Communication
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Clear, effective communication is vital to many careers. With a minor in communication, you will learn to strategically apply effective writing, speaking and listening skills in a way that is applicable to nearly any career.
Our award-winning faculty will help you enhance your communication skills through a combination of classroom instruction and practical application. In our program, you will have the opportunity to produce materials through class work, student publications, internships and more.
- Program Type: Minor
- Academic Unit: School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Standard credit hours: 18
- Delivery Mode: Online
- Typical Program Length: 4 years
- Typical Course Load: 1-2 per semester
- Estimated Program Cost: $7,402
- * All rates or costs are for illustrative purposes only. Estimated cost is calculated by multiplying the appropriate 2025/2026 UMKC academic year resident rate by standard credit hours. Fees are NOT included in the calculation. Your hours and total costs may differ, depending on transfer hours, course choices, academic progress, program- and university-specific fees, and your qualified tuition rate. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Why UMKC
Metro media experiences
Utilize our connections within the Kansas City area to apply your knowledge to jobs and internships with opportunities available at local news organizations, non-profits, businesses and government entities.
Faculty industry professionals
Get support from professional faculty, many of whom also work in the communications industry, and the Mercury Association, which offers resume workshops, interview sessions and networking opportunities for advertising and public relations students.
Professional labs and equipment
Gain hands-on experience at our fully equipped film, video and radio production facilities, which enable you to light, shoot and edit professional-quality pieces.
After Graduation
A communication minor is a valuable addition to nearly any career. By learning to tailor your messaging to your intended purpose and utilize the most strategically advantageous platforms, you will be well-positioned to build relationships, affect change and inspire action.
Potential careers
- Journalist
- Corporate communications manager
- Business owner
Where our students work
- KCUR
- T-Mobile
- Cerner
$57,634
Median salary/year
* Based on data from Lightcast.io for News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists (27-3023.00)
Potential Courses
Fundamentals of Effective Speaking and Listening
Examine the dimensions of effective platform speaking with special emphasis on developing critical listening skills through lecture, performance and discussion.
Introduction to the Study of Human Communication
Survey the theories, perspectives and methodologies used (historically and currently) in the study of speech, interpersonal and mass communication.
Organizational Communication
Develop your communication competencies and theoretical understanding by examining the major elements of interpersonal, group and oral communication competence essential to human interaction in organi…
Visit the Academic Catalog for a full listing of courses and descriptions.
Related Programs and Pathways
How to Apply
- Gather your materials
- Official transcripts
- Names and locations of previous college(s) or high school(s) and dates you attended
- Citizenship, residency and visa information (if applicable)
- ACT/SAT test scores (optional). Required if you would like to be considered for applicable scholarship opportunities
- Complete the online application
- No application fee for domestic undergraduate students — $75 for international students
- Check admissions requirements
Some programs have specific admission requirements. Request information to have an admissions counselor contact you about the requirements for this program.
Application Dates
To Start Classes in Fall
Apply by: June 15
Classes begin in August
To Start Classes in Spring
Apply by: Nov. 15
Classes begin in January
Estimated Tuition Per Semester
$6,168
Resident Rate
(per semester)
$9,063
Heartland Rate
(per semester)
$16,090
Nonresident Rate
(per semester)