Communication Subfields
Communication is a broad discipline in U.S. universities, and it’s typically taught through many subfields and areas of specialization. Listed below are guides for common core areas taught in undergraduate programs.
Business Communication
The study of corporate communication, leadership messaging, and workplace communication.
Digital and Social Media
An interdisciplinary field that explores how digital technologies, social media platforms, and online networks shape human interaction.
Health Communication
The study of using communication strategies to inform, influence, and improve health-related behaviors, decisions, and policies.
Interpersonal Communication
The study of the exchange of information, thoughts, emotions, and meaning between two or more people through verbal and nonverbal…
Media and Mass Communication
The study of how information is created and shared with large audiences through channels like newspapers, television, and the internet,…
Organizational Communication
The study of how information, messages, and meaning are created, shared, and interpreted within and between organizations.
Political Communication
The study of the intersection between political actors, individuals, groups, and institutions and the mass media.
Public Relations
The study of how organizations, businesses, and individuals manage their public image, communicate with their audiences, and influence public perception.
Rhetoric and Persuasion
The study of rhetoric examines how language and symbols are used to persuade, inform, and influence audiences.