What is an Undergraduate Minor?
Adding a minor to your undergraduate degree program is a great way to supplement your education and learn important skills in a secondary industry. A minor typically consists of 18-22 credits that are focused on teaching the foundational skills and knowledge of that subject area.
An undergraduate minor does not typically show on your diploma, though it will be on your college transcripts. While it is not required to complete a minor, adding a minor strategically can boost your career prospects by helping you have the right qualifications for the job you want.
How to Select the Right Minor for Your Communication Degree
Choosing a minor can be confusing, especially when you aren’t sure what you want to do with your degree. When deciding what minor to add to your degree track, think about both your career goals and your personal interests. Adding the right minor to your degree can enhance the value of your communication degree.
When it comes to choosing a minor for your communication major, think about maximizing your potential to work in your dream industry, whether that is business, public relations, journalism, or the TV industry.
15 Best Minors for Communications Degrees
Here are some of the best minors to add to your communication degree.
Business Administration
If you are interested in marketing, corporate communications, or entrepreneurship, a minor in business administration might be a great choice. You will learn the basics of business principles and operations and how to communicate well with stakeholders.
Computer Science
In an increasingly digital world, having a good knowledge base of computer science can help you in the communication world. You’ll be able to apply your knowledge of computer algorithms, web development, and data analysis as a tech-savvy communications expert.
Creative Writing
Creative writing can help you develop your storytelling and writing abilities. A minor in creative writing is a great choice for communication majors that want to go into marketing, public relations, and journalism.
Economics
Communication majors that hope to work in finance or business should consider a minor in economics. Students will learn communication strategies related to economic reporting and market research.
English
An English minor is a popular choice for communication majors. Minoring in English will help you develop analytical writing skills and prepare you for a career in publishing or editing.
Film Production
Communication majors that want to work in film production or media can minor in film production to gain important technical skills and experience. This minor will teach foundational skills in editing, screenwriting, and directing.
Graphic Design
A minor in graphic design can help students learn the art of visual storytelling. Graphic design minors learn about typography, principles of design, and visual media. Graduates will have a professional portfolio prepared to show to prospective employers highlighting their skillset.
History
Studying history can support students with the context and background of historical events. This knowledge is useful when entering fields such as public relations or journalism, common career paths for communication majors.
Journalism
Journalism minors learn the skills of investigative journalism, interviewing, and ethical reporting. This minor is a great choice for students who wish to work in news media.
Leadership
Students who aspire to work in organizational communication would benefit greatly from a minor in leadership. This minor will teach students how to lead teams, manage projects, and excel in communicating across organizations.
Philosophy
Philosophy teaches students how to articulate their thoughts and use analytical thinking skills to understand an issue. These skills are useful in areas such as law, public policy, or any role that requires strong analytical skills.
Politics
Minoring in politics can give you an understanding of political systems, government, and public policy. This knowledge is useful for careers in government, non-profit organizations, or law.
Psychology
Psychology is the study of human behavior, which can be especially useful in communication careers. Understanding why people think and act the way they do can help you understand audience behavior and communicate well with stakeholders.
Public Relations
Public relations and communication are very relevant fields and overlap on many of the skills taught. Public relations has a greater focus on communication in terms of brand reputation, public events, and news.
Television Production
Students hoping to work in the television industry should consider a minor in television production. Gain hands-on experience in producing and directing to complement your major and prepare you for a successful career.
Earn Your Communication Degree at Palm Beach Atlantic University
PBA offers a bachelor’s degree in communication with over 40 minors, including all of the minors listed above. Learn more about Palm Beach Atlantic University can help you reach your career goals and start your application today!