Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication

Admissions & Aid College of Arts and Sciences
An organizational communication student stands in front of a classroom lectern while giving a presentation on Founders Day at the University of Portland.

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication

What Will I Learn in the Organizational Communication Major?

Language carries the power to catalyze change. At University of Portland (UP), the bachelor of science (BS) in organizational communication degree program fosters your development as an influential voice in business with the skill to harness that power for the greater good.

The organizational communication major curriculum teaches you to craft narratives that inspire action, turn complex information into compelling stories, and analyze communication dynamics in the workplace and larger community—all through the lens of human connection. You will build competencies in ethical collaboration and leadership in contemporary contexts, including ways communication processes sustain and change organizations' relational, community, and cultural environments.

As an organizational communication student, you can also pursue enriching extracurricular and networking opportunities in the Lambda Pi Eta National Communication Association’s honor society and refine your presentation skills in the Speech and Debate Union.

Organizational Communication Courses

The BS in organizational communication degree program develops your understanding of communication’s role in driving success through strategic message development and delivery.

Required major-specific courses include communication and media, public speaking for change, organizing across contexts, interpersonal communication, and principles of marketing, as well as research coursework that shapes your mastery of qualitative and quantitative methods. Upper-level business courses from the School of Business explain key concepts and practices that underlie human and technical communication systems.

Tailor the organizational communication major to your career interests with 400-level courses in engaging topics important to modern society, such as political rhetoric; visual culture; critical perspectives on work, labor, and organizing; multimedia storytelling; media criticism; and studies of social media and protest.

Degree Requirements

University Core

The Core Curriculum at University of Portland builds your intellectual foundation through liberal arts exploration, fostering critical thinking, awareness of the human condition, and a deep sense of purpose.

The Core

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More than a Degree

UP’s multifaceted academic experience offers enriching opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development, all within a community dedicated to your success.

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Undergraduate Research and Conference Presentations

Develop original research in collaboration with your peers and faculty mentors, deepening your communications knowledge while contributing scholarly expertise to the wider conversation of leading topics in the field. With the support of the Provost’s office, you can submit your work for presentation at notable national communication and media conferences.

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Senior Capstone Project

The BS in organizational communication program culminates in a capstone project that draws upon the cumulative knowledge you’ve built throughout your coursework. Craft an original paper and presentation in your chosen specialty, applying your insights to create unique solutions while building a profile for future employment or graduate study.

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Holy Cross Tradition

Our organizational communication major reflects UP’s Holy Cross mission of fostering social responsibility to transcend classroom knowledge and nurture your ethical awareness. Learn how to recognize ways in which your communications work can shape society and impact the common good.

The UP Difference

See how UP designs the student experience to ensure you excel.

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CAS Students Won Nationally Competitive Scholarships In 2024

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“Regional Universities – West” by U.S. News & World Report

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A University of Portland Communications professor stands in front of a white board with her arms raised as she explains communications and organizational hierarchy to her class.

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Student-Faculty Ratio

Organizational Communication Student Spotlight

“With classes that emphasize collaboration, projects that let me explore my interests, and course options that expose me to an array of topics, I have grown beyond my expectations. The Communication faculty are so kind and passionate—it’s clear they care about each student and want to see us succeed. They have taught me the soft and hard skills of being an effective communicator, making me feel confident and prepared going into my internships and career.“

Audrey Tengen ‘26, Organizational Communication major

Careers and Outcomes

UP’s bachelor of science in organizational communication degree program affords you a widely applicable, in-demand skill set that translates well to a range of professional roles, industries, and graduate studies.

Jobs with an Organizational Communications Degree

Graduates of the organizational communication bachelor's degree program make excellent candidates for the following positions:

  • Corporate Communications Manager
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Internal Communications Strategist
  • Marketing Manager
  • People Operations Coordinator
  • Technical Writer
  • Training Coordinator

Graduate Studies

The organizational communication major also affords the analytical and critical thinking abilities necessary for success in graduate and professional programs like communication, law, business administration (MBA), health administration, and public affairs.

Alumni Employers

Employers including those listed here seek UP graduates for their well-rounded knowledge and ethical decision-making abilities.

  • adidas
  • Canary Marketing
  • Hawaii News Now
  • J. Wade Public Relations
  • Monster
  • Tombras
  • TOMS
  • Whole Foods

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Craft the Stories That Move Organizations Forward

Transform ideas into action and words into change through University of Portland’s bachelor of science in organizational communication degree program. Apply now to join a program crafted to propel you into leadership roles, using your voice and strategy to bring about positive change.

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