Humans communicate across several channels for various purposes. Communication certificates are an excellent way to further understand the human condition and build a solid career in media, business, or management.
This article discusses undergraduate and graduate communication certificate programs that cater to the educational needs of novices and experts alike. Discover the best communication college certificates, certifications, and career prospects in the field.
What Is a Communication Certificate College Program?
A communication certificate college program is a non-degree educational program that prepares students to become effective communicators. Students learn about communication strategies, techniques, and skills. The program covers both non-verbal and verbal forms of communication.
What’s the Difference Between a College Communication Certificate and Professional Certification in Communication?
The difference between a college communication certificate and a professional certification in communication is that the former indicates completion of a communication course. In contrast, certification is the completion of an exam that demonstrates proficiency or mastery of a communication field.
Professionals benefit from enrolling in certificate programs and brushing up on theoretical communication aspects. Additionally, industry novices can study for and take certification exams to improve their professional profiles.
Communication College Certificate vs Communication Certification: Key Differences
| Communication Certificate | Communication Certification |
|---|---|
| Certificate programs are typically administered by an academic institution. | A professional certification body or agency is in charge of overseeing and awarding certifications to qualified candidates. |
| Communication certificate programs cater to industry professionals and novices alike. | Certifications are mostly for experienced professionals as they have the required knowledge and practical skills to take the assessment. |
| It takes about a year to complete a communication certificate program. You pay for the program once and get the certificate for life. | You can obtain a certification in just the few hours it takes to pass the examination. Applicants may have to sit for the exams annually or bi-annually to renew their certification. |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Communication Certificate at College?
It typically takes six months to one year to get a communication certificate. Program length is determined by the school, the program, and the number of credits required. Students that decide to study part-time will take longer than full-time students.
Best Communication Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Caldwell University | Certificate in Communication and Media Studies | $725/credit |
| Harvard University | Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Communications | $495/credit |
| Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis | Undergraduate Certificate in Technical Communication | $296/credit (in state); $1,031/credit (out of state) |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | Online Undergraduate Certificate in Communication | $392/credit hour |
| Lawrence Technological University | Undergraduate Certificate and Minor in Technical and Professional Communication | $973/credit hour |
| Ohio State University | Certificate in Health Communication | $12,462/year (in state); $36,698/year (out of state) |
| Pennsylvania State University | Certificate in Organizational Communication | $632/credit |
| Thomas Edison State University | Undergraduate Certificate in Communications | $399/credit (in state); $519/credit (out of state) |
| University of Kansas | Undergraduate Certificate in Professional Communication | $336/credit hour (in state); $899/credit hour (out of state) |
| University of Kentucky | Undergraduate Certificate in Health Communication | $12,610/year (in state); $31,608/year (out of state) |
Best Undergraduate Communication Certificate Programs: Explained
The best undergraduate communication certificate programs focus on foundational communication courses and usually require between nine and 12 credit hours of coursework. Graduates of these programs can expect success in entry-level jobs in the field. The section below discusses these programs in more detail.
Communication College Certificate Program vs Communication Associate Degree
A college certificate program is a non-degree program that advances a student’s knowledge and skills in a specific area. It can be completed within a year. A communication associate degree typically takes two years and covers the theoretical aspects of several areas in one subject. Below, we discuss the differences between a certificate and an associate degree.
- Curriculum. The curriculum in a college certificate program focuses on practical, technical knowledge. An associate degree curriculum delves into theoretical concepts and covers broader elective topics.
- Qualification earned. You get a certificate of completion or achievement when you finish a certificate program. You receive an academic degree when completing an associate degree program.
- Length. College certificate programs typically run for a year, while an associate degree takes two years to complete.
- Career options. You have fewer career options with a college certificate as it proves your proficiency in a specific field. An associate degree qualifies you for numerous career paths within your chosen field.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Communication Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate communication certificate is worth it because students can earn extra credits that count towards an undergraduate degree or graduate program. Regardless of academic pursuit, a certificate teaches critical skills that are valuable to entry-level positions.
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Best Communication Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | Graduate Certificate in Business Communication | $775/credit |
| Indiana University Kokomo | Online Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies | $323/credit hour (in state); $760/credit hour (out of state) |
| Johns Hopkins University | Certificate in Teaching Writing | $3,484/course |
| Minnesota State University, Mankato | Graduate Certificate in Communication Education | $748/credit |
| Northeastern University | Graduate Certificate in Organizational Communication — Online | $14,100 for the program |
| Northern Arizona University | Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies | $13,080/year |
| Purdue University | Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication Management | $520/credit hour (in state); $820/credit hour (out of state) |
| University of Kentucky | Graduate Certificate in Instructional Communication | $685/credit (in state); $1,015/credit (out of state) |
| University of North Texas | Graduate Certificate in Interactive and Virtual Digital Communication | $8,496 (in state); $15,182 (out of state) |
| University of San Francisco | Professional Certificate in Internal and Executive Communications | $995/continuing education unit |
Best Graduate Communication Certificate Programs Explained
The best graduate communication certificate programs are available online, in person, or a hybrid format. Professional students can advance their skills in a program that suits their needs and lifestyles. Below, we discuss the best graduate communication certificate programs.
Communication Graduate Certificate Program vs Communication Master’s Degree
A communication graduate certificate is a short-term academic program where students further their education and learn more about specific communication fields. It typically lasts between one and two semesters, and you can register without committing to a full-length degree program.
A Master’s Degree in Communication is a degree-granting program that focuses on teaching students professional skill development, research methods, and communication theory. Below, we discuss the differences between the two.
- Length. A graduate certificate program lasts for a year or less. A master’s program may take between one and three years to complete, depending on the institution and program requirements.
- Qualification earned. Completing a graduate certificate program gets you a non-degree graduate certificate, while a master’s program awards you an advanced academic degree.
- Cost. Certificate programs are shorter than master’s degree programs, meaning they are typically much cheaper to obtain.
- Skill-sets. You typically learn practical, industry-relevant skills and principles in a certificate program. A master’s program focuses on academic work and research methods.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Communication Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate communication certificate is worth it because it improves your professional skills in digital media and public speaking. It enhances your understanding and ability to articulate various communication contexts. PayScale states that communication graduate certificate holders can earn up to $47,000 a year.
Communication Certificate Program Coursework
Different types of communication certificate programs offer courses on various topics. Common courses include organizational communication, advanced health communication, audience behavior, executive communication, and general communication studies. We describe some typical courses in the section below.
Strategic Communication Management
This course discusses theoretical and practical applications of persuasion, stakeholder theory, and communication planning. Students learn about the best ways to utilize organizational communication tools in the modern digital era. They also analyze the ever-changing roles of communication to internal and external audiences.
Communication for Professionals
Students learn to use technology for professional communication in various settings such as during presentations and conferences. The course curriculum focuses on communication theory and representation techniques, helping you assimilate vital business and communication skills.
Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
This course deals with constructive conflict management, interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution techniques. Furthermore, it explores the relationships between human personalities and potential conflict triggers in modern organizations.
Organizational Communication Theory and Research
This course focuses on effective communication within an organization. Modules include the analysis of communication theories and intelligent communication. At the end of the program, students submit a communication audit that demonstrates their comprehension of the principles the course examines.
Foundations of Technical Writing
Organizing, writing, editing, and proofreading technical documents is the focus of this course. Students also learn to use technical-writing software and utilize relevant tools to develop publications.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Communication Certificate from College?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the advertising, promoting, and managing sectors are expected to grow by 10 percent over the next decade. Those with communication certificates can work as college tutors or sales associates. Below, we discuss several occupations available to communication certificate holders.
Best Communication Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Advertising Manager | $133,380 |
| Public Relations Manager | $119,860 |
| Senior Copywriter | $69,510 |
| Copy Editor | $63,350 |
| Public Relations Specialist | $62,800 |
Best Communication Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
The best communication certificate jobs are in the private sector. The top-paying jobs include advertising manager or public relations manager. Below, we discuss career options for those with a Certificate in Communication, their salaries, and job outlooks.
Should I Also Get a Professional Certification in Communication?
Yes, you should also get a professional certification in communication as it signifies your expertise in the subject area. It is helpful and sometimes even required for specific positions and is an excellent addition to your professional portfolio. Below, we discuss three of these certifications.
Best Communication Certifications
- Communication Management Professional (CMP®). Candidates seeking this certification must have at least eight years of education or professional experience. Administered by the Global Communication Certification Council, it costs between $700 and $1,000 annually to write and renew the certification.
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) Foundation. The Society for Technical Communication administers this certification. It measures a candidate’s ability to work efficiently in technical communication teams within organizations. The certification consists of a 40-minute, 50-question examination. It costs $260 for current STC members and $515 for non-members.
- Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) Practitioner. This Society for Technical Communication (STC) certification tests whether a candidate can analyze and apply technical communication principles. It consists of a 100-minute, four-question exam. It costs $410 for current STC members and $615 for non-members.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Communication Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for communication is worth it because it teaches a wide range of communication skills useful in your professional and personal life. These programs typically include communication theory, conflict management, and critical thinking courses. Short and affordable, they are well-suited for communications professionals.
Communication Certificates FAQ
Yes, you can get financial aid for a certificate program in communication. Students can apply for scholarships, grants, and federal student aid programs through FAFSA. These financial aid options are available to students across undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs.
No, you do not have to get a communication certificate to sit for a certification exam. However, you must have experience working in communication roles and be familiar with the industry. Some certification agencies have training requirements for candidates who want to get certified.
Yes, communication bootcamps are useful. These bootcamps typically contain workshops and courses to help candidates upskill and stay ahead of the curve. Some bootcamps like MIT’s Persuasive Communication Bootcamp, allow students to assist technical professionals like scientists and engineers.
Strategic, health, intercultural, political, and corporate communication are available as certificate specializations in communication. You may learn them individually or as part of a broader communication studies curriculum.
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