
All Occupations
2021 |
21,366,693 jobs
|
2031 |
22,481,983 jobs
|
Public Relations Specialists
2021 |
277,650 jobs
|
2031 |
303,218 jobs
|
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
2021 |
92,630 jobs
|
2031 |
102,025 jobs
|
Advertising and Promotions Managers
2021 |
26,084 jobs
|
2031 |
27,343 jobs
|
Source information provided by Lightcast.
Communications Knowledge & Skillsets
Gain in-demand skills sought by employers with curriculum that teaches you:
- Prepare and maintain communication plans for new initiatives, programs, or products.
- Demonstrate digital and informational literacies relevant to the practice of communication and media.
- Create promotional communication and media messaging using mixed media.
- Partner with senior leadership to develop comprehensive, measurable communication plans in support of business goals.
- Create and conduct surveys in order to solicit information, views, attitudes, concerns, needs, or priorities from an intended audience.
- Solve communication issues through critical and creative thinking.
- Conduct communications audits in order to monitor communication plan effectiveness.
- Perform competitive analyses with a focus on communication strategies and tactics.
- Use new and emerging technologies to maximize message effectiveness.
- Develop integrated plans that engage employees and support a company’s strategic direction.
- Understand how communications is affected by technology, corporate culture, leadership, teamwork, ethics, and diversity.
- Build and manage collaborative communications environments that foster creativity and enhance organizational synergies.
- Implement company-wide strategies that share a company’s vision, goals, and objectives, influencing a positive work culture.
- Collaborate with internal teams to develop and direct programs that enhance communications at all levels of an organization.
- Shape and lead an integrated internal communications program, ensuring the delivery of cohesive and consistent messaging.
- Write persuasive sales and marketing collateral in both print and online formats.
- Design communication and marketing materials, such as sales sheets, brochures, and presentations.
- Develop creative solutions to promote an organization and enhance its public image.
- Work with internal departments to establish and execute communications efforts, and build relationships with external constituent groups.
- Identify and develop key messages, positioning, and outreach strategies with the ability to penetrate marketplace noise.
- Craft clear, precise, and ethical messages for specific audiences.
- Ensure consistency of key messages for programs across multiple mediums.
- Provide rich, well-sourced content for a variety of mediums.
- Understand how people think and how to create language that effectively communicates to various audience segments.
- Create effective business proposals, summaries, research reports, and instructional manuals.
- Identify audience needs by employing surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one meetings.
- Conduct comprehensive audience analyses using both qualitative and quantitative research techniques.
- Use Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word to “tell a story using data” in a way that is contextual, correct, and concise.
- Interpret and document data collection results through graphic illustration and other special formats.
- Systematically organize knowledge and content for precise communication.
- Conduct and present applied research findings.
- Understand differences among various cultural audiences and how they influence communication strategies.
- Be adept with graphic design, social media, and other useful web tools.
- Use new technologies to maximize the effectiveness of communication plans.
- Design marketing material using visual problem-solving skills.
- Develop and maintain editorial calendars for a global communications rollout.
- Participate in the creative process of graphic design.
- Direct branding and content for internal and external websites.
- Tell visual stories through photography or video.
- Apply listening and verbal messaging skills to become a key resource for organizational leadership.
- Prepare customized presentation materials for managers, leaders, and others.
- Provide counsel to business leaders to assure consistency of strategic direction.
- Use relationships, persuasion, and conflict management skills to impact teams and organizations.
- Engage in and deliver confident, persuasive public speeches, talks, and presentations.
Get College Credit for What You Already Know
The certificates and training listed below are relevant to this degree program. Search our database to view pre-evaluated credentials and see how a license, certification or professional training saves you time and money toward your degree.
Communications Degree Frequently Asked Questions
Congratulations on wanting to finish your degree. At Franklin, we make it easy and convenient for busy, working adults to complete their bachelor's degree program alongside other commitments. Typically, a bachelor’s degree takes about 4 years of full-time study from start to finish. However, Franklin’s generous transfer policy can help you finish faster. Visit MyTransfer Credit to see how your previously earned credits can save you time toward your bachelor’s.
Franklin makes getting started easy and convenient. We offer three trimesters every year, with start dates within each. Talk to your admissions advisor to find the start date that works best for you.
Franklin University offers a quality education at a competitive cost so you can afford to invest in your future. Our per credit hour tuition rates (vs. per year or per term rates) enable you to get a realistic estimate of exactly how much your degree will cost - especially once you've factored in transfer credit. Our 2023-2024 tuition rate is $398 per credit hour and with our tuition guarantee, you can lock-in your tuition rate from your first term through graduation. Ask our helpful staff about available financing options and financial aid programs. Visit MyTransfer Credit to see how transfer credits could help you save time and money.
The bachelor's of science in Communications degree program is a four-year undergraduate degree program with an emphasis on strategic communication. With Franklin University's B.S. Communications, you'll develop your writing, critical thinking and interpersonal skills, and learn how to leverage technology to overcome communication challenges.
With a B.S. Communications from Franklin, you'll be prepared for a wide variety of mid-level roles, including copywriter, communications manager, interactive communications manager, marketing manager or public information officer.
There are plenty of good reasons to earn this degree, including opening yourself up to advanced career opportunities. One of the most compelling reasons, however, is what your coursework can do for you before graduation. Many of our B.S. Communications degree program students say they begin to apply the skills and strategies they learn at Franklin to their current organization -- well before completion -- improving everything from event planning to social media strategies to communication effectiveness.
Not only is Franklin University's B.S. Communications degree program relevant and flexible, our partnerships with community colleges make transferring your associate degree credits virtually hassle-free. And, with this degree program, we include a wide range of relevant skills and experiences in a short amount of total coursework. That means you become familiar with the most important communication tools and methodologies while you learn. As a result, our graduates say they're able to adapt more quickly and seamlessly to evolving technology and communication trends.
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