Developing productive relationships, managing teams, analyzing audiences, creating effective messages, and understanding media are key competencies needed for successful communication professionals. RIT's communications degree prepares you in the theory, research, and practical application needed to develop these skills. You will graduate ready for a successful career as a communication specialist. The degree's strong focus on undergraduate research also prepares you for graduate work in communication and related academic disciplines.
RIT's Communication Bachelor Degree
Customize your bachelor of communication by taking professional core courses from RIT's nine colleges, in areas as diverse as design, photography, marketing, health care, programming, and engineering, to name a few. This unique combination of course work allows you to explore the breadth of the communication field while studying other subject areas of professional or personal interest. You will be prepared for a variety of careers, ranging from traditional corporate communication to entrepreneurial start-up environments.
Take courses in communication theory, visual communication, public speaking, mass communication, communication law and ethics, technology-mediated communication, and research methods. Complete a professional core from one of the many minors across the university or you may design your own. Electives and liberal arts courses complete the curriculum. Complement your classroom work by completing one semester of cooperative education that deepens your knowledge of the communication field while you gain hands-on work experience that prepares you for a full-time position after graduation.
Every student in the School of Communication is assigned a professional academic advisor and a faculty mentor. Professional advisors assist with course planning and registration. The faculty mentor provides advising on career development and planning, including information about research opportunities, graduate school, and jobs. Peer mentors, who are upper-level advertising and public relations students, are also available to answer questions about classes, clubs on campus, student-run activities, and other matters from the student's perspective. For more information, please refer to the college's academic advising page.
Communication Master's Degree
The School of Communication offers an MS degree in communication.
RIT's Pre-Law Program
Law schools welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. RIT's pre-law program will help you navigate the admission process for law school, explore a range of legal careers, and guide you through course selection to ensure you build the skills and competencies required of competitive law school applicants. The program is open to students in all majors who are interested in pursuing a career in law.
RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option
RIT has partnered with Syracuse University's College of Law to offer an accelerated 3+3 BS/JD option for highly capable students. This option provides a fast-track pathway to law school in which students earn a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctorate degree in six years. In the 3+3 option, students may apply to the option directly. Successful applicants are offered admission to RIT and given conditional acceptance into Syracuse University's College of Law.
RIT's communication degree is one of the approved majors for the 3+3 option. Learn more about the RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option, including admission requirements and frequently asked questions.
Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees
Today's careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT's Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more. Learn more about our accelerated bachelor's/master's degrees and how you can prepare for your future faster.
+1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway: Successful RIT applicants who are offered admission into the BS degree in communication as an incoming first-year student may also be offered conditional early acceptance into the +1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway. This option enables you to earn both your BS degree and an MBA in as little as five years of study. Learn how the +1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway can help you add a competitive advantage to your studies.
+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor's degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.