Communication Studies at NIU
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
Learn to harness the power of language.
Words can sway voters and consumers, explain diverse perspectives and much more. Using effective communication strategies can help you reach your personal and professional goals. The skills you'll gain as a communication studies major will benefit you in a variety of careers, from those focused on creative expression to the top of the corporate ladder.
My major is communication studies with an emphasis in media studies, and my minor is sport management...My dream job would be working as a social media manager for a college or pro sports team. I have loved both my major and minor and am so glad I chose this path!”
Find Communication Studies Scholarships
Did You Know?
As the home of Northern Public Radio, the Northern Star newspaper and an annual film festival, NIU offers unique hands-on learning opportunities.
What Can I Do With a Communication Studies Degree From NIU?
Our graduates launch careers in many settings in roles that highlight their leadership skills and ability to fluently communicate with a range of audiences.
Top skills reported by alumni:
Top fields alumni work in:
Career Potential for NIU {{majorGoesHere}} Majors
Source: Steppingblocks, {{steppingBlocksSourceYear}}
Top employers include:
Job titles include:
Source: Steppingblocks, {{steppingBlocksSourceYear}}

What to Expect as a Communication Studies Major at NIU
You’ll investigate written, spoken, visual and digital messages from historical, critical and social science points of view. You’ll also learn how to create such messaging for artistic and business purposes. You can focus on one of the following emphases or explore all three:
- Advocacy and public communication
- Media studies
- Organizational/corporate communication
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Pursue your bachelor's degree at an exceptional value with our affordable tuition and fees.
Get access to career support resources like assessments, leadership courses and resume/cover letter support.
Apply to NIU

First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.

Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.