Brian Householder
Associate Teaching Professor of Communication
Director of Undergraduate Studies in Communication
brian.householder@rutgers.edu
Communication Major
The Major You'll Use Everywhere
Want a major that works in basically every job?
Want people to actually understand what you’re saying?
See creators go viral and think, “Wait, how’d they do that?”
Start with an Intro to Communication course and contact Student Services with any questions.
About the Program
The Communication major builds the skills employers want most—clear writing, confident speaking, strategic thinking, and the ability to collaborate and lead. You’ll learn how communication drives workplace culture, brand reputation, media impact, and successful teamwork. With flexible coursework and practical experience, you’ll graduate ready for careers in marketing, PR, media, corporate communication, nonprofits, and any field that depends on strong communicators. Versatile, relevant, and applicable everywhere—Communication sets you up for long‑term career success.
Accordion Content
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If you are a high school student Your first step is to apply to Rutgers–New Brunswick. During your first year, you can explore the field of communication by taking: 04:189:101 – Introduction to Communication and Information Processes This course introduces key concepts in communication and helps you decide whether the Communication major is the right fit for you.
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To apply to the Communication major, you must first complete a few prerequisites:
- 04:189:101 – Introduction to Communication and Information Processes with a grade of C or better
- College Writing (01:355:101) or equivalent with a grade of C or better
- At least 15 completed credits at Rutgers
- A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA Once you complete these requirements, you can apply to the Communication major through SC&I during the application period. Admission to the major is selective.
Why Choose Our Communication Program?
Watch our students turn communication theory into real-world influence—right where it all happens. Positioned at the heart of some of the country’s most dynamic communication hubs, they’re surrounded by major media markets, global brands, and mission-driven nonprofits.
This isn’t just learning—it’s access.
Direct pipelines to internships.
Hands-on research opportunities.
Real-world projects with real impact.
We’re not just connected—we’re in it.
Program Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the 36-credit hours, students will meet the following:
- Competency in written communication in varied settings (including interpersonal, family, group, health, organizational, or mediated settings)
- Ability to use communication theories and concepts to analyze human behavior (including interpersonal, family, group, health, organizational, or mediated settings)
- Ability to apply communication theories and concepts to social and professional life (including issues of diversity, ethics, and civic engagement)
- Understanding of fundamental communication perspectives, theories, and concepts
- Proficiency in gathering and using evidence to study and understand communication processes and consequences (including asking questions and systematically attempting to answer them, understanding the value and limitations of the research processes and conclusions)
- Competency in oral communication in varied settings (including interpersonal, family, group, health, organizational, or mediated settings)
Boost Your Marketability with a Specialization
A Communication degree equips you with the skills employers value most. You can increase your career potential even further by specializing in one or more focus areas:
- Health and Wellness Communication
- Leadership in Organizations and Community
- Relationship and Family Communication
- Strategic Public Communication and Public Relations
- Communication and Technology
Career Possibilities
With a degree in Communication, you’ll gain the skills employers value most—clear writing and speaking, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to tailor your studies toward areas of interest that prepare you for diverse professional pathways.
Graduates from our program pursue careers across virtually every field, including:
- Corporate communication
- Education
- Government and politics
- Healthcare
- Market research
- Non-profit and advocacy organizations
- Public relations
Your Communication degree prepares you not only for your first job, but for a lifetime of adaptability in an ever-changing workplace.
4+1 Bachelor of Arts/Master of Communication and Media Program
Communication and Journalism and Media Studies majors can apply for the Master of Communication and Media program in their junior or senior year as part of the dual-degree 4+1 BA/MCM program option.
- Complete your Master of Communication and Media degree with 12 months of full-time study or at your own pace.
- Save money by paying undergraduate tuition rates for Master of Communication and Media courses (taken in Fall or Spring semesters only).
- Take up to 12 Master of Communication and Media graduate credits during your senior year. These credits will count for both your undergraduate degree and Master of Communication and Media degree.
Ready to Apply?
Admission to the Communication major is selective. Before you can apply, you must first meet these requirements.
Success Stories
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