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Best Communication Graduated Programs
Master's in communications programs prepare graduates for leadership roles in diverse industries. Graduates can pursue roles like public relations manager, advertising manager, and internal communications manager. Many media and communication jobs offer above-average salaries and strong job growth potential.
Our list ranks the top online master's in communications programs for 2021. Prospective students can use the rankings to find the best fit for their career goals and budget. This article also introduces salary data for communications jobs, common courses, and scholarships for communications graduate students.
Frequently Asked Questions: Master's in Communication
What can you do with a master's in communications?
How long does it take to get a master's in communications?
Earning a master's in communications typically takes two years for full-time students. Accelerated programs may offer a faster route to the degree.
Does a communication degree pay well?
Graduates with a master's in communications can pursue lucrative roles, like public relations manager and advertising manager. Both public relations managers and advertising managers make median annual salaries above $115,000.
Are communications majors in demand?
Multiple communications career paths offer strong projected job growth, including roles in public relations, marketing, and advertising.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Communication Masters Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Communications?
A graduate degree in communications trains students in advanced communication strategies, communication management, and communication leadership. Many master's in communications programs offer concentrations in areas like public relations, journalism, advertising, and business communications.
A master's degree helps graduates advance their career and increase their earning potential.
After earning their degree, graduates can pursue roles as public relations managers, lead writers, corporate communications managers, and marketing managers.
Many top-ranked, accredited universities offer online master's programs in communication. The online learning format often gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Tuition rates vary by factors like school, location, and delivery format. In general, public universities charge lower tuition rates than private schools. For example, Arizona State University, a public school, charges $707 per credit for its online master's in communications program, while Gonzaga University, a private school, charges $1,000 per credit for its online master's in communication and leadership.
Graduate students who choose an online learning format may benefit from tuition discounts and savings. Some public universities offer a flat tuition rate to fully online students regardless of where they live, which can save out-of-state students a significant amount. Online learners also save on the commuting costs that many on-campus students incur.
How Much Do Communications Majors Make?
Communications professionals can work in several fields, including journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing, and corporate communications. Graduates with a master's in communications can also pursue opportunities as writers and editors. Salaries vary widely by factors like job title, experience, and location. For example, writers and editors make median annual salaries of $63,000-$67,000 per year, while reporters and journalists make around $49,000 per year.
Management-level roles, such as public relations manager, often offer higher earning potential. For instance, public relations managers earn a median annual pay of over $118,000. Similarly, advertising managers report median salaries of nearly $142,000 per year.
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Featured Online Social Work Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Courses in Communications
Communications master's degrees build strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Students learn how to design public relations plans, write compelling stories, and communicate effectively in different environments.
Many programs incorporate hands-on assignments or an internship to give students professional experience. Master's students may also culminate the program with a master's thesis, project, or comprehensive exam.
While each communications program sets its own curriculum and course descriptions, the following list outlines several courses commonly found in master's in communications programs.
Strategic Communication
Strategic communication involves crisis communication, strategic planning, and integrated communication plans. In the course, students learn how to communicate an organization's brand, design communications campaigns, and implement media relations strategies. Students also explore social media strategies and effective crisis communication. The class prepares graduates for roles in corporate communications and public relations.
Organizational Communication
Corporate and organizational communication courses train graduate students in strategic communication, internal communication, and communication technology. The course covers organizational communication in large and small businesses, nonprofits, and private associations. Learners read recent research on corporate culture, global corporations, and communication theory. The course prepares graduates for careers in organizational communication.
Storytelling in Digital Environments
Learners in this course explore storytelling with digital media tools. Coursework examines narrative styles in digital formats and communication strategies for the digital age. Other topics include social media sharing and digital audiences. Communications professionals in journalism, writing, editing, and public relations often draw on digital storytelling skills.
Certifications and Licensure for Communications
Communications professionals can pursue voluntary certifications to demonstrate specialized skills and move into advanced roles. Certified professionals typically must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credential. The following list outlines several certifications for communications professionals.
The Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC) offers this credential to management-level communications professionals. A master's in communications from an accredited university meets the educational requirement for the credential. Candidates must also pass an exam. International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) members receive a discount on the certification.
GCCC offers the SCMP credential for business communicators with leadership experience in strategic communications. Candidates must submit evidence of their education, experience, and training, plus a reference letter. They must also pass an exam. IABC members receive a discount on the certification.
The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) offers the APR credential, which demonstrates public relations proficiency. Candidates must complete a panel presentation and pass a computer-based exam. PRSA members receive a discount on the exam fee. APR holders must regularly renew their credential by completing continuing education requirements.
Online Master's Degrees in Communications
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Online Master’s In Communications
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
University of Southern California offers a respected master of communication management program. The private institution's student population includes degree-seekers studying on campus in Los Angeles along with 8,203 individuals pursuing online studies. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
The program's rigorous curriculum meets high academic standards to prepare degree-seekers for advanced communications positions. Faculty mentors help graduate students customize the program based on their professional goals. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop industry-specific knowledge during flexible coursework. Graduates can transition to a communications career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. Students and alumni can access career services from the institution.
In addition to career advising, learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they explore all funding options. Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Scholarships and fellowships can also help degree candidates fund their master's studies. The school charges an average per-credit tuition rate of $1,948 for online graduate programs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Online Master’s In Communications
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from Purdue University-Main Campus. From its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, the public institution offers 35 online programs, including 20 online master's programs. While attending the school, graduate degree-seekers can pursue a master of science in communication. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialize during advanced communications classes. Students can select electives and pursue practical learning experiences to prepare for careers in specific areas of the industry. Full-time master's degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to complete their program. The program website provides specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $9,208 for Indiana residents. The school's online graduate programs cost an average of $682 per credit. Many enrollees use financial aid to pay for their master's degree. According to the school, 65% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s In Communications
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Situated in Champaign, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master's programs, including an online master of arts in communication. Master's graduates often benefit from increased communications career opportunities.
Faculty advisors help enrollees examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. The program's rigorous curriculum fosters specialized and transferable skills. Along with foundational communications knowledge, program coursework helps students gain industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding. Learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 131
Total Online Programs: 33
Number of Online Students: 20,199
Per-Credit Fee: N/A
Graduate Tuition In-State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $28,404
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Master’s In Communications
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Hamden, Connecticut, Quinnipiac University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in online master's programs from the private institution. Students who aspire to careers in the communications field can enroll in the flexible master of science in interactive media and communications program.
Degree candidates complete core coursework to develop foundational knowledge. Students can customize the program through electives. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate learners can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the field.
A master's degree often leads to advanced positions and raises for current professionals in the field. Faculty advisors and career counselors work closely with master's students and alumni to identify career growth opportunities and job placements.
The school's average cost per credit is unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. The school reports that 99% of students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,790
Out-of-state
$46,790
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,990
Out-of-state
$18,990
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
9,708
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Online Master’s In Communications
Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network. The private institution enrolls students in 44 online programs, including 26 online master's programs. The school offers a top-ranked master of science in corporate and organizational communication. The online program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy students balancing academics with personal obligations.
The program features core coursework, which helps learners prepare for high-level communications classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time. Admissions advisors provide prospective learners with program-specific application details.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates. Graduate students pay an average of $24,933. Enrollees with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. The percent of students awarded aid is unknown.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,298
Out-of-state
$29,298
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,933
Out-of-state
$24,933
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,857
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Online Master’s In Communications
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
University of Florida delivers respected graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including a master of global strategic communication. The public institution enrolls 24,310 students in online programs. Busy learners often benefit from online programs' scheduling flexibility and complete academic requirements around their schedule.
Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop industry-specific knowledge during flexible coursework. The master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions. The institution offers career services to help students and alumni succeed in the workforce.
Support services including career advising and financial aid counseling prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally. Degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Learners may also qualify for scholarships and fellowships. The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s In Communications
Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Ithaca College educates graduate degree-seekers online in person and at its Ithaca, New York, campus. The private institution delivers online master's programs. The flexible master's in communications innovation degree prepares students for a variety of opportunities in the field.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core courses that explore important principles. Degree-seekers take advanced courses and customize the program through electives. To further prepare for careers in the field, master's degree candidates can take advantage of faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Master's graduates often qualify for positions with increased responsibility and earning potential. Graduate students can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The institution's average cost per credit is unknown. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. Distance learners also use scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans to cover their costs. Of the school's graduate students, 97% obtain financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$45,274
Out-of-state
$45,274
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,432
Out-of-state
$21,432
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
6,266
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Online Master’s In Communications
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in Liberty University's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. Learners who want to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree can enroll in one of the school's 30 online bachelor's programs or 67 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in communications can enroll in the online master's in communication program. With this degree, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
The online program makes affordability a priority. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Liberty University Facts:
Average Cost Per Credit: $750
Students Receiving Aid: 99%
Students Receiving Loans: 57%
Total Master's Programs: 68
Total Online Master's Programs: 68
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s In Communications
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue University of Missouri-Columbia's programs online or in person. At the public institution, distance learners can earn a master of arts in strategic communication online. The flexible program is ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Master's students begin the online program by completing core coursework to develop foundational knowledge. In addition to core requirements, degree-seekers complete upper-level coursework exploring advanced topics. In addition to classroom learning, enrollees receive access to faculty mentorship and practical learning experiences.
Master's degree-holders often qualify for raises and promotions. Graduate students and alumni can explore their professional options with the help of faculty advisors and career counselors.
The school's cost per credit is unknown. At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. Of the school's graduate students, 89% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,120
Out-of-state
$26,991
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,264
Out-of-state
$25,363
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s In Communications
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
4 years
Online + Campus
Brookings-based South Dakota State University is one of the best schools for online learning. The master of mass communication program offers a rigorous, accredited curriculum taught by experts. Master's students learn through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Online enrollees can expect to earn their master's degree within two years. The school may offer part-time options for learners seeking greater schedule flexibility.
To fund their degree, 93% of the school's students obtain financial aid and 52% take out loans. In addition to this online mass communications program, South Dakota State University offers 15 other master's degrees.
South Dakota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,697
Out-of-state
$11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,083
Out-of-state
$15,541
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
11,512
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Online Master’s In Communications
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama's academic offerings include respected, accessible online graduate programs. In addition to educating students at its Tuscaloosa campus, the public institution delivers 23 master's programs for online students. The school's academic offerings include a master of arts in communication studies. Busy students balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling and enrollment options.
Core classes help learners develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. The institution charges Alabama residents an average graduate tuition rate of $10,780. Out-of-state students pay an average of $30,250 for graduate tuition. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. At the school, 79% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Online Master’s In Communications
Sacred Heart University
Fairfield, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
Connecticut-based Sacred Heart University educates graduate degree-seekers online and at its Fairfield campus. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in an online master of arts in strategic communication and public relations from the private institution. Master's graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career.
Faculty advisors provide graduate students with professional advice and insights into the communications field. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in communications settings.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. The institution's financial aid counselors support graduate degree-seekers as they search for funding options. Online learners pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.
Sacred Heart University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 33
Total Online Programs: 6
Number of Online Students: 3,111
Average Fee Per Credit: $774
Graduate Tuition In-State: $30,427
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $30,427
Awards Transfer Credits: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,800
Out-of-state
$42,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,427
Out-of-state
$30,427
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
9,156
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#13 Online Master’s In Communications
St. Bonaventure University
Saint Bonaventure, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
With a main campus in Saint Bonaventure, New York, St. Bonaventure University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Learners can choose from in-person and online learning formats. Students interested in communication careers benefit from the accessibility of the master of arts in integrated marketing communication program.
The rigorous curriculum, combined with academic and career advising, prepares enrollees for diverse careers. The online program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. The master's program generally takes full-time degree-seekers 1-2 years to complete.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. To pay for school, 80% of the school's enrollees take out loans, which they must repay after graduation. Of the institution's learners, 100% receive financial aid, according to the institution.
St. Bonaventure University Facts:
Total Programs: 57
Number of Online Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 11
Number of Online Students: 717
Average Price Per Credit: Unavailable
Religious Affiliation: Catholic
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,366
Out-of-state
$34,366
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,860
Out-of-state
$13,860
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,404
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#14 Online Master’s In Communications
Queens University of Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from Queens University of Charlotte. From its campus in Charlotte, North Carolina, the private institution offers five online master's programs. Learners can also pursue an organizational communication certificate. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options.
Learners gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced communications coursework to develop specialized skills. Enrollees gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for exact application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Tuition averages $13,824. Degree-seekers in the school's online programs pay an average of $664 per credit. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. To fund their education, 100% of the school's students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,438
Out-of-state
$34,438
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,824
Out-of-state
$13,824
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
2,463
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Online Master’s In Communications
University of North Texas
Denton, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from the University of North Texas. At the Denton-based public institution, distance learners can earn a master of science in digital communication analytics online. The flexible program is ideal for students who want to earn an affordable degree.
During the first year of the online program, master's students take core classes to gain foundational knowledge. In addition to completing advanced courses, degree-seekers can customize the program through electives. Master's students can prepare for careers in the field through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Master's degree-holders often qualify for positions with increased responsibility and earning potential. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can receive support from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The cost per credit is unknown. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Distance learners pursuing a master's degree can apply for funding options including scholarships and fellowships. The school reports that 82% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,423
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,900
Out-of-state
$13,496
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
39,336
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 Online Master’s In Communications
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Southern Utah University provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. Students can pursue 12 online programs from the public institution, along with in-person academic offerings in Cedar City. Among the school's master's programs is a master of arts in professional communication. Working professionals can benefit from the online communications program's flexible enrollment options.
Degree candidates gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced communications coursework to develop specialized skills. Students can select field-specific electives and complete practical learning experiences to prepare for industry roles. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate. For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can contact an admissions advisor.
Online learners pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Utah residents pay discounted tuition rates averaging $7,574 for graduate studies. Out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $23,784. Enrollees at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. The school reports that 95% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,006
Out-of-state
$19,822
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,574
Out-of-state
$23,784
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,224
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#17 Online Master’s In Communications
Stevenson University
Stevenson, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from Stevenson University. With 15 distance programs, the private institution provides academic programs in both in-person and convenient online formats. The school's academic offerings include a master's in communication studies. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online communications program's scheduling flexibility.
In addition to fulfilling core requirements, master's-level learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced communications classes. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow degree candidates to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to complete the program. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for exact application deadlines and requirements.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Students pay an average tuition rate of $8,040. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs. A total of 99% of learners receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,528
Out-of-state
$34,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,040
Out-of-state
$8,040
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
3,579
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#18 Online Master’s In Communications
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Syracuse University delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Syracuse campus. The private institution delivers online programs for busy learners, including a master's in communications with a journalism innovation specialization. The affordable, accessible program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.
Graduate students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues in the media communications field. Enrollees complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards. Along with building core media communications knowledge, master's coursework helps students hone crucial analytical and leadership skills.
Learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees.
Syracuse University at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 123
Total Online Programs: 40
Number of Online Students: 3,353
Per-Credit Cost: $1,751
Graduate Tuition In-State: $38,880
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $38,880
Transfer Credits Permitted: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,616
Out-of-state
$50,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,880
Out-of-state
$38,880
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
22,850
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#19 Online Master’s In Communications
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in online master's programs from the public institution. The flexible master of arts in communication is ideal for students who want to earn an affordable communications degree.
Master's students begin the online communications program by completing core coursework. The curriculum also includes advanced courses covering in-depth communications topics. Enrollees can take advantage of faculty mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities.
With a master's in communications, graduates can pursue leadership roles in their field. Graduate students and alumni can receive advising from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Distance learners can also use scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans to cover their costs. Of the school's students, 79% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,651
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Online Master’s In Communications
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas Tech University offers an online master of arts in strategic communication and innovation. The Lubbock-based school enrolls about 16,456 learners who take at least some online courses. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program provides advanced training for various communication careers.
Enrollees enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 21-to-1, which gives them one-on-one time with faculty. The program's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. Distance learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes it easier for students to cover their educational expenses. The institution reports a graduation rate of 61% for its programs.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 20,198
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 14
Graduate Tuition: $5,958 per year in-state, $13,428 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,527
Average Net Price: $16,463
The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,744
Out-of-state
$16,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,958
Out-of-state
$13,428
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
38,742
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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