Communication
Affordably earn a communications degree at Stark State College. Start here with our small class sizes and low tuition, then seamlessly transfer to a four-year college or university to earn your bachelor’s degree.
Program at a glance
DEGREE TYPE
Associate of Arts
PROGRAM FORMAT
In person*
LENGTH (FULL TIME)
4 semesters
CAREER COMMUNITY
*Please note: Many Stark State classes have online and in-person options.
Program overview
Learn how to deliver the message effectively.
Gain knowledge and skills – such as public speaking, interpersonal communication and communication theory – applicable to any work environment, then easily transfer your associate degree to a four-year university.
Program details
Stark State’s communication program combines core courses such as effective speaking and interpersonal communication with elective classes like interviewing and persuasion. You’ll also have to complete general education requirements in areas like mathematics, social science, humanities and sciences.
Transfer opportunities
Our communication degree is specifically designed for transfer. Most if not all credits will transfer to state universities and many private institutions in Ohio, especially if you follow established transfer pathways or articulation agreements. Our program currently has articulation agreements with:
- Kent State University
- The University of Akron
- University of Mount Union
- Walsh University
- Franklin University
Careers and outcomes
The program is designed primarily as a transfer pathway to four-year institutions. While most communication careers benefit significantly from a bachelor’s degree, an AA degree provides some career opportunities including:
- Customer service representative
- Social media coordinator
- Administrative assistant
- Sales associate
- Community outreach assistant
- Marketing assistant
- Content creator (entry-level)
FAQs
A communication AA degree is a two-year undergraduate program that provides foundational knowledge in communication theory, public speaking, interpersonal communication, mass media and small group communication. This degree prepares you for transfer to four-year institutions or entry-level positions in communication-related fields.
An AA in communication focuses on liberal arts foundations with communication emphasis, making it ideal for transfer to four-year institutions.
Core communication courses include:
- Effective speaking
- Interpersonal communication
- Introduction to communication theory
- Mass communication
- Small group communication
Elective communication courses include:
- Persuasion
- Sex, gender and culture
- Nonverbal communication
- Intercultural communication
- Interviewing
You’ll also have to complete general education requirements in areas like mathematics, social science, humanities and sciences.
Typically, you need to demonstrate college-level English and math readiness through placement tests or completed coursework.
Common transfer majors include:
- Communication studies
- Mass communication
- Public relations
- Journalism
- Media studies
- Marketing
- Broadcasting
- Business administration
Academic advisors specializing in communication and transfer planning can help you select courses, understand transfer requirements and connect with four-year institutions.
Yes, Stark State College offers:
- Interactive communication courses focused on real-life experiences.
- Student clubs and organizations.
- Student symposium.
- Career services for internship placement.
Yes, many students work while earning their degree at Stark State. A variety of course options makes it possible to balance work and education, though time management and study skills are essential for success.
Stark State offers all students:
- Academic advising and transfer planning
- Tutoring services
- Library Learning Lounge
- Writing Center
- Math Learning Lab
- Science Learning Center
- Military Services
- Disability Support Services
- English Language Learner Lab
- Counseling Services
- Honor’s Program
Meet the faculty
Jessica Papajcik
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator
Related programs
Looking for more career options? Check out these other programs.
Lowest tuition around
Put your money toward your goals – not debt.
Stark State’s tuition costs up to 83% less than other area colleges and universities. Along with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you gain the most value for your education without sacrificing quality.
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Wendi Keller, Ph.D.
Department Chair, Communication, Humanities, and Reading
330-494-6170 ext. 4958
Take the next step
Whether you’re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State.