Communication Studies degree

You can add additional areas of expertise to your degree by exploring specializations within your program.

• Media Studies
• Performance Studies
• Public Advocacy
• Strategic Communication Specialization

Additionally, explore minors available to all Waterloo students. Popular choices include Fine Arts Studio, Digital Arts Communication, Performance Creation, Human Resource Management, French, and Political Science.

With the explosion of information in recent decades, a degree in communication has never been more valuable. Our program will set you up for an exciting range of careers in marketing, public relations, advertising, teaching, the media, and human resources.

Graduates work in a variety of settings — including interpersonal, organizational, and public — for businesses, non-profit organizations, universities, technology companies, and financial institutions.

The careers listed below are examples of what you might be able to pursue. Through the courses you take, specializations you choose, extracurriculars, and any work experience you gain, you'll graduate with a degree that's uniquely you and be ready to pursue a career that's right for you!

Public relations (PR) specialist

You’d help organizations manage their public image by writing press releases, handling media inquiries, and planning communication strategies. Communication Studies trains you to think carefully about audience, tone, and messaging.

Marketing coordinator

In this role, you’d assist with advertising campaigns, social media content, and brand messaging. You’ll use your understanding of persuasion and storytelling to help products and ideas connect with people.

Social media manager

You would plan and create content for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn. This job blends creativity with strategy, as you analyze how audiences respond and adjust messages to keep them engaged.

Journalist or media writer

You’d research stories, interview sources, and write articles or scripts for news outlets. A background in communication helps you ask strong questions and explain complex topics clearly.

Advertising account executive

In this career, you’d act as the link between clients and creative teams. You’d make sure messages match the client’s goals and resonate with the intended audience.

Corporate communications specialist

You would manage internal communication like newsletters, emails, and company announcements. This role focuses on keeping employees informed, motivated, and aligned with organizational goals.

Event planner or coordinator

You’d organize conferences, fundraisers, or promotional events from start to finish. Strong communication skills are essential for coordinating vendors, clients, and attendees.

Political campaign or advocacy coordinator

You could work for a political candidate or advocacy group, helping craft speeches, messaging, and outreach plans. Communication Studies prepares you to persuade ethically and communicate clearly on public issues.

Broadcast producer or assistant

Behind the scenes in radio, TV, or digital media, you’d help plan content, coordinate schedules, and guide production. You’ll apply theory about media and audiences to real‑world programming.

Nonprofit communications officer

You’d help mission‑driven organizations tell their story through campaigns, newsletters, and donor outreach. This role combines writing, strategy, and a focus on social impact.

Sales or client relations representative

You would build relationships with clients, understand their needs, and communicate product value. Communication Studies sharpens listening skills just as much as speaking skills.

Entrepreneur or small business owner

If you want to start your own business, you’ll rely heavily on communication skills to pitch ideas, market services, and connect with customers. Being able to explain your vision clearly is a key advantage.

Graduate studies or professional school pathways

Many students use this degree as preparation for law school, education, public policy, or media studies. The research, writing, and presentation skills you gain give you a strong academic foundation.

If you’re interested in how messages shape society – and want practical skills you can use in almost any career – Communication Studies is a flexible, people‑centered university major with broad opportunities.

Learn more about what you can do with a communications degree.