Communications and Language Degrees

Studying communications and language opens a fascinating world of human interaction and the beauty of words. These degrees allow you to explore the art of language while also teaching you to understand the nuances of communication. They can empower you with valuable skills for connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and thriving in various industries.

Study the Art and Science of Communication

Mastering the fundamentals of effective communication can help you prepare for careers in speech and language communication while also offering transferable skills valuable in many other fields. After being taught strategies for navigating human connection, graduates of GCU’s language and communications degrees online or in person can be proficient in areas like:

  • Conflict resolution
  • Negotiation
  • Strategic communication for business and marketing
  • Creative and technical writing

Please note, GCU does not offer foreign language degree programs at this time.

$66,320

Median annual wage for media and communications workers as of May 20231

15,100

Estimated new job openings each year for writers and authors from 2023 to 20332

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GCU offers a variety of language degrees, including bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs, as well as certificates, designed to meet diverse educational and career goals.

Earn your communications or writing degree online or on campus at GCU.

Teach ESL or Develop Business Communications Skills

At GCU, we understand the importance of global partnerships and effective cross-cultural communication. Enrolling in one of our communication degrees provides you with the opportunity to develop many of the core competencies you need, whether your aspirations include:

  • Managing public relations and media strategies
  • Crafting compelling content for digital marketing and advertising
  • Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • Leading a multinational company

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Choose GCU to Study TESOL or Communications

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The various types of linguistic language degrees offered at GCU have one main commonality: they offer a diverse and culturally enriched curriculum focused on global awareness, perspective, ethics and leadership.

Gain knowledge in best communication practices with one of GCU’s bachelor’s in communications degrees. If you love writing and want to enhance your skills in creating effective and persuasive messaging, consider the bachelor’s in professional writing degree.

For those of you who are seeking to position yourself for potential advancement in your career field, GCU offers a master’s degree in TESOL as well as graduate degrees in communication, business administration and leadership.

Accredited and Respected Communicative Language Degrees

When you become a GCU student, you can be sure that you’re receiving a quality education led by professors who are knowledgeable in their respective fields. GCU is proud to be institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968.

Online Language Degrees Provide Flexible Start Dates

GCU’s online programs offer scheduling flexibility so that even busy professionals can pursue higher education at their own convenience. Most bachelor's-level linguistic language degrees are offered on campus, online and in the evenings, so you can choose the modality that works best for you.

For those pursuing graduate school, GCU’s online degrees enable working professionals to pursue their education goals while balancing other responsibilities. If you prefer to attend classes on campus — but also require flexibility in your class schedule — consider GCU’s on-campus evening degrees.

GCU’s Commitment to Affordable Education

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As a GCU student, you can be assured of our commitment to providing high-achieving students with access to affordable private education.

Financing your education is a big investment in your future, and we are here to help you plan for it with these convenient cost-estimating tools and resources:

Types of Language and Communications Degrees at GCU

GCU offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral-level degrees and certificate programs for those looking to enhance their skills in specific fields or subjects. Take a look at the language programs available at GCU.

Bachelor’s Degrees

Undergraduate degrees in language and communications often blend theoretical coursework with practical skills, preparing students for diverse careers in fields such as linguistics, media, public relations and education.

Male and female communications degree students in class at GCU

Master’s Degrees

Master's-level language and communications degrees are designed to increase your degree of language proficiency and can benefit you through various aspects of professional and personal development. They can also potentially open doors to new opportunities and career growth.

Female language degree student raising her hand in class at GCU

Doctoral Degrees

This advanced level of study can offer you the opportunity to pursue a variety of careers, contribute to personal growth and knowledge, and allow you to make significant research contributions to society.

Male and female doctoral degree graduates standing and smiling outside

Certificate Programs

Enhance your communication skills with GCU’s graduate certificates. Whether you want to build your language proficiency, develop leadership skills or advance your teacher training, consider earning a certificate in your area of interest.

Man sitting at a table reading a book

Unlock Your Career Potential With a Communications Degree

Language degrees are versatile and, depending on your career goals, can be beneficial as either a primary degree or as a complementary minor or dual degree. If your passion involves professional writing, journalism, marketing or business leadership, GCU is here to help you find your voice.

Graduates of language and communications degree programs can be prepared for a variety of career fields, including:

  • Business
  • Advertising
  • Public relations
  • Journalism
  • Government
  • Education
Female teacher working with female student in classroom on laptop

Frequently Asked Questions

Read our answers to these commonly asked questions to find the program that works best for you.

It is important to understand your career goals before choosing the best degree for you. If you want to teach English to non-native speakers, consider a degree in TESOL. If you are interested in being a professional translator, look at foreign language degrees. If you want to showcase your professional acumen in business settings, explore communications degrees with various emphases.

GCU offers most of the language and communications degrees online or in person for your convenience. As an online student at GCU, you can be sure that you are receiving a quality education that is institutionally accredited by, and in compliance with, the rigorous standards of the Higher Learning Commission.

A master’s in communications may be worthwhile for those aiming to prepare themselves for potential leadership positions, particularly in business. If a career in education is on your radar, earning an MA in Communication with an Emphasis in Education can help prepare you to teach at the college level.

A degree in TESOL can prepare graduates to pursue potential careers in public, private and charter schools. Depending on your credentials and experience, you may be able to apply for jobs in teaching, education consulting and program coordination.

To become a teacher with a communications degree, you will need to acquire appropriate licensure and meet the academic requirements of the state you are working in. However, communications programs teach foundational writing and language skills that can serve teachers well in their careers.

If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

1 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Media and Communication Workers, as of May 2023, retrieved on Sept. 11, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as media and communication workers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.

2 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Writers and Authors, retrieved on Sept. 11, 2024.

Grand Canyon University's online and evening programs offer the flexibility you need, providing a quality education to help you in today's complex world.