Communication - General Communication
The Communication: General Communication Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human communication across interpersonal, organizational, and media contexts. The curriculum integrates rhetoric, media studies, interpersonal communication, and strategic communication, equipping students with the skills to analyze, create, and evaluate messages in diverse personal, professional, and public settings. Students engage in both theoretical study and practical application, developing critical thinking, persuasive communication, and media literacy skills essential for navigating today’s complex communication environments.
Throughout the program, students participate in collaborative projects, media production labs, and research-focused courses guided by experienced faculty. Emphasis is placed on effective writing, public speaking, digital media proficiency, and ethical communication practices. Graduates leave the program prepared to craft impactful messages, lead initiatives, and engage with diverse audiences, gaining analytical insight, practical communication skills, critical reasoning, and media literacy applicable to a wide range of professional and academic contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Communication - General Communication
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Communication Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Communication
- Introduction to Communication Studies
- Interpersonal and Group Communication
- Media Literacy and Digital Communication
- Critical Thinking and Argumentation
Year 2 – Intermediate Communication Skills
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
- Organizational Communication and Leadership
- Communication Research Methods
- Elective: Journalism, Media Production, or Digital Media
Year 3 – Advanced Topics and Applied Communication
- Strategic Communication and Public Relations
- Persuasion and Rhetorical Analysis
- Media Production and Multimedia Design
- Electives in Specialized Communication Areas
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Applied Research Project
- Advanced Seminar in Communication Studies
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Communication Strategy and Leadership
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the General Communication program are prepared for careers in public relations, media and journalism, marketing and advertising, corporate communication, and nonprofit organizations. Alumni may work as communication specialists, media analysts, content creators, public affairs coordinators, or corporate trainers, applying their expertise to inform, engage, and influence audiences. Graduates may also pursue advanced degrees in communication, business, or related fields, enhancing their ability to lead projects and contribute strategically. With a combination of analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills, alumni are equipped to navigate professional environments, implement communication strategies, and solve complex challenges in diverse organizational contexts.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out for its integration of theoretical study, practical application, digital media proficiency, and strategic communication skills across a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, experiential learning, and opportunities to engage in media production, research, and applied communication projects. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical communication, and audience-centered strategies, preparing graduates to analyze messages, craft persuasive content, and lead initiatives in professional, academic, and public settings. For students passionate about shaping narratives, influencing audiences, and developing versatile communication expertise, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
