Communication Studies (BA)

The ways we communicate are constantly changing, and our program is adapting to this. Through courses on media, culture, and theory, learn how communication is crucial to the ways in which we organize and structure our communities, our institutions, and our modes of governance, at both the local and global levels. Gain critical skills and knowledge that will prepare you for careers in public relations, politics, the non-profit sector, and industry.

 

2022 graduates who secured employment or went on to postgraduate studies

 

Laurier ranks in the top 6 percent of universities worldwide*

 

students who gained hands-on learning experiences at Laurier in 2022

*Center for World University Rankings (CWUR)

Admissions

Format: full time or part time      Duration: four years     Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)     OUAC code: UKL

Program Options and Courses

Concentrations

Communication Studies examines the forms and practices of communication through six areas of emphasis. Choose up to two concentrations to focus on:

  • media and communication history
  • media and cultural theory
  • visual communication
  • global communication
  • cultural and creative industries
  • digital media studies

Options and Minors

Looking to add more to your degree? These are a few popular academic opportunities which allow you to dive deeper into your major area of study or broaden your knowledge:

Check out other options to enhance your degree.

First-Year Courses

  • Media History
  • Canadian Communication in Context
  • 4.0 elective credits in courses that interest you

Sample First-Year Electives

  • Literature and Love
  • Untold Histories in Modern Canada
  • Introduction to Psychology I
  • Environment, Sustainability and Society

Sample Upper-Year Courses

  • Introduction to Creative Industries
  • Critical Advertising Studies
  • Internet Studies
  • Sport on Screen
  • Alternative Media

Similar Programs

Co-op

Co-op is a way to integrate what you are learning in the classroom with practical experience in your field of study. Build your resume, earn money, develop your network, and graduate with work experience.

You can apply for admission to co-op in your first year and may be eligible for an admission interview early in your second year. As a student in this program, you will be eligible to complete paid work terms lasting 12 to 16 weeks.

Interested? Learn more about co-op.

Tuition and Scholarships

Getting a university education is an investment in your future.

At Laurier, we take financial health seriously by providing a wide variety of funding opportunities for you throughout your degree, such as scholarships and bursaries, and by equipping you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

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"This program opens up many doors for students. It helped me develop critical thinking, writing techniques and advanced social skills. I really enjoyed how course content was applicable to everyday life and courses were taught by passionate instructors who value the opinions of students."

Victoria Vercillo, Communications Studies graduate

Your Career Awaits

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

Here are just some examples of our graduates' destinations. What’s yours?

Sample Career Options

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

  • advertising planner / buyer
  • announcer / broadcaster / host
  • corporate communications
  • editor / copywriter / publisher
  • journalist / reporter / photographer
  • marketing coordinator
  • social and digital media director
  • technical writer

Explore more careers.

Support After Graduation

Alumni for life means that you have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

"Television Studies was an incredible course. It taught me how to look at media differently through analyzing television shows – something most of us watch on a daily basis. It was insightful and interesting! And the professors are great!"

Julia Collis, Communications Studies graduate

Interested in More Info?

Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548.889.8888 or see all contact information.