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What is Communications Studies? A Degree and Career Overview

You communicate every day — whether you're sharing ideas in group chats, preparing class presentations, greeting customers at work or commenting on social media. But what if those communication skills could help you build a career?

That’s where communications studies comes in. A communication studies degree teaches you how to create messages that connect with others, share ideas effectively and inspire action.

At Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts with a Communication Studies major helps you build the tools to succeed in our fast-paced, media-driven world. You’ll explore how to tailor your message for different platforms and audiences — preparing for careers in fields like journalism, marketing, public relations, politics and entertainment or for transfer to a four-year institution.

As a NOVA communication studies student, you’ll strengthen skills in:

  • Speaking: Present ideas clearly and confidently in both formal and informal settings.
  • Writing: Communicate messages through organized, impactful written content.
  • Listening: Interpret and respond thoughtfully to verbal and nonverbal messages.
  • Digital storytelling: Use media tools to share narratives and ideas effectively.
  • Media analysis: Understand how media shapes public perception and communication.
  • Public relations: Build and maintain positive relationships between organizations and audiences.
  • Interpersonal interaction: Navigate one-on-one and small group communication with clarity.
  • Intercultural communication: Communicate effectively across diverse cultures and perspectives.

This two-year degree gives you a strong foundation for wherever your future takes you.

What You’ll Learn in NOVA’s Communication Studies Degree Program

Communication takes many forms — personal conversations, workplace messages, public speaking or media broadcasts. In this program, you’ll learn how to adapt your communication style to different settings and audiences.

Through NOVA’s communication studies degree, you will:

  • Build interpersonal communication skills: Connect one-on-one or in small groups to strengthen relationships
  • Understand intercultural communication: Bridge differences and foster understanding across cultural backgrounds
  • Navigate organizational communication: Share information clearly within companies, teams or with customers
  • Practice public communication: Present information confidently to inform, influence or inspire audiences
  • Explore mass communication: Learn how to reach large audiences through digital platforms, radio or television

In NOVA’s associate degree in communication, you’ll also learn to write and present concise, coherent messages in team and public settings. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your problem-solving, decision-making and critical thinking skills.

You’ll start with foundational courses like Principles of Public Speaking and Introduction to Human Communication, where you’ll build clarity, audience engagement and confidence as a speaker. Then you’ll move on to courses like Small Group Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Intercultural Communication and Business Communication, which will prepare you to transfer to a bachelor’s program or step into the workplace with strong communication skills.

You can also tailor your degree with electives in areas like public speaking, politics, digital media, screenwriting or leadership development.

Prepare for an Exciting Career With Your Associate Degree in Communications

In today’s information-driven economy, having strong communication skills can make you a valuable part of any organization. Whether you enter the workforce or continue to a four-year program, NOVA’s associate degree in communication prepares you to succeed across industries.

Communication degree jobs are in high demand across fields like public relations, media, writing and more — and with the right skills and education, they’re within reach. Below are just a few career paths you could pursue with a bachelor’s degree in communication, along with salary data from Lightcast, a labor market analytics firm.

A public relations specialist develops and maintains a positive public image for an organization through media releases, campaigns and community outreach. Related job titles include communications coordinator, media relations manager, social media manager and crisis communications specialist. According to Lightcast, the median annual salary for public relations specialists is $96,000.

A broadcast announcer delivers news, entertainment or commentary through television, radio and digital platforms. Roles in front of the camera or behind the microphone include anchor, reporter, sports announcer, presenter or program host. According to Lightcast, the median annual salary for broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys is $68,000.

Broadcast technicians set up, operate and maintain the equipment used to transmit radio, television and online broadcasts. They manage audio and video quality, troubleshoot technical issues and ensure smooth live or recorded programming for studios, remote locations or streaming platforms. The annual median salary for broadcast technicians, according to Lightcast, is $64,000.

Poets, lyricists and creative writers craft original works to express ideas, emotions or stories. You might use language artistically through poetry, song lyrics or short stories to inform, inspire or entertain an audience. According to Lightcast, the median annual salary for this group is $75,000.

Writers and authors develop fiction or nonfiction content for books, articles, websites, scripts and other publications. They apply skills in writing, editing, research and marketing to engage and inform readers. According to Lightcast, the median annual salary for writers and authors is $75,000.

Why Choose NOVA for Communication Studies?

As you consider a communication studies degree program, it’s important to understand what the program offers you and how it may help you prepare for your chosen career path or launch you into a bachelor’s program. By choosing NOVA’s associate degree in communications, you’ll enjoy a number of benefits, including:

You’ll learn from dedicated, expert instructors with extensive experience across public, private and nonprofit sectors. They bring their experience in writing, communication and public relations into the classroom to give you practical insights into communication careers.

NOVA’s associate in communications degree offers you high-quality preparation for a communication career, typically at a lower cost than the first two years of a bachelor’s program. You may also qualify for NOVA scholarships to reduce the cost of your education even further.

The communication courses you’ll take at NOVA will develop your professional skillset and focus on real-world communication issues. You’ll be well prepared to step into your career or a bachelor’s program with the tools to succeed.

Your education and associate degree will be backed by accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), signaling to employers and bachelor’s degree programs that you’re well prepared and ready to succeed.

If you’re planning to pursue your bachelor’s degree, NOVA’s credits are designed to seamlessly transfer to four-year institutions across Virginia and beyond. With guidance from NOVA advisors and our partnerships with four-year schools, you’ll have the support you need to make a smooth transition.

Get Started on Your Career in Communication

A career in communication can help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Whether you’re interested in embarking on a communication career as quickly as possible or preparing for a bachelor’s degree program, earning your two-year associate degree in communication at NOVA offers you a great start. 

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