The same intellectual rigor that defines our bachelor's degree majors is also a hallmark of our Minor in Communication. Whether your interest is in journalism, public relations and strategic communication, film and media arts, or foreign language and communication media, this minor will build your practical professional skills, give you a broad-based understanding of communication theory, and afford you hands-on, real-world work opportunities.

Since you apply to American University as a whole, not to any specific school or college, you may choose any major, and you may also choose any minor offered by AU. Formal admission to the minor requires a cumulative GPA of 2.50 (on a 4.00 scale). You'll need to complete 18 credit hours with grades of C or better, including two required courses (6 credits) and four electives (12 credits) across a range of communication disciplines. A minimum of 9 credit hours must be at the 300-level or above, and at least 12 credit hours must be unique to the minor.

The same intellectual rigor that defines our bachelor's degree majors is also a hallmark of our Minor in Communication. Whether your interest is in journalism, public relations and strategic communication, film and media arts, or foreign language and communication media, this minor will build your practical professional skills, give you a broad-based understanding of communication theory, and afford you hands-on, real-world work opportunities.

Since you apply to American University as a whole, not to any specific school or college, you may choose any major, and you may also choose any minor offered by AU. Formal admission to the minor requires a cumulative GPA of 2.50 (on a 4.00 scale). You'll need to complete 18 credit hours with grades of C or better, including two required courses (6 credits) and four electives (12 credits) across a range of communication disciplines. A minimum of 9 credit hours must be at the 300-level or above, and at least 12 credit hours must be unique to the minor.

Navigate Your Career Path

Thousands of SOC alumni are working in the field, around the world. Pick any major media outlet and you’ll find one of our alumni in a key role. Because they appreciate what they learned here, they keep returning to share their success.

Our mentoring program bridges the gap between the classroom and the professional world as you prepare for your future career. Every year, dozens of upper-level and graduate students are paired with alumni who are thriving in their fields, and who are able to help you navigate your career path. From counseling on future career goals to sharing tips for improving your resume and portfolio to helping you land internships and job opportunities, professional mentors are an invaluable source of knowledge and experience.

Learn more about the mentoring program here.

Meaningful Real-World Experience

Our Dean's Internships offer exceptional School of Communication students significant opportunities to earn bylines, production credits, and professional recognition for their work.

World-class partners such as Bloomberg BNA, Discovery Communications, The Washington Post, National Geographic Fox, and National Public Radio reserve exclusive opportunities for our best and brightest students, connecting you with meaningful real-world assignments that provide recognition and future pathways to jobs.

After working part-time during the academic year, Dean's Interns are often invited back by their host partner to work full time for the summer or after graduation. Dean's Internship opportunities are announced throughout the year as opportunities arise.