BA in Communication

A communication lecture hall.

Explore the Power of Human Connection

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at the University at Buffalo offers a dynamic, research-driven program that gives you the tools to understand how communication shapes our lives—from personal relationships and workplaces to media, technology and global affairs.

Why choose the BA in Communication?

  • Nationally recognized program: Academic rigor meets real-world application.
  • Supportive, expert faculty: Learn from top researchers and caring mentors.
  • Personalized advising: Work with advisors dedicated to your success—every step of the way.
  • Career-ready focus: Build the versatile communication skills employers seek in every industry.

What you will learn

The Department of Communication's curriculum is designed to give you a comprehensive foundation in communication theory and practice:

  • Interpersonal Communication: Master the dynamics of one-on-one interaction, from everyday conversations to conflict resolution.
  • Organizational Communication: Learn how information flows within teams, companies, and institutions—and how to improve it.
  • Mass Media and Technology: Analyze how traditional and digital media shape public opinion, behavior, and culture.

Skill you'll develop

  • Public speaking
  • Advanced writing
  • Research methods and statistics
  • Communication strategy and media analysis

Communication courses

At UB, Communication courses are grouped into three key categories to help you build skills step-by-step:

Lay the groundwork for your studies by mastering the basic principles of communication across different contexts—interpersonal, organizational and media.

Sample courses include:

  • Principles of Communication
  • Communication in Organizations
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Mass Communication
  • Communication Theory

Take a deeper dive into the complexity of communication processes. These courses sharpen your critical thinking and research skills, preparing you for leadership, graduate study or advanced careers.

Sample courses include:

  • Effects of Mass Communication
  • Mass Communication Theories
  • Nonverbal Communication
  • World Media Systems

Apply your knowledge in real-world settings. These courses are designed to boost your written, oral and digital communication skills—and get you career-ready.

Sample courses include:

  • Principles and Techniques of Interviewing
  • Public Speaking
  • Public Relations
  • Principles and Techniques of Advertising
  • Internship in Communication

Expand your knowledge with electives that explore today's communication trends:

  • Entrepreneurship and Communication
  • Sexual Communication
  • Psychology of Media Entertainment
  • Social Media and Society

New courses/electives added:

  • Communication and Sports
  • Artificial Intelligence as a Medium and Communicator
  • Media Literacy
  • Media and Well-being
  • Family Communication
  • Demystifying Your Relationships
  • Strategic Communication Campaigns

Take control of your education, whether you want to build a strong foundation, dive into theory, or sharpen your professional edge, UB's Communication curriculum lets you shape your future.

Career outcomes

Graduates pursue roles in:

  • Public Relations and Advertising
  • Media and Journalism
  • Social Media and Content Strategy
  • Corporate and Nonprofit Communications
  • Government and Public Policy

Or they go on to graduate studies in:

  • Communication
  • Law
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Information and Library Science
  • Political Science

Take the next step

Start building the skills that power every industry—and every human interaction.

Contact us

For more information, please reach out!