Communication

Why Communication?

Studying in the communication field teaches you the skills that employers value most - verbal communication, listening skills, teamwork, collaboration, writing and language usage, social awareness and adaptability, advocacy and influence, conflict resolution and emotional intelligence. It is flexible and adaptable and prepares you for work in a broad range of fields.

Upon completion of your studies, you can expect to find employment in business, government, law, politics, media and journalism, health and medicine, negotiation, social and human services.

Program Details

Associate in Arts

Format
On Campus, Online, Hybrid
In-District Tuition
$169/credit hour
Out-of-District Tuition
$337/credit hour
Degree
View Degree
Average Time to Complete
2 years
Financial Options
Financial Aid is available.

Program Highlights

Many employers identify effective communication skills as the number one criterion for hiring. Communication courses provide you with opportunities to speak, listen, investigate, discuss, create and report. Becoming an effective communicator also involves creating engaging visual aids, developing a respect for cultural diversity, exploring important social issues and promoting the betterment of everyday life.

Courses

  • COMM 101: Introduction to Oral Communication
    • IAI Course Code: C2 900 (IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university.)
  • COMM 120: Interpersonal Communication
    • Major Code: MC 901
  • COMM 125: Small Group Communication
    • Major Code: MC 902
  • COMM 135: Convergent Media Writing
    • Major Code: MC 922
  • COMM 160: Introduction to Mass Media
    • Major Code: MC 911
  • COMM 210: Intro to Communication Theory
  • COMM 220: Advertising and Culture
  • COMM 240: Introduction to Intercultural Communication
    • Major Code: MC 904
  • COMM 296: Special Topics in Communication
  • COMM 299: Internship in Communication

Degree - Associate in Arts

Within our Associate in Arts degree, there may be specific courses that are recommended for your major at your chosen transfer school. It’s important to meet with an academic advisor each semester to ensure that the correct coursework is taken, while earning your degree.

Even if your specific concentration or major is not listed on our application or program pages, academic advisors can help ensure you are taking the right coursework for your chosen major.

Learn more about the general education requirements for an Associate in Arts. 

Transfer Guide

Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) 

Heartland Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide transfer agreement among more than 100 colleges and universities in Illinois. IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university. For more information about the Illinois Articulation Initiative, please visit the IAI website. 

General Education Core Curriculum Requirement

For completion of the Associate in Arts degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 37 general education core curriculum (GECC) hours, within 7 categories, as part of the 60-credit hour degree. Please click on the category to view what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories.

View what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories:
Communications 
Fine Arts 
Humanities 
Life Sciences 
Mathematics 
Physical Sciences 
Social & Behavioral Sciences

Careers

A communication background serves as a basis of study in a variety of areas. With a degree in communications, you're able to enter a number of occupational fields, including:

  • Community Relations
  • Government/Social Services
  • Journalism
  • Linguistics
  • Marketing and Advertising
  • Mass Media
  • Not-for-Profit Organizations
  • Public Relations/Publicity
  • Publishing/Editing

The U.S. Department of Education's gainful employment regulations require disclosure of certain program information to students and prospective students.

Please review the employment information pertaining to your degree or certificate by selecting your intended program at the Heartland Community College Career Coach.

For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions visit the U.S Department of Education College Scorecard site.

Alumni Stories

Even with my life pulled in different directions, Heartland Community College gave me the support and flexibility to balance work, school, and everything in between..."
David Helms '26
Student speaker, David Helms, at the 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Contact Information

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Division Office

ICB 2000 & 2100
1500 W Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761

Phone: 309-268-8620

Email: LASS Office