Why Study Communication? Building Useful Skills That Last

By Dr. Matthew Loux and Bryce Loux  |  09/11/2025

The ability to effectively communicate is increasingly vital in today’s interconnected world. People often ask, “Why study communication?”

The answer lies in how communication influences relationships, career opportunities, and even the way we contribute to society.

What Is Communication?

According to ThoughtCo., communication revolves around the exchange of information through the use of symbols, signs, words, and behaviors. It includes verbal and nonverbal signals and occurs on many levels, including:

• Interpersonal communication
• Group communication
• Organizational communication
• Intercultural communication
• Mass communication

The study of communication focuses not only on talking and writing, but also on listening, interpreting, and persuading. Comprehending how communication works on individual and systemic levels prepares students with versatile skills applicable to nearly every aspect of life. 

Personal Growth and Communication Studies 

Communication studies play a central role in fostering personal self-awareness. Grasping the nuances of both verbal and non-verbal self-expression helps individuals manage emotions, reduce conflicts, and improve their self-image.

For instance, mastering active listening encourages empathy, patience, and respect, which are all important for healthy relationships. These interpersonal skills are central to communication training and prepare students for stronger connections in both their personal and professional lives. Students can also learn conflict resolution strategies that help them navigate tough conversations.

Communication also develops critical thinking as well. The scrutiny and analysis of messages and how they are delivered allows individuals detect bias, evaluate credibility, and make informed decisions. These capabilities are essential in today’s world, where misinformation spreads easily and emotions can cloud judgment. 

The Role of Communication in Business

The ability to clearly express information, either in writing or orally, is critical for multiple careers. Employers often prioritize applicants who can express their thoughts concisely and coherently.

They seek applicants who can listen actively, work easily with other team members, and adapt their messages to different groups. Whether you are writing an email, holding a meeting, or giving a speech, effective communication helps you promote ideas and establishes your credibility as a leader.

In some career fields, communicating well is particularly useful. These industries include:

• Public relations
• Human resources
• Journalism
• Law
• Marketing
• Teaching
• Healthcare administration
• Corporate training

In addition, leaders who can relate to their team members, communicate an organizational vision with clarity, and engage with employees through emotionally intelligent responses are more successful. Clear communications are a cornerstone of any successful business.

Many Employers Seek People with Good Verbal Communication Skills

Verbal communication skills are cited as one of the most sought-after skills by employers, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) report.

Effective speaking encompasses knowing how messages are communicated and their social context, including how they are received, interpreted, and acted on. These days, that speech may occur in a wide variety of settings, such as in person, in podcasts, or in video calls.

Communication in the Digital Age 

The last few decades have brought about new and improved digital technologies, which have changed how people communicate. Individuals can share ideas, socialize, and network on platforms like Instagram®, TikTok®, and X®. However, these social media sites have also contributed to cyberbullying and information overload.

The study of digital communication can help students understand and navigate these challenges. Communication courses not only teach the responsible use of technology, but also how to craft messages, and manage a professional digital footprint. With a career or social reputation on the line, such skills are essential.

In addition, learners discover how algorithms, virality, and media ecosystems function in communication courses. Learning how online content spreads, especially false information, helps people develop as critical consumers and content producers.

Podcasts, blogs, and video production allow students to gain useful business skills and learn content strategy. These skills boost students’ employability.

The Importance of Communication in Problem-Solving and Innovation

Most sophisticated challenges in business, science, or public policy require cooperation across multiple fields of expertise. The ability to exchange ideas, bridge knowledge divides, and find solutions is critical for progress.

Research in organizational behavior shows that teams with open communication and respectful environments generate more ideas and creative solutions. In the courses for a communication degree, students learn to:

• Invite discussions
• Collaborate effectively
• Support innovative thinking

Communication and Globalization

In the interconnected global economy of our modern world, communication enables cultures, industries, and governments to work together. International trade agreements, peace negotiations, or even humanitarian aid coordination all rely on effective communication.  

Global communication goes far beyond knowing a language – it also includes understanding culture, etiquette, and history. What may serve as a convincing statement in one culture may be considered offensive in another. Understanding diverse cultures and international etiquette through specialized courses will help students learn how to handle these situations and avoid expensive blunders.

There is a growing demand for communication specialists who can localize brand names, adapt marketing strategies, and build relationships with international clients. These professionals are vital in international business and diplomacy, where skilled communicators help prevent conflict and strengthen alliances.

The Lifelong Value of Communication Skills

Unlike many skills in the workforce, the skill of communication does not fade in relevance over time. While industries, technologies, and tools evolve and change the way we communicate, the basic principles of communication will always remain the same.

The greatest benefits of communication skills lie in their cross-industry application. The ability to actively listen and explain ideas is valuable in any industry.

Communication skills can also make life changes easier to handle. These skills help with adapting to new roles, supporting self-advocacy, and building relationships in unfamiliar environments. Strong communicators also tend to make better mentees and partners, which enables them to develop mentorship skills and seek new careers.

Ultimately, studying communication focuses on the theories and applications that improve individuals and society by fostering better relationships.

The B.A. in Communication at APU

For students interested in improving their communication skills, American Public University (APU) provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication. This degree program offers courses in a variety of topics, including digital tools and media in communication, mass communication, and social media and society. Other courses available to students involve communication research skills and intercultural communication.

For more information about this bachelor’s degree, visit APU’s arts and humanities degree program page.

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