Is Business Communications a Hard Major? What Students Should Know in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Business communications is often perceived as an easier major, but this misconception overlooks its academic demands. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, enrollment in communication-related programs grew by 12% over five years, reflecting rising interest and complexity in this field. The major combines practical skills with theoretical knowledge, requiring students to master strategic messaging, media platforms, and organizational dynamics.

This article will explore course rigor, typical workload, and essential skills needed for success. It will also discuss how prior experience, learning styles, and time management affect the perceived difficulty, helping students gauge whether business communications aligns with their academic strengths and career goals.

Key Benefits of Business Communications as a Major

Business communications develops essential skills in writing, speaking, and critical thinking, benefiting traditional students and career changers seeking versatile expertise.
Its flexible curriculum supports full-time workers returning to school, combining practical projects with theoretical knowledge for balanced academic growth.
Students build confidence managing challenging coursework through real-world scenarios, enhancing employability; 68% report improved communication skills post-graduation.

Where Does Business Communications Rank Among the Hardest College Majors?

Business communications is generally positioned in the mid to lower tiers of national college major difficulty rankings. Evaluations typically consider factors such as average weekly study hours, GPA, and technical or analytical demands.

Compared to STEM fields, which 63% of students rate as difficult, business-related majors-including business communications viewed as less challenging, with around 56% finding the coursework tough. This major usually involves fewer lab sessions, practical fieldwork, or advanced math requirements, contributing to its moderate ranking.

For instance, business administration, sharing curricular similarities with business communications, reports an average GPA of 3.2 and about 13.5 hours of study per week, reflecting a lighter workload in comparison to more technical disciplines.

Perceptions of difficulty in business communications can differ depending on the college and the student's personal skills. Those with strong writing, communication, and interpersonal abilities may find it more approachable, while students less comfortable with presentations or collaborative projects might experience greater challenges.

Compared to majors like engineering, physics, or chemistry, business communications is typically easier; it aligns more closely with other liberal arts or social science fields and tends to be more demanding than education or some fine arts programs.

Ultimately, how hard the major feels depends on individual aptitudes and academic background, highlighting the subjective nature of college major difficulty.

What Factors Make Business Communications a Hard Major?

Certain academic and skill-related demands make business communications a challenging major for many students. The combination of rigorous coursework and specific workload expectations requires strong discipline and advanced abilities.

Academic rigor of business communication programs: Students must master foundational business concepts alongside advanced communication techniques. Programs at institutions like Arizona State University and the University at Buffalo include demanding courses such as calculus, statistical analysis, and empirical research methods, which require sharp analytical and quantitative skills.
Workload and course demands in business communication: Majors like those at Baruch College necessitate completing between 42 and 45 credits, including at least 18 credits in residence. Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 or above in these courses, with grades of C- or higher, intensifies the commitment, especially as many programs require multiple writing-intensive courses and upper-level electives.
Technical and analytical complexity: This major involves developing expertise in public speaking, media analysis, and research strategies. Coursework demands creative yet precise critical thinking, particularly in classes on empirical research, argumentation, and communication strategy where students interpret data and formulate persuasive arguments.
Field-specific demands: Experiential learning, cross-cultural exchanges, and application of theory to practical projects in later years increase the challenge. This hands-on approach pushes students to synthesize knowledge and skills effectively.

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Who Is a Good Fit for a Business Communications Major?

Knowing who is best suited for a business communications major helps students leverage their strengths in coursework that emphasizes practical communication skills. This clarity ensures students can focus on developing the best skills for business communications students, improving their chances of success.

Effective Communicators: Students with strong written and verbal communication skills excel, as they regularly create reports, presentations, and persuasive materials. Their ability to articulate ideas clearly helps manage project-based and collaborative assignments.
Empathetic Team Players: Interpersonal skills and empathy are vital for navigating group projects and workplace dynamics, enabling students to work well with diverse teams and complex scenarios.
Creative Problem Solvers: Those with a creative mindset thrive by crafting engaging stories and innovative campaigns, aligning well with coursework in digital storytelling and media trend analysis.
Adaptable Critical Thinkers: Business communications demands quick thinking and flexibility to respond to changing business environments and media landscapes, skills that help students apply strategic solutions.
Hands-on Learners: Students who prefer learning by doing and interdisciplinary exploration gain advantages by engaging in practical projects rather than rote memorization, preparing them for real-world challenges.

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How Can You Make a Business Communications Major Easier?

Many students find business communications challenging due to components like public speaking and persuasive writing, which require specific skill development. However, adopting targeted strategies can significantly reduce these difficulties and improve academic performance.

Develop strong study habits early: Consistent practice with presentations and reports builds confidence and enhances communication skills, especially when reviewing recorded performances.
Master time management: Using digital tools such as Trello or Asana helps organize group projects and meet deadlines efficiently, maintaining steady progress throughout courses.
Seek and apply feedback: Regular input from peers and instructors on assignments uncovers weaknesses and accelerates improvement in both writing and speaking.
Strengthen core communication skills: Focusing on active listening, clear messaging, and empathy allows students to adapt to academic demands more fluidly.
Utilize academic resources: Engaging in workshops, tutorials, and campus support services provides additional guidance to hone business communication techniques.

When I spoke with a recent business communications graduate about making the major more manageable, she shared how overwhelmed she initially felt facing public speaking assignments. She recalled, "I used to dread presentations until I started recording myself and analyzing my tone and body language."

This self-review complemented feedback from classmates, helping her refine her delivery. She also emphasized the importance of breaking projects into smaller tasks using a digital planner, which reduced last-minute stress. "It wasn't easy at first," she admitted, "but those habits made the coursework feel less intimidating and more achievable."

Her journey illustrates that personalized strategies and consistent reflection are key to thriving in this field.

Are Admissions to Business Communications Programs Competitive?

Admissions to business communications programs are moderately competitive. While these programs generally see more applicants than available spots, especially at prestigious or high-demand universities, their acceptance rates tend to be higher than those of core business or engineering majors.

Factors such as program capacity, fluctuating interest, and prerequisite requirements contribute to this competitiveness, with some institutions experiencing particularly selective admission cycles.

The level of selectivity varies depending on GPA expectations, prerequisite coursework, and applicant experience. Most programs require moderate GPAs-Purdue, for example, asks for a minimum 2.67 GPA for upper-level courses-and expect completion of four years of English and math, plus additional courses in science and social studies.

Some schools also value demonstrated communication skills or leadership activities. Additionally, shifts in student demand and job market trends influence competitiveness, as communications remains a popular major nationwide.

A professional who majored in business communications shared that the application process felt challenging due to the need to carefully balance grades and extracurriculars. He recalled spending considerable time building a strong portfolio that showcased leadership and communication abilities, emphasizing, "It wasn't just about my GPA; I had to show I was actively engaged in relevant projects and activities."

Reflecting on his journey, he said the experience was rewarding and helped develop skills that opened doors in his career.

Is an Online Business Communications Major Harder Than an On-Campus Program?

The difficulty of an online business communications major compared to an on-campus program largely depends on individual learning styles and circumstances, rather than major differences in academic content.

Both formats maintain rigorous academic standards, so the core subjects-such as marketing strategy, financial communication, and data analysis-are consistently challenging regardless of delivery method.

Below is a comparison of online vs. on-campus business communications programs highlighting key factors influencing difficulty:

Academic Expectations: Both formats require mastery of the same curriculum, ensuring comparable rigor and learning outcomes.
Workload and Pacing: Online learners often face self-paced schedules demanding high self-discipline, while on-campus students follow structured class times with less flexibility.
Interaction and Support: Online students rely on digital forums and virtual networking, requiring intentional engagement, whereas on-campus students benefit from face-to-face collaboration and immediate feedback.
Learning Environment: Remote study demands a dedicated, distraction-free space; on-campus learners experience a controlled academic setting but may face commute challenges.
Challenges Unique to Each Format: Online programs test self-motivation amid home distractions; on-campus students must balance fixed schedules with personal responsibilities.

Those exploring the online business communications major difficulty will find neither format inherently harder, but rather suited to different learning preferences. Prospective students should weigh these factors carefully to choose what fits their lifestyle.

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Are Accelerated Business Communications Programs Harder Than Traditional Formats?

Accelerated business communications programs are generally harder than traditional formats due to condensed timelines, faster pacing, and increased workload intensity. The rapid progression often demands greater time management and independent study skills from students.

Below is a comparison highlighting key differences between accelerated and traditional business communications programs:

Course Pacing and Content Density: Accelerated programs cover the same content but in shorter terms (5-10 weeks versus 15 weeks), significantly increasing weekly workload and study demands.
Workload Management: Students in accelerated formats typically take 15-18 credits per term compared to 12 credits in traditional settings, which can be more challenging especially for those balancing work or family responsibilities.
Academic Expectations and Skill Demands: Both formats maintain rigorous content and skill requirements, but accelerated programs require quicker comprehension and application of complex concepts due to limited reflection time.
Learning Retention and Stress Levels: Traditional programs allow more gradual learning and peer interaction, aiding retention and reducing stress, while accelerated programs may increase pressure with constant deadlines and limited downtime.
Flexibility and Structure: Accelerated formats offer day-to-day scheduling customization but demand consistent engagement and rapid progression, suiting motivated, organized learners better than those needing slower pacing.

This condensed structure explains many challenges of fast-track business communication programs, especially for students who struggle with self-discipline or balancing outside commitments.

For those seeking more flexible options without compromising academic rigor, exploring inexpensive online universities that accept financial aid can be a practical alternative to traditional enrollment paths.

Can You Manage a Part-Time Job While Majoring in Business Communications?

Students majoring in business communications can often manage a part-time job alongside their studies, though success depends on several key factors. The academic workload is typically balanced between writing assignments, group projects, and occasional presentations rather than heavy lab work or technical exercises.

Course load intensity, schedule flexibility, and strong personal study habits play major roles in determining whether students can effectively juggle both commitments.

Many business communications students find the balance achievable by carefully organizing their time and choosing a credit load that fits their capacity. Flexible jobs, such as on-campus positions or remote work, align better with fluctuating class schedules.

Since the major often involves cyclical project work and reading-heavy coursework instead of daily technical tasks, students can plan their work hours around peak academic demands. Additionally, academic support resources like tutoring and writing centers provide essential help to stay current with assignments, making it easier to maintain performance in both areas.

What Jobs Do Business Communications Majors Get, and Are They as Hard as the Degree Itself?

Career paths for business communications majors vary widely in difficulty, responsibility, and required skills. While some roles match the analytical and creative rigor of the major, others present different types of challenges that may feel less demanding or more practical in nature.

Marketing Coordinator: Coordinates campaigns, analyzes consumer data, and supports marketing teams. This role demands multitasking and creativity similar to the major's coursework but is usually more routine and less academically intense.
Social Media Manager: Oversees company profiles, creates content, and manages online engagement. The job is fast-paced and requires adaptability; its challenges are immediate and practical rather than theoretical, making it demanding in a different way from academic study.
Public Relations Specialist: Develops media strategies, writes press releases, and handles crisis communications. The pressure to protect and enhance public image can match or exceed the rigor of the major, especially during high-stakes situations.
Human Resources Generalist: Manages recruitment, employee relations, and conflict resolution. While strong communication skills are essential, the role's daily workload is typically less complex than advanced coursework and focuses more on interpersonal tasks.
Copywriter: Crafts advertising, marketing, and web content. Creativity and attention to detail are critical; this job is often less demanding than the broad curriculum but can be challenging due to deadlines and volume of work.

Regarding high paying business communications jobs, starting salaries vary; for example, business analyst roles start around $53,000, and account executives around $44,000, reflecting moderate difficulty relative to other business fields.

Many wonder is a communications career harder than the major, but the answer depends on the specific role and workplace demands. For more insights, you can explore the trade schools list of careers, which includes related opportunities with varied challenge levels.

Do Business Communications Graduates Earn Higher Salaries Because the Major Is Harder?

There is no clear link between the difficulty of a business communications major and higher salaries. The major is considered moderately challenging, with GPA and workload similar to many social science and business fields rather than highly technical areas like engineering or finance.

Earnings are more closely tied to skills acquired-such as writing, public speaking, and strategic communication-and how in demand these skills are in the job market. Success often depends on specialized expertise and adapting to workplace communication trends rather than the major's academic rigor.

Several factors influence salaries for business communications graduates. Those working in expanding industries like marketing or tech tend to earn more than graduates in nonprofits or entry-level roles. Job titles also play a role; for example, corporate communications specialists earn a median of $78,697 annually, while marketing managers reach $91,339.

Geographic location matters, with professionals in cities like San Francisco or New York typically earning above the national average. Experience increases earnings too, with median early-career salaries around $43,355 rising to $59,081 in five years, and top performers making over $100,000 annually.

What Graduates Say About Business Communications as Their Major

Valentino : "Pursuing business communications was definitely challenging, but the learning experience was incredibly rewarding. Understanding how to effectively convey messages in a corporate environment has opened countless doors for my career. Considering the average cost of attendance, I believe the investment was worth every penny for the skills gained and opportunities unlocked."

Zev : "I found business communications to be more demanding than I initially expected, especially with the emphasis on both writing and interpersonal skills. However, the major has profoundly shaped my professional growth and boosted my confidence in the workplace. While the cost of pursuing this field can be significant, the career advantages far outweigh the financial aspects from my perspective."

Grayson: " Business communications wasn't the easiest major, but it was manageable with dedication and focus. The practical knowledge I gained has been invaluable for my personal development and job prospects. Though the tuition cost was a factor I had to consider, the return on investment in terms of career impact has made it worthwhile in the long run."

Other Things You Should Know About Business Communications Degrees

Is business communications a stressful major?

Business communications can be stressful at times, particularly during presentations, group projects, and writing assignments that require clarity and persuasion. Managing deadlines and balancing creative work with analytical tasks also contributes to pressure. However, effective time management and developing strong communication skills often help reduce stress levels.

Do business communications majors need strong writing skills?

Yes, strong writing skills are essential for business communications majors. The curriculum emphasizes clear, concise, and professional writing tailored to various business contexts. Students must master emails, reports, proposals, and digital content to succeed academically and professionally.

How important are internships for business communications students?

Internships are highly important for business communications students as they provide practical experience and improve job prospects. They allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, build professional networks, and understand workplace communication dynamics. Many programs recommend or require internships as part of the curriculum.

Are group projects common in business communications programs?

Group projects are a common component of business communications programs. Collaboration helps develop interpersonal and teamwork skills crucial for professional environments. These projects often mimic workplace scenarios, preparing students for cooperative tasks such as campaigns, presentations, and strategic planning.