Bachelor of Arts in interpersonal communication

Western Michigan University's interpersonal communication major is designed for students who want the ability to work closely with people in interpersonal relationships. Through hands-on education, you will learn key skills including nonverbal communication, persuasion and public speaking that will serve you in any field.

100%

of School of Communication graduates are working or continuing their education.

—2024-2025 Career Outcomes Report

93%

of students in the School of Communication participated in experiential learning.

—2024-2025 Career Outcomes Report

96%

of School of Communication students felt their instructors cared about them personally.

—2024-2025 Career Outcomes Report

Pursue a B.A. in interpersonal communication

This major is excellent for students interested in social service careers, where knowledge and ability in interpersonal relationships are critical to success. You will study interpersonal communication, communication theory, communication research, group communication, nonverbal communication, family communication, communication ethics, gender communication, health communication, persuasion and public speaking. Outside the classroom, you will learn through networking and career development opportunities through volunteering, internships,and other career-specific experiences, such as contributing to the Western Herald student newspaper or WIDR radio station, or joining the Lambda Pi Eta communication honor society. WMU graduates with degrees in interpersonal communication are working in diverse fields including social work, counseling, sales recruiting, lobbying, radio and television.

What you'll learn

Your coursework will train you to become a skilled communicator in a wide variety of contexts. You will learn interpersonal skills essential to everyday interactions in your personal and professional life. Public speaking skills will prepare you for job interviews and make you a competitive applicant in any field. Students can personalize their coursework to focus on areas of interest, including intercultural communication, teamwork, corporate and nonprofit communication and health communication.

Where you'll be after graduation

WMU's interpersonal communication program has equipped graduates to become lobbyists, mental health professionals, social workers, career counselors, recruiters, insurance agents, sales representatives and more. Students are supported throughout their career preperation by Career and Student Employment Services, which offers one-on-one career coaching, resume and cover letter reviews, practice interviews and access to job and internship opportunities through the Handshake platform.

Making the most of your learning experience

WMU offers experiential learning opportunities to develop real-world communication skills. Students engage in volunteering, internships, or career-specific experiences such as contributing to the Western Herald student newspaper or WIDR radio station. The Lambda Pi Eta communication honor society offers opportunities networking and professional development opportunities to help School of Communication students succeed.

Interpersonal Communication Cover Image

What scholarships are available for an interpersonal communication degree?

In addition to WMU's numerous scholarships for merit and financial aid, the School of Communication offers a variety of scholarships for personal and academic achievement. Recipients are recognized at an annual School of Communication awards ceremony, where you will have the opportunity to connect with other students and faculty.

Frequently asked questions

A degree in interpersonal communication will train you to navigate teamwork and relationships in a variety of contexts, including counseling, coaching, social work, sales, recruitment and more.

Yes! You have the option to complete an internship for credit toward your major, and the School of Communication faculty are happy to connect you with resources to help you gain the best professional experience.

Yes! The School of Communication offers various merit scholarships across its degree programs, some of which are restricted by major. 

Learn more about School of Communication scholarship requirements

Yes! Students with any major in the School of Communication can apply to complete an accelerated master's degree in communication. You may take up to 12 credit hours of graduate courses in your senior year that count toward both your bachelor's and master's programs, then complete your remaining master's degree courses in just a year after finishing your bachelor's degree.