Phillip Perdue and students walking at Presbyterian College

Communication Studies

Major

Communication Studies

Major

Communicate with clarity. Connect with purpose. Lead with confidence.

The Communication Studies concentration within the English major at Presbyterian College prepares students to be effective communicators, critical thinkers, and ethical leaders in a diverse and interconnected world. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates theory and practice, students gain the skills to excel in fields such as public relations, media, business, education, law, and nonprofit leadership. Whether you aspire to craft compelling messages, build community, or lead organizations, Communication Studies at PC equips you to make a meaningful impact.

The Power of Your Degree

  • Expand your perspective. 
    Explore the role of communication in shaping relationships, organizations, media, and society.
  • Broaden your knowledge. 
    Study communication across contexts—from interpersonal to global, from digital media to public advocacy.
  • Solidify your skill set. 
    Develop practical skills in writing, speaking, research, media production, and conflict resolution.
  • Become a critical thinker. 
    Analyze how messages influence behavior, shape culture, and drive change in complex environments.
Presbyterian College students laughing and looking at a phone on campus.

PC’s Communication Studies program has equipped me with real-world communication skills and career-ready knowledge. Thoughtful assignments, class discussions, and hands-on teaching helped me think critically and practically. With PC’s small classes and dedicated faculty, choosing this major was one of the easiest—and best—decisions I’ve made as a college student.”

Collin Hurst ’27

What You’ll Study

The curriculum covers key areas of communication theory, rhetoric, media studies, and organizational communication. Students explore the art and science of messaging, persuasion, storytelling, and relationship-building. Coursework emphasizes ethical communication practices, diversity and inclusion, media literacy, and real-world applications. The program culminates with a senior capstone experience that allows students to apply their learning through research or practical projects.

Careers in Communications

The Communication Studies major opens the door to a wide range of professional opportunities where strong writing, speaking, and strategic thinking are essential. PC graduates pursue careers in public relations, corporate communication, digital media, education, law, politics, nonprofit leadership, and beyond. The skills developed in the program also provide an excellent foundation for graduate study.

Career Professions

Public Relations Specialist

Corporate Communications Manager

Social Media Strategist

Marketing Coordinator

Media Relations Officer

Political Campaign Staffer

Nonprofit Communications Director

Event Planner

Community Outreach Coordinator

Advertising Executive

Broadcast Journalist

Editor or Content Creator

Fundraising or Development Officer

Customer Relations Manager

Public Affairs Specialist

Human Resources Specialist

Speechwriter

Higher Education Admissions Counselor

Lobbyist

Graduate Student in Communication, Law, or Public Policy

Acquired Skills

Public speaking and oral presentation

Strategic written communication

Persuasion and rhetorical analysis

Media production and editing

Research and data analysis

Social media strategy and content management

Organizational communication

Conflict resolution and negotiation

Intercultural communication

Audience analysis and adaptation

Leadership and team collaboration

Campaign planning and implementation

Critical thinking and problem-solving

Brand messaging and storytelling

Communication ethics and responsibility

Event planning and coordination

Visual and multimedia literacy

Advocacy and civic engagement

Project management

Adaptability in dynamic communication environments

Quick Stats

Graduates with a Communication Studies degree earn a median annual salary of approximately $45,257. Top earners in this field can make over $93,000 annually, while the bottom 10% earn less than $21,000. Salaries vary based on factors such as industry, location, and experience level. For instance, positions in public relations, marketing, and corporate communications tend to offer higher salaries compared to roles in journalism or broadcasting.

Employment in media and communication occupations is projected to grow by 6 percent over the next decade, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for content creation, digital media, and communication professionals across various industries. Approximately 109,500 job openings are expected annually due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently.

A Communication Studies degree offers high career versatility, with opportunities in public relations, marketing, journalism, corporate communications, and digital media. Graduates can pursue roles such as public relations specialists, marketing managers, technical writers, and social media strategists. The broad skill set acquired—encompassing writing, speaking, and digital literacy—equips individuals to adapt and thrive in diverse professional environments.

Source(s): U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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