The department offers courses leading to a Bachelor of Arts or minor in Communication Studies. The department's program reflects practical and theoretical aspects of human communication behavior, journalism, media studies and media production within the context of liberal arts and sciences.

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies combines study in three emphasis areas: Interpersonal & Public Communications, Journalism & Mass Media, and Film & Media Arts. This combination includes the study of public speaking, interpersonal and intercultural communications, contemporary communication theory, cinema studies, radio and video production, TV and film, media writing and advertising.

A Minor in Communication Studies may be earned by completing two required courses, plus another 12 credit hours in upper level courses.

The department of communication studies runs the largest internship program in the college providing students with opportunities to participate in both local and national internships.  

The UMKC debate program operates from the Department of Communication Studies. It has ranked nationally among the top 10 debate teams since 1989 along with colleges such as University of California-Los Angeles and Cornell. UMKC Debate won the Cross Examination Debate national championship in 1994 and 1995.