The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Communication Studies program at GOU is designed to deepen Learners’ understanding of the principles, applications, and context underlying communication studies. The program provides Learners with a foundation in the core and concentration subject areas of communication studies. In addition, the program builds a set of competencies and expertise for Learners in communication studies practices.
In addition to acquiring the requisite knowledge and competencies in the core subject areas of the Program, Graduates of this Program will also gain entrepreneurial skills, expertise, experience, and knowledge/know-how to empower them to set up 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) compliant business enterprises and corporations relating to their vocation, profession, area of expertise or competency.
Online
Associate Degree: 12-24 months Bachelor’s Degree: 36 – 48 months
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January 2025
September 2025
English
This program develops the practical job-relevant in-demand skills of Learners in communication studies. Learners are equipped with the requisite professional skills and competencies in this continuously evolving field. In addition, Learners on this program acquire the requisite specialist in-depth knowledge and professional skills to enable them to embark on a career in the field.
The ACTIVEclassTM Mode of Delivery of this Program lays less emphasis on teaching or instruction. Learners are encouraged and empowered to develop and acquire their Program-specific SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and know-how) through the innovative LKDATM (Learn, Know, Do, Acquire) approach
The Program provides Learners with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the core, concentration, and specialization subject areas of the Program to enable them develop and acquire the relevant Program-specific SEEKTM through actively engaging in the Learning-by-Involvement (LbI) and Knowing-by-Doing (KbD) activity-based learner-initiative-intensity-activeness LKDATM-Outcome AATs (actions, activities, and tasks).
The LKDATM– Outcome ACTIVEclassTM Mode of Program Delivery
The Program is ACTIVEclassTM Compliant whereby the instructional delivery approach is designed to facilitate, support, and empower the active engagement of Learners in the process of developing and acquiring their Program-specific SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and know-how).
ACTIVEclassTM Instructors are, therefore, not at the center of the teaching-instruction-learning process. They focus on introducing the subject matter of instruction, mapping out and guiding Learners through learner-initiative-intensity-activeness LKDATM (Learn, Know, Do, Acquire) Outcome AATs (actions, activities, and tasks).
ACTIVEclassTM Learners are therefore encouraged and empowered to play an active engagement role in contributing to their SEEKTM (skills, expertise, experience, and knowledge/know-how) development and acquisition process through actively engaging in the Learning-by-Involvement (LbI) and Knowing-by-Doing (KbD) activity-based LDKATM Outcomes AATs (activities, actions, and tasks).
| Number of Modules | Credit Per Module | Total Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Foundation Modules | 5 | 4 | 20 |
| Core Subject Modules | 8 | 4 | 32 |
| Concentration Modules | 7 | 4 | 28 |
| Total | 20 | 80 |
| Number of Modules | Credit Per Module | Total Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Foundation Modules | 5 | 4 | 20 |
| Core Subject Modules | 8 | 4 | 32 |
| Concentration Modules | 12 | 4 | 48 |
| Specialization Modules | 15 | 4 | 60 |
| Capstone Projects | 2 | 4 | 8 |
| Total | 42 | 168 |
All modules of this Program will be delivered in English. Therefore, English language proficiency is required for admission to this Program. Applicants who need to improve their English to the required proficiency level can enroll in the GOU English Language Proficiency Course
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Communication Studies offers a comprehensive
education in the field of communication, focusing on the theory and practice of
effective communication across various contexts. Pursuing this degree at GOU
provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in communication-
related careers in diverse industries. Let us explore the key aspects of pursuing this
program at GOU, including program overview, choosing the right program,
determining if it is the best fit for you, skill development, career prospects, and future
trends.
The BSc in Communication Studies program at GOU is designed to provide students
with a deep understanding of communication theories, interpersonal communication,
organizational communication, mass communication, and media studies. The program
emphasizes the development of effective communication skills, critical thinking, and
media literacy. Through a combination of coursework, practical projects, and
internships, students gain hands-on experience in various aspects of communication,
preparing them for careers in fields such as public relations, marketing, journalism,
advertising, and more.
Before pursuing a BSc in Communication Studies, it is important to consider if it
aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals. Ask yourself:
Are you interested in studying human communication and its impact on
society?
Are you a strong communicator with excellent verbal and written skills?
Do you enjoy analyzing and understanding how messages are constructed and
interpreted?
Are you interested in media, public relations, advertising, or related fields?
Do you enjoy working collaboratively in teams and engaging with diverse
audiences?
Are you open to continuous learning and staying updated with new
communication technologies and trends?
If you answered "yes" to these questions and have a genuine interest in
communication, media, and their societal impact, the BSc in Communication Studies
program could be an excellent fit for you. It is important to have a passion for
understanding how communication shapes relationships, influences behaviors, and
impacts society at large.
Choosing the right program is crucial to ensure that the BSc in Communication
Studies program at GOU aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Research the program and its curriculum to understand better the courses offered, the
focus areas within communication studies, access to communication technologies and
resources, and opportunities for internships or industry partnerships.
A BSc in Communication Studies equips students with a diverse range of skills
required in the field. Students develop expertise in the following areas:
Interpersonal Communication:
o Understanding communication dynamics in personal relationships.
o Effective listening and verbal communication skills.
o Nonverbal communication and body language.
o Conflict resolution and negotiation skills.
Organizational Communication:
o Understanding communication structures within organizations.
o Team communication and collaboration.
o Internal and external communication strategies.
o Leadership and management communication.
Mass Communication and Media Studies:
o Media literacy and critical analysis of media messages.
o Understanding media effects and audience reception.
o Media production and storytelling techniques.
o Ethical considerations in media and communication.
Public Speaking and Presentation Skills:
o Effective public speaking and presentation techniques.
o Developing compelling messages for different audiences.
o Visual aids and multimedia presentations.
o Overcoming stage fright and building confidence.
The program at GOU emphasizes practical learning, allowing students to gain hands-
on experience through internships, media production projects, public speaking
competitions, and other experiential learning opportunities. This practical training
helps students develop a strong portfolio of work and build professional networks
within the industry.
The career prospects for graduates of a BSc in Communication Studies are diverse,
with opportunities in various industries that rely on effective communication. Some
potential career paths include:
1. Public Relations Specialist:
o Description: Public relations specialists work to create and maintain a
positive public image for organizations. They develop communication
strategies, write press releases, manage media relations, and handle
crisis communication.
o Skill Requirements:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Writing and editing proficiency
Strategic thinking and planning abilities
Relationship-building and networking skills
2. Marketing Coordinator:
o Description: Marketing coordinators assist in the development and
implementation of marketing campaigns. They work on
communication strategies, coordinate advertising efforts, manage
social media platforms, and analyze marketing data.
o Skill Requirements:
Marketing and branding knowledge
Communication and copywriting skills
Digital marketing proficiency
Analytical and data interpretation abilities
3. Journalist:
o Description: Journalists research, investigate, and report news and
stories across various media platforms. They conduct interviews,
gather information, write articles, and maintain journalistic ethics and
standards.
o Skill Requirements:
Strong writing and storytelling abilities
Research and investigative skills
Knowledge of media law and ethics
Adaptability and ability to meet deadlines
4. Advertising Account Executive:
o Description: Advertising account executives work in advertising
agencies or marketing departments to manage client accounts and
develop advertising campaigns. They collaborate with creative teams,
present campaign ideas, manage client relationships, and ensure
successful campaign implementation.
o Skill Requirements:
Client management and relationship-building skills
Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Presentation and persuasive communication skills
Project management and organization skills
5. Digital Media Strategist:
Description: Digital Media Strategists develop and execute comprehensive
strategies to leverage digital media platforms for effective communication and
marketing.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in digital media planning and execution
o Knowledge of social media trends and algorithms
o Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
o Ability to develop and optimize digital media campaigns
o Understanding of data analysis and insights generation
6. Media Planner:
o Description: Media planners work in advertising agencies or marketing
departments to develop and implement media strategies for advertising
campaigns. They analyze target audiences, select appropriate media
channels, negotiate media buying, and track campaign performance.
o Skill Requirements:
Analytical and data interpretation skills
Knowledge of media landscape and audience demographics
Negotiation and budgeting abilities
Communication and presentation skills
These are just a few examples of the career paths available to graduates of a BSc in
Communication Studies. The field offers diverse opportunities, allowing you to
choose a path that aligns with your interests and strengths.
The field of communication is constantly evolving due to advancements in technology
and changes in media consumption habits. Some key future trends to be aware of
include:
Digital Transformation: The increasing importance of digital communication
channels, including social media, content marketing, and online platforms.
Visual and Multimedia Communication: The growing role of visuals, videos,
and multimedia content in communication strategies.
Data Analytics: The use of data analytics tools to measure the effectiveness of
communication campaigns and make data-driven decisions.
Integrated Communication: The need for communication professionals to
integrate various communication channels and strategies for cohesive and
impactful messaging.
Ethical and Responsible Communication: The emphasis on ethical practices,
transparency, and authenticity in communication campaigns.
Staying updated with these trends and continuously enhancing your skills through
professional development opportunities will be crucial for long-term success in the
field.
On completion of this Program at GOU, graduates will have the requisite skills,
expertise, experience, and know-how to, in addition to being well-prepared to excel in
a variety of the existing career-advancing roles in the field will also be able to
advance their careers in any combination of the following emerging 4IR-compliant
specialist job roles in the field:
1. Digital Communication Specialist:
Description: Digital Communication Specialists leverage digital platforms and
technologies to create and manage online communication strategies for
organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in social media management and analytics
o Knowledge of digital marketing trends and strategies
o Strong writing and content creation skills for digital platforms
o Ability to develop and execute digital communication campaigns
o Understanding of data analysis and insights generation
2. User Experience (UX) Researcher:
Description: UX Researchers conduct research to understand user behavior
and preferences and apply insights to enhance the design and usability of
digital products and services.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of UX research methodologies and tools
o Proficiency in conducting user interviews and usability testing
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
o Ability to translate research findings into actionable recommendations
o Understanding of human-centered design principles
3. Brand Strategist:
Description: Brand Strategists develop and execute strategies to build and
manage brand identities, positioning, and messaging to effectively
communicate with target audiences.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in brand management and strategy development
o Knowledge of market research and consumer insights
o Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
o Ability to develop brand guidelines and messaging frameworks
o Understanding of storytelling and visual communication
4. Content Creator:
Description: Content Creators develop engaging and compelling content, such
as articles, videos, podcasts, and social media posts, to communicate messages
and engage target audiences.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in content creation tools and platforms
o Knowledge of content trends and audience preferences
o Strong writing and storytelling skills
o Ability to adapt content for different mediums and platforms
o Understanding of SEO and content optimization
5. Data Analyst:
Description: Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to derive
insights and inform communication strategies and decision-making.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of data analysis tools and techniques
o Proficiency in statistical analysis and visualization
o Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
o Ability to communicate data-driven insights effectively
o Understanding of research methodologies and survey design
6. Media Planner:
Description: Media Planners develop and implement strategic media plans to
reach target audiences through various channels, such as print, broadcast,
digital, and social media.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in media planning and buying tools
o Knowledge of media landscape and audience behavior
o Strong analytical and research skills
o Ability to develop media strategies and optimize media budgets
o Understanding of media metrics and performance analysis
7. Audience Insights Specialist:
Description: Audience Insights Specialists conduct research and analysis to
understand target audience characteristics, preferences, and behaviors, and
provide actionable insights to inform communication strategies.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of audience research methodologies and tools
o Proficiency in conducting surveys, focus groups, and interviews
o Strong data interpretation and storytelling skills
o Ability to develop audience profiles and personas
o Understanding of market segmentation and trend analysis
8. Crisis Communication Specialist:
Description: Crisis Communication Specialists develop and implement
strategies to effectively communicate and manage crises or reputation-
threatening situations for organizations.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of crisis communication principles and best practices
o Proficiency in crisis monitoring and response tools
o Strong communication and problem-solving skills
o Ability to develop crisis communication plans and protocols
o Understanding of media relations and stakeholder management in
crisis situations
9. Social Media Manager:
Description: Social Media Managers develop and execute social media
strategies to enhance brand visibility, engage audiences, and drive meaningful
interactions.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in social media management tools and platforms
o Knowledge of social media trends and best practices
o Strong writing and content creation skills for social media
o Ability to develop social media campaigns and track performance
o Understanding of audience segmentation and community management
10. Internal Communications Specialist:
Description: Internal Communications Specialists develop and execute
strategies to effectively communicate with employees, foster a positive
internal culture, and align organizational goals.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of internal communication tools and platforms
Proficiency in writing for internal audiences (emails, newsletters, intranet)
Strong interpersonal and presentation skills
Ability to develop internal communication plans and campaigns
Understanding of organizational dynamics and employee engagement
strategies
11. Public Opinion Analyst:
Description: Public Opinion Analysts conduct research and analysis to
understand public opinion, sentiment, and attitudes on specific issues or
topics, and provide insights for communication and messaging strategies.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in public opinion research methodologies and tools
o Knowledge of survey design and sampling techniques
o Strong data analysis and interpretation skills
o Ability to communicate research findings effectively
o Understanding of political and social dynamics
1. Influencer Relations Manager:
Description: Influencer Relations Managers establish and maintain
relationships with influential individuals in various industries to leverage their
reach and credibility for brand communication and promotion.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in identifying and engaging with influencers
o Knowledge of influencer marketing trends and strategies
o Strong negotiation and relationship management skills
o Ability to develop influencer marketing campaigns
o Understanding of social media platforms and metrics
2. Data Privacy and Security Specialist:
Description: Data Privacy and Security Specialists ensure compliance with
data protection regulations, develop data security policies, and implement
measures to safeguard sensitive information.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of data protection regulations
o Proficiency in data privacy and security best practices
o Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles
o Ability to conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies
o Understanding of data breach response and incident management
3. Virtual Event Manager:
Description: Virtual Event Managers plan, coordinate, and execute virtual
events, such as webinars, conferences, and online workshops, to engage
audiences and deliver key messages.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in virtual event platforms and technologies
o Knowledge of event planning and logistics
o Strong organizational and project management skills
o Ability to manage virtual event production and technical aspects
o Understanding of audience engagement strategies in virtual
environments
4. Data Visualization Specialist:
Description: Data Visualization Specialists create visually compelling and
informative representations of data to communicate insights and facilitate
understanding.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in data visualization tools
o Knowledge of data analysis and interpretation
o Strong design and storytelling skills
o Ability to simplify complex information into visual representations
o Understanding of data visualization best practices and principles
5. Content Strategist:
Description: Content Strategists develop and implement content strategies that
align with the organization's goals and effectively communicate with target
audiences.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in content strategy development and execution
o Knowledge of audience research and content trends
o Strong writing and editorial skills
o Ability to develop content calendars and workflows
o Understanding of SEO and content optimization techniques
6. Chatbot Specialist:
Description: Chatbot Specialists design and implement chatbot solutions to
streamline communication processes, enhance customer experiences, and
provide automated support.
Skills Requirements:
o Knowledge of chatbot platforms and technologies
o Proficiency in natural language processing and machine learning
o Strong problem-solving and programming skills
o Ability to design conversational flows and user experiences
o Understanding of user feedback analysis and chatbot optimization
7. Augmented Reality (AR) Developer:
Description: AR Developers create interactive and immersive experiences by
developing applications and content that blend virtual elements with the real
world.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in AR development tools and platforms
o Knowledge of AR frameworks and technologies
o Strong programming and problem-solving skills
o Ability to create engaging AR experiences
o Understanding of user interface design and user experience principles
8. Podcast Producer:
Description: Podcast Producers oversee the production and distribution of
podcasts, including content planning, recording, editing, and marketing.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in podcast production software and tools
o Knowledge of audio editing and mixing techniques
o Strong storytelling and interviewing skills
o Ability to develop podcast content strategies
o Understanding of podcast analytics and audience engagement
9. Multimedia Journalist:
Description: Multimedia Journalists create news and feature stories using
various media formats, including text, images, audio, and video, to engage
audiences across different platforms.
Skills Requirements:
Knowledge of multimedia storytelling techniques
Proficiency in multimedia production tools
Strong writing and editing skills
Ability to capture and edit visual and audio content
Understanding of journalism ethics and standards
11. Virtual Reality (VR) Content Creator:
Description: VR Content Creators develop immersive virtual reality
experiences by creating 3D environments, interactive elements, and
storytelling narratives.
Skills Requirements:
o Proficiency in VR content creation tools and platforms
o Knowledge of 3D modeling and animation
o Strong storytelling and narrative development skills
o Ability to create interactive VR experiences
As an Entrepreneurial University, all GOU programs also emphasize developing and
acquiring entrepreneurial skills and expertise. Like all GOU graduates, the graduates
of this program, in addition to acquiring requisite knowledge and competency in the
core subject areas of their field and discipline, also gain entrepreneurial skills,
expertise, and experience to enable them (if they choose) to set up their 4 th Industrial
Revolution (4IR) compliant business enterprises and corporations as media-business
entrepreneurs.
Media-business entrepreneurs combine their creativity, communication skills, and
business acumen to create and manage ventures in the media industry. They deeply
understand media platforms, content creation, audience engagement, and market
trends. Media-business entrepreneurs identify opportunities within the media
landscape, develop innovative content strategies, and leverage various mediums such
as television, film, digital platforms, or publishing to reach and captivate audiences.
To succeed in media-business entrepreneurship in the 4IR, graduates in this program
are trained to possess a combination of entrepreneurial mindset qualities and core
media-business discipline entrepreneurial subject area skills and expertise.
Entrepreneurial Mindset Qualities: Graduates on completion of this program are
equipped with the following entrepreneurial mindset qualities: visionary thinking to
anticipate future trends and disrupt industries, risk appetite to embrace uncertainty and
take calculated risks, resilience to bounce back from failures and persevere in the face
of business challenges, passion and drive to fuel their pursuit of making a positive
impact in their media-business ventures, resourcefulness to find creative solutions
using available resources, adaptability to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of
the 4IR economy, and a customer-centric approach to understand and address
customer needs in their media-business These entrepreneurial mindset qualities enable
our graduates seeking to embark on an entrepreneurial career in their field to have the
ability to thrive as media-business entrepreneurs, driving innovation and success in
the ever-evolving industry
Core Media Discipline Entrepreneurial Subject Area Skills and Expertise: In
addition to acquiring the requisite entrepreneurial mindset qualities, the program also
meets the following specific engineering discipline core subject areas skills and
expertise requirements for success in media-business entrepreneurship in the 4IR.
Graduates, upon completion of this program, are equipped with skills, expertise, and
know-how in the following:
1. Content Creation and Curation: Skills in content creation and curation,
including writing, editing, storytelling, visual design, video production, and
multimedia production. The ability to create high-quality and engaging content
across various media formats.
2. Digital Marketing Skills: Proficiency in digital marketing with expertise in
search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing,
online advertising, and analytics. Acquires skills to develop effective digital
marketing strategies to promote media offerings and reach the target audience.
3. Data Analytics Expertise: Developing expertise and skills to analyze audience
data, track engagement metrics, and derive insights to optimize content,
marketing strategies, and monetization models and acquiring data-driven
decision-making skills to enhance the effectiveness and profitability of media
ventures.
4. Financial Management and Analysis: Skills in financial management and
analysis. Expertise in understanding financial statements, budgeting, cash flow
management, and forecasting to make informed financial decisions, secure
funding, and ensure the financial sustainability of media-business ventures.
5. Sales and Business Development: Proficiency in sales and business
development; ability to identify potential customers, build relationships, and
close deals; understanding the intricacies of the sales process, negotiation
techniques, and customer relationship management to drive revenue growth.
6. Branding and Marketing Strategy: Solid understanding of branding and
marketing strategy to develop a strong brand identity, positioning, and
messaging that resonates with the target audience. Acquiring the needed skills
in market research, competitor analysis, and consumer behavior to develop
effective marketing strategies.
7. Monetization Models: Knowledgeable about various monetization models in
the media industry and expertise in advertising, subscriptions, sponsorships,
partnerships, and other revenue generation strategies and able to identify the
most suitable monetization models for a given content and target audience.
8. Intellectual Property and Copyright: Acquiring a good understanding of
intellectual property and copyright laws in the media industry to protect the
business's intellectual property and having knowledge in licensing, fair use,
and copyright infringement.
9. Project and Team Management: Developing effective project and team
management skills to manage multiple projects, coordinate teams, set
deadlines, and ensure smooth workflow and leadership skills to inspire and
motivate their team members.
10. Storytelling and Communication: Developing storytelling and communication
skills to effectively convey business vision, ideas, and messages across
different media platforms. Strong communication skills to engage with the
audience, build relationships, and negotiate business deals.
11. Media Ethics and Legal Compliance: Developing awareness of media ethics
and legal regulations and understanding the importance of responsible
journalism, privacy laws, defamation, libel, and other legal considerations, as
well as compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements to maintain
credibility and avoid legal issues.
12. Industry Trends and Market Awareness: Acquire skills in understanding
industry trends, market dynamics, emerging technologies, consumer behavior,
and technological advancements to identify new opportunities, anticipate
market shifts, and stay competitive in the media business space.
By acquiring these skills and expertise and being equipped with the requisite
entrepreneurial mindset qualities, GOU graduates in this field are well-prepared to
succeed as media-business entrepreneurs. They can effectively navigate the dynamic
media landscape by leveraging their content creation and curation proficiency, digital
marketing, data analytics, branding and marketing strategy, and monetization models.
Their project and team management skills enable them to coordinate multiple media
projects, set deadlines, and inspire their teams.
With strong storytelling and communication abilities, they can convey their business
vision and engage with their audience across various media platforms. They also
prioritize media ethics and legal compliance to maintain credibility and avoid legal
issues. Moreover, their market awareness and continuous learning ensure they stay
informed about industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging technologies,
allowing them to identify new opportunities and remain competitive in the media-
business space. Overall, GOU graduates in this field possess the necessary skills and
mindset to thrive as media-business entrepreneurs and make a significant impact in
the media-business industry landscape in the 4IR economy.
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Communication Studies at GOU can open
doors to exciting career opportunities in various industries. By gaining a
comprehensive understanding of communication theories, developing strong
communication skills, and gaining practical experience in media and public relations,
you will be well-prepared to navigate the dynamic world of communication.
Remember to research the program, assess your suitability and interest, and consider
the future trends in the field.
Enroll Now at GOU to Build a Strong Foundation and Potential for a
Secure and Promising Career in Communication Studies.
Associate Degree & Bachelor’s Degree fee is $550/Module
GOU has in place a competitive Scholarship and Financial Aid scheme for qualified and needy students seeking admission to any program of study. Prospective students should contact the Student Admissions Office (admissions@gou.university) for eligibility details and on the application process.