What image does the word “archaeologist” bring to mind? An aged professor proving over dusty volumes of technical notes? Or Indiana Jones, sweeping through an ancient temple to uncover a lost relic? The truth is, real-life archaeologists are a little of both: intrepid adventurers and technical researchers. They work with shovels and picks, as well as drones and 3D modeling software. They engage in scholarly debate and in public outreach. In short, archaeologists have highly varied and highly interesting work.

People have always been interested in the past. But for 99% of human history, no writing systems existed to record events and ideas. And even after the invention of writing, only certain types of events (such as the lives of rulers) were recorded, and, of these, only some texts have survived. In order to understand what events took place and how people lived in the past, scholars have turned to physical materials. From household rubbish heaps, to temples, from stone age tools to civil war cannons, artifacts tell the story of humankind, and archaeologists know how to understand what these items were, how they were used, and what they tell us about the people who made them.

Archaeologists have patience, dedication, focus, logic, analytical skills, and lots of natural curiosity. If you have the right disposition and an intense interest in the past, you may be curious about degrees and careers in archaeology. An estimated 91,776 people hold degrees in archaeology, from a bachelor’s to a PhD. But a degree in archaeology isn’t the right fit for every person, or every career path. Wondering if a career studying the past is in your future? Explore our guide to What Can I Do with an Archaeology Degree?

Jump To:

• What is Archaeology?
• What Types of Archaeology Are There?
• What Classes Will I take for a Degree in Archaeology?
• What Can I do with a Bachelor’s in Archaeology?
• What Can I do with a Master’s in Archaeology?
• What Can I do with a PhD in Archaeology?
• Can I Earn a Degree in Archaeology Online?
• What Jobs Can I Get with a Degree in Archaeology?
• What are the Pros and Cons of a Degree in Archaeology?

What is Archaeology?

Archaeology literally means “the study of that which is ancient,” and is defined as the scientific study of historic and prehistoric peoples, societies, and cultures. It is accomplished by excavating and analyzing artifacts and studying related locations, monuments, inscriptions, and biological remains. Archaeologists study the earliest humans, such as the stone tools of cave-dwelling hunter-gatherers from one million years ago. But they also study artifacts from modern times, such as the discarded household objects recovered from an early 20th century tenement building.

Archeology covers the study of people around the world and throughout the course of human history, with the common thread being a focus on the study of physical materials. Archaeology aims to determine what a given object was, when it came into being, how it was used, and what purpose or effects it had. The goal of archaeology is to develop a comprehensive and inclusive understanding of human culture.

People have always been curious about the past, and especially intrigued by exotic and mysterious monuments and relics. Antiquarianism, the study of history as it related to objects from the distant past, dates back to what we would now consider ancient times. Ancient Romans like the Augustan historian Livy studied and cataloged monuments and artworks from the past. Ancient Chinese scholars such as the Song Dynasty scholar Ouyang Xiu collected and analyzed early Chinese relics. With the excavation of sites like Stonehenge and Pompeii in the 1600s and 1700s, archeology began to evolve as a distinct field. By the 1800s, people had developed clear archeological practices and methods, such as dating objects based on their placement within layers of sediment. Rather than simply collecting beautiful and exotic antiquities, archeologists began to systematically gather and catalog artifacts for the purpose of building knowledge. Today, archaeology is concerned with the same quest for historical knowledge, but informed by a broader cultural understanding, and aided by high-tech tools like 3D modeling, drones, and photogrammetry.

Although it has been around for quite some time, there’s still no clear consensus on how to classify this heavily interdisciplinary field. As an academic discipline, archaeology can be difficult to pigeonhole. Depending on which expert you ask, this subject is either a highly scientific branch or the humanities, or else a highly humanistic branch of the social sciences. In fact, archaeology can be considered as both a part of the social sciences or the humanities. In the United States, Archaeology is conceived as a branch of anthropology in the United States, but in Europe, it is considered to be a branch of History or treated as a discipline in its own right.

Under the broader heading of humanities/social sciences, archaeology is usually seen as a branch of anthropology. Anthropologists study human culture and society, often those of the ancient past or far-flung locations. The field has several branches, such as Biological Anthropology, the study of human remains as they relate to people’s lifestyles and lives. And while many anthropologists study fossils, relics, dwellings, and inscriptions, archaeologists are unique in their particular focus on humans’ physical materials.

What Types of Archaeology Are There?

There are many specializations within archaeology, and no universal consensus on what makes up the main fields. Some archaeologists classify themselves based on the historical period or geographical location of their interest, such as Mesoamerica, Egyptology, or Classical Antiquity. Others may specialize in a particular type of relic, such as human remains (bioarchaeology), animals or plants (zooarchaeology or paleoethnobotany), or stone tools (lithics). Archaeologists may also specialize in particular practices, such as underwater archaeology (the study of submerged human remains and relics). Broadly speaking, archaeology can be divided into the sub-disciplines of Cultural resources management, Archaeometry, Historical archeology, Ethnoarchaeology, and Experimental archaeology. These fields are not entirely distinct, of course- for instance, many archaeologists conduct Cultural resources management as well as Historical archaeology.

Cultural resources management

Just as human activity takes a toll on natural resources, activities like development, travel, mining, warfare, climate change and looting take a toll on the sites that archaeologists want preserved. That includes established monuments, dig sites, and locations for potential future exploration. Cultural resources management (CRM) involves protecting archaeological sites from damage. And while preserving archeological sites may not be the first type of activity that comes to mind, CRM actually makes up most of the archaeological research conducted in the US and western Europe. There are plenty of federal and international laws governing how excavations need to be conducted, as well as tourism of historical sites and construction in or around areas that may have historical materials present. Cultural resources management requires a thorough knowledge of these laws and their application.

Archaeometry

From a fossil tooth to a stone temple, artifacts are physical objects with physical qualities that give information about the past. In order to understand this information, their physical properties mulct be accurately measured, described, and recorded. Archaeometry is the systematic measurement of objects, environments, and features that are important to archeology. It includes analytical techniques that include chemistry, physics, and engineering. These include methods like space syntax techniques, carbon dating, geodesy, and computer modeling and tools like geographic information systems.

Historical archaeology

The advent of writing marks the division between pre-history and history. Historical archaeology is focused on the study of cultures that had some form of writing. This can mean periods as recent as the 20th century or as early as 3,000 BC. This is perhaps the best-known type of archeology, and includes examples such as studying Victorian-era shipwrecks, Mayan temples, medieval villages, and American Civil War forts.

Ethnoarchaeology

Ethnography is the systematic study of societies and cultures, as observed from the point of view of a member of that society. Ethnoarchaeology is the application of Ethnography to the study of ancient peoples and cultures. While it’s possible to observe, measure, and catalog artifacts, it can be difficult to understand how these objects were constructed and used without entering into speculation. Ethnoarchaeology is the practice of systematic methods to determine how an ancient relic was created and used within the context of its society. Often, that can mean looking at contemporary modern societies that use similar items under similar environmental circumstances, making inferences about ancient societies that probably followed similar patterns. For example, an Ethnoarchaeologist might look at how modern peoples that fish for food using hand-woven nets in order to better understand how an ancient society might have done so.

Experimental Archaeology

Scientists formulate hypotheses, test them, and draw conclusions that can be repeatedly tested. Experimental archaeology is simply the application of this established experimental method to questions related to archeology. One of the most common forms of experimental archaeology is reconstruction archaeology. In reconstruction archaeology, an archaeologist attempts to create a structure or object identical to one that would have existed in an ancient society using only the materials and technology of that time period. For instance, an experimental archaeologist might crack open nuts using handmade stone tools in order to see if this caused scrapes on the tools similar to those found on real artifacts.

What Classes Will I take for a Degree in Archaeology?

For an Archaeology degree, you can expect to dabble in quite a few very different subjects, including the humanities, math, science. anthropology, art history, classics, world history, and foreign language. This broad, interdisciplinary curriculum will give you a context for understanding archeology before you ever get into archeology-specific classes. Required classes outside of the discipline archeology itself typically include:

• Calculus
• Probability and Statistics
• Applied Economics
• Biology
• Geology

In addition to math and science, you’ll likely need to take courses in history, politics, psychology and language, in order to have a broader context for understanding topics in Archaeology. Your classes in Archaeology itself may include titles like:

• Archaeology and World Prehistory
• Archaeological Theory and Interpretation
• Advanced Studies in Archaeology
• Biological Anthropology
• Foundations of Earth Sciences
• Ancient Art and Art History
• Museum Studies
• Environmental Archaeology
• Classical Civilization
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Human Osteology
• Cross Cultural Perspectives
• Measurement and Quantification in Social Sciences
• World Archaeology
• Human Evolution
• Field Methods in Archaeology

What Can I do with a Bachelor’s in Archaeology?

A bachelor’s degree is the first step on the road to a future in archaeology.
This undergraduate degree can be found as either a BS (bachelor of science) or a BA (bachelor of arts), and some colleges offer both types of degrees. Essentially, a BS has a stronger emphasis on the technical aspects of archaeology, while a BA incorporates more humanities and focuses on applied skills. Many schools offer a bachelor’s in anthropology with a concentration in archaeology, while others award bachelor’s in archeology with the potential to further specialize in a specific areas, such as MesoAmerican studies.

Students must traditionally work for four years on a full-time basis to earn a bachelor’s degree. If you take courses part-time, of course, your degree will take longer to earn, while an accelerated bachelor’s degree can be earned in about three years. Every degree program is different, but most consist of around 120 credits, or 40 courses. Your coursework will include classes in archaeology as well as hands-on learning, and a large number of required general education classes. The purpose of general education courses is to develop a well-rounded knowledge about the world and a context for understanding topics in your major.

A typical bachelor’s degree curriculum may include:

• Archaeology classes
• General education classes
• A foreign language
• Study abroad
• Labs and fieldwork
• Senior project

In completing a bachelor’s in archaeology, you’ll develop skills in analysis, computation, technology, methodology, and archeology theory. These are transferrable skills that can help you succeed in a variety of settings, such as education, administration, and activism. Transitioning to a non-archaeology field will require you to demonstrate to employers that you can apply your skills in a new role, however, and you may need additional experience or training to take on work outside the field. If you wish to work in the field of archaeology, however, your options with a bachelor’s degree will be limited to roles like assisting in laboratory work or excavation. In order to work as an archaeologist, you’ll need to earn at least a master’s in archaeology.

What Can I do with a Master’s in Archaeology?

To get a master’s in archaeology, you’ll need to have a bachelors in archaeology, or in a related field like anthropology, classical studies, or art history. A master’s usually takes two years to earn on a full-time basis, though an Accelerated Master’s Degree Program can be completed in just 18 months, while a part-time program takes longer.

A master’s in archaeology will focus on the archaeology major, and will not have not general education classes, though you will be required to demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language for most. In addition to archaeology classes, you’ll complete extensive hands-on learning through lab work and fieldwork. Many schools offer (or require) international studies as part of their archaeology program. You’ll also be required to complete a research-based thesis or project in your second year. In addition, many schools require students to complete a comprehensive examination before graduating.

If you’d like to specialize in a particular area, many schools offer archaeology concentrations, such as:

• Applied Anthropology
• Ecological Anthropology
• Medical Anthropology
• History and Social Memory
• Prehistoric Archaeology
• Land, Culture and Society

You may also want to consider a minor in a related field, such as a foreign language, gender studies, sociology, history, or geology. A minor can enhance your specialization within the field of archaeology. Alternatively, a minor can broaden your expertise and make it easier to find work outside the field of archaeology instruction and research.

With a master’s in archaeology, you’ll be able to find work in the archaeology field, such as cultural resource management, education, fieldwork, outreach, historic preservation, or museum curation. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that many positions require a PhD in archaeology, especially those involving research and international studies.

What Can I do with a PhD in Archaeology?

A PhD is a “terminal degree”- the highest degree offered in the field of Archaeology. With this degree, you’ll be an expert in your field, and qualified for research and teaching positions. But earning a PhD is a long and difficult process; it takes 4-9 years to earn a PhD, and many students drop out before completing this rigorous process. In order to earn a PhD in anthropology, you’ll need to complete new research in a specific niche area of anthropology. Under the direction of a thesis advisor, you’ll formulate an original research question, conduct painstaking research, and literally “write the book” on your area of focus by drafting, publishing, and defending your doctoral thesis.

With a PhD in Archaeology, you’ll be qualified to work as an academic archaeologist, project archaeologist, principal investigator, CRM manager, or State Historical Preservation Officer. These are leadership positions, and will allow you to lead and train junior colleagues and students, and to research your own areas of interest. And with a PhD in archaeology, you’ll meet the legal requirements which, in many cases, stipulate that archaeologists working abroad much hold a PhD in archaeology.

Can I Earn a Degree in Archaeology Online?

Archaeology is a latecomer to the field of online education, but there are now a few schools offering online degrees in archaeology. Most students who opt to earn an online degree do so in order to maintain employment or continue to meet family obligations while working towards a degree on a part-time basis. Online education saves busy students from spending time on a commute, and also allows them to access much of their course content on demand. In the case of an online archaeology degree, geographic availability is another important factor. Many areas don’t have a school with a strong archaeology department available locally, and students in this situation may opt to enroll in a well-established archaeology program offered through a school’s online campus. Leading schools such as Harvard offer prestigious online archaeology degrees, while smaller schools may have less “brand recognition” but offer more affordable tuition.

In general, most nine archaeology degree programs do require some degree of on-site participation. This is because archaeology is such a hands-on field, and students can best learn how to conduct a real-life excavation, examination, and measurement procedure by actually observing and participating in real life. This live, interactive learning experience can take the form of an on-campus immersion, on-site field work in a lab or dig site, or a study abroad experience.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Degree in Archaeology?

Your work with an archaeology degree will depend greatly on the degree level you achieve and your preference for applied or academic archaeology. Academic archaeology jobs are those most people associate with the term “archaeology”: professors and researchers. These individuals typically work in a university or museum and conduct field or lab-based research, and hold a PhD in archaeology.

Most archeology work is conducted with cultural resource management (CRM) firms, which execute archaeological investigations associated with federal and private construction projects. Federal law requires that surveys and (where indicated) excavations take place where land is to be disturbed for construction projects, and CRM firms make sure that development does not come at the cost of archeological finds. Applied archaeology positions include roles at museums, national parks, tourism bureaus, federal and state governments, and historical societies.

Archaeologists tend to work in a variety of settings, reading and writing research papers, cataloging and measuring materials in the lab, excavating artifacts at dig sites, viewing materials in museums and libraries, and visiting historic locations around the country or globe. While this is an exceptionally interesting and varied role, archaeology isn’t known to be a lucrative field. Fortunately, it’s not far behind the national average, either. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary with a degree in archaeology is $62,410. Most archaeologists hold a master’s degree, and the average income associated with a master’s is $68,000 according to the BLS.

The BLS also reports that jobs in archaeology will grow 4% between 2016 and 2026. This is slower than the national average, as there are more people with degrees in archaeology than available positions. But as with salary, the news isn’t too bad. Job growth of between 5-9% is considered “average” by the BLS, meaning that a rate of 4% for the filed of archaeology isn’t lagging too far behind the national average.

What are the Pros and Cons of a Degree in Archaeology?

Why get a degree in archaeology? For most students, the answer is simple: they want to. That is, they’ve been interested in the field from a young age, and simply enjoy being involved in anything related to exploring the past. Archaeologists tend to be passionate about their work, and their dedication and excitement about their area of specialty allows them to persist in spite of the field’s challenges.

The main drawbacks of an archaeology degree are a modest salary and competition for jobs. There are fewer archaeology positions than qualified candidates, and many people with archaeology degrees have to spend a great deal of time working in a related field, such as foreign language instruction, or working in a role for which they are overqualified while waiting for the right position to open up. This is especially true for those who want a job in academia. Tenure-track professorships in archaeology simply don’t open up frequently, and those seeking these roles should be willing to relocate for work. Salaries in the field are also modest, which can pose a problem for those who have taken out loans or used their savings to pursue an advanced degree.

On the plus side, archaeology is, simply put, a fascinating field. Few jobs offer the potential to make new discoveries, explore real-life mysteries, and travel to exotic locations. Archaeology offers all these things, as well as the potential to contribute to mankind’s body of knowledge and deepen our understanding of our past, ourselves, and one another.

Further Reading:

• What degree do I need to become an Archaeologist?
• Top 10 Highest Paying Social Science Careers
• What Can I do with a Liberal Arts Degree?
• Top 15 Liberal Arts Schools in America
• Top 10 Highest Paying Social Science Careers
• 50 Best Online Degrees for 2019
• 20 Best Degree Programs for Undergraduates
• 23 Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
• Top 25 Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

The post What Can I Do With an Archaeology Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

1. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a land-grant public research university with a main campus in Gainesville, Florida. Known for highly competitive sports, UF is also a great school. Some of the top ranked programs within the university include their programs in communications, education, business, medicine, engineering, law, and others. It’s typically thought of as one of the top 30 public schools in the nation and offers a huge range of degrees from the bachelor’s through doctoral levels. In recent years parts of the university have made a push online, including their master’s in communications. 

The University of Florida’s fully online master’s in communications blew us away for the range and quality of academic programs. Individuals can pursue a wide range of specializations catered to the 21st century including audience analytics, digital strategy, global strategic communication, political communication, PR communication, PR, social media, as well as web design. For students not wichin to pursue an entire master’s program, or wishing to level up in more than one discipline a handful of these specializations are also available as graduate-level certificate programs. Degrees may be finished in under two years and boast robust placement in the job market. 

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2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the best public universities in the nation and is considered a Public Ivy school. Formed in the late 1700’s, UNC has a long tradition of excellence. Today over 30,000 students call the university home, making it a large university. With its ample endowment, however, UNC is able to maintain small class sizes and a great deal of one-on-one attention for students to pursue a degree there. Particularly at the graduate levels, students have the ability to learn from award winning and nationally renowned individuals within their field, and the online communications masters is no different!

Known for their up-to-date, real world programming, UNC’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media offers a fully online master of arts in digital communication perfectly suited to the PR and communications needs of the 21st century. With two courses most semesters, individuals are able to work full time pursuing this degree. The final project is a non-traditional thesis, which allows individuals to build a portfolio with a semester-long project. Courses include digital-specific concerns such as media law online, usability, multimedia design, visualization of information, among others. 

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3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, U of I is a second Public Ivy school in our list. Though the list of accolades for U of I could go on for several pages, some highlights include the second largest university library in the world, a massive research park that is home to over 90 start-ups, and impressive alumni including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer and Turing Prize winners, among others. Over 50,000 students attend U of I, with a majority at the undergraduate level. 

For potential students looking to jump into corporate or brand communications, U of I offers a fully online program that may be just for you. The masters in strategic brand communication as well as additional certificates and courses in the subject matter are led by real world experts and provide immediately applicable knowledge. With a 16 months time until degree, students can expect to be able to jump back into the workforce very quickly (or pursue the degree while working). For individuals presently working in communication, U or I is happy to work with your employer to try and line up employer sponsorship for the degree as well. 

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4. Columbia University

Columbia University of New York is an Ivy League institution located at one of the hearts of modern communications. One of the nine colonial colleges founded in the Declaration of Independence, the university has a long history of excellence. Today the university has one of the largest endowments in the world, enabling the school to provide great levels of support and small class sizes even for its size. While it is the first private institution in our list, and therefore has an expensive “sticker price,” a “need blind” financial aid policy means the school tends to cover excess financial need for potential students. 

Columbia University’s renowned school of professional studies offers a unique master’s level communication degree. This Executive Master of Science in Strategic Communication is specifically for individuals who have a decent amount of experience in the field. This means that the program can start with more advanced topics and skip intro material. This also means that the program can be completed part time and in as few as 16 months. We should note that this is not a 100% online degree, but rather provides most courses online with a few in-person meetups that simulate key communications settings in the real world. 

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5. Purdue University

The flagship university of the Purdue University system, this university holds designations as a sea-grant and space-grant institution. Home to over 43,000 students, in recent years this prestigious university has started to open some degree programs up to online delivery methods. Particularly noteworthy programs include their overall undergraduate experience as well as engineering degrees. In recent years Purdue has been among the 20 top public schools in the nation and last year was honored by being named one of the five most innovative universities in the United States. 

Purdue University’s online masters in communications is impressive for the range of specializations offered as well as how quickly one can achieve the degree. Students may choose how quickly they want to finish their degree, with average times ranging between 12 and 20 months. A range of specialization options include the intersection of communication and leadership, advertising, public relations, or health. No GRE or residency requirements mean you can jump right into the application and don’t have to disrupt your life or career to progress through the program. 

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6. Florida International University

Florida International University is a relatively young (56 years old) public research university that’s located in accordingly named University Park, Florida. Despite its age, the university holds the highest designation for research activity. Up until 2005, the university placed an emphasis on growth in student body size. But in years since the focus has shifted on continually improving the quality of education being offered. With this said, this is still quite a large university with close to 60,000 students attending. With an estimated undergraduate cost per year after aid of $8,000, it’s also one of the most affordable schools we surveyed.

Florida International University offers a fully online master of science in global strategic communications. This university is particularly well suited to provide such an international degree given it’s proximity to the Carribean, Latin, and South America. This degree is interdisciplinary and offered by the innovative college of communication, architecture, and the arts. The program is also one of the most accelerated available on our list, and only requires 12 months of study, all online.  Additionally students may start the program in the Fall or Spring semesters. 

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7. American University

This private research university located in Washington, D.C. is associated with the United Methodist Church, and was founded to promote public service, internationalism, and pragmatic idealism. Known for its connection to the political action within D.C., the university is a great location to learn international affairs, diplomacy, communications, and law. A wide range of politicians have passed through this school, and it’s one of the top five producers of members of the U.S. Foreign Service, Congressional Staff, as well as Ambassadors. With “just” 5,000 postgraduates who attend the university, courses can be kept relatively small in size leading to increased interactions and quality. 

American University builds on its unique position within the center of United States politics and governance to present a world class master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree for the unique range of specializations that individuals may pursue. These focus areas include advocacy and social impact, digital communication strategies and analytics, international strategic communication, and corporate communication and reputation management. Speaking of reputation, American University is well known throughout the world and particularly in governance circles. 

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8. Michigan State University

This public land-grant university is the flagship university of the Michigan State University system. Founded in the mid 1800’s, MSU was originally an agricultural college, and served as a model for many of the agricultural colleges that were created after it. It is one of the largest universities in the nation by enrollment. And graduates can draw from over 600,000 living alumni as connections across the world. With an 80% graduation rate at the undergraduate level (typically a marker of academic quality), it ranks among the best of the surveyed schools, particularly accounting for the relatively more affordable tuition when compared to private universities. 

Michigan State University offers a fully online master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree program for its affordable nature and flexibility. Students may choose from one, two, and three-year tracks. Each of these tracks is 100% online. Additionally students may choose three specialization areas. These include: digital media, media analytics, and organizational leadership and communications. No GRE requirements and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 keep this program accessible to many individuals. Additionally, students may begin their studies in fall, spring, or summer. 

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9. Johns Hopkins University

This private research university is one of the most prestigious in the United States, commonly ranking among the 20 best schools in the world. Located with a main campus in Baltimore, Maryland, the undergraduate colleges are kept relatively small. Though it’s postgraduate work that the university is most well-known for. As a space-grant institution located close to many aeronautical and governmental centers in the region, many of their engineering programs stand out. Proximity to D.C. also bodes well for connections for students who want to pursue opportunities in government, politics, and industry. Additional clusters of excellence within the university include medicine-related degrees, education, international studies, and foreign policy. 

The ability to attend schools of the caliber of Johns Hopkins fully online is rare. That’s part of what makes Johns Hopkins online master of arts in communication a great find. Additionally, three start dates (fall, spring, summer) and an adjustable time until degree ranging from 12 to 24 months make this program flexible enough for many individuals working full time. Nine segments help to build up versatility in graduates. These segments include writing and editing, publishing and media, brand management, political communication, content strategy, public relations, and advertising and marketing. 

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10. Eastern Illinois University

Originally established as a teacher’s college, today Eastern Illinois University offers a wide range of degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s level. Home to roughly 8,600 students of whom 1,600 study at the graduate level, courses are able to be kept small in order to promote quality engagement. With a solid graduation rate for schools within its tier, the university is a “best buy” in terms of offering affordable tuition at all levels. 

The fully online master of arts in communication studies offered by Eastern Illinois University is impressive for its great job placement rate as well as its range of concentrations individuals can specialize with. 86% of graduates find a job within the field of communications within three months of graduation. Students within the program can jump into a range of concentrations including strategic communication, media and critical studies, communication and leadership, interpersonal communication processes, as well as a pedagogy option. Additionally, a graduate certification is available for individuals who don’t want to pursue an entire master’s. 

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11. University of Missouri

This public land-grant, space-grant and research university is the flagship location of the University of Missouri System. As the first public university to be erected west of the Mississippi River, Mizzou has long held a prestigious place among midwest universities. Journalism and communication have been at heart of their offerings for over 100 years, as the first school in the United States to open a school of journalism (likely the second in the world). At around 30,000 students, the university is large but not overwhelming. Around 7,000 of these students study at the postgraduate level. 

The University of Missouri’s online masters in strategic communication provides a great option for individuals who want to balance work with school. Slower paced than other programs in our ranking, students may take one or two courses each semester. This leads to graduation in two or three years, but is likely easier to handle if working full time. One campus visit is required, so technically this is a “blended” degree. With that said, all courses are available online. This degree is offered by the school of journalism. 

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12. Colorado State University

This public land-grant university is located in Fort Collins, Colorado within view of the front range of the Rockies. In recent years, however, Colorado State University has heavily pushed online education as well. Not to be confused with a separate school in the same system that is 100% online (Colorado State University Global), Colorado State University also offers some of its own degrees online. Originally an agricultural and mechanical college, the university has made a name for itself in environmental sciences, cancer research, and as a location for the origination of the Peace Corps. 

Colorado State University Online’s fully online master of communications and media management provides a take slightly different from others in our ranking. The focus on management of media can be great for individuals looking to move up the communications ladder. A focus on technical skills in electives as well as building a professional network and learning applied knowledge is great for individuals looking to build on the degree directly within their career. This degree may be completed in two years and offers financial aid for graduate students who need it. 

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13. Texas Tech University

The main institution within the Texas Tech University System,this public research institution is designated as a Hispanic-serving institution. Over 150 courses of study are offered and the university provides more than 60 research centers. With over 40,000 students, the university is one of the largest in the region, and alumni have gone on to achieve prominence in many fields and particularly in government, science, business, and sports. 

Texas tech University’s College of Media and Communications offers a fully online masters in strategic communication and innovation. This degree focuses on the digital environments that most communications occur in today. Additionally, students not wishing to pursue a full master’s degree may opt for a graduate certificate in the same subject matter. Asynchronous courses provide the ideal amount of flexibility for working students. Additionally, four start dates are available and students may choose to pursue two or three courses for each semester in the program. 

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14. University of Michigan – Flint

Operated under the board of regents of the University of Michigan system, the University of Michigan at Flint is one of two regional counterparts to the flagship schools. Rated as a Doctoral/Professional University, emphasis is not on research but on applied professional degrees moreseo. A regular of the “Best Midwestern” schools category in national rankings, the school provides a great value with one of the cheapest cost per credit hour after financial aid of schools surveyed. The school is a mid-sized university with only 1,400 postgraduates and an additional 6,000 undergraduates. 

The University of Michigan at Flint offers small class sizes and supportive student services for their online masters in communication studies. Three emphasis areas allow students to craft a degree of their choosing. These focus areas include professional communications, media studies, and speech communication. Speech communication is a unique offering among schools we’ve ranked, and focuses on generalist communication as well as cultural connections, and interpersonal matters. 

• Program Website

15. Northeastern University

This space-grant, private research university is one of the top schools in the nation. With a main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, in recent years the university has expanded to industrial and governmental hubs with a range of satellite campuses as well as online. Satellite campuses are presently in Charlotte, Seattle, San Jose, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Portland (ME) as well as London, England. With 27,000 students, it’s a fairly large private school. But with this said, a commitment to high quality classes and a large endowment enables small manageable class sizes where students may interact or get more one-on-one instruction. 

Northeastern University is known for their professional studies education, and this communications degree entirely fits within that focus. The fully online master’s in corporate and organizational communication can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis with the part time program only requiring 18 months for completion. The accelerated full-time program may be completed in a year entirely online so you can get back to your career quickly. Six concentrations allow for additional focus areas to be added to the degree. These include public and media relations, cross cultural communications as well as social media. 

• Program Website

16. The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama may best be known for their athletics, but their academics also rise to the top of their region (if not nationally in fields). This sea-grant and space-grant very high research activity university is presently home to around 38,000 students. Particularly noteworthy schools within the university include their law school, business school, education school, and engineering school. In recent years they’ve made a push into online education by growing their “Bama by Distance” program. Their offerings in journalism are particularly well fleshed out in these distance offerings. 

Bama by Distance’s fully online master of arts in communication studies with a specialization in organizational leadership places highly in our ranking due to its flexibility, price, and quality. While all students will focus on the organizational leadership component of communications, students may choose a professional or academic option, depending on whether they would like to pursue further education in the subject matter or jump back into their career. The primary difference is that the academic option requires a comprehensive exam, while the professional option requires an applied capstone portfolio project. Three start date windows as well as affordable tuition make this program more accessible to all. 

• Program Website

17. Mississippi College

One of the first religious colleges in our list, Mississippi College is a private Baptist college with a main campus in Clinton, Mississippi. It holds the honor of being the oldest college in the state of Mississippi as well as the second oldest Baptist college in the United States. While designated a college due to the institution’s primary focus on undergraduate education, some graduate degrees are offered. Of the 6,300 students, roughly one quarter of them study at the postgraduate level, either in Mississippi College’s law school or additional graduate programs. This medium-sized private school is able to offer quality student-to-faculty ratios, meaning that students get plenty of attention and support. 

If you’re a student looking for a Christian-based education in communication, Mississippi College could be a great choice. We like this program for its range of concentrations. Concentrations available include: an applied generalist degree, an applied journalism degree, an applied theater degree, an applied health-centered communication degree, a sports communication degree, and a PR and corporate communication degree. Presently the generalist and health concentrations are the only concentrations available online. 

• Program Website

18. University of Denver

This private research university is the oldest private university within the Rocky Mountain region. Home to almost 13,000 students, the university is somewhat large for a private organization. This allows for the school to host a wide range of research programs. The university is classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity, school. Some of their top ranked programs are related to communication, with one of the best creative writing programs in the nation as well as one of the top International Studies degree programs. In recent years this university has pushed to gain a larger footprint online, and offers many quality degrees by this delivery method. 

Denver University offers a fully online masters in communication management degree. This could be a great option for individuals who already hold practical communications skills and would like to move up the ladder within a communications organization. Focus areas include data-driven storytelling, strategic communication, organizational change, and interpersonal conversations. Semesters last 10 weeks and individuals do not need to take a GRE or GMAT for acceptance into the program. Students may elect to pursue a 6-month long certificate program, a longer 12 month certificate program, or the entire 18 month-long master’s degree. 

• Program Website

19. Gonzaga University

The first Catholic university in our list is located in Spokane, Washington. This top 100 university in the United States is particularly well known in the west, where it makes the top 30 universities. Noteworthy programs include engineering, among others. A mid-sized student body allows the school to boast particularly quality student to faculty ratios. At present roughly 7,500 students attend the school with 2,200 at the graduate levels. The university has a handful of online degrees of which a masters in communications degree is one. 

Gonzaga University’s master’s in communication and leadership is available fully online and provides a unique focus on research, analysis, and problem solving. It provides one of the widest ranges of concentrations of programs we have seen in this year’s ranking. Concentrations presently available include change leadership, college teaching, digital media strategies, global leadership, servant leadership, and strategic and organizational communication. A range of domestic immersion experiences as well as study abroad opportunities are available if students choose to pursue them. 

• Program Website

20. Syracuse University

This private research university was originally established by the Methodist Episcopal Church, and still maintains a relationship with the United Methodist Church (though it is described as nonsectarian). One of the top 100 schools in the nation, this space-grant university is home to close to 23,000 students with a majority of them at the undergraduate level. Though the main campus is in Syracuse, New York, a growing range of degrees are offered fully online. Among their most noteworthy programs are their social science degrees, design degrees, architecture degrees, information studies, management, law, among others. 

Syracuse University provides a top-ranked fully online master of science in communications that focuses on public relations. We like this program due to the national name recognition of Syracuse, quality of courses as well as flexibility-enhancing program components. The degree may be completed in as few as 15 months and no GRE or GMAT scores are required. Unlike some programs that are asynchronous, these courses are live and taught by the world class faculty of Newhouse college. Additional concentrations include advertising, journalism innovation, and media management. 

• Program Website

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s In Communications Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

A complaint lodged against liberal arts programs is that they are lofty, artsy operations that enforce a disconnected way of thinking about reality. The truth is that a liberal arts school is just simply not for everyone. Some students will thrive in an environment that encourages the philosophical integration of one’s studies while others might prefer to stick to purely quantitative considerations of a technical school.

The counterargument is that thinking is a skill, as much as math skills or any trade skill. A liberal arts program enforces a format of thinking that trains students to solve problems with creativity and originality–and well, problem solving is a central concern of any effort in life, professional or otherwise. And today, the stigma surrounding online education is nearly non-existent and totally negligible when it comes to online degrees from reputable schools.

The Allure of a Liberal Arts Master’s 

The allure of a liberal arts master’s degree is that at the level of depth that one reaches in graduate school, programs incorporate comprehensive examinations of topics in both qualitative and quantitative formats. This can be an excellent approach to research-heavy or calculations-dense subjects, because it allows students to incorporate highly logical knowledge in a student’s unique personal perspective. In a sense, it allows room for a student to make knowledge their own. 

And in subjects that are innately philosophical–such as anthropology, psychology, or legal studies–a liberal arts education in second to none. Oftentimes the reasoning behind a concept is more important than memorizing the concept itself. And this is exactly what an advanced liberal arts degree will teach you–not just what the core concepts of a subject are, but how these concepts were arrived at in the first place. 

Moreover a liberal arts degree from one of the schools on this list will confer tremendous academic and professional clout. As mentioned above a liberal arts degree is a program that teaches you how to solve problems, and this is doubly true of a liberal arts Master’s which is able to develop actionable expertise in students so that they are prepared to tackle real world problems. 

Top Online Liberal Arts Master’s 

1. Rutgers University

Rutgers University’s liberal arts programs provide the tremendously valuable balance of a liberal arts program with a career-centric scope of focus. Students of Rutgers programs are taught how to think, but more importantly are taught how to think in a way that generates actionable results on one’s career. One needs to only look at the extensive catalogue of alumni–who are not only leaders but innovators in their respective fields–to see the Rutgers’ liberal arts philosophy validated. 

The Rutgers Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program can be completed entirely online or on-campus, and is meant to inspire intellectual engagement. The purpose of the program is highly flexible, and can be tailored to reflect a professional’s unique interests–whether that be to increase one’s qualifications, to broaden one’s understanding of a particular subject, or to improve one’s competitiveness in the job market. 

Students of the program will participate in a comprehensive philosophical and quantitative examination of the following subjects: 

• Literature
• History
• Philosophy
• Religion
• Social sciences
• Arts

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2. University of North Carolina – Greensboro 

UNC Greensboro is one of the original three schools of the UNC system, which was originally established to offer doctoral degrees. UNC Greensboro’s established history in providing advanced studies of the arts and sciences contributes to a strong reputation and academic clout. 

Specifically students can earn a Master of Arts in Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) that can be completed entirely through online coursework. The program challenges traditional conceptions of what an arts and sciences education format means. The ‘applied arts and sciences’ designation refers to the programs focus on actionable, project-based learning where students will build the skills that are most valued in the real world workforce. 

The program looks to balance theoretical and intellectual explorations of subjects with data-based learning and the quantitative evaluations of key-areas of interest, specifically of interest to future employers. In other words, UNC Greensboro looks to provide the quintessential arts and sciences graduate education, while positioning students for professional success. 

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3. Harvard University

There is a reason that Harvard University is a household name synonymous with academic excellence and paramount professional achievement. Harvard’s alumni have gone on to become presidents, governors, generals, and CEOs of the most influential companies in our economy. Its faculty are leading experts in their field, often setting the paradigms which are followed for years, or even decades, to come. 

With the advent of online education, Harvard has expanded its degree program options to be accessible by students all over the world. The Harvard Extension School is designed specifically to accommodate working students and adult learners who are self-directed and responsible students. 

Specifically, students can earn a Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies in one of twenty areas of study. Most relevant to this list is the Arts Literature & Media program where students can pursue the building of speciality in any of the following areas:

• Creative Writing & Literature
• Dramatic Arts
• English
• Journalism
• Museum Studies

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4. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is an innovative force in higher education, and has spurred tremendous growth in the sector of professional advancement for adult learners. ASU designs degree programs to reflect industry trends and employer expectations, so that program graduates are perfectly positioned to capitalize on market opportunities. 

ASU offers an Online Master of Liberal Studies through the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts. Students of the program will explore a comprehensive integration of the humanities with key scientific queries across various cultural contexts. 

The College of Integrative Sciences and Arts empowers students to pursue personal and professional areas of interest through independent research projects. In fact, the College expended $140 million toward research projects and initiatives. For students looking to delve deeply into a specific area of interest, ASU is a top-notch program. 

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5. University of Michigan – Flint

The University of Michigan Flint is dedicated to providing students with affordable options for professional and academic advancement. Particularly, a formative pillar of UM Flint’s online programs is providing “affordable excellence” so that students can pursue professional dreams without sacrificing financial stability. Online program tuitions can be brutal for out-of-state tuitions, but UM Flint offers an out-of-state tuition that is just 10% more than in-state, a tremendously affordable rate. 

UM Flint offers a fully online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies in American Culture. The program is offered through the nationally renowned Rackham School of Graduate Studies, which is acclaimed for its student-centric curriculums and free-form independent research. 

Students of the Liberal Studies in American Culture program will cover interdisciplinary explorations of various subjects, most of which will be chosen by individuals to reflect unique professional goals and interests. 

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6. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) demonstrates consumer-friendly, student-focused policies and strategies that nurture students in their striving for success. University assets are commonly reinvested into student research projects or expansions into new degree programs. This student-focused educational philosophy is particularly present in the Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) Degree program. 

The 31 credit MLS degree program is designed to be flexible, so that busy students and working adults can complete coursework amidst even the busiest of schedules. Coursework is designed to represent industry trends and market opportunities, where students can choose specific degree concentrations that will enhance one’s professional position. 

Available concentration options depend on the current industry trends, but currently students can delve into any of the following concentration tracks: 

• Global Studies
• Corporate Communications
• Literary Arts
• Political Leadership
• Public Administration
• Health Sciences

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7. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University School of Professional Studies (SPL) is an institution of advanced higher education that specializes in providing top-end preparation at the graduate and postgraduate level. These programs emphasize the transition from ‘theory to practice’ that is so crucial to facilitating professional success in students with a liberal arts background, while catering to the busy schedules of working students and adult learners. Students can take advantage of this tremendous flexibility to progress through programs in a format that best matches one’s schedule–choosing from asynchronous, synchronous and hybrid formats. 

The Stony Brook University School of Professional Studies offers a fully online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies. The program functions on a core tenet, that is that students excel professionally when their studies promote personal growth as well. 

Emphasizing this student-centric philosophy is the program’s commitment to empowering students to design their own curriculums. Specifically, students will choose from a robust catalogue of interdisciplinary topics and string them together in such a way as to most effectively lay the foundation to one’s chosen career focus 

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8. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis global degrees program (UofM Global) is an internationally recognized and attended institution that prioritizes flexible and affordable education. UofM Global leads the charge in ‘best practices’ for online education, providing students with 24/7 student support services. These services ensure that students are able to make the most of their time in the program, while enjoying the same care and personalized counseling that on-campus students receive. 

The UofM Global College of Professional & Liberal Studies Human Resources offers programs in the following areas: Leadership, Liberal Studies (Master level), Liberal Studies (Doctor level), Strategic Leadership, and Training and Development. The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) is completed entirely through online coursework at a pace and schedule that best accommodates students. 

Students will also tailor coursework to reflect their desired area of expertise or career focus through submitting an academic proposal. Academic advisors will then structure particular students’ curriculum to facilitate building the necessary expertise.  

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9. SUNY College at Brockport

Founded in 1835 in the College at Brockport boasts a storied history of academic excellence. The College now offers a host of more than 50 graduate degrees and advanced professional certification program options. Brockport is dedicated to providing students advanced degree options with exceptional value and academic merit. 

The College at Brockport offers students a fully online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies. Students of the program will engage in a comprehensive exploration of perspectives through the lens of the humanities, social and natural sciences, and the fine arts. 

A distinguishing element of this program is its flexible curriculum that is meant to empower students to pursue key topics of professional interest. To put this flexibility in perspective, the core curriculum of the 30 credit program takes up only 12 credits, while students will choose 18 credits worth of electives coursework to complete the program with a desired concentration. 

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10. University of Massachusetts

UMass Online is an industry leader in online education with an established history in distance learning programs dating back more than 25 years. Today, more than 180 UMass degrees are available online delivered through 1500 courses annually. UMass Online is managed by some of the most prestigious faculty in higher ed who hold distinction such as the following:

• Pulitzer Prize
• Nobel Prize
• National Book Award for Poetry
• Draper Award in Engineering

UMass Online offers a liberal arts type degree that doubles down on analytical foundations. Specifically, students can earn a Master of Arts in Critical and Creative Thinking (CCT) that can be completed entirely online. The program is designed to groom the next generation of thinkers who are able generate positive change in their environments. 

The interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to prepare students to excel in any industry or discipline. This flexible curriculum builds student expertise through the following research projects: Processes of Research and Engagement; Action Research for Educational, Professional & Personal Change; and Synthesis of Theory and Practice.

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11. SUNY Empire State College

SUNY Empire was established in 1971 to break the mold of higher education by designing an education program around mentorship-based learning. By providing counsel and advisement services, students are able to make the most of their time in each degree program. Faculty mentorship is meant to not only help students integrate knowledge more readily, but also to help students frame what they learn in terms of professional actionability. 

SUNY Empire offers a fully online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies. Students of the program will design coursework to reflect particular career goals and interests. The program culminates in a comprehensive final project that is meant to fulfill a dual-purpose of demonstrating students’ expertise and functioning as the start of a professional portfolio that works to showcase this expertise to future employers and collaborators. 

Before delving deeply into one’s individual area of expertise, students will build foundational knowledge in the following subjects:

• Seminar in Liberal Studies
• Perspectives on Interdisciplinary Study
• Literature Review: Explore the research relevant to chosen concentration

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12. American Public University

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, American Public University (APU) offers more than 200 degrees and certifications. The average APU student is 32 years old and 88% of students are working adults–APU’s key demographic. The University looks to assist working adults in advancing careers and actualizing professional goals. 

The APU School of Arts and Humanities offers a fully online Master of Arts in Humanities. Students of the program will tread the path of comprehensive study of arts, sciences, and philosophies from antiquity to modern day. 

Unlike many of the programs on this list, the Master of Arts in Humanities employs a more structured curriculum. Students will progress through topics and projects in an order and cadence that is meant to enhance each subsequent topic respectively. 

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13. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) is an internationally renowned institution of research-based education. Few degrees will confer the clout that a degree from JHU will, and this is for good reason. JHU faculty are responsible for industry-defining research and paradigm shifting practices in various fields and disciplines. At JHU students can enjoy confidence that they are learning from the best of the best. 

The John Hopkins Krieger School of Arts and Sciences prepares students to excel in careers and thrive as professionals. The Krieger School offers a fully online Master of Liberal Arts that is the first of its kind. The program is designed to inspire intellectual expansion, build analytical expertise, and facilitate professional competence in interdisciplinary projects and problem solving. 

Specifically, students will progress through unique and inspiring topics in the following courses:

• Deep Ecology: Environmental Ethic
• Philosophy of Beauty
• Existentialism: Philosophy and Social Critique
• Critical Theory
• Race and Jazz
• Social History of Medicine
• What is History?
• Ways of Knowing: Historical and Epistemological Foundations of the Liberal Arts

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14. Western New Mexico University

Founded in 1893, Western New Mexico University (WNMU) has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to servicing adult learners and underprivileged students through consumer-friendly and student-centric policies. WNMU’s student body is more than 50% hispanic and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution. 

WNMU students can earn a fully online Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. The program is designed to enhance one’s professional or academic endeavors by building targeted academic concentrations in key areas. Specifically students will choose between two program format options. 

Students can choose between either a 2-concentration track or a 3-concentration track. WNMU allows students to build concentrations around any other existing degree track programs. This level of academic freedom is virtually unparalleled and allows students to truly build unique degree programs. 

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15. Texas Christian University

Texas Christian University (TCU) is unique in that it looks to preserve traditional chrisitan values in modern educational philosophies. Particularly in the TCU AddRan College of Liberal Arts was founded way back in 1869 on the idea of providing students simultaneous cultivation and advancement–both as students and as men and women. 

The TCU AddRan College of Liberal Arts offers a fully online Master of Liberal Arts program designed to accommodate both lifelong learners and ambitious professionals looking to broaden their intellectual horizons. Students will choose from a catalogue of research opportunities and electives to build expertise in targeted areas. 

Some examples of course topics include: world cultures, the American cinema, parapsychology, music history, or the American West. Research projects provide the additional depth and flexibility for students to establish expertise outside of available electives. 

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16. Union Institute and University

Union Institute and University offers students avenues for professional advancement and intellectual empowerment. Few universities boast a vision that is so innately aligned with the core tenets of liberal arts philosophy. At Union students learn from faculty who challenge students to see issues from new cross-cultural perspectives to engage in creative problem solving. 

Union’s Online Master’s program is designed to jumpstart students’ careers through meaningful coursework. Union graduate students will learn from expert faculty who have real-world professional experience, who dip into cutting-edge research to inform students’ direction of study. For students looking to stay on top of industry trends and needs, Union is a great option. 

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17. University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma (UO) Extended Campus leverages the extensive academic resources of the University of Oklahoma to offer world class online education to students from countries around the globe. UO Extended Campus is built around six central values: quality, integrity, innovation, inclusivity, student-focus, and service-focus. 

UO Extended Campus offers a Master of Arts in Integrated Studies that is designed to employ graduate level analysis to explore various disciplines and topics of research. Students of the program will become particularly skillful in academic and analytical writing. Students will write about various theoretical, historical, and cultural issues to glean valuable conclusions. 

Students will progress through coursework in the following topics:

• Research methods in interdisciplinary studies
• Addressing diversity in the United States
• Volunteering in the 21st century
• Interdisciplinary studies foundations
• Cultural communication in leadership
• Volunteer management

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18. Kent State University

Kent State University Online is a pioneer of online education and distance learning programs. Kent State Online offered its first online degree program more than 15 years ago, and today offers more than 60 program options. Kent State Online services students from around the globe with flexible programs that can be engaged anytime or anywhere. 

Kent State Online students can earn a Master of Liberal Studies through the College of Arts and Sciences’ Center for Comparative and Integrative Programs. This program is arguably the most flexible program on this list. Students are only required to take one preformatted course–just one! 

The remainder of coursework is chosen from an extensive catalogue of electives and research projects. This flexibility allows students to pursue virtually any line of study in order to build a targeted professional expertise. The program consists of 30 credit hours with class start-dates in January, May, and August. 

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19. Adams State University

Adams State University is built around the concept of the “Adams Experience,” which refers to the idea that a true education isn’t bound by classroom walls–it occurs when students engage with the world around them and integrate into their lives what’s being learned in the classroom. The “Adams Experience” will be of particular interest to students who wish to enroll in a program authentically rooted in liberal arts philosophy. 

While not a traditional liberal arts degree path, Adams State University offers a Master of Arts in Public Administration. Coursework is largely organized around core liberal arts concepts and theories, but with the foundational commitment to grooming students for positions of leadership in the public-services sector. 

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20. University of Toledo

UToledo Online has been servicing distance learners for more than 20 years and today offers more than 50 fully online degrees and certifications. These programs are designed to accommodate working students and adult learners who will benefit most from being able to complete coursework anytime or anywhere. Programs are designed to be innately flexible with fewer coursework requirements than other schools so that students can focus on topics that are most valuable in the context of individual career goals. 

This is particularly true of UToledo’s Online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies. Students will engage in broad course topics that provide opportunities for research and exploration in student-centric projects. Students can build toward specialization by organizing projects to reflect professional aspirations and career goals. Course topics include the social sciences, visual and performing arts, natural sciences, the humanities, and interdisciplinary research methods. 

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The post The 20 Best Online Masters in Liberal Arts Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

To conduct this aspect of the library’s business, library professions need to be savvy in sales, budgeting, and cost-analysis. Tied to the purchasing of the library’s materials is the decision of what materials to stock in a library–because the books of a library will ultimately determine its public image and the extent to which customers interact with the library. 

 And this brings us to the third major area of the library science profession–librarians and library managers will determine the policies and standards for book rentals, purchases, etc. They will also determine the general structure of how to service and interact with library members. This also often leads to public events, fundraisers, and other forms of community engagement. The key takeaway here is that libraries businesses and so library science is more business-oriented than one might first suspect.

Why Earn an Online Master’s of Library Science 

Library management professionals might find success with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, however there is no denying that the best positions–with the best salary packages and professional clout–are reserved for library professionals with a graduate degree or even a doctorate of library science. 

Why is this? Well the main reason is that the most prestigious libraries are either large scale state or federal operations, or they are located on premier campuses at universities around the country. In either case, the competition for jobs is stout and is firmly rooted in academic merit. 

Thankfully many of the Master’s of Library Science programs today can be completed online and on a flexible schedule, accommodating even the busiest of professionals. Moreover these programs often offer a cadence of coursework that allows for students to graduate quicker than traditional programs, and come with extremely reasonable price tags. As such our researchers have done the leg work and have ranked what online Master’s of Library Science programs are the best options for you. 

Best Online Master’s of Library Science 

1. University of Washington

The University of Washington School of Information is a powerhouse for creating innovative and industry-shifting professionals. Its programs cover an array of subjects in informatics, data science, and library science. Program curriculums are designed to represent the real-world challenges and needs of specific industries, so that by graduation, students will be prepared to enact positive change in their chosen field. 

Students at the UW School of Information can earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) that is completed entirely through online coursework. U.S. News & World Report ranks the program as the second-best program in the country, but due to the program’s industry-awareness and career-focused curriculum we thought the program deserved a bump up. 

Students of the program learn from world-class faculty who have held library management positions around the world, conducted international research, and who have demonstrated tremendous success as educators. Students earning their MLIS at the UW School of Information will enjoy the confidence that they are learning from the best of the best. 

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2. Indiana University – Purdue University

The Indiana University Purdue University (IUPU) School of Informatics and Computing distinguishes itself through a commitment to facilitating the universal applicability of information sciences and technology. Built into the School’s mission statement is the idea that students will be groomed for positions of leadership in their chosen field, and will learn how to employ the tools of technology and information to spur positive change in their careers. 

Students at the IUPU School of Informatics can earn a Master of Library and Information Science entirely online. In the program, students will become experts in navigating challenges related to meta-data management, information literacy, and the modern challenges of a technology-based world. 

In other words, students will learn about technology in a broad and universal sense which confers value and expertise beyond the traditional conception of a librarian. Alumni of the program go on to develop innovative programs and businesses for library patrons, large corporations, and civic groups.

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3. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State’s online programs are taught by the same stellar faculty who teach the on-campus programs. The main strength of Appalachian State’s online programs is its commitment to facilitate both professional and personal growth. A central tenet of the University is that the best learning occurs when it is framed in a context that is meaningful to one’s personal life and personal growth. 

For students interested in a graduate of library science program that encourages personal thriving, look no further. Appalachian State University offers a fully online Master of Library Science that prepares students to take on roles of management and  leadership in the library and information industry. 

Students of the program will progress through a strategically designed curriculum that embodies the interests and standards of the accrediting agencies. Specifically, the Master of Library Science program is recognized by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and nationally accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). 

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4. University of Illinois

The University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign School of Information Sciences is internationally acclaimed for academic excellence in its faculty, students, and alumni. Students at the School of Information Sciences will learn from faculty who are at the cutting-edge of their fields and who often present new paradigm-shifting models or theories. And alumni of the program go on to work at the highest levels of their fields, carrying forth the School’s reputation of excellence. 

It is for these reasons that US News & World Report ranked the School of Information Sciences’ Master of Science in Library and Information Science as the best program of its kind. In the program students will not only cover the foundational coursework of the profession, but they will also have the freedom to build personal interests and expertise. 

Specifically, the program facilitates internship opportunities, professional field training experiences, and collaborative research projects with the program’s top notch faculty. If you have a stand-out academic background and wish to work at the forefront of library science, then this program has few competitors. 

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5. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University’s core mission is to ‘outlast and achieve’ and this mission is carried on by its students as well. At FHSU students will learn how to go beyond their conception of giving 100%, so that they learn how to give 110% when the stakes are high. This is why FHSU students go on to tremendous success and maintain positions of leadership in their respective fields. 

Students at FHSU can earn a Master of Science in Education with a Library Media Specialist concentration. This program is designed specifically for students or education professionals who hold a teaching license. For students interested in combining a career of education with a career in library science, this program is second to none. 

Students enrolled in the Library Specialist Track will complete coursework in the following areas: 

• Innovative Technology Integration 
•  Educational Research
•  Educational Leadership
•  Data Analysis & Assessment
•  Instructional Design & Assessment
•  Cultural Diversity

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6. San José State University

The San José State University School of Information grooms IT, data science, and library science professionals. Students at the School are taught how to apply theoretical models to practical problem solving. Programs are constructed around career-centric curriculums that emphasize industry and market opportunities available to students. 

The San José State University School of Information offers students a Master of Library and Information Science. The School ensures that its students have the same care, guidance, and opportunities as their on-campus counterparts. Curriculum is delivered through a flexible course format that is largely asynchronous, meaning that students progress through the program at their own pace. 

Students of the program will also enjoy the opportunity to build key specialities. Students choose from a robust catalogue of coursework that reflects the burgeoning areas of the industry. 

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7. University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW) iSchool is a future-facing program that positions students to capitalize on burgeoning trends and opportunities in the job market. The UW iSchool informs its degree programs with the current research and best-practices from accrediting bodies, so that online students can enjoy the confidence that they are learning from the best of the best. 

The UW iSchool offers students a Master’s of Library and Information Science that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual students. Students can build experience and expertise in key areas by participating in research projects, community engagement, and collaborative coursework. 

Specifically, students can pursue specialization in any of the following areas: 

• Librarianship
• Digital archives
• UX & information technology
• Data/information management & analytics
• Organization of information

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8. University of Houston – Clear Lake 

The University of Houston Clear Lake (UHCL) College of Education is a premier institution in the higher education industry. Its programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and grooms students for positions in schools, libraries, and even IT companies. 

Specifically, the College of Education offers a Master of Science in School Library and Information Science that can be completed entirely Online. Curriculums emphasize the training of education professionals to work closely with elementary, middle, or high school teachers to integrate technology and information science. 

Graduates of the program will excel in library science and library management positions. Students of the program will also establish the necessary prerequisites for a number of prestigious certifications–specifically, the Texas School Librarian Certification, and you will have the option of adding Texas Master Technology Teacher certification. 

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9. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland (UMD) College of Information Studies houses some of the most prestigious and acclaimed degree programs in the country. Many of its programs rank in the ‘Top 5,’ which is likely due to the quality of faculty who are industry leaders and professional experts in their respective fields. The UMD College of Information offers top tier programs in the following areas: 

• Library and Information Science
• Digital Humanities
• Computational Archival Science
• Data Privacy and Sociotechnical Cybersecurity
• Youth Experience, Learning, and Digital Practices
• Social Networks and Online Communities
• Data Science, Analytics, and Visualization
• Information Justice, Human Rights, and Technology Ethics  

Specifically the UMD College of Information Studies offers an online Master’s of Library and Information Science that is ranked as one of the best programs in the United States. It is ranked #2 in online programs of its kind, and #8 of all MLIS programs (both on-campus and online).

Aside from its impressive catalogue of accolades, students can earn degree specializations in several key areas. Specializations provide coursework direction in the following areas: 

• Archives and Digital Curation
• Youth Experience 
• Intelligence & Analytics 
• Diversity and Inclusion 
• Legal Informatics 

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10. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

UNC Greensboro (UNCG) Online has worked hard to guarantee online students the same learning outcomes and professional development offered to their on-campus counterparts. Degree programs consist of rich curriculums filled with various teaching philosophies and multimedia formats that are meant to engage students with varying predispositions toward different learning formats. 

Particularly in the case of the online Master of Information and Library Science, students will engage coursework that is presented in video, lecture, and peer-collaboration projects. To encourage peer collaboration the program is delivered primarily through synchronous scheduling, so that students of the program will progress through work at the same time. 

The program consists of 36 credits and is fully accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). The program also offers students a capstone project in lieu of a thesis project where students can begin to establish a professional focus, which can function as the beginning of a professional portfolio. 

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11. Murray State University

The Murray State University College of Education and Human Services does not just educate students, the College trains students to become leaders and advocates for civic good and social progress. The College offers a number of excellent programs in a range of fields in formal and non-formal education, such as social work, criminal justice, and early childhood education. 

The College of Education and Human Services offers a fully online Master’s of Education in Library Media. As the name of the program suggests, curriculum is based on a foundation of topics and philosophies of education. Graduates of the program will become librarians who are experts at teaching students how to use technology to better engage digital resources. 

There are two program tracks: one for certified teachers that can be completed in just 30 credit hours, and one for non-certified teachers that can be completed in 40 credit hours. Students of the program will become librarian experts who excel in the following professional responsibilities:

• Inquiring
• Including
• Collaborating
• Engaging
• Exploring
• Curating

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12. Texas Woman’s University

With approximately 15,000 students, Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is the largest university that is mostly focused on servicing female students in the United States. Its online degree offerings look to give women a leg up in professional achievement and academic development. Programs are meant to prepare women to capitalize on key market opportunities, which will be particularly advantageous to those looking to capitalize on burgeoning opportunities in the library science industry. 

The TWU Master of Library Science program can be completed entirely online and is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation. A distinguishing element of this program is its offering of various specialization track options. 

Specifically, students can establish professional expertise by enrolling in one of the following degree specialization tracks: 

• Academic Libraries 
• Public Libraries 
• School Libraries 
• Special Libraries 
• Health Science Libraries 
• Information Technology 
• Technical Services/Cataloging
• Community Informatics 

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13. Louisiana State University

The LSU College of Human Sciences & Education is a nationally recognized College of academic excellence and professional innovation. Students at the College are taught how to value health, personal growth, and intellectual inquiry over one’s lifespan. Moreover students at the College are taught how to leverage academic expertise to find professional success–in other words, students are taught how to put theories into practice. 

The LSU College of Human Sciences & Education offers a fully online Master’s in Library Science and Information. The program has been fully accredited since 1931 and is the only ALA-accredited program in Louisiana, making it the oldest and most prestigious program of its kind in the region. 

Students may complete the 36 credit hour program on a full-time or part-time basis, completing coursework which is primarily taught by full-time, expert faculty. More than 80% of all coursework and electives is taught by the program’s full-time faculty, a benefit which few programs can compete with. 

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14. University at Buffalo

At the University at Buffalo (UB) Department of Information Science students will have the singular opportunity to participate in international research. The department’s faculty participate in some of the nation’s most renowned research efforts, which often result in paradigm-shifting models, theories, and conclusions. The UB Department of Information is an excellent destination for any student looking to participate in a research-focused degree program. 

The UB Department of Information Science offers a Master’s of Science in Information and Library Science. The program is accredited by the American Library Association, but also prepares students to work in a variety of professions in the information industry–even those seemingly unrelated to library science. 

This points to the versatility of the program’s curriculum. Specifically students can pursue specialization in any of the following degree paths: 

• Music Librarianship
• Law Librarianship
• Special Projects 
• Directed Studies (Builds real-world experience)

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15. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) online has earned national recognition and acclaim for its student-first, consumer-friendly practices and policies. UNT Online offers a number of accelerated degree programs that can be completed in as little 12 months. Moreover many of its degree programs offer extremely competitive tuition packages, which are designed to be particularly accessible to out-of-state students. 

UNT Online offers a Master of Science in Library Science that is completed through 36 credit hours of digital coursework organized into 12 total digital classes. The program is designed to prepare students for professional achievement in a wide-array of fields in library science and related careers. 

Evidencing this is the program’s dynamic curriculum, which prepares students for various paths to success in the following degree specialization options: 

• Archival Studies and Imaging Technology
• Information Organization
• Law Librarianship and Legal Informatics
• Music Librarianship
• Youth Librarianship
• General Program of Study

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16. Texas A & M University

The Texas A&M University Commerce (TAMUC) College of Education & Human Services looks to improve the quality of life in the United States by creating responsible, engaging, and innovative professionals. The College boasts some of the most impressive post-graduation certification and professional examination success rates in educators. The College is known for producing more superintendents and high school principals than any other university in Texas. 

The TAMUC College of Education & Human Services offers a fully online Master of Science in Educational Technology of Library Science that prepares the next generation of leaders and educators in the field of library science. The program is completed through 36 credit hours spaced out through coursework over 2 years. 

Students of the program are given the option of completing the full Educational Technology Library Science program, or they can complete the graduate certification program separately. The graduate certification program can be completed in as little as a year to earn the ‘School Librarian or Library Media Specialist’ certification.

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17. Sam Houston State University

The Sam Houston State University (SHSU) experience is built around the foundational motto “The measure of a Life is its Service,” which translates into socially aware degree programs which are designed to cultivate a sense of social responsibility and facilitate the skills to bring about civic good in one’s community–professional or otherwise.

The SHSU Master of Science in Library Science can be completed entirely online and is meant to prepare students to become professional school librarians. Students of the program will also complete a School Librarian Certification so that they are professionally accredited to take on any professional role within a school library. 

Specifically, the program curriculum is designed to cultivate skills which are of high-demand in the industry currently, such as: managing large digital and physical catalogues of multimedia and employing an interdisciplinary command of technology and information science to successfully run the day-to-day operations of a library. 

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18. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri (UCMO) is an institution of strong ethical standards and operates according to a teaching philosophy that is fundamentally student-centric. That is, UCMO employs the motto, “Learning to a Greater Degree (LTAGD),” which refers to its commitment to its students–faculty work not just as educators but as mentors. Alumni are more than just social network connections; they are peers, partners, and collaborators. 

UCMO offers a fully online Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services. Students of the program will become accustomed to the industry’s most popular technologies and the ‘best practices’ for employing such technologies to enhance the operations and functionalities of a library. 

The program curriculum builds off foundational concepts teach-education and education philosophy. As such graduates of the program will be groomed for success in teaching in any of the following environments: 

• K-20 Classrooms
• Libraries
• Military Training
• Corporate Training
• Private-Sector Education Groups 

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19. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is one of the most successful institutions of higher education in the southwest. USC alumni are proud, USC faculty are international recognized experts, and current students are groomed to turn dreams into achievement. USC is one of the world’s leading private research universities, and its students will be among the privileged few who can participate in industry-shifting–and even world-changing–research projects and initiatives. 

USC offers a fully online Master of Management in Library and Information Science that is truly unique. The Master of Management designation is meant to provide key preparation for students who wish to take on mid-to-upper level employment in a library. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to take on employment in the country’s most large, prestigious, and respected universities. 

But emphasized in the program’s curriculum is the diversity of the librarian’s professionals skill set. Graduates of the program will learn how to employ their skills in a variety of other work environments and industries as well–from corporate offices, to IT groups, to governmental agencies. 

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20. Valley City State University

Valley City State University (VCSU) is a technology-literate University that looks to prepare students for the future of their chosen industry or professional focus. VCSU students learn how to cultivate a variety of interdisciplinary skills that will help them succeed in the ever-changing environment of the job market. 

For this reason, VCSU designs coursework to reflect the demands of the job market, so that program graduates are appealing to future employers and competitive in various job markets. VCSU offers a fully online Master’s of Library & Information Science that confers the North Dakota Library Media Specialist Certification as well. 

Students of the program will progress through coursework in the following areas: 

• Applied Research in Current School Library Issues
• Literature & Literacy for Children & Young Adults
• Contemporary Cataloging for the School Library
• Collection Development for the 21st Century School Library
• Using Information Resources
• Collaboration, Management, & Leadership
• Administering & Evaluating Program Resources
• Integrating Information Literacy & Research Standards

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The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

• How to think and express yourself clearly
• How to entertain many viewpoints
• How to write, with clarity and force
• How to stand up for your ideas with logic and tact
• And a lot about [insert historical era] literature and culture

The notion that English majors — and humanities majors in general — are useless, has been entirely debunked. Besides directly preparing you for a number of writing and communication-centered careers, English majors are known for being lifelong learners and excelling in many “soft skills.” These are some of the most in-demand skills in a variety of fields, for management, education, research, or the creation of content. Think you’re ready to pursue a degree in English? Read on to see what you can do with your future degree.

Table of Contents:

• What English Degrees Are Available?
• Can I Pursue a English Degree Online?
• How Do I Gain Admission to a English Degree Program?
• Differences Between English and Related Degrees
• What Can I Do With a Degree in English?

Don’t see what you’re looking for in this guide? Be sure to check out DegreeQuery’s additional content related to English degrees below:
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• The 15 Best Liberal Arts Schools in America
• What Can I Do With An English Degree?
• What Can I Do With a Liberal Arts Degree?
• How Can You Prepare For a Professional Writing Career While Earning Your Career?
• What is the Difference Between a Degree in Technical Writing and Journalism
• What’s the Difference Between a Degree in Professional Writing and Technical Writing?
• What Degree Do I Need to be an Editor?
• What Are My Degree Choices to Be a Film/TV Producer?
• 10 Creative Careers that won’t Require You to be a Starving Artist

What English Degrees Are Available?

Degrees in English literature are available at the associates through doctoral levels. As with other humanities majors, undergraduate degrees are heavily grounded in a liberal arts-style education. Graduate English degrees are centered around research and preparing the next generation of English educators.

At the associates level, associate of arts in English degrees commonly require two years of study. While there are some degrees specifically in English at the associates-level, more common degrees at this level include related degrees such as communications, liberal arts, or the humanities.

These degrees begin with general education requirements meant to ensure that graduates gain a college-level skill set in communication, articulation, quantitative thinking, reading, and writing.

These courses commonly include:

• Natural Science Courses
• Social Science Courses
• Mathematics
• The Humanities
• A Foreign Language
• English

Once students have worked through some of their general education requirements they will endeavor upon major courses. English degrees are notorious for the range of courses and differences between programs at different institutions of higher education. So if you have a particular interest, make sure to check that schools you are interested in have courses on the topic.

With that said, some of the more common English courses offered at the associates level include:

• Western Humanities I and II
• Early British Literature
• Modern British Literature
• American Literature Before 1865
• American Literature After 1865
• Shakespeare I and II
• Chaucer
• The Divine Comedy
• Modernism
• And a handful of electives

As bachelor’s degrees have long been the standard entry-level degree within the humanities, many community college-based associates programs are transfer programs. When students complete a transfer program, they then gain automatic admission to a four-year program with a number of credits already earned.

Bachelor of arts in English literature have long been the standard entry point for students of English in higher education. As with associates degrees, these courses of study also begin with general education requirements meant to ensure a baseline skill set within reading, writing, coherently arguing, and quantitative intelligence.

Bachelor’s programs typically require 120 credit hours, of which around two thirds of this total course of study involves general education credits or electives. The remaining credits are major courses. While English majors vary a great deal depending on the faculty and offerings of a given college or university, the following courses are commonly offered within a bachelor of arts in English degree:

• Literature and Composition
• Early British Literature
• Modern British Literature
• Native American Literature
• Old English Epics
• Chaucer
• The Divine Comedies
• Writing in Antiquity
• American Literature Before 1865
• American Literature After 1865
• Early American Literature
• Southern Modernism
• Literary Criticism
• Modern Poetry
• Modern Playwriting
• Creative Nonfiction
• Restoration Literature
• Victorian Literature
• Several Shakespeare Courses
• Courses on Individual Authors or Movements
• Feminist Literature
• African Diaspora Literature

Additionally, most courses of study will ask students to take a selection of electives that complement their major courses. These courses may be in the humanities, about science literature, theater courses, art history courses, or in other disciplines.

Master of Art English degrees typically come in two forms, terminal master’s degrees and those that are achieved in route to a Ph.D. Within terminal master’s degrees, students obtain entrance to a 2-3 year program that primarily consists of “taught” courses. This means that students will continue to take courses instead of primarily spending their time on research.

For students who attend a brick and mortar master’s in English program, it is a common arrangement for master’s candidates to teach some entry level courses or aid in the teaching of a course as a TA. Payment for teaching courses as a graduate student is often reduced or entirely free tuition costs.

At the master’s level, there are a handful of courses that all programs will share. These typically include:

• Introduction to Graduate Studies
• Research Methods
• Teaching Seminar
• And 300-400 level courses in most major areas of literary history

After taking several graduate-level core courses, students will often start to specialize. Common specializations within a master’s in English degree include:

• British Literature
• Comparative Literature
• American Literature
• Film and Literature
• Or Interdisciplinary Studies

At the master’s level, students are required to submit a thesis. As we’ll note in more detail in the following section, theses are separate documents from dissertations. Typically a thesis is a survey of current research within a given subdiscipline. While candidates perform a great deal of research uncovering the current state of research in a given field, they do not perform original research with this document.

A thesis is typically a hundred plug page document on one specialization field within the study of English literature. At the end of a terminal master’s degree, some students will enter the workforce in a variety of roles, while others may choose to transfer into a Ph.D. program.

Within the academic discipline of English, the standard doctoral degree is that of a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in English literature. Ph.D. programs are research doctorates that typically take between 4 and 7 years for completion.

As opposed to applied doctorates, research doctorates have central aims of helping to prepare students to teach at the university level as well as to help create an environment in which students can pursue professional-level research and publish scholarship.

Ph.D. in English programs typically begin with built in master’s programs. Students take graduate-level courses for their first 2-3 years of their program. In in-person programs, students begin to TA or instruct entry-level courses during this time. Typically students research and write their dissertation for the remainder of the program. As it takes students more or less time to complete their dissertation, so to does time-until-completion for Ph.D. programs vary.

Dissertations are different from master’s-level theses. A dissertation is a several hundred page piece of original research. This piece of research is meant to further understanding in one aspect of a student’s field of study. Once a dissertation has been completed, students must “defend” their dissertation in front of a panel of experts. Theoretically, dissertations should be of high enough quality to be published within a peer-reviewed journal in the field being studied. Some dissertations are published, while others are not.

Additionally, there are a range of degrees related to English.

Some of the most common degrees of this type include more career-centered careers including:

• Journalism
• Technical Writing
• And Communications

Additionally, some degrees incorporate some English courses though it is not the primary focus of the degree. These degree types include:

• Humanities
• Liberal Arts
• Teaching of English
• Education
• And Creative Writing

Can I Pursue a English Degree Online?

As with a wide range of other degrees, yes, you can pursue an English degree entirely online.

With that said, English degrees are not widely offered online. Many of the most popular online degrees are career centered. English, particularly at the graduate level, is often still pursued on campus where students can begin to learn teaching courses, consult with faculty, and peruse physical library spaces.

With this said, a growing number of English degrees are offered online. For many, having the option of an online degree can mean the difference between obtaining a degree and not. But for those with the option to choose between degree delivery methods, there are more considerations to be made.

Some of the most common positive remarks from past students that have pursued a degree include the following:

• Tuition fees are often lower in online programs
• Online degrees allow students who can’t move the ability to attend school
• There’s no need to quit working while you pursue your degree
• Some of the top school in the nation offer online degrees
• You end up with the same degree as in-person programs

With all of that said, there are some definite trade-offs. Some of the most common complaints held by online students include the following:

• Online degrees provide less opportunities for networking
• Online degrees can have less access to support services
• A self-starter mentality is more important in an online setting
• And it can be harder to craft meaningful relationships that are easier to come by in-person

With all of that said, countless individuals have benefited from the ability to pursue a degree online. One in four students today pursue a degree online. Though it’s not for everyone, in this day and age all students should at least consider the option and whether it aligns with their personal needs.

How Do I Gain Admission to a English Degree Program?

Admissions to English degree programs typically mirror admissions to other degrees of the same level.

At the associates level, many community college have open admission policies. This means that any student with a high school degree or equivalent may gain admission to the program. Students then must keep their grades above a certain level to remain in the program.

At the bachelor’s level, English degrees require students to gain entrance into the college or university. This typically involves submitting standardized test score, a transcript, letters or recommendation, and submitting admissions essays. Standards for gaining admission to baccelareate programs vary greatly, with some requiring top grades and others offering open admissions.

At the master’s level, students are often required to submit a statement of purpose. You’ll also in all likelihood want to find a program with a faculty member that you would like to study under.

Seeking a Ph.D. in English is actually a more popular route than a terminal master’s program. Students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. should have excelled in English courses as an undergraduate and have other applicable experience. Some students that gain admission to competitive Ph.D. programs may have already been published or helped professors with research.

At the Ph.D. level you will spend years working one-on-one with your dissertation advisor. For this reason, it’s important to locate a program with a faculty member you would like to study under. Be sure to start a conversation with this professor and ensure that they are willing to work with you.

Differences Between English and Related Degrees

While there are degrees that cover English literature topics, and degrees that focus a great deal on writing, none are truly that similar to a degree in English.

With this said, there are degrees that apply many of the skills one hones in an English degree program. Programs that may fit this description include journalism, technical writing, and communications. One of the main differences between English and these degrees is that there is no professional bent in an English degree.

Students hone their thinking, writing, and argumentative skills by examining prime examples of English literature. In their analysis they develop skills that can be used in many fields, though there are close to never any courses within an English degree that explicitly deal with a field of work.

In contrast, degrees in journalism, technical writing, and communications may work to hone writing and reasoning skills, but the primary focus is on frameworks and tools employed in job settings where journalists, technical writers, and communications professionals are employed.

What Can I Do With a Degree in English?

No level of English degree is a vocational degree. As such, English degrees do not prepare you for one job directly. The single exception is that graduate level degrees in English often offer some courses on education and instruction. So to be precise, English degrees can directly prepare you for teaching English at the graduate level.

With that said, English degrees provide many in-demand skill sets for a wide variety of jobs. Some of the most commonly cited demands by employers include employees that can read and write well, are clear communicators, and can express and understand nuance in communications.

With no further degree, some of the most common paths for English majors include the following jobs:

• Journalist
• Technical Writer
• Copywriter
• Private School Teacher
• And Media Producer

Quickly working through the above jobs, journalists employ investigative and highly-honed communication skills to tell an objective story about the world around us. Journalists are most commonly employed by media organizations including magazines, blogs, newspapers, and television news networks.

The average salary for journalists is presently $39,565, though this number can vary quite a bit depending on your level of expertise and seniority within an organization.

Technical writers primarily find employment in governmental agencies, research organizations, and private industry. These wordsmiths ply their pen to communicate complex and highly technical science and technology-related concepts in readable language. Many technical writers have additional degrees or at least some understanding of science or technology. Though not all do when they gain employment in their field.

The average salary for technical writers is presently $74,440.

Copywriters primarily coin pithy phrases as well as educational material for private industry and/or advertising firms. If you’ve seen the likes of the hit television show Mad Men, then you may have some impression of the role of high-impact copy within advertising campaigns.

While salaries vary quite a bit depending on your place of employment, copywriters make an average of $47,838.

Don’t see what you’re looking for in this guide? Be sure to check out DegreeQuery’s additional content related to English degrees below:
Recommended Guides

• The 15 Best Liberal Arts Schools in America
• What Can I Do With An English Degree?
• What Can I Do With a Liberal Arts Degree?
• How Can You Prepare For a Professional Writing Career While Earning Your Career?
• What is the Difference Between a Degree in Technical Writing and Journalism
• What’s the Difference Between a Degree in Professional Writing and Technical Writing?
• What Degree Do I Need to be an Editor?
• 10 Creative Careers that won’t Require You to be a Starving Artist

The post What Can I Do With an English Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

If you find yourself drawn towards truly mastering your ability to communicate, a bachelor’s in this versatile discipline could be just the choice for you!

1. University of Florida

The University of Florida is one of the top public research universities within the southeastern United States, if not the nation. This school presently has around 34,000 undergraduates, meaning it’s a large enough school to have significant resources without needing to skimp on quality. Located in Gainesville, Florida, the University of Florida has expanded aggressively into online education in recent years. With a graduation rate of 87% for undergraduates, the school ranks as one of the top public schools in the nation by this metric. Additionally with an average cost of attendance around $8,000 a year after financial aid is granted, it’s a great buy!

The University of Florida has one of the premier journalism and communications schools in the country. This makes their fully-online bachelors of science in telecommunication: media and society degree a particularly unique find. As a bachelor of science degree you know you’ll gain valuable quantitative knowledge and skills you can use running a data-driven communications campaign. Graduates of this program are known to take jobs in international communications, market research, media campaigning, and marketing. The central focus of the program is on mass media pushed by electronics (online, television, radio). 

• Program Website

2. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) — the second Florida-based university on our list is located in the suburbs of exciting Miami, Florida. With a student size of close to 42,000 students, it’s a large university, and similar to other large public universities within the state it’s able to offer a relatively affordable experience. The average cost of tuition after financial aid is around $8,000 a year. Of additional note, Florida International University is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, meaning there are additional support programs in place for LatinX communities, and Hispanic students are a large portion of the campus. 

Florida International University offers a fully online bachelor of arts degree in communication arts. This degree program is offered by the innovative and interdisciplinary college of communication, architecture, and the arts. For individuals who want to hone the craft of communication, this degree may be a great start. The college offers a communication arts studio, which offers professional online communication coaching. Focus within the program is on learning to build group dynamics, interpersonal communication, and the art of persuasion. If these ideas jive with what you think communications should be about, this may be the degree program for you. 

• Program Website

3. University of Central Florida

The third Florida-based university in our list is the University of Central Florida. As with the  above two Floridian universities, the University of Central Florida is a great value for a relatively highly-ranked public university. The average cost of tuition for undergraduates after financial aid is applied is presently around $13,000 a year. With a graduation rate of 71%, the school outperforms many schools of it’s size (which is presently close to 60,000 students). With a main campus located in Orlando, Florida, students who do attend in person have many opportunities for extracurriculars and cultural events. With that said, the University of Central Florida has expanded quickly into online education in recent years. 

The University of Central Florida has invested heavily in online degrees in recent years. The range and interesting angles of degrees offered online are proof of this. Their online bachelor of arts in communication and conflict degree is no different. If you’re looking for a conflict resolution-centered communications degree, this could be a great degree for you. Offered by a US News and World Report designated “best online bachelors degree provider,” a relatively inexpensive online bachelor’s from UCF has a great “bang for your buck.” 

• Program Website

4. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University is a mid-sized public university located in picturesque Boone, North Carolina. Home to around 17,000 students, Appalachian State is still able to provide relatively small class sizes which means more one-on-one attention for students of courses. With a graduation rate at 72%, the university scores better than a majority of public universities. The school is also relatively affordable in comparison to many schools. After financial aid, the average cost per year for an undergraduate student is presently $14,000. 

The fully online bachelor of science in communications studies degree offered by Appalachian State University is ranked for providing a range of features that online students tend to care about. This degree program offers courses in accelerated eight week bursts. Year around courses are available so that you can accelerate your time until degree if you so desire, and the entire degree can be completed in 6 semesters! For individuals looking to push through their coursework quickly, this grounded-in-science degree could be a great choice for you. 

• Program Website

5. Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University is a relatively small university by public university standards. At around 4,600 undergraduate students, it’s closer to the size of many liberal arts universities. This feature shows out in nice and small class sizes (much smaller than others on our list thus far). So if you’re an undergraduate who learns well by participating and getting to know your professors, then this school could be for you. In recent years, Eastern Illinois University has expanded into online education. With a graduation rate of 63% and an average cost of undergraduate tuition after aid of $14,000 it’s a solid buy for sure. 

Yet another unique communications degree is offered by Eastern Illinois University. The title of this fully-online offering is communication in organizations. This 46-credit hour program is really a degree completion program. Though individuals may choose to take their general education requirements from EIU as well. If you already hold an associates or did your gen-ed requirements elsewhere, this can be a great value for completing your degree. Additionally, this degree program is available for full and part time students. 

• Program Website

6. University of Minnesota Crookston

The University of Minnesota System is one of the top in the region, and Crookston is one of it’s top schools. With less than 2,000 students, it’s quite small for a public state school, and the perks of this are reflected in the university slogan of “small campus, big degree.” Located at the edge of a large agricultural tract  in the Red River Valley, the university is able to offer some unique research opportunities as well as academic programs within some fields. With an average annual cost after financial aid of $11,000, it’s a good “bang for your buck” university. For students attending some courses in person or moving to the area, the small city of Crookston offers affordable living as well. 

One of the more flexible degree in this list’s lineup is the bachelor of science in communication offered by the University of Minnesota Crookston. Students may elect to pursue this degree as a minor, major, in-person, hybrid, or online. Additionally, students may choose between three emphasis areas depending on what their goals and interests are. The emphasis areas presently offered include social media, communication studies, and organizational communication/public relations. As one of the more affordable — tuition wise — options in our list, this covers a lot of bases for individuals wishing to enter any one of those three emphasis areas. 

• Program Website

7. Arizona State University Skysong

The Skysong Innovation Center is the home of Arizona State University’s virtual campus. This concentration of teaching talent and delivery method expertise has allowed Arizona State University to reach the upper echelons of online education. Located in Scottsdale, Skysong allows for an experience where students never have to attend campus, a rarity traditionally. And something many students have taken ASU up on, with a current enrollment of close to 30%. For an online-only portion of the university, graduation rates are quality at 56%. The average cost of attendance for a full year at the undergraduate level is $14,000 after average financial aid. 

Arizona State University’s fully online bachelor of science in communication offers accelerated courses that only require 7.5 weeks for completion. Students have a range of electives they may choose from and may find themselves taking additional courses in relational communication, social influence, persuasion, leadership, professional issues, or gender issues. As a nationally recognized university, Arizona State University can be a great stepping stone to get started on the communication career you’re interested in. 

• Program Website

8. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

University of Texas of the Permian Basin is a small to medium sized public university located in the city of Odessa, Texas. Known for programs related to oil fields, the university has enjoyed a boom in recent years, particularly in certain academic disciplines. With a class size of 3,500 students, the school is also able to provide relatively small class sizes, meaning more one-on-one attention for students. The average annual cost is solid for universities in UT-Permian Basin’s tier of schools at $10,000 after average financial aid is applied. 

The bachelor of arts in communication offered by UT Permian Basin provides a wide range of electives with which students can tailor their degree to their interests and goals. In particular, students may choose to focus on advertising, legal issues with communications, language in contracts, rhetoric, among other topics. Students may transfer in up to 24 credit hours, roughly one quarter of the degree program. This degree is offered part time, full time, in person, or for remote students. 

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9. Northeastern University

Northeastern University is the first private university within our ranking. And while it may have dropped a few spots due to our methodology considering the average cost of attendance, it’s historically been one of the top schools in the nation. Home to close to 14,000 students, the university uses its significant endowment to keep classes quite small and student services are top notch. As mentioned, the average cost of attendance after aid is more steep than other universities in our list (at over $30,000 a year). But this helps to fund opportunities for connections with individuals and alumni who are top in their field. A choice of satellite campuses in opportune economic and academic regions is another draw for students wishing to attend graduate programming at this university. 

Northeastern University offers a digital communication and media degree that is a bachelor’s of science through their innovative college of professional studies. Their college of professional studies provides skills ready for the workplace, and tends to offer interdisciplinary applied knowledge from industry professionals. Experiential learning is at the heart of Northeastern’s learning philosophy, so students should expect to need to apply what they are learning in group projects, internships, or their current workplace. If you’re seeking to attend a world-renowned university from the comfort of your own home, this degree program could be for you. 

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10. Bellevue University

Bellevue University is the second private university on our list, and a unique offering. This university has focused on the outset on adult education as well as distance education. Around 80% of undergraduates are over the age of 25. And this is a school of over 10,000 students. Unique for its unerring focus on adult and nontraditional students, this is reflected in a very solid graduation rate for online students. Additionally, pricing is affordable for a private university, with an average undergraduate tuition of $12,000 a year after aid. 

Bellevue University offers one of the most flexible online bachelor’s degrees in communication we see in this year’s ranking. A range of emphasis areas allows students to build off of a bedrock of communications understanding to specialize for their future career. Current emphasis areas include: mass media, organizational and strategic communication. Additionally, for students interested in such, the Kirkpatrick Signature Series are a group of American-values centered courses that students are required to take when attending Bellevue University. 

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11. California Baptist University

California Baptist University is one of the first Christian universities in our list. This private university is home to over 11,000 students and keeps small class sizes in both online and in-person courses. With a main campus in Riverside, California, California Baptist University is associated with the California Southern Baptist Convention (related to the Southern Baptist Convention). For students looking for a mid-priced Christian university that is private, California Baptist University could be for you. The present average cost of annual attendance for an undergraduate after financial aid is $23,000. 

California Baptist University’s online bachelor of arts in strategic communication offers a unique option — particularly for students seeking a Christian-grounded education. Up to 24 credit hours, roughly one calendar year’s worth, may be transferred into the program. The program can be greatly accelerated and the average completion time is around 16 months. Courses included in this degree program include a focus  theory of communications, digital trends, a senior project, public relations, and legal and ethical aspects of communications. 

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12. Ashland University

Ashland University is a mid-sized private Christian university associated with the Brethren Church. For students looking for a degree in communications with a strong Christian basis, Ashland attempts to provide a Christian worldview in all of their courses. With around 5,700 students, the university has a long and storied history of close to 150 years. For a school this size, a wide range of academic disciplines are offered including courses through a theological seminary, a college of nursing and health, a college of education, of business and economics, a college of education, and a college of arts and sciences. The average cost of annual tuition after financial aid is presently $20,000. 

Ashland University offers two fully online communications degrees at the bachelor’s level. The first is a bachelor of arts in communication studies, which is a traditional four year program that requires the choice of a minor. The second is a fully online bachelor of arts in communication studies that is geared towards adults and includes accelerated 7-week courses. Up to 30 credit hours may be transferred into the program, which is more than most undergraduate programs. For students looking for a Christian-based curriculum, both of these communications degrees can be a great option. 

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13. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University is the flagship location of the Arkansas State University System. Presently the second largest university in the state of Arkansas, roughly 14,000 students call the university home. At the undergraduate level, a school of close to 9,000 is able to offer mid-sized college courses, helping to up the quality of engagements and amount of attention students gain. Arkansas State University’s graduation rate is typical for universities within its tier. And the university can be considered a good “bang for your buck” school with an average cost per year after aid of $14,000. 

The fully online bachelor of arts in communication studies degree offered by Arkansas State University places in this ranking due to its affordability and flexibility. At $258 per credit hour and with financial aid available, it’s one of the most affordable degrees we surveyed (even for those not in the state of Arkansas). It also allows for students to accelerate or decelerate their course of study with a variable length degree program. A wide range of electives include particularly unique options like conflict resolution, narratives in health in healing, and computer mediated communication. 

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14. Mississippi College

The second Baptist college on our list, Mississippi College is the oldest college in Mississippi. With a strong endowment and only 6,000 students, the college is able to provide quality instruction and keep course sizes low. In recent years the university has added a handful of online degrees, but a majority of students still attend in-person at the campus in Clinton, Mississippi. The college has a strong undergraduate graduation rate for colleges in its tier. The average cost of attendance for an undergraduate per year after aid is accounted for is $17,000. 

Mississippi College offers a wide range of courses in communication online. These include a bachelor’s in communication generalist track courses, as well as graduate-level communications courses. For individuals interested in a Christian liberal arts school-like experience that they can pursue online, Mississippi College could be a great choice. As one might expect this entry did well compared to many of the colleges on our list in the metric of graduation rate. Courses within the bachelor’s in communications degree include digital communications, communication law, media in society, public speaking, journalism, and a senior project. 

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15. Columbus State University

Columbus State University is a space grant university that is a part of the University of Georgia System. This school is home to close to 8,000 students and recruits from all 50 states and a range of international locations. Some of the most noteworthy programs and academic centers within the university include their space center, a center for writers and musicians, an environmental learning center, a center for global engagement, and a strong archive collection. The average cost to attend Columbus State University for an undergraduate after aid is accounted for is $14,000. 

Columbus State University’s online bachelor of arts in communication ranks highly due to it’s flexibility as well as the relatively affordable nature of the program. The widest range of emphasis areas seen in the schools in this year’s ranking are present at Columbus State University. These communications degree emphasis areas include a film production track, a social media track, a visual communication track, an integrated media track, a public relations track, and a communication studies track. Columbus State was also found to be the 5th most affordable program surveyed after student financial aid was taken into account. 

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16. Lakeland University

Lakeland University is another Christian-centered university on our list, in this associated with the Church of Christ. This liberal arts college offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs and places an emphasis on promoting access to education for nontraditional learners. This focus is achieved through a wide range of evening, weekend, and online education centers throughout the state. Additionally, a two year program is available at the international campus in Tokyo. With a strong graduation rate, Lakeland is moderately priced for a private university with an average undergraduate annual cost of $20,000 after average aid. 

Lakeland University provides an elective rich fully online bachelor’s degree in communication. Individuals can use this degree to prepare for a job in web content, public policy, journalism, public relations, integrated communications, or corporate communications. With a relatively high graduation rate, this degree program can be a great choice for individuals seeking a Christian-centered degree program. Additionally, Lakeland has a long history of providing academic programming for nontraditional and adult students. This means they likely know a thing or two about online education. 

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17. Trine University

Trine University is a small private university that is home to around 2,200 in-person and 2,800 online students. For it’s small size, the university is a rarity to hold the prestigious space-grant designation. Though the university started as a teacher’s college, today courses are offered in arts and sciences, business, education, and engineering. Trine is accredited at the highest level (regionally) by the Higher Learning Commission. Their graduation rate is strong for their tier of university (regionally ranked). The fees are moderate, however, for private colleges with an average cost of undergraduate annual attendance at $26,000 after financial aid is applied. 

Trine University’s fully online bachelor of arts in communications is great for adult learners and in particularly those in the armed forces. Courses can start any night of the week. And an already relatively affordable private degree program offers great discounts for active duty military members. Another unique offering is that students must choose a “professional track.” This is essentially a secondary discipline used to enhance their communications coursework and provide more of an interdisciplinary mindset. Current professional tracks include health care administration, organizational leadership, criminal justice, and information systems. 

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18. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a space-grant designated public research university that holds a main campus in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It’s a mid-sized public institution with about 13,500 students. In recent years the university has expanded online by a decent degree. With clost to 1,000 academic faculty, class sizes can remain small and students can gain a great deal of one-on-one instruction in many disciplines. Their online programming has been lauded by a range of publications including US News and World Report. Whether you study online or in-person, there are a wide range of academic subjects one can pursue. In-person a total of 224 fields of study are available. The average cost of undergraduate annual tuition after average aid is applied is presently $16,000. 

The University of North Dakota’s bachelor of arts in communication degree is placed in our ranking due to UND’s commitment to high quality and flexible online education. As with many of their other undergraduate degrees, students can pursue their degree through self-paced courses that they can enroll in anytime. While you’ll likely want to keep your degree program moving along, this additional flexibility can be a life saver for working or non-traditional students. Students can also customize their degree with a wide range of focus areas. A sampling of these focus areas include digital journalism, advertising, social media strategy, and strategic communication. 

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19. Liberty University

Liberty University is an evangelical Christian university that has in recent years been one of the fastest growing schools in the nation. While around 15,000 students attend the university in-person, online degrees have fueled the schools growth where there are over 90,000 students! This means Liberty University has a great deal of data on what works and doesn’t work in online education. For students who share the evangelical Christian beliefs of the university in particular, Liberty can be a tried and true way to progress in a huge range of fields. The average cost of attendance for undergraduates after the average amount of financial aid is applied is presently $28,000. 

A unique offering on our list, Liberty University offers a fully online bachelor of science degree focused on strategic communication. We like this degree for many of the reasons Liberty is so popular among online learners. For example, you can transfer in up to 75% of the total degree. Additionally, courses are quick, only taking 8 weeks. These factors allow the average time until degree to drop to 3.5 years. Two concentrations are available within this degree program,  social media management and strategic communications. 

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20. Colorado State University – Global Campus

Colorado State University has long been a well reputed western school in a range of subjects. In recent years, the emergence of CSU – Global, a separate university within the Colorado State University System, has taken on increasing prominence within online education. With one of the widest ranges of online degrees in the nation, and coming from a well regarded public school, CSU – Global has helped students to succeed across the nation and world. Presently CSU – Global has about 20,000 fully online students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Programming – as one might expect – centers around non-traditional programs and adult learners. 

Colorado State University – Global is known for being SUPER adult or nontraditional student friendly. And their bachelor of science in communication degree is no different. Courses are often asynchronous, meaning you can log in when you have time. Additionally, there are 18 total specialization that individuals can delve into to make their communications degree interdisciplinary and to specialize in a subfield. A sampling of these specializations include finance, computer programming, data management, project management, small business, marketing, and many others. 

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For Further Reading:

What Degree Do I Need to Become a Lighting Designer?

The post The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s In Communications Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

While many of our rankings focus on individuals specific disciplines, schools with quality social science scholars tend to have a range of fields they excel in. And many social science degrees are interdisciplinary to some degree. To reflect this fact we’ve ranked schools that provide online degrees and excel across a range of the social sciences. Enjoy!

1. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan online offers a number of options for people who are looking to pursue an online degree. Michigan Online offers courses degrees and something called teach outs which are free online learning events that focus on important topics that currently face society. The degree programs are full degrees including undergraduate and graduate degrees and the courses are 4 to 6 weeks long and or self paced. If you are looking to grow skills try their course series.

The University of Michigan online offers a master of social work. This is a part-time online master of social work degree which is perfect for young professionals who have family and other commitments. This is a 45 credit hour part-time program that includes placements near you and your community. As part of the degree you have an opportunity to visit Ann Arbor and meet your cohort. The online curriculum is interpersonal practice in integrated health, mental health, and substance-abuse. This online degree prepares you to become a licensed social worker.

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2. New York University

New York University offers a number of online degrees and courses through NYU online. NYU offers a number of growing online offerings including graduate degrees, enhanced undergraduate experiences, as well as online certifications. Their online programming has expanded their reach and students from all backgrounds are now able to study at NYU. NYU is known for innovation and over the years NYU online has adjusted their curriculum to ensure that they’re using best practices. The courses are created by their faculty which are customized for the students who attend.

NYU online features their online Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness as well as a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance. Both programs may be completed in less than two years. The Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness utilizes a hands-on approach and does not require a GRE for admission. This online degree features live classes and interactive work as well as real world training at sites located near your area. The course also features three or four days of networking and intensive training on campus In New York City. Master of arts in counseling in guidance is an 18-month program that does not require a GRE. In this program you’ll learn to be an elementary school counselor, middle school counselor, or a high school counselor. Students may select a bilingual school counseling concentration.

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3. University of Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin eCampus features over 150 University of Wisconsin online degrees and certifications. There are a growing number of programs available through campuses across the UW system. UW eCampus also offers online supplementation courses for students who are enrolled at a brick and mortar location. You can take classes during the summer, take individual courses online, and more.

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4. University of Washington

The university of Washington offer is the professional and continuing education programs. These online degrees are a great fit for any individual who is non-traditional either looking to return to school or complete their degree online. Their online programs feature bachelors and Masters degrees in a wide range of fields. Their online programs feature number of degrees in engineering and applied sciences.

Additionally, their online programming features online degrees in the social sciences including their bachelor of arts and integrated social sciences. This program is done entirely online and may be completed in 2 to 4 years. Like with all bachelors degrees, this program requires general education requirements and coursework pertaining to the major. Additionally, you can personalize your studies with a mix of courses from various fields including sociology, anthropology, international studies, economics, geography, communication and history. Their online masters degree is a degree in library and information science. This course may be completed at UW Seattle or online. The courses are flexible and the duration is two years. All students will be studying full-time.

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5. University of Texas

The university of Texas at Austin offers the university extension program. All of these courses are 100% online and open Roman. No admission to the university of Texas is required. There are a number of self paced online programs in a wide range of fields including classical mythology, foundations of accounting, world literature, Russian studies, calculus, and so much more.

The University of Texas offers an online course called sociology of love and intimacy. This Course focuses on many aspects of love including social change and human values. Additionally you will have the opportunity to look at how intimacy and love are materializing a variety of societies. In the course you will become familiar with the spiritual and philosophical aspects of life. You will also examine the impact of industrialization and capitalism on private lights. Additionally the University of Texas offers courses in American government Texas government issues and policies in American government women in the United States history and the United States history ranging from 1492 to 1865 and beyond. For more information on the wide array of courses offered in sociology head to their website.

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6. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a private research university that offers some of the best education in the world. It’s brick and mortar location is in Los Angeles which is a global center for international business the arts and more. Along with the changing times USC has changed their programming. USC currently offers a number of online programs in a wide variety of fields including computer science, business and accounting, dentistry, engineering science technology, law, library science, psychology, public policy and more.

Among the many online programs is their online school of social work. The Social Work school at USC is one of the best in the world and their online programming includes the nursing MSN, the Social Work MSW and the doctor of Social Work DSW. Additionally students may pursue the online master of science in applied psychology the online masters in public administration and the master of urban planning. There are a number of additional Available. For more information and to sign up for one of these online degrees had to their website.

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7. University of Illinois

The University of Illinois University of. Illinois system offers a number of online options. The University of Illinois at Urbana champagne, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and the University of Illinois at Springfield all offer online programming. Students may pursue a bachelors, bachelors, doctoral degree, certification, continuing education course, and general Ed course.

The University of Illinois Springfield office in online bachelors degree in psychology. This is a bachelor of arts program that is taught entirely online. The college offers a high-quality education taught by faculty from the University of Illinois Springfield campus. This program does provide an individualized professional advising opportunity and the faculty work with you to help you design a customized career path. The Springfield campus also offers a bachelor of arts in political science. The curriculum is a flexible course of study giving you a foundation in law, politics, public service, research or teaching. The Urbano-Champaign campus offers an online master of social work the guy MSW. This online degree afford students the opportunity to continue to work in their hometown while advancing their education. Many students are able to complete this program and a return to employment field placement allowing them to be employed at their social service agency. This online course prepare students for social work practice as well as research in public and private agencies into concentrations: leadership and social change, and advanced clinical. If you choose advanced clinical you may further choose to specialize in: mental health, healthcare, or children youth and family services. Each student must choose a concentration and complete an internship.

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8. Ohio State University

Ohio state university offers a wide range of degree and certification programs fully online. Ohio State University offers degree programs in their college of nursing at the Fisher College of business at the John Glenn college of public affairs at their college of social work at the college of engineering, at the college of pharmacy at the college of arts and sciences and much more. If you are looking to advance your career or simply head back to school to finish your degree then check out the wide range of online offerings Available through Ohio State university ( OSU ).

Among these online offerings is the master of social work offered through the college of social work. According to the US news and world report the master of social work at the Ohio State university is ranked sixth among public universities. If you have earned a degree an undergraduate degree in social work you are eligible for the ASAP MSW program which is an accelerated path to the degree. If you have completed a bachelors degree in any other discipline you’re eligible for the additional MSW program. This online degree takes four semesters or 2 Years to complete. For more information about their master of science and social work and their myriad other programs head to their website.

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9. Penn State University

Penn State is a huge school that offers a number of fantastic academic opportunities. In recent years, Penn State opened up it’s famous world campus. The world campus at Penn State consists of over 150° and certifications all entirely online. You don’t have to head to Pennsylvania To study at Penn State. Penn State offers bachelors degrees associates degrees undergraduate certificates undergraduate minors masters degrees doctoraldegree graduate certificate and more all online. No matter where you are in your career an online degree from Penn State can help you get where you need to go.

Currently, Penn State offers 22 programs online at their level arts and communications school including their undergraduate certificate in digital arts, the digital journal Lizum and media bachelor of arts, the diversity studies undergraduate certificate, the history bachelors of arts. The undergraduate minor in history, the undergraduate minor and media studies the associate of arts and letters arts and sciences as well as the bachelor of arts and letters arts and sciences, The bachelor of arts in psychology the bachelor of science in psychology the master of professional studies in psychology of leader ship and the undergraduate minor in sociology. As you can see there are a wide range of online degrees related to the social sciences. For more information and to apply head to their website.

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10. University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers a number of online degrees and certifications. These degrees are equivalent there on campus degrees and certifications and generally use the same instructors and offer the same programming as well as curriculum. This This is an University of Minnesota degree. The University of Minnesota offers undergraduate certificates, graduate certificates, undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, doctoral degrees as well as licensing programs, and minors as well as partially online programs.

The University of Minnesota offers an online bachelor of applied science in psychology. This is a 120 credit our program that’s offered through the Dallas campus. At the end of this degree you are an undergraduate degree from the college of education and human service professionals. Some of the sample courses of this program include a course in developmental psychology, experimental design and methodology, theories of personality, learning and behavior, and an introduction to industrial/organizational psychology. For more information on the wide variety of online offerings at U of M had to their website.

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11. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is one of the top innovative schools in the world. Over the past few years Arizona State University ASU has offered an increasing number of online degrees and certifications. Currently ASU online offers undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, online certification programs, and non-degree programs. According to the US news and world report ASU is ranked as the 103rd Best school in the nation as well as the number one most innovative school in the world. A large part of their innovation comes through their online degree offerings. One of the benefits of their online programming is that you will get to learn from the same state of the art faculty that they have at their brick-and-mortar location.

ASU offers a number up online degrees related to the social sciences including their community advocacy and social policy bachelors degree their master of arts and social justice and human rights, their master of arts and social technologies, their master of social work as well as their graduate certificate and social entrepreneurship and community development. Their online bachelor of arts and community advocacy and social policy is an online program that focuses on advocacy that compares social services systems. There are two course sequence areas: the diversity/Oppressed populations sequence and these social problems and interventions sequence which focuses on social problems that affect members of oppressed populations. This program offers change strategies. For more information about the myriad programs available online through ASU head to their website.

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12. Rutgers University

Rutgers offers online degrees. According to the US news and world report Rutgers New Brunswick is the number one public university in the state of New Jersey and is the top 25 public universities in the US and top 30 nationally ranked universities. Rutgers online currently offers a number of bachelors degrees and Masters degrees. These online degrees are nationally ranked and use the same faculty and offer the same academic programming as the on-campus programs. Rutgers boasts small classroom sizes as well as a flexible and convenient program that is affordable and outcomes driven. If you are looking to change your careers or simply to begin and complete a degree then try the Rutgers online programming.

Among their many online offerings is the master of social work. In the Masters of social work you’ll complete an online degree with a clinical specialization where in you will learn about and assessment intervention evaluation men and ways to enhance the well-being of others. This 100% online format is flexible and allows you to plan your work according to your own schedule. No GRE is required Or admission to this program. If you have a passion for helping others and are interested in joining the rewarding career of Social Work then this is the degree for you.

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13. Boston University

Boston university is one of the top rated universities in the United States. This infamous university is well known for its award-winning innovative approach to academia. Lately, BU has been offering award winning online learning programs. In fact US news and world report recently ranked their online programming among the best in the nation. There are currently 3200 students enrolled in an online program at BU with over 76 countries represented. BU offers online bachelors masters and doctoral degree programs. You can pursue an online degree in art education, law, management, music education, occupational therapy, Social Work, software development, cyber security, project management, and more.

Boston university offers an online master of social work from the Boston university school of social work. This is a program that has three tracks and as a part time masters degree. This program features a major in either clinical or macro Social Work in offer is a convenient online format. The part-time format is great for individuals who need to work while studying. This program affords you the flexibility to complete one or two field internships within your own community. The curriculum is holistic and helps you assist of diverse group of at risk populations.

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14. George Washington University

George Washington University Is an excellent university and now an excellent online learning university. George WGW online offersdegree programs in the Liberal arts, Business, education, medicine, nursing and pre-professional disciplines. According to US news and world report George Washington University ranks is the 66th best school in the nation and is also the 38th Beth school for veterans. If you’re looking for a high-quality education that is also high value then certainly check out the academic offerings at GWU.

Are you looking to pursue a certification or a degree in politics and public policy then certainly check out the various online offerings that GW you. Do you WU offers a master of international policy and practice which is a 27 credit our masters program for individuals with eight or more years of professional experience. This program may be completed full-time in one year and also has part-time options available. Are you a Spanish student? And you may be interested in the master of professional studies and political communications and governance. This program is offered entirely in Spanish to students in Latin America and Spain on trains leaders from all fields and how to develop a professional approach to secure Alex direct office. If you are interested in American politics then try the master of professional studies and political management.

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15. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia is one of the top 50 schools in the United States. Additionally according to the US news and world report the University of Georgia ranks as the 15th top public school in the nation the 23rd best college for veterans and the 35th best school for study abroad programming among many other accolades. Recently, the University of Georgia has turned to online learning. If you’re looking to pursue an online program you can follow a course online a degree program and a professional certification. When it comes to online degrees the University of Georgia offers undergraduate degrees graduate degrees and more. Additionally, the University of Georgia offers a number of professional certifications specifically those two enhance the career of teachers as well as graduate speech and language pathology professionals and more.

If you are interested in the social sciences and check out their online master of social work. This program features a curriculum with micro specialization’s in a wide variety of areas. Upon completion of this degree you’ll have the opportunity to work with families, individuals, groups, organizations and anywhere that social services are required in your community. The program is taught in a cohort model and requires 60 credit hours to be completed 44 of those credit hours are coming from online coursework while 16 credit hours come from field education that may be completed directly in your community. The program takes three years to complete. Do University of Georgia online also offers a Masters of education and educational psychology, gifted and creative education. This is a fully online MED program that requires a minimum of 37 credit hours as well as a final written comprehensive examination. Among the many courses this program includes characteristics of gifted children and youth, methods and materials for the gifted, a seminar and gifted education, and programming and curriculum for the gifted. For more information and to apply had to their website.

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16. University of Pittsburgh

Do University of Pittsburg Pittsburgh campus is ranked as the 58 best university in the nation. Additionally according to the US news and world report the University of Pittsburgh ranks highly for innovation, veterans, undergraduate engineering, and as one of the top public schools. In recent years, the University of Pittsburgh has added a number of online offerings. In fact you can find online programs through pit online in one of these schools: the graduate school of public in international affairs, the school of education, the school of law, the school of nursing, the University Center for Social and Herb and research, and their massive open online courses program. Additionally put online partners up with Swanson school of engineer ring, the Joseph M cats graduate school of business, The school of health and rehabilitation sciences, the college of general studies, in the college of computing and information.

Among their many online options is the master of public policy in management MP p.m. Disagrees office of the graduate school of public and international affairs and provides midcareer professionals with an opportunity to expand and develop in their careers. This is a 30 credit our program that is design with advanced career professionals in mind. As an online student you enroll in six credits per term meeting you’ll be able to complete the 30 credit our degree and just five terms. By taking courses in the spring summer and fall you are in your degree in 19 months. However you may Choose to complete your degree at a slower pace taking just one course at a time. This flexible opportunity is perfect for the working professional. For more information or to apply to their DNP program head to their website.

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17. University of Virginia

Do University of Virginia is one of the top public schools in the world. in fact, the University of Virginia is ranked as the 26th best school in the nation. Additionally, University of Virginia is the number for top public school the seventh bus school for business and the 10th best college for veterans among other very high accolades. Online learning at UVA offers online courses certifications and degrees. You can find online degree programming in the arts and humanities, business, education and human development, engineering and science, and medicine and health sciences. Or or you may choose to select a single course.

If you are interested in learning about the social foundations of psychology and how they apply to education then try the online master of education education psychology social foundations program. Social foundations are often called the humanities of education. In this online degree you will study courses like history of education, philosophy of education, Anthropologie of education, sociology of education, and comparative education. You may complete this program full-time or part-time yeah and you may simultaneously works for is an ad on endorsement and gifted education or English language learners education. All of the corn elective courses are taking online. If you are interested in a policy related career and schools in the school system for employment in various governmental agencies then you may want to look into further graduate training and Social foundations.

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18. University of Florida

The University of Florida ranks as one of the top universities in the nation. Currently in the university affordable strands has the sixth top public school in the nation as well as one of the top public schools for value, undergraduate teaching, business, undergraduate engineering and more. In recent years the University of Florida office UF online. UF online of Ford’s you the opportunity to pursue the major that you want on your terms through an accessible online portal. UF online offers degrees in the following areas: business and leadership, technology, communication, earth science, social sciences, public safety, health and life.

You have online offers a number of bachelors degrees in the social sciences all entirely online. You can pursue a bachelor of arts and anthropology, a bachelor of arts in criminology, bachelor of arts and education sciences, a bachelor of arts and psychology, a bachelor of arts and public relations, a bachelor of arts and sociology, and a bachelor of science and telecommunication: media and society. If you’re looking to pursue an online graduate degree such as a masters degree or a doctorate degree you may wish to investigate the online master In mass communication with a specialization and social media what design, public relations, political communication, global strategic communications, public relations and communication management, and more. No matter how you wish to connect with society the University of Florida has a degree program for you. For more information and to apply head to their website.

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19. Northeastern University

Northeastern university ransom on the top of the schools in the nation and is the number one school for co-ops and internships according to US news the 12th top school for a senior capstone project the alarm at the most innovative school and the 102nd best value of school. Northeastern is known for myriad of academic programming as well as their study abroad opportunities and their undergraduate research opportunities especially in the fields of computer science, grad engineering, and business. Recently, northeastern university offers bachelors degree programming completely online among these online degrees are the online bachelors in analytics, the online bachelors in healthcare administration and the online bachelors in project management.

If you are interested in social sciences he may want to pursue the online bachelors degree in psychology. As part of this program you will explore psychological development and behavior and much more. This online bachelors degree in psychology covers a wide range of topics which may be applied to various careers. The curriculum features experiential learning opportunities as well as general education classes and core courses. Some of the core courses include those in the behavioral and cognition Sciences such as their ethical issues and health care course, their introduction to behavioral health science professions and the chorus on stress and stress management. The major includes course material and abnormal psychology, social psychology, human behavior in the social environment, and Physio logical psychology. You will have the opportunity to purchase paid in clinical practice and engage in world-class research. For more information and to apply to this program head to their website.

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20. University of Denver

The University of Denver ranks among the top schools in the nation. According to the US news and world report, do University of Denver ranks highly for value undergraduate teaching in for veterans. In recent years the University of Denver has offered an online learning opportunity. You will have the option to study completely online through a hybrid program or using their HY flex program which affords me the opportunity to head to campus or to login from HONNE and pursue your degree online. These flexible online learning opportunities include masters degrees bachelors degrees and graduate certifications. Among the many masters programs since me engage with their online arts and culture management program their nonprofit leadership program their geographic information systems degree and their health informatics it’s a great program.

If I you are interested in the social sciences you may wish to pursue the online master’s in global community engagement. This program does not require a GRE or GMAT for admission and may be pursued either online or in the evenings. As part of this online degree you may pursue a concentration in culture and diversity, global issues, global community engagement. The global community engagement masters degree teaches you how to optimize organizational effectiveness and engage effectively with communities who have been impacted by global struggles. This is a 48 credit hour degree with five core courses, four concentration courses and three elective courses. Among the many elective courses include working internationally, communication and cultural memory, gender and social justice : Sex and power and global perspective, contemporary racial and ethnic relations, topics in global community engagement, and many more. You may complete this online degree in 24 months or 36 months depending on your pace. The University of Denver also offers their students the opportunity to take a course before they apply for the entire degree. If you are looking to pursue further education in the field of social science then head to their website for more information.

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For Further Reading:

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What Degree Do You Need to Be a Speech Therapist?

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Holistic Counselor?

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