Communications positions are expected to grow by four percent over the next decade which will make individuals who successfully complete bachelor’s in communication degree programs in California and other states in demand throughout the country. Communications positions include announcers, sound engineers, photographers, reporters and other jobs that are designed to provide information to the public, businesses or agencies.
In 2016, there were almost 10,000 people working in media and communication fields in California with even more working as reporters, writers and other communication related positions. The average salary for a communications specialist was $52,920 annually. Writers and authors averaged salaries of $95,920 while technical positions in communications averaged $52,540 per year.
Public relations specialists are also part of the communication industry and positions in that area are expected to grow by six percent over the next ten years. The average salary for someone working in public relations in the United States was $58,020 per year. In 2016, there were almost 25,000 people working in public relations, earning an average salary of $77,870 per year. This indicates that public relations specialists in California have a higher average salary than other areas of the country.
Most positions in communications require a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is why individuals who successfully complete degree programs in communications will have more options in their industry than those how do not complete degrees.
Following is the final article in our series of bachelor’s in communications degrees in California. For all prior articles, see:
- Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in California (A-C)
- Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in California (California State University System)
- Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in California (D-L)
- Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in California (M-P)
- Bachelor’s in Communications Programs in California (Q-S)
University of Antelope Valley
The University of Antelope Valley began in 1997 when Los Angeles City Firefighter and Paramedic, Marco Johnson, began instructing CPR and First Aid courses. As attendance grew, Johnson created the CPR and First Aid Company with a focus on training people to save lives. This eventually became Antelope Valley Medical College which received approval from the state and Los Angeles County to train people in Emergency Medical Technology. In 2009, the school became nationally accredited and the name changed to the University of Antelope Valley. Today, the mission of the university is to provide quality education that enables graduates to achieve their academic and career goals.
Communication Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication studies at the University of Antelope Valley helps students become effective communicators who are able to engage audiences, build relationships and manage careers in a fast-paced industry. Students must complete 45 credits in general education classes, which include humanities, math, natural sciences and social or political sciences. Courses required for the degree include:
- Advanced Public Speaking
- Argumentation
- Communication and Personal Relationships
- Communication Leadership
- Communication Research Methods
- Communication Theory
- Freedom of Communication
- Gender and Communication
- Intercultural Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Introduction to Mass Communications
- Introduction to Rhetoric
- Legal Argumentation
- Nonverbal Communication
- Oral Interpretation
- Organizational Communication
- Performance and Communication
- Persuasion
- Principles of Family Communication
- Public Relations
- Small Group Communication
- Technology and Communication
Students enrolled in the bachelor’s in communications degree program in California must complete a capstone course that cannot be scheduled unless they are currently enrolled or have completed their last course of the program.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
Contact
University of Antelope Valley
44055 North Sierra Highway
Lancaster CA 93534
Telephone: 661-726-1911
University of California, Berkeley
College of Letters and Sciences
The College of Letters and Sciences is the largest college at the university. Students are exposed to a broad-based liberal arts education at the highest level. They engage in dialogue with some of the world’s best teachers, researchers and scholars. Students are able to participate in projects that are at the forefront of science and designed to address problems in today’s increasingly global society. Of the 23 Nobel Prizes awarded to faculty, 16 of them are from the College of Letters and Sciences. Three of the four Pulitzer Prize winners on campus are from the college and it is home to 77 percent of the Guggenheim fellowships awarded to faculty.
Media Studies
The Media Studies program through the College of Letters and Sciences at the University of California Berkeley provide students with perspectives in media from a variety of disciplines. The bachelor’s in communication degree program in California emphasizes analytical and historical applications to communication. Students develop the ability to assess the roles and impact of mass media on American life. It is a liberal arts discipline that combines traditional communication methods with technologically advanced methods. Students also gain an understanding of anthropology, sociology, political science and journalism. In four core courses, students learn history, values and structure of media in this country as well as other countries around the world. Students gain an understanding of electronic and print media as well as the impact of media on public policy.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Contact
Media Studies Administrative Office
235 Evans Hall
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley CA 94720
Telephone: 510-642-2363
Email: mediastudies@berkeley.edu
University of California Davis
College of Letters and Sciences
The University of California Davis College of Letters and Sciences provides students with the opportunity to search for solutions through an interdisciplinary approach to arts, sciences and humanities. Students are able to answer questions, promote scholarship and look at creative ways to improve the world around them. The College of Letters and Sciences has the broadest offering of disciplines at the university and teaches 28,000 undergraduates as well as 2,000 graduate students an understanding of the arts, stars, math, music, chemistry, cinema, economics and English.
Communication Major
The bachelor in communication degree program in California through the College of Letters and Sciences at the University of California Davis provides students with an understanding of both verbal and non-verbal communication as it applies to connecting people. Students develop an understanding that people of diverse backgrounds express themselves in a variety of ways. Students learn how individual, interpersonal, organizational and societal communications differ. They learn to analyze message delivery systems as well as the role of media and the effectiveness of public relations campaigns.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Contact
Stephanie Fallas, Advisor
University of California Davis
One Shields Avenue
Davis CA 95616
Telephone: 530-752-1011
University of California Los Angeles
Department of Communication
The early years of the University of California Los Angeles campus Department of Communication were characterized by growth, development and a commitment to students. These are goals that still exist today and are exemplified by an outstanding faculty as well as extensive research. The Communication major at UCLA is one of the most sought-after degree programs in the school. Students are known for their curiosity, academics, ambition and innovation. The department is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing undergraduate involvement in research as well as providing opportunities for students to grow outside the classroom.
Communication
The bachelor’s in communication degree program in California offered by the Department of Communication at UCLA is an interdisciplinary curriculum that provides students an understanding of human communication. Students must complete 45 units that include seven lower as well as ten or eleven upper division courses. Courses required may include:
- Anthropology
- Communication
- Communication Technology and Digital Systems
- Economics
- Interpersonal Communication
- Mass Communication and Media Institutions
- Political and Legal Communication
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
Students are also required to complete a practicum course.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Contact
Department of Communication
University of California, Los Angeles
2225 Rolfe Hall
Box 951538
Los Angeles CA 90095
University of California San Diego
Department of Communication
The Department of Communication at the University of California San Diego has watched the emergence of new media used for human communication and how it has connected itself into the fabric of social, economic, scientific and cultural life. From the invention of the printing press in the 15th century to the global reach of social media today, the Department helps students gain an understanding of how humans communicate and how society can have an impact on how we understand each other.
Undergraduate
The undergraduate program in communication through the Department of Communication at the University of California San Diego is a bachelor’s in communication degree program in California designed to help students understand how communication impacts everyday life. The program emphasizes the role of technology and draws from a range of disciplines. Situated practices help students understand language, bodily activities and design while interpretive strategies teach students how to see, question and remake images or symbols that people are subjected to each day. Institutions, business models and production process as well as other social forces are also examined. Courses required may include:
- Advertising & Society
- Audio Sound
- Bilingual Communication
- Bodies and Law
- Cities and Spaces
- Communication and Community
- Communication and Religion
- Computer Game Studies
- Critical Design Studio
- Democracy, New Media and Youth
- Digital Editing
- Food Justice
- History of Electronic Media
- Internet Industries
- Law & Freedom
- Propaganda & Persuasion
- Studio TV
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Contact
University of California San Diego
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla CA 92093
Telephone: 858-534-2230
University of California Santa Barbara
College of Letters and Science
The College of Letters and Science offers over 100 majors and minors with an enrollment of more than 17,000 undergraduate students. The college builds on the strength of traditional disciplines and offers students exciting opportunities. The college is the largest center of teaching on the UCSB campus. Students engage in stimulating intellectual exchanges with faculty and other students. Curriculum offered through the college encourages students to explore and provides them with a depth of studies.
Communication
The bachelor of communications degree program in California offered through the College of Letters and Science at the University of California Santa Barbara focuses on how people construct, use and interpret messages. Students are provided an understanding of communication through various channels and media types. Graduates have found employment in local, state, national and global organizations ranging throughout the media industry. In addition, graduates have gone on to work in law, education and social services. Communication is one of the fastest growing areas of study at UCSB. The program offers a wide range of courses in three areas of interest that include interpersonal/intergroup communication, media and the communication of organizations. Students develop an understanding of the psychological, social and philosophical implications of communication with an understanding of mass media effects new communication technologies, interpersonal relationships and other areas where communication is key.
Accreditation
- Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities, Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
University of California Santa Barbara
Office of the Registrar
1101 Student Affairs and Administrative Services Building
Santa Barbara CA 93106-2015
Telephone: 805-893-3592
University of La Verne
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of La Verne is considered the historic core of the university. The college engages students and prepares them to think critically as well as creatively about issues that people deal with on a local, regional and national scale. Students are provided with a strong liberal foundation and are given the opportunity to ask as well as answer questions of meaning.
Communications, B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts in Communications through the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of La Verne helps students understand mass media and its effect on human behavior. Students choose from the following concentrations:
- Broadcast Journalism
- Multimedia
- Public Affairs/Information
The program is considered one of the best in California. Through the bachelor’s in communication degree program in California, students are able to gain hands-on experience through the Campus Time, La Verne Magazine as well as campus radio and television stations.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
University of La Verne
1950 Third Street
La Verne CA 91750
Telephone: 909-593-3511
University of Redlands
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Redlands believes that students should receive personalized, relevant and interdisciplinary education. They understand that no two students have the same higher education experience. The college offers more than 40 majors and minors, blending interdisciplinary learning with hands-on training.
Communication Sciences and Disorders
The Communication Sciences and Disorders degree through the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Redlands has been in existence for more than 50 years. The college offers a bachelor’s in communications program in California that is designed to develop excellence in academics and clinical practice. The program has a strong liberal arts foundation that help students develop critical thinking skills along with improved communication abilities. Students are able to identify the differences between normal and abnormal communications as well as the theoretical concepts of communication. Students are able to describe communication disorders and the components of assessment. Students are provided instruction in methods for treatment and how to read reports that document treatment outcomes.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
University of Redlands
1200 East Colton Avenue
PO Box 3080
Redlands CA 92373
Telephone: 909-793-2121
University of San Diego
College of Arts and Sciences
At the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of San Diego, students can expect one-on-one mentoring as well as practical research opportunities in arts, humanities and social sciences. Students may choose from programs in humanities, music, English, philosophy and others that provide them with a strong liberal arts education. Students acquire skills that make them lifelong learners as well as how to think critically.
Communication Studies
The Communication Studies program is a bachelor of communications degree in California that focuses on theory, criticism, context and more. The program is designed to create impactful leaders in the field of communication. Students learn from a rigorous and relevant curriculum based in liberal arts with an understanding that communication is a social process. It is through communication that people maintain an identity and connect with others. The program offers an integrated approach to communication, providing students with an understanding of the analysis of messages as well as how messages are constructed and received. Students develop an understanding of the foundational theories of communication as well as prevailing communication research paradigms.
Accreditation
- Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
University of San Diego
College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Communication
Camino Hall
5998 Alcala Park
San Diego CA 92110
Telephone: 619-260-4040
Email: jbartoli@sandiego.edu
University of San Francisco
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of San Francisco offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that focus on liberal arts. The college is considered the center of undergraduate life while the graduate school connects students with the innovative businesses in the San Francisco Bay area to provide them with hands-on experiences in their field of study.
Communication Studies
The bachelor’s in communication degree in California offered through the University of San Francisco’s College of Arts and Sciences helps students explore communication from public practices of politics to interactions with friends and family. Students are empowered to develop cultural awareness as well as the critical thinking skills they will need to analyze and critique various communication practices. Students understand the social and cultural impact of communication with a focus on developing a strong community connection so that graduates are willing and able to become active citizens on a local, regional and global scale. Students are encouraged to participate in the internship program which provides them with hands-on experience as well as a strong network outside of the classroom.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
College of Arts and Sciences
University of San Francisco
2130 Fulton Street
San Francisco CA 94117-1080
Telephone: 415-422-5555
University of Southern California
Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
The Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism is a national leader in education and scholarship in communication fields. There are more than 2,200 students enrolled in the college learning subjects related to communication, journalism, public diplomacy and public relations. Students are provided a comprehensive curriculum that creates leaders who are innovative, focused on service and have a strong sense of entrepreneurship. The school is named for Walter H. Annenberg who provided generous support to create the school.
Communication BA
Students enrolled in the bachelor’s in communication program in California are provided a coherent, integrated introduction in communications. Students are required to complete eight courses in six Core Literacies as well as two courses in Global Perspective. Students must complete 12 units in Theoretical and Foundational courses as well as eight units in Methods of Communication practices. Students must take one course entitled the Annenberg Experience that prepares students to enhance their digital literacy and develop an understanding of modern communication controversies. An additional 24 units in electives are also required.
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
University of Southern California
Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
3502 Watt Way
Los Angeles CA 90089-0281
Telephone: 213-740-6180
Westmont College
Westmont College was established in 1937 by Ruth Kerr and others who wanted to create a liberal arts college committed to the Christian faith. The college moved to the former Dwight Murphy estate in Santa Barbara in 1945. The school has received national recognition for its academic quality, leadership training and unique emphasis on academic, personal and spiritual growth.
Communication Studies
The bachelor’s in communication degree in California at Westmont College provides students with an understanding that communication is a defining human characteristic. The program provides students with an understanding of ways that public discourse influences culture and the effects of image-based communication. Students develop an understanding of communication that is rooted in centuries-old ideals but with a modern, contemporary approach. Students bring Christian values into their studies, gaining an understanding that communication needs to remain moral and ethical. Students gain an understanding of the interpersonal faithlessness in a culture that is increasingly transient as well as the increasing power of the media along with propaganda in social movements.
Accreditation
- Senior College Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Westmont College
955 La Paz Road
Santa Barbara CA 93108
Telephone: 805-565-6200
Email: admissions@westmont.edu
Woodbury University
School of Media, Culture & Design
The School of Media, Culture & Design is a thriving design school in Los Angeles that offers students many challenging degrees that are designed to create the next generation of innovative leaders. The school brings together diverse fields in media, culture and design in order to provide innovative learning options in an environment that is interdisciplinary. There are eight undergraduate programs in fields like animation, communication, graphic design and psychology.
Communication
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication through the School of Media, Culture & Design at Woodbury University is a bachelor’s in communication degree program in California that allows students to tailor their education in media studies or strategic communication. Students learn to speak, write, promote and produce communication media in print, television, film, social media along with a look into the communication methods of the future. Students in the Media Studies program focus on the relationship of communication to entertainment, media and cultural studies. Students in the Strategic Communication concentration develop strategies for communicating with diverse populations while also learning to deliver messages that persuade and inspire. Students are also able to gain hands-on experiences through internships at such well-known companies as Warner Brothers, Disney and Indiewire.com.
Accreditation
- Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact
Jennifer Peterson, Chair
Woodbury University
Main Campus
7500 North Glenoaks Boulevard
Burbank CA 91504
Telephone: 818-767-0888
Email: Jennifer.peterson@woodbury.edu
Bachelor’s in communication degree programs in California prepare students for careers where communication is key and those who successfully complete those programs could find themselves in high demand among employers after graduation.