Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies
Communication touches all aspects of our lives — from interacting in the workplace to navigating personal and professional relationships. You have the option to focus your degree as you gain experience in argument, persuasion, research and storytelling.
A Strong Foundation of Skills
The CMS undergraduate program is designed to provide students a wide range of knowledge and expertise in a variety of foundational courses while gaining practical experience in specific areas of their choosing.
Five Different Tracks of Study
Specialize in one of five tracks to prepare you for careers where communication skills are key.
Corporate Communication
Corporate Communication examines the internal and external processes of organizations, including businesses, nonprofits and governmental agencies. Students develop skills and expertise related to strategic communication, digital workplace technologies, collaboration and teamwork, and other aspects of communication in today’s complex organizations.
Human Relations (formerly Interpersonal) Communication
Human Relations Communication centers on interactions in human relationships and contexts, including in families, romantic partnerships, healthcare settings and intercultural interactions. Students develop skills and expertise related to verbal and nonverbal communication focused on developing healthy relationships.
Political Communication
Political Communication focuses on communication in political environments and other public settings. Students develop skills and expertise related to speechwriting, campaign management, influence and argumentation applicable to a range of political and public contexts.
Global and Intercultural Communication
Global and Intercultural Communication focuses on the role of communication across various societal groups with the aim of understanding opinions and values across national and cultural boundaries. Students develop skills in how to use language to facilitate interactions with an array of individuals and to manage issues from a global, local and organizational context.
Strategic and Risk Communication
Strategic and Risk Communication emphasizes the growing need for effective risk strategies in today’s complex society. Students will develop skills in identifying target audiences, creating customized communication strategies, and managing risk communication properly to achieve a variety of goals.
A World of Career Choices
A Communication Studies degree is extremely versatile, allowing you to move into a wide range of careers, for example:
- Corporate and Marketing Communications
- Sales & Business Development
- Human Resources and Employee Relations
- Healthcare Advising
- Conflict Mediation and Counseling
- Advocacy and Lobbying
- Political Campaign Management
- Speechwriting
- Community Liasion
- Anything needing strong communicators!
Undergraduate Curriculum
Explore our degree requirements to see both core classes and electives focused by track.
Extra Credit
Participate in research to earn extra credit in CMS courses.
Undergraduate Support and Resources
Find academic, financial, career and university-wide resources to support your journey.
Student Profiles
Priscilla Diaz
Class of '27
"Communication is a powerful tool that shapes how we connect, influence, and spark change."
Jeffrey Harberg
Class of '25
"A communication background gives me a jumpstart to my career and a psychological advantage!"
Helena Musielewicz
Class of '27
"Studying communication has changed my perspective on information and relationships, and taught me to apply critical thinking when analyzing sources."
Ready to Learn More?
Contact Us
Email Us: commstudies@austin.utexas.edu