Exploring Strayer University’s Online Communications Degree: An In-Depth Look

Exploring Strayer University’s Online Communications Degree: An In-Depth Look

In the fast-paced, interconnected world of today, communication has become an indispensable skill across all industries. From digital marketing to public relations, journalism, and corporate communications, the ability to convey clear, persuasive, and impactful messages is more critical than ever. Many universities have adapted to the growing demand for communications professionals by offering online degrees tailored to meet the needs of working adults, career changers, and remote learners. Strayer University is one of these institutions, offering programs that prepare students for the dynamic field of communication.

However, Strayer University does not offer a degree explicitly labeled as “communications.” Instead, the university provides related programs that cover essential aspects of communications, such as marketing, business, and information technology. In this article, we will explore how Strayer’s degree programs equip students with the communications skills needed for various career paths and examine what makes Strayer’s online format an attractive option for students looking to thrive in this field.

The Importance of Communications in Today’s World

Effective communication is at the heart of every successful business and organization. Whether it’s delivering a marketing campaign, managing a company’s reputation, engaging with customers on social media, or creating compelling content for digital platforms, communication professionals play a vital role in ensuring that an organization’s message is heard, understood, and acted upon.

With the rise of digital media and the global nature of business, communication strategies have become more complex. Professionals in this field must be well-versed in traditional communication methods and possess a strong understanding of digital communication, including social media management, digital marketing, content creation, and data analysis.

Given this evolving landscape, the demand for communication experts continues to grow, and universities like Strayer are preparing students to meet the challenges of the modern workforce.

Strayer University’s Degree Programs with a Focus on Communications

While Strayer University may not offer a standalone Bachelor’s in Communications, students interested in communication-related careers can find several degree options that provide the necessary skills for success in this field. Strayer’s programs in Business Administration, Marketing, and Information Technology include components that cover many of the core aspects of communications.

1. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a Focus on Marketing

Strayer University’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) offers a concentration in marketing, which is highly relevant for students interested in pursuing careers in communication. Marketing is inherently tied to communication, as it involves crafting and delivering messages that resonate with target audiences, creating brand awareness, and driving engagement.

The marketing concentration at Strayer equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in roles such as marketing communication specialists, brand managers, advertising executives, and public relations professionals. Students learn how to develop and implement marketing strategies, manage promotional campaigns, and use digital tools to analyze customer behavior and market trends.

Key Courses in Marketing Communications:

• Marketing Research: Teaches students how to conduct market research, analyze data, and understand customer behavior to develop effective marketing strategies.
• Consumer Behavior: Focuses on understanding the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence consumer purchasing decisions, which is critical for designing targeted marketing campaigns.
• Integrated Marketing Communications: This course covers the integration of various marketing tools and techniques, such as advertising, public relations, and digital marketing, to create cohesive and impactful campaigns.
• Digital and Social Media Marketing: In the digital age, social media platforms have become essential channels for communication. This course teaches students how to create, manage, and optimize digital marketing campaigns on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Through these courses, students develop the ability to craft and deliver compelling messages, understand audience behavior, and manage communication strategies across multiple channels.

2. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)

Strayer University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) degree may not seem like a traditional communication program, but it has an important role in developing skills related to digital communications. With the increasing reliance on technology in communication strategies, having a technical background can be a valuable asset for those pursuing careers in digital media, content creation, and corporate communication roles.

Students in the BSIT program learn about the role of technology in communication, particularly in areas such as social media platforms, content management systems, and multimedia production tools. The curriculum prepares students for roles in digital content management, IT communications, and corporate tech support, where the ability to convey complex information in a simple and accessible way is key.

Key Courses Related to Digital Communication:

• Introduction to Web Design and Development: This course provides students with the knowledge needed to create and manage websites, a critical tool for digital communication in the business world.
• Data Visualization: Students learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate complex data insights to a non-technical audience, which is an essential skill in corporate communications and marketing.
• Cloud Computing and Collaboration Tools: In a world where remote work and virtual communication are becoming the norm, this course helps students understand how to use cloud-based collaboration tools for seamless team communication.

Graduates from the BSIT program can pursue communication-related careers in web design, content management, digital marketing technology, and IT communications.

3. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management

Another option for students interested in communication is Strayer’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. This program emphasizes leadership and organizational communication, preparing students for management roles where effective communication is key to team success and company growth.

Leaders must communicate clearly and persuasively, whether they are motivating employees, managing stakeholder expectations, or conveying complex strategic objectives. The BBA in Management helps students develop these critical interpersonal skills alongside the technical business knowledge needed to run successful teams and organizations.

Key Communication-Focused Courses:

• Business Communication: This course is designed to enhance students’ writing, speaking, and presentation skills in a business context. It covers strategies for delivering clear, concise, and effective messages to diverse audiences.
• Leadership and Organizational Behavior: Students learn how to communicate effectively in leadership roles, including managing conflicts, motivating teams, and driving organizational change.
• Managerial Decision-Making: This course focuses on the role of communication in decision-making processes. Students learn how to gather and communicate information to support managerial decisions and how to present complex ideas clearly to upper management and stakeholders.

Strayer University’s Online Learning Platform

A key advantage of pursuing a degree at Strayer University is the flexibility offered by its online learning platform. Designed with the needs of adult learners in mind, Strayer’s online programs allow students to study on their own schedule, making it easier to balance education with work, family, and other commitments.

Strayer’s virtual classroom offers:

1. Interactive Tools: The online platform features interactive tools such as discussion boards, group projects, and live webinars, fostering collaboration and engagement with classmates and professors.
2. Recorded Lectures: For students who may not be able to attend live classes, recorded lectures provide the opportunity to review course material at a time that suits their schedule.
3. Access to Digital Resources: Strayer offers extensive digital resources, including an online library, academic support services, and career counseling to ensure that students have the support they need to succeed.
4. Personalized Support: Strayer provides personalized support through academic advisors, financial aid counseling, and career services. Advisors work with students to create a customized degree plan that fits their goals and schedule.

Career Outcomes for Communications-Focused Graduates

Graduates from Strayer University’s business, marketing, and IT programs are well-equipped for a variety of communication-related roles. Depending on the specialization chosen, career opportunities include:

• Marketing Communications Specialist: Responsible for creating and managing promotional campaigns, developing marketing materials, and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels.
• Public Relations Manager: In charge of managing an organization’s public image, communicating with the media, and handling crisis communication.
• Digital Content Manager: Oversees the creation and management of digital content, including social media posts, blogs, and website updates.
• Corporate Communications Manager: Responsible for managing internal and external communications for an organization, ensuring that messages align with the company’s goals and values.
• Social Media Manager: Develops and executes social media strategies, manages social media accounts, and analyzes engagement metrics to improve communication effectiveness.

Financial Aid and Affordability

Strayer University strives to make higher education affordable and accessible to all students. They offer various financial aid options, including federal student loans, grants, scholarships, and corporate partnerships. Additionally, Strayer has flexible payment plans and tuition discounts for military personnel and their families.

Conclusion: Is Strayer University Right for You?

While Strayer University does not offer a traditional degree labeled as communications, their programs in business, marketing, and information technology provide a strong foundation for anyone seeking a career in the communication field. Whether your interest lies in marketing, public relations, digital media, or corporate communication, Strayer’s diverse course offerings and specializations equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of communications.

With its flexible online learning environment, career-focused curriculum, and comprehensive student support services, Strayer University is an excellent option for students looking to advance their careers in communications without sacrificing personal or professional commitments.