Shaping Stories, Building Connections
COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
At Anderson University, the communication major equips students to lead in a world where clear, ethical communication is more important than ever. You’ll learn how to craft messages that matter, manage digital and social media, support organizations through change or crisis, and build authentic relationships across audiences and platforms.
Rooted in a Christ-centered education, AU’s program blends theory, practice, and purpose so you graduate within three or four years ready to serve in workplaces, nonprofits, churches, and ministries across Indiana and beyond.
Tomorrow's strategic communicators are starting right here.
Transform ideas into impactful stories.
In AU’s communication major, you’ll learn how to:
- Tell truthful, compelling stories.
- Plan communication strategies for real organizations.
- Use digital tools, ethical AI, and analytics to reach the right audiences.
- Lead with integrity in a culture that needs both grace and truth.
A communication degree strengthens your résumé and makes you more marketable by building writing, speaking, media, and strategy skills that transfer to almost any field. You can complete this major in three or four years, depending on the path you take.
WHAT YOU’LL STUDY
In AU’s communication major, you’ll build a strong foundation and then shape your path with courses that match your interests and calling. You will graduate with at least 10 portfolio pieces that demonstrate your abilities to employers or graduate schools.
Sample Courses
- Foundations of Communication
- Public Speaking & Presentation
- Media Writing & Storytelling
- Strategic Communication Campaigns
- Communication Research & Analytics
- Interpersonal Communication
- Event Planning & Management
- Global & Intercultural Communication
- Communicating Through Social Media
View the complete curriculum
Many students pair communication with a second major or minor (such as business, marketing, psychology, or Christian ministries) to tailor their degree toward specific career goals.
View Full Curriculum Advising Sheets Here.
Program Options
Design the communication pathway that fits you:
- Major in communication (BA)
- A minor in communication pairs well with any major
Many students finish in three or four years, depending on transfer credits, dual-credit coursework, and advising plans that maximize time and affordability.
EXPERIENCES & INTERNSHIPS
Work with real organizations.
Communication students at AU have the chance to complete internships and practicums with organizations such as:
- Anderson Education Foundation
- Bohlsen Group (PR/marketing agency)
- Children’s Bureau
- Conner Prairie
- Eiteljorg Museum
- Flagship Enterprise Center
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Madison County Alliance (Chamber of Commerce)
- PANBlast
- The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
- St. Vincent Hospital Foundation
- The U.S. Attorney’s Office
Students also gain experience on campus by serving with offices such as marketing and communication, admissions, athletics, chapel, and student activities, building a portfolio that shows you can deliver results in real settings.
AFTER GRADUATION
Anderson University’s communication program prepares you to be more than a media professional. Because communication roles are evolving with new technology and platforms, well-prepared graduates who can think critically, write clearly, and lead ethically are in high demand.
Careers
- Communication specialist
- Public relations coordinator
- Content manager or copywriter
- Social media manager or digital strategist
- Internal communications coordinator
- Fundraising and development specialist
- Media relations manager
- Event or program coordinator
- Community engagement or outreach specialist
Graduates in communication a commonly start careers in sectors such as advertising and PR firms, marketing and media agencies, colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, government and community relations, sports, entertainment, churches, and corporate communications departments.
Earning Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Media & communication workers earn a median annual wage of $70,300 (May 2024), well above the national median for all occupations.
- Public relations specialists earn a median wage of $69,780, with employment expected to grow 5% from 2024–2034, faster than average.
- Workers with a communication-related bachelor’s degree report a median salary of about $65,000 across industries.
Communication careers tied to digital media, social strategy, organizational communication, and public relations show the strongest long-term growth.
“The program sets students up for success in a future career by providing real-world opportunities before graduation, including working on projects with real clients. Aside from helping me build an awesome portfolio, one of these client assignments ended in an internship offer, rounding out my practical experience even further.” —Caroline States
FAQ: COMMUNICATION AT ANDERSON UNIVERSITY
Where can a communication major take you?
Communication graduates are in demand in almost every sector, from business and healthcare to nonprofits, ministry, and media. Some AU graduates move directly into careers; others pursue graduate study in fields such as communication, public relations, business, law, ministry, or counseling. Wherever you go next, you will carry both technical skills and a Christ-centered perspective on how communication can build trust, serve others, and point toward hope.
Is the communication degree new at AU?
Yes. Anderson University’s communication major builds on the strength of our long-standing public relations program, expanding it to encompass a broader range of communication skills and career paths while maintaining the same Christ-centered, hands-on approach.
Is communication the same as public relations?
Not exactly. Public relations is one important part of communication. A communication major at AU gives you a broader foundation that includes PR, digital media, social media, organizational communication, and event planning, so you have more flexibility in your career options.
Should I major in communication, public relations, or marketing?
In AU’s communication major, you’ll gain the flexibility to do all three. These pathways overlap, but each academic area brings a unique focus:
- Communication explores how people connect, persuade, and solve problems through messages in organizations, media, and everyday life.
- Public relations focuses on relationship-building and reputation, often through earned media, storytelling, and strategic campaigns.
- Marketing is more targeted toward driving revenue through pricing, promotion, and brand positioning.
Why study communication at Anderson University?
AU offers a close-knit campus in Anderson, Indiana, with quick access to internships and careers in nearby Indianapolis. Here, communication is more than content creation; it’s a calling to serve people well.
You’ll benefit from:
- Christ-centered learning: Explore how faith shapes communication ethics, leadership, and the way you use your voice in a polarized world.
- Hands-on experience from day one: Work on real projects for campus departments, ministries, nonprofits, and local organizations in central Indiana.
- Small classes, big opportunities: Learn in close community with professors who know your name, walk with you, and help connect you to internships and jobs.
- Career-ready skill development: Graduate with a professional portfolio that showcases your writing, campaigns, social media strategy, and event work.
- A home that helps you rise: Come as you are. Become who you’re called to be. At AU, you’ll join a Christ-centered community where students “rise together” through faith, academics, and belonging.
Can I double major or add a minor?
Yes. Many students combine communication with majors like business, marketing, psychology, or Christian ministries. Minors in communication and event planning can also strengthen another primary major.
Is this degree a good fit if I’m not sure what I want to do yet?
If you enjoy writing, people, storytelling, social media, or organizing projects, communication is a strong option. It keeps doors open to many industries and roles while you discover your specific calling.
Where is Anderson University located?
Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, just northeast of Indianapolis. Students enjoy a residential campus community with easy access to internships, careers, and cultural opportunities across central Indiana and the broader Midwest.
What next steps can I take?
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.