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B.A. in Communication

Find your voice in one of the most versatile, broadly applicable degree programs at Biola University. Designed to equip you for success in a wide range of career fields, the B.A. in Communication enhances your effectiveness as an interpersonal and intercultural communicator, while providing you with the skills to craft strategic and persuasive messages based on a foundation of media literacy and critical analysis. With integration of faith and learning in the classroom and top-notch Christian faculty who mentor students, Biola University is the ideal place to become a winsome, professional communicator.

Why Choose Biola’s B.A. in Communication?

  • Tailor Your Degree: Specialize in one of three distinct concentrations: Communication Studies, Digital Journalism and Media, or Public Relations. Customize your education to align with your passions and career goals, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
  • Accessible Resources From Day One: Take advantage of front-edge equipment and resources, including a fully equipped television studio, podcasting studio, and editing bays at the Biola Production Center. Build your portfolio through participation in our award-winning student publications, including The Point, The Chimes, EagleVision News, The Torch Radio, and The Biolan yearbook. Collaborate with student clubs and organizations across campus to give you real-world experience in media production and organizational communication.
  • Thrive in Los Angeles: Benefit from Biola’s prime location near Los Angeles, a global communication and media capital. Immerse yourself in internships, networking opportunities, and job prospects connecting with the Hollywood entertainment industry, L.A.-based global corporations, media outlets and more. Your time at Biola will lay the foundation for a successful career in the dynamic world of communication.
  • Expert Faculty and Mentorship: Experience dedicated guidance from esteemed faculty who prioritize mentorship. Our communication faculty consists of national award-winning authors, renowned conference speakers, and active contributors to significant conversations through outlets like The Winsome Conviction Project. With their wealth of expertise and industry connections, our students gain a valuable competitive edge.

Take the first step toward an exciting and fulfilling career in communication. Fill out the form below to receive more information or start your application today! Join Biola’s B.A. in Communication program and unlock a world of endless possibilities.

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Concentrations

  • Communication Studies

    Be empowered to communicate, problem-solve and lead others ethically and with humility. Effective communication is a vital asset in today's professional landscape. By equipping yourself with strong skills in writing, speaking and storytelling, you'll gain a significant advantage in almost any career.

    The communication studies concentration delves into the rich history of rhetoric to comprehend contemporary communication strategies. Through hands-on learning, you'll develop practical skills to create and deliver impactful messages, while also acquiring a profound understanding of communication theory and research that underpins effective communication practices.

  • Digital Journalism and Media

    Gain access to a state-of-the-art media production center and receive a comprehensive learning experience, where you will be guided by experienced faculty and media professionals to master the art of reporting and storytelling. Immerse yourself in a cross-cultural environment while gaining real-world journalism experience in Los Angeles, one of the world’s largest and most influential media centers.

    The digital journalism and media concentration unveils the profound impact of media on national and international politics, business, entertainment, sports and various ministries. Discover the importance of seeking truth, exposing injustice and crafting compelling stories while upholding the highest ethical standards, all of which are fundamental for a successful career in journalism.

  • Public Relations
    Develop the essential skills needed to shape and manage an organization’s public image. Through immersive courses, you will explore the art of creative communication strategies, crafting compelling multi-platform content, and providing ethical counsel that influences public perception. Delve into theories of crisis communication and reputation management, equipping yourself to navigate challenging situations with confidence. Refine your writing abilities for media relations and corporate communication practices while gaining hands-on experience in one of the most rapidly growing fields for college graduates.

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Courses

What will I study as a Communication major?

Communication students work at the intersection of many disciplines and crafts — art, film, media, rhetoric, writing, public relations, business, journalism, philosophy, law, marketing and more — forging connections, building bridges and crafting stories. Communication classes offer students the best of all worlds: specialized, career-ready training with broad application. As a communication major, you’ll take courses focused on:

  • Interpersonal and organizational communication
  • Writing for the media
  • Research and reporting
  • Communication and diversity
  • Campaigns and cases

As you progress in your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to specialize in one of three concentrations and take courses in:

Communication Studies

  • Persuasive communication
  • Organizational rhetoric
  • Public and workplace communication
  • Intercultural communication

Digital Journalism and Media

  • Philosophy and ethics of media
  • Multimedia reporting
  • Broadcasting
  • Studio production

Public Relations

  • PR ethics
  • Media relations
  • Reputation management
  • Digital strategy

 

Internships

All communication students complete two field internships as a part of their program, giving them real-world experience and valuable industry connections. Biola communication students have have interned with organizations such as Saddleback Church, Ford Motor Co., Facebook and Disney, and for federal and state government offices including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy.

 

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

At Biola University, we understand the importance of a well-rounded education. As a communication student, you have the unique opportunity to enhance your studies and broaden your understanding by exploring interdisciplinary electives in related fields. From psychology and sociology to business and health sciences, these courses will enrich your knowledge and shed light on the profound impact of communication across various industries.

 

Bible and Theology Coursework

As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.

Career Outlook and Preparation

What can you do with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication?

Throughout your communication degree, you’ll master the skills employers want: critical thinking, leadership, research, excellence in speaking and writing, and the ability to build connections with customers and coworkers. Communication graduates leave Biola well-prepared for competitive graduate programs and career pathways such as:

  • Managing editor
  • Corporate communications director
  • Lawyer
  • Reporter or newscaster
  • Web content manager
  • Bible teacher or pastor
  • Broadcast anchor or script writer
  • Magazine editor or publisher
  • Newspaper or magazine photographer
  • Prosecutor, trial attorney or judge
  • Political campaign manager
  • Director of marketing
  • Public relations director
  • Human resource director
  • Corporate event planner

8% job growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for Public Relations and Fundraising Managers is projected to be faster than average between 2021 and 2031.

BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.


Ashlee Kyser

My professors not only taught and guided me but also challenged me, befriended and mentored me, and above all walked alongside me.

Communications and Marketing Manager, Biola's Center for Marriage and Relationships
Communication Studies, B.A., '22
Victoria Leigh Julien

The PR program at Biola challenged and developed my character, which is far greater than any hard or soft skill I learned in the classroom.

Employer Partnership Coordinator
Public Relations and Strategic Communication, B.A. '19
Kathryn Watson

Biola really prepared me not just for my field, but how to figure out how to impact the world for Christ as a journalist… By being honest, by being truthful, by living for the truth in word and in deed — that’s how we as Christian journalists, as I learned through my classes, are really supposed to be.

White House Reporter, CBSNews.com
Journalism and Integrated Media, B.A. '11
Liam Timoti

As someone who has no law background, my boss was impressed that I was able to pick up on the jargon and thought process so quickly. I have to say thanks to the communication studies department at Biola for teaching me to think both critically and analytically that has helped me adapt to my current occupation.

Liam Timoti
Purchasing Agent/Contract Manager
Communication Studies, B.A. '17
Laura Fooks

... I feel empowered to ask good questions and seek community as I follow Jesus.

Communications Associate
Public Relations, B.A. '15

Admissions

Admissions Process

Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.

Schedule a Visit

Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.

Visit Biola

Tuition and Financial Aid

Attaining a degree from Biola is more affordable than you might think — dramatically lower than the “sticker price” in most cases — with 100% of incoming undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid.

Faculty


Learning Opportunities

As a student in Biola’s communication major, you’ll have ample opportunities to put your education to practice. From our award-winning campus newspaper, The Chimes, to the Biola chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), there are many different ways to get involved.

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Format

You'll study in person at Biola University's campus in Southern California.

Total Credits

Total program credits include major-specific courses and Biola's core curriculum.

Standard Completion Time

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.