Strategic Communication, BA (Online)
CBU's online Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication degree program is a broad-based course of study designed to deepen students’ understanding of the historical, cultural, social, global and political dimensions of communication.
Program Intro
Strategize your professional future through the art of communication. Coursework in CBU's online BA in Strategic Communication will equip students with the tools to examine the role of communication in all areas of life while challenging them to integrate biblical thought within contemporary cultural concepts.
*Based on a full-time course load and prior completion of general education and elective requirements
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your BA in Strategic Communication (Online) at CBU?
Learn How to Maintain Positive Relationships with the Public
Communication professionals build and maintain positive relationships with the public, an essential skill as today, an organization's reputation, profitability and its continued existence can depend on the degree to which its targeted public supports its goals and policies. Communication majors — also referred to as communications specialists, public relations specialists and media specialists, among other titles — serve as advocates for clients seeking to build and maintain positive relationships with the public. Clients can include businesses, nonprofit associations, universities, hospitals, churches and other organizations.
Learn Flexibly Online, On Your Schedule
- Classes start every 8 weeks
- Accelerated, asynchronous courses offered 100% online
- Three semesters offered year round allows students the ability to graduate faster
- Transfer friendly — consolidate your undergraduate college credits and finish your degree
Program Details
Consistent with the university student outcomes, upon completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication degree, graduates will be able to:
- Explain, analyze and evaluate communication traditions, contexts and theories.
- Implement strategic communication principles and theories to influence mass communication.
- Explain and analyze communication research methods and concepts.
- Utilize concepts of public relations and strategic communication to develop comprehensive communications programs.
- Apply philosophical and theoretical components of ethics to the legal, ethical and social foundations of communication and public relations from a Christian perspective.
COM 340: Rhetoric and Persuasion
This course is designed to develop advanced analysis of communication artifacts using theories of rhetoric and persuasion. The course discusses and makes use of rhetorical theorists from classical and contemporary traditions through the lens of compliance gaining.
COM 403: Communication Theory
This course is designed to introduce theories in the academic field of communication studies. The focus of the course will be on recognizing human communication theories in everyday life, and being able to critically examine situations in multiple cultural contexts based on those theories.
COM 440: Digital Trends in Communication
Exploration of emerging trends in digital media, providing an opportunity for students to understand, deploy, and reflect upon digital communication trends. A theoretical survey of past, current, and predicted future trends and research on the impact of these communication technologies.
Is financial aid available to help pay for online programs?
Our online degrees offer a reputable and more affordable option for earning your bachelor’s,
master's or doctorate degree. When pursuing an online degree, students are freed from
the financial obligations that accompany some traditional degrees, such as room accommodations,
gas and parking. Additionally, CBU has partnered with select employers to provide their employees with the opportunity to improve their career through their
educational goals and receive a 20% tuition scholarship. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Are CBU's online programs accredited?
California Baptist University (CBU), which includes all programs offered online, is accredited by the Western Association
of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many prospective
students are uncertain about which college degrees employers or universities will
accept. This regional accreditation by WSCUC means you can be confident that your
CBU degree is recognized and respected by schools and companies across the country.
CBU Online has received various awards and has been ranked in the top 50 in the nation
- best online bachelor’s degree category by U.S. News & World Report for 7 consecutive
years.
What resources do I need to complete my degree online?
To complete your online degree, you will need access to a computer, Wi-Fi and a word
processor like Microsoft Word. These are necessary to access the student learning
system and complete your assignments. Some programs may require different resources.
Check with your enrollment counselor for specific expectations upon applying for your
program, or you can view additional information here.
When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.
CBU accepts applications for online enrollment throughout the year, and most online degree programs can start at 6 semester entry points per calendar year.
| Online Semester | Classes Begin |
|---|---|
| Summer 2024 - Session 2 | July 1 |
| Fall 2024 - Session 1 | September 2 |
| Fall 2024 - Session 2 | October 28 |
| Spring 2025 - Session 1 | January 6 |
| Spring 2025 - Session 2 | March 3 |
| Summer 2025 - Session 1 | May 5 |
| Summer 2025 - Session 2 | June 30 |
Career Possibilities
- Social Media Director
- Public Relations Specialist
- Broadcast News Analyst
- Journalist
- Communications Director
*Some career options may require further education.
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join a growing group of accomplished alumni who earned their degree while balancing career and family goals. To begin your journey at California Baptist University and connect with your God-given calling, request more information or apply today!