Category: Online Student Resources

The Undergraduate Communication Degree: Bridging Soft Skills, Real-World Application and Easy Learning

The Undergraduate Communication Degree: Bridging Soft Skills, Real-World Application and Easy Learning

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving job market, employers are increasingly seeking candidates with a well-rounded skill set. A bachelor’s degree in communication, especially when earned online, offers a unique blend of soft skills development, real-world application, and the ease of online learning. UofL offers both a Bachelor of Arts and Science (what’s the difference?) in Communication. 

How does pursuing an online communication degree can position you as an asset in the job market? 

Effective communication isn’t just about what you say; it’s about how you say it. Online communication bachelor’s degree programs focus on nurturing a range of soft skills that are highly sought after in the workforce.  

  • Oral and Written Communication: Online communication programs emphasize the development of articulate and persuasive communication skills—invaluable for delivering impactful presentations, drafting persuasive reports, and effectively conveying ideas to diverse audiences. 
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Students are encouraged to think critically, analyze complex issues, and propose innovative solutions. These problem-solving abilities are assets in any professional setting. 
  • Interpersonal Skills: Learning online often involves working in virtual teams, enhancing your ability to collaborate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts in a digital environment. These types of interpersonal skills are increasingly relevant in the era of remote work and globalized business. 

One of the strengths of a communication degree program is its practicality; rather than teaching theoretical concepts; it equips you with skills that can be directly applied in real-world scenarios. 

I’ve heard the demand isn’t there, is that true? 

That is not true. The national demand for “communications jobs” is average. On average, there are upwards of 68k job posts every month seeking qualified communications professionals. Industry projections are that job demand will increase by 15% through 2033. 

What’s the benefit of doing my communication degree online? 

Online communication bachelor’s degree programs are designed with the modern learner in mind, offering a level of flexibility and accessibility that traditional on-campus programs can’t match. 

  • Flexibility: Online programs allow you to study at your own pace and on your schedule. 
  • Accessibility: You can access coursework and resources from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for commuting or relocating. 
  • Technology Integration: Online learning often leverages cutting-edge technology, preparing you for a tech-driven job market.  

Earning an online communication bachelor’s degree isn’t just about acquiring theoretical knowledge; it’s about developing practical skills, enhancing your soft skills, and preparing for the real world. Employers are increasingly recognizing the value of these skills, making communication graduates highly sought after in a variety of industries. Additionally, the convenience and accessibility of online learning make pursuing this degree more attainable than ever before. So, if you’re looking to differentiate yourself in the job market and embark on a path to success, consider the numerous advantages of an online communication degree program. It’s a powerful investment in your future career. 

Special UofL Benefits for Military or FAA Online Students

Special UofL Benefits for Military or FAA Online Students

The University of Louisville (UofL) is committed to providing the finest online education possible to all our students, regardless of their background or circumstances. That especially includes our military-connected or Federal Academic Alliance students! In this post we’ll talk about some of the benefits available to students from these two populations specifically, and how these benefits can help students to accomplish their goals. Keep reading to learn more!  

Benefits for military and military-connected students 

UofL has been consistently recognized as a top Military-Friendly® school that understands many of the unique challenges and circumstances that our military students face. We offer several benefits that are specifically designed to optimize the military student experience. These benefits include:  

  • Waived application fees and priority registration for personnel currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States 
  • Reduced military tuition rate of $250 per credit hour for active-duty members and qualifying members of the Reserves and National Guard for all undergraduate and most graduate programs 
  • Ability to return to the program after deployment assignments without penalty 
  • The opportunity to earn credit toward your degree for military experience and leadership training 
  • Access to the same faculty as our on-campus students 
  • …and more!  
 

Benefits for Federal Academic Alliance students 

UofL is a proud member of the U.S. Federal Government’s Federal Academic Alliance, and we offer a number of benefits designed to optimize the experience of government or federal employees.* These benefits are offered to enrolled students in our 60+ online programs which can help government or federal employees as they look to advance their careers and skillsets. Some of these benefits include:  

  • 10% scholarship applied to standard tuition rates, for U.S. Federal Government employees, for all UofL online programs each academic semester** 
  • This scholarship can be applied to all of UofL’s online programs*** 
  • Flexible coursework, completed fully online, on your time 
  • Curriculum that reflects the university’s strong commitment to applied research 
  • Quality education delivered right to your preferred internet-connected device 
  • …and more! 
 

Get started today!  

If you’re ready to take advantage of these special benefits at UofL, click one of the links below and learn which online program might be best for you!  

Click here to learn more about benefits for our military-connected students or click here for more information for FAA students!  

* Excludes uniform members of the Department of Defense. Government Contractors are not eligible. 

** Federal employees remain eligible for the duration of their academic program as long as they remain employed by the federal government. 

*** Discount applies to UofL’s online bachelor’s, graduate and certificate programs and does not apply to traditional UofL on-site programs. 

*** Discount applies to UofL’s online programs and does not apply to traditional UofL on-site programs. 

*** Discount applies to UofL’s online undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and undergraduate and graduate certificate programs. It does not apply to traditional UofL on-site programs. 

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: INTERDISCIPLINARY EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STUDENT ANSWERS ALL OF OUR QUESTIONS

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: INTERDISCIPLINARY EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STUDENT ANSWERS ALL OF OUR QUESTIONS

Meet Shiryuko Dennis! Shiryuko is a UofL Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning (BS OLL) student with a track-focus in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE). We asked her some questions about her online BS OLL experience—let’s read her responses below!   

Why did you select the BS OLL program and IECE track? 

I selected the OLL and Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education track program because I have a deep passion for working with children, and I wanted a program that would allow me to pursue my education while still being able to engage with them actively. The flexibility of the online learning format enables me to balance my studies with other commitments, including spending quality time with my husband, who is the love of my life, a major support system, and a fellow student in the OLL program. We are pursuing our educational goals together, adding extra motivation and shared experiences. Additionally, the program’s interdisciplinary approach appealed to me as it provides a broader understanding of early childhood education by incorporating diverse perspectives from various disciplines. 

What are you enjoying most about the program? 

What I enjoy most about the program is the opportunity to connect and collaborate with fellow students and faculty members through online discussions and group projects. The program has fostered a sense of community and shared learning despite not being physically present in a traditional classroom setting. I also appreciate the access to a wide range of resources, including research articles, case studies, and online learning materials, which have enriched my understanding of early childhood education theories and practices.  

Do you feel the program is providing the skills you need to be successful in your career? 

Yes, the program provides the skills I need to succeed in my career. The curriculum is comprehensive and covers important aspects such as child development, educational psychology, curriculum planning, assessment strategies, and family engagement. The coursework is designed to provide theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which I believe will be valuable in my future role as an early childhood educator. Additionally, the program incorporates field experiences and practicum opportunities, allowing me to apply what I have learned in real-world settings and gain hands-on experience. 

Would you recommend the program? Why? 

Absolutely, I would highly recommend the program to others. The OLL and Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education track program has exceeded my expectations in terms of flexibility, academic rigor and the support provided by faculty and staff. The program has equipped me with a solid early childhood education foundation and given me the confidence to pursue my career goals. The combination of online learning and an interdisciplinary approach has enriched my learning experience and broadened my perspectives. I believe that this program will prepare future educators to make a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families. 

We are grateful to Shiryuko for her thoughtful answers to our questions and for taking the time to share her experience with us! You can learn more about the BS OLL degree and IECE track here 


STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT STUDENT ANSWERS ALL OF OUR QUESTIONS

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT STUDENT ANSWERS ALL OF OUR QUESTIONS

Meet Kelsi Lamberson! Kelsi is a UofL Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning (BS OLL), student with a track focus in Human Resource Development (HRD). We asked her some questions about her online BS OLL experience—let’s read her responses below!   

Why did you select the BS OLL program and HRD track? 

I did a lot of research before deciding to go back to school and the BS OLL program was the best one that I found that would help me accomplish my career goals. 

What are you enjoying most about the program? 

I am really enjoying everything that I am learning and the different aspects that fall within the HR field. There are so many different types of specialties within the field that it’s becoming difficult to narrow down exactly what I want to specialize in.   

Do you feel the program is providing the skills you need to be successful in your career? 

Absolutely, the program is expanding on my previous HR experience and is helping me upgrade my skills.   

Any additional comments you would like to share? 

I am very excited to see where this program takes me! 

Would you recommend the program? Why? 

Yes, I would absolutely recommend this program. The professors are very eager to help in any way they can and if you are a detailed and organized individual, this program is a dream.   

Who is your current employer?  

I’m not currently working; I’m prioritizing school so that I can complete my degree in a timely fashion. 

We are grateful to Kelsi for her thoughtful answers to our questions and for taking the time to share her experience with us!  

Kelsi also experiences a rare genetic eye condition called Stargardt’s disease, which can have an impact on various elements of one’s vision. She doesn’t allow this condition to affect her work, however. Kelsi continues to work hard and remains on track to graduate with her BS OLL degree soon.  

The Human Resources Development track is specifically designed for business professionals who would like to start or advance their career in the Human Resource field. Students develop fundamental knowledge of Human Resources as well as the analytical and strategical skills necessary for the modern HR role. Successful completion of this program will help prepare graduates for the Certified Professional Human Resources (PHR) exam.  

You can learn more about the BS OLL degree and HRD track here