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Communication Studies Major

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies in the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication at Temple University offers students a unique, interdisciplinary opportunity to study communication. In our Communication Studies degree program, students gain an in-depth understanding of the ever-changing world of communication, while simultaneously focusing on skills that support their personal academic and career interests. Some of the communication skills obtained through this degree program include

  • communicating through multimedia;
  • communication policies and regulations;
  • managing client relationships; and
  • relationships between communication and the public.

Through our degree program’s cross-cultural curriculum, students learn practices and theories of communication through the lens of different departments within the college. And with the flexibility of our program, students will be able to explore the different roles communication plays in a variety of industries—from entrepreneurship and social movements to technology and advocacy. You also have the opportunity to make an impact and get directly involved with the program through promoting, recruiting and leading the Communication Studies major—creating a one-of-a-kind educational experience.

    What sets apart our Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies?

    • A flexible, student-oriented program: Not only does our program allow students to learn from multiple areas in Klein College, they also have access to various field experiences, internships and study away opportunities. From heavy involvement with our student-athletes, to strong connections to one of the largest Pride celebrations in North America, to the ability to thrive and fully complete the program at our Japan campus—the goal of the Communication Studies program is for you to get the most out of your education.
    • Award-winning national honors society: Our program’s chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, the official student honors society, has been named 2020 Chapter of the Year. Established in 2012, our ongoing efforts and creative initiatives have allowed our chapter to stand out among the more than 500 other chapters around the country. Students in our program’s chapter have often earned full-paid positions by the time they graduate.
    • Our renowned faculty: Students get to work directly with the Communication Studies director for the entirety of their time in the program. With the program director, Scott Gratson, they are able to make their program experience as unique as they are. And, due to the interdisciplinary nature of the program, faculty from across the college work with students to access a diverse array of companies, organizations and professionals to get them started in a career in the industry or on the path to an advanced degree.
    • Endless post-graduation opportunities: After learning about the diverse roles communication plays in the field from various Klein departments, students will be prepared for a number of careers and graduate programs after they complete their degree.
    What can I do with a Communication Studies degree from Temple University?

    The Communication Studies major is customizable to prepare students for careers in media, public relations, marketing, nonprofit work, advocacy, corporate communication, and more. You'll develop valuable skills in public speaking, storytelling, campaign design, strategic communication, and media content creation.

    What concentrations are available for the Communication Studies major?

    The concentrations within the Communication Studies major are:
    • Communication and Entrepreneurship: Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators.
    • Contemporary Media Environments: Explore how media shapes culture and public opinion.
    • Global and Community Engagement: Focus on advocacy, leadership, and cross-cultural communication.
    • Communication Studies Thesis (Major of Distinction): Conduct advanced research on a topic of interest to produce a thesis or creative project.

    Will I gain practical experience as a student?

    Yes, you'll collaborate on group projects, pursue internships, and take part in communication campaigns that make real-world impact. Eligible students in the major can present at the Symposium for Undergraduate Research and Creativity, a showcase event for research and creative work across the university. Some students have also earned awards for their submissions at the National Communication Association (NCA) and Eastern Communication Association (ECA) conferences.

    Does this program emphasize inclusion and social impact?

    Yes. Inclusion and social impact are core to the Communication Studies major. You’ll explore courses focused on identity, ethics, culture, and communication for change. Students get involved in service and advocacy initiatives such as the Cecil B. Moore Scholars program and Owl Moon Raptor Center.

    Will I learn digital tools and media platforms?

    Yes. The Communication Studies major includes experience with industry standard tools like video editing software, design programs, analytics dashboards, and social media platforms. You'll explore how digital innovation shapes modern communication and build practical skills to match.

    Are classes relevant to current topics?

    Yes. Courses in the Communication Studies major explore current topics such as media influence, leadership, activism, and public messaging. National and internationally renowned faculty bring present challenges and conversations into the classroom to make your learning relevant and timely.

    How does the program recognize student success?

    Eligible students are invited to join Lambda Pi Eta, the national communication honor society. Students may also take part in mentorship opportunities, contribute to community initiatives, and have accomplishments recognized on social media and in college newsletters.

    Untitled%20student.png

    Gillian Black, KLN ’21

    Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

    In her Argumentation Advocacy course, Gillian worked with classmates to research parental incarceration in Philadelphia. She credits Klein with providing opportunities to explore diverse subjects. “I’ve been able to explore different, interdisciplinary topics throughout the Communication Studies program,” she said. Gillian, who is on the program’s Entrepreneurship track, plans to pursue a career in fashion journalism.

    Read more.

    Classes & Curriculum

    Students in the program complete 124 credits, including a minimum of 42 credits in communication studies courses and at least nine credits in foreign language courses. Some of the major courses include

    • Communication and Public Life,
    • Media and Society, and
    • Special Topics in Communication and Social Influence.

    Learn more about courses and requirements for the Communication Studies Major.

    Minors

    Communication Studies

    The Communication Studies minor is an 18-credit program that focuses on the academic and interdisciplinary study of media. You will explore the role communication plays in various fields and disciplines throughout Klein College while learning about the overarching concept of communication as a whole. Students who pursue a minor in Communication Studies will have the skills and knowledge to continue their education through a plethora of graduate programs or embark on a number of diverse roles and opportunities. Learn more about the Communication Studies minor.

    Contact

    Scott Gratson, director of Communication Studies, is the program contact for this minor.
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-6434

    International Communication

    The International Communication minor, which is restricted to students outside of Klein College, provides experience in international and intercultural communication and media. Through this 20-credit minor, students develop competencies in cultural sensitivity and intercultural communication. Typically held in-person on Temple’s domestic campuses, this minor may be supplemented with study abroad coursework. Learn more about the Minor in International Communication.

    Concentrations

    This degree program can be completed with or without a concentration. Your concentration options include

    • Communication and Entrepreneurship

      Through the Communication and Entrepreneurship track, students study the relationship between communication and free enterprise. The curriculum focuses on the communicative and functional components of entrepreneurship, and dives into how organizational development affects the field. Through courses in business, ethics, law and technology you will gain the skills necessary to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment and understand the impact of capitalism in the field. Learn more about the Communication and Entrepreneurship track.

      View Concentration Details

    • Communication Studies Thesis

      The Communication Studies Thesis track is ideal for students who want an interdisciplinary curriculum that meets their individual interests but goes beyond the other tracks available in the program. The thesis track allows you to work individually with a faculty advisor from the Klein College department that best fits your interests to build a curriculum that is unique to you and your personal, educational and professional goals. The curriculum should contain five courses, four of which must be upper-level and include courses from at least three Klein College majors. Your personalized curriculum and the courses you select should be designed to lead to a senior-year thesis. Learn more about the Communication Studies Thesis track.

      View Concentration Details

    • Contemporary Media Environments

      The Contemporary Media Environments track provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution of communication methods—from the rotary press to broadcasting, the internet and beyond. Students study the way these methods of communication shape life around them and all over the globe. The track also introduces students to theories on the relationship between media technology and society. Learn more about the Contemporary Media Environments track.

      View Concentration Details

    Related Graduate Degrees

    Related Graduate Certificates

    Related Undergraduate Certificates

    Tuition & Fees

    In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Arts offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

    Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

    These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

    Pennsylvania resident: $21,360.00 per year
    Out-of-state: $37,032.00 per year

    Our Academic Advisors

    Scott Gratson, director of communication studies at Lew Klein College of Media and Communication, is the academic advisor for this program. 
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-6434

    Program Contact

    For more information about the Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies program, please contact
    Scott Gratson, director of communication studies at Lew Klein College of Media and Communication.
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-6434

    Student Clubs & Organizations

    Joining a student organization can affect your career and college experience in meaningful ways. Not only will you learn how to work with a team, you’ll also gain access to exciting projects, peer support and valuable networking opportunities. Below are examples of student clubs and organizations that can help you excel as a communication studies student.

    • Communication Studies and Media Arts Collective brings students together to assemble communication research, artistic projects and campaigns that contribute to a functioning civil society on campus and in the world. 
    • LatinX Media Association provides extracurricular enrichment, opportunities, professional development and support to LatinX students and students interested in LatinX media, communication and culture, while strengthening representation and visibility at Klein College.
    • Queer Student Union provides a safe social space to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA+) students while exploring issues relevant to the larger community, including civil rights, hate crime topics, health, racism within the LGBTQIA+ community and transphobia. By joining this club and enrolling in Klein's Communication Studies Pride course (CSI 3100), students in the program have the opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the biggest Pride parades in the nation, as well as grow their connection with the LGBTQIA+ community. 

    Learn more about student clubs and organizations available to Communication Studies Major students.

    Study Away

    Take on new challenges, experiences and viewpoints in an array of academic settings in the U.S. or around the world, through the Communication Studies Major’s Global Opportunities programs. 

    Our Global Opportunities programs create leaders in media and communication by providing opportunities to study and work while experiencing life in influential urban centers throughout the world. 

    You have the option of studying or interning in more than 20 destinations in the U.S. and around the world, including Dublin, London, Los Angeles, South Africa and more. And, with this program's viable and powerful bridge with our friends in Japan, Communication Studies students have a unique opportunity to complete the program at our Temple Japan campus. It’s one of the top two programs on the TUJ campus. 

    These study away programs are designed to not only enhance your marketability in the global workplace, but also to increase your cultural capital and support your personal growth. Learn more about study away programs for Communication Studies Major.

    Questions

    Representatives from our Global Opportunities office are available to answer any questions you may have. 
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-2354

    Additional Program Information