Best Online Master’s in Communication
Online Communicaton Master’s Programs
An online master’s in communication program covers topics like fundraising and political campaigns, marketing, political advocacy, and public relations.
Graduates of master’s in communication online degree programs can work in fields like advertising, administration, and public relations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth for many communications careers, including advertising, promotions, and marketing managers; public relations and fundraising managers; and postsecondary education administrators.
The Best Online Master’s in Communication Programs
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in communication can earn their degree from Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois. Enrollees train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new careers.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in communications. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with a background in communication typically meet the admission requirements.
Online degree-seekers work with the program to find local internships. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Northwestern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master's in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $56,067
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $56,067
- In-State$56,232
- Out-of-state$56,232
- In-State$56,067
- Out-of-state$56,067
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate9%
- Students Enrolled22,448
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment2%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University hosts a top-rated online MBA/MA in communication. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. A master's can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in communications. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a communications background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll.
Online degree candidates work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: MBA/MA in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled27,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online communications degree can enroll in the master of communication management program at University of Southern California, located in Los Angeles. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Master's degree-holders may also move into a new career.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in communications. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in communications or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of communication management
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, located in Champaign, enrolls master's students in its online master of science in strategic brand communication program. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in communications or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of science in strategic brand communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of arts in communication at University of Louisiana at Monroe offers high academic quality. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of communications. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in communications before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. These and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
- In-State$5,788
- Out-of-state$17,888
- In-State$6,490
- Out-of-state$18,590
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled8,673
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Purdue University-Main Campus
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in communication at Purdue University-Main Campus, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Master's degree-holders can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in communications.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 60%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master's in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,208
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- In-State$9,208
- Out-of-state$28,010
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled45,500
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Mississippi College
- Clinton, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of science in healthcare communication at Mississippi College, located in Clinton, offers a flexible online format. Degree candidates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in communications. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in communications or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Mississippi College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 42%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of science in healthcare communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250
- In-State$17,550
- Out-of-state$17,550
- In-State$11,250
- Out-of-state$11,250
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate42%
- Students Enrolled4,733
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master of arts in communication studies program. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to communications. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in communications or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of arts in communication studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$15,984
- In-State$5,765
- Out-of-state$13,361
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled21,558
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Marist College
- Poughkeepsie, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in integrated marketing communication can earn their degree from Marist College, located in Poughkeepsie, New York. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of communications. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in communications.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved local sites. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Marist College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 49%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master's in integrated marketing communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,300
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,300
- In-State$39,925
- Out-of-state$39,925
- In-State$15,300
- Out-of-state$15,300
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled6,738
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of arts in communication degree at East Carolina University, located in Greenville, North Carolina, offers high academic quality. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a communications background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program Name: Master of arts in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in communication management at Webster University, located in Saint Louis, offers high academic quality. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in communications. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in communications or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Webster University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: Master's in communication management
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,500
- In-State$28,500
- Out-of-state$28,500
- In-State$13,500
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled9,860
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, WV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online communications degree can enroll in the master of arts in communication studies program at West Virginia University, located in Morgantown. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in communications. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior communications experience.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
West Virginia University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of arts in communication studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,134
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,154
- In-State$8,976
- Out-of-state$25,320
- In-State$10,134
- Out-of-state$26,154
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled26,839
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Illinois University
- Charleston, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Charleston, Eastern Illinois University hosts a top-rated online master of arts in communication studies. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants with prior experience in communications or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Eastern Illinois University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of arts in communication studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,356
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,654
- In-State$8,875
- Out-of-state$11,045
- In-State$7,356
- Out-of-state$17,654
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate53%
- Students Enrolled7,806
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master of arts in communication can earn their degree from University of Central Missouri, located in Warrensburg. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends a background in communications before applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of Central Missouri at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of arts in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,524
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,048
- In-State$7,128
- Out-of-state$14,256
- In-State$7,524
- Out-of-state$15,048
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled11,229
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
University of Denver
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Denver enrolls students in its online master's in marketing communication program. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in communications may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
University of Denver at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master's in marketing communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $51,336
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $51,336
- In-State$51,336
- Out-of-state$51,336
- In-State$51,336
- Out-of-state$51,336
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled12,931
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Boca Raton, Florida, Lynn University hosts a top-ranked master of science in strategic communication. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's degree-holders can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in communications. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a background in communications may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Lynn University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of science in strategic communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,320
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,320
- In-State$36,680
- Out-of-state$36,680
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled3,247
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Morehead State University
- Morehead, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Morehead State University, located in Morehead, Kentucky, enrolls students in its online master's in marketing communications. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The program blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of communications. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a background in communications may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Morehead State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master's in marketing communications
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,260
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,260
- In-State$8,970
- Out-of-state$13,556
- In-State$10,260
- Out-of-state$10,260
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,654
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of arts in professional communication at Southern Utah University, located in Cedar City, offers high academic quality. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to communications. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in communications or a related field.
Online degree-seekers gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Southern Utah University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of arts in professional communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,574
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,784
- In-State$6,006
- Out-of-state$19,822
- In-State$7,574
- Out-of-state$23,784
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled11,224
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online communications degree can enroll in the master of arts in communication program at Northern Arizona University, located in Flagstaff. Learners train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to communications. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in communications.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Master of arts in communication
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,305
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,522
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Stevenson University
- Stevenson, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in communications studies degree at Stevenson University, located in Stevenson, Maryland, prioritizes flexibility. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree allows graduates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to communications. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends a background in communications before applying to the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Stevenson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private nonprofit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in communication studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,040
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,040
- In-State$34,528
- Out-of-state$34,528
- In-State$8,040
- Out-of-state$8,040
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled3,579
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Masters
Communications
2023
Online Master’s in Communication Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the programs based on the quality of the program, the types of courses offered, the faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation, including the school’s reputation for effectively providing online degree programs.
What Is a Master’s in Communication Degree?
Communication master’s degree programs explore advanced topics such as branding, strategic communication management, persuasion, political communication, and multimedia writing. Most communications programs also include writing courses in areas such as writing for public relations, speeches, opinion writing, and promotional writing. Many programs emphasize digital media, which prepares students to manage online marketing and social media accounts.
Communications curricula vary widely by program, especially when it comes to concentrations and electives. When selecting a program, consider your specific interests and career goals. Research requirements can also vary by program. While advanced research topics are part of nearly every master’s in communication online program, some programs require additional research in the form of a thesis or practicum.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs
Online classes meet the same standards as traditional classes but offer much more freedom and flexibility. Students submit homework, take tests, and engage in class discussions online. Some online programs move in a synchronous format, meaning students must log on at a set time each day to watch live lectures or chat with peers. Asynchronous programs allow students to complete classwork and participate in discussion boards on their own time as long as they meet a set deadline.
Organized, self-motivated students thrive in online communication master’s programs, which prepare graduates to work under minimum supervision. However, some online programs do have in-person components, like monitored exams or annual three-day seminars. Pay attention to in-person requirements when researching programs and keep in mind that most colleges don’t pay for transportation costs. If you attend an online school in California but live in Missouri, plan accordingly.
The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Communication
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in communication tend to find jobs as communication coordinators or specialists. While these entry-level jobs are a valuable career starting point, earning an online communication master’s degree means more opportunities. Even if you work your way up within a company, some companies set salary limits for employees without master’s degrees.
Meanwhile, graduates with master’s degrees in communication earn jobs as managers or directors, or work in the higher education sector as college professors, where they can teach the next generation and enjoy a flexible schedule. If you’re unsure about whether you should continue your education, consider the average salary differences between professionals with bachelor’s and master’s degrees below.
Average Salary by Degree Level
$71,000
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
$71,000
Master of Arts in Communication
Source: Payscale
Choosing an Online Communications Graduate Degree Program
When choosing an online master’s in communication program, take your time. Being selective saves you trouble in the long run. With so many quality online programs to choose from, you can definitely find one that fits your needs and budget. Make a list of what criteria you value in a school, including program cost, transfer policies, and school size and type. Keep these criteria in mind during your search.
- Program Cost: Program cost is the top consideration for many students. You can save money by attending an online school based in your home state, since many colleges offer local discounts. Some schools offer in-state tuition to all online students. However, if a school costs significantly less than others, it might be because it’s not a legitimate program, so make sure to compare tuition prices.
- Transfer Policies: Whether or not you have transfer credits from another institution, make sure to read your school’s transfer policies. You might decide to transfer to a different school halfway through your degree or enroll in a supplemental program elsewhere. Attending a school with regional accreditation makes transferring easier.
- School Size and Type: The main difference between public and private universities is cost. Public schools tend to charge less for tuition and offer more financial aid than private schools. However, private schools usually enroll fewer students, which means attendees can have more one-on-one time with professors.
- Program Length: Before choosing a school, you should decide whether you want to study full time or part time. Some schools have minimum or maximum credit requirements, so you should be careful to choose a program that matches your study plans.
- On-Campus Requirements: Double check a programs on-campus requirements, even if the programs is advertised as being online. Some programs require in-person components, like supervised tests, presentations, or seminars, which can become an issue if you decide to attend an online college in a different state.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Most programs have other requirements in addition to the usual classwork. These requirements might include a thesis or capstone project, a fellowship, an internship, or a work requirement. Usually learners can complete these requirements locally, but students with full-time jobs might have a difficult time balancing these additional requirements with their schedules.
Accreditation for Online Communication Master’s Degrees
For students pursuing a communication master’s online, accreditation should be a top consideration. If a school is accredited, it means it’s regularly evaluated by an accrediting agency to ensure high educational standards. Although the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) don’t grant accreditation, they do oversee accrediting agencies. You can visit CHEA’s accreditation agencies database to verify accreditation for individual schools.
There are three types of accreditation: national, regional, and programmatic. Schools with national accreditation are usually vocational or trade schools, and the agencies that oversee them work nationally. These universities are generally considered less prestigious than regionally accredited schools, which tend to offer more traditional liberal arts curricula. Schools with regional accreditation also have more transferable credits.
Universities can also receive programmatic accreditation in communication. The American Communication Association grants accreditation to specific programs rather than a school. Watch out for online programs that don’t hold national, regional, or programmatic accreditation, as these programs lack outside oversight and likely don’t meet educational standards.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master in Communication Degree Program?
Both private and public universities typically require about 60 credits for a master’s degree. When researching online programs, pay attention to whether a school uses an asynchronous or synchronous format. Asynchronous programs allow students to complete work at their own pace, while synchronous formats have specific time requirements, like live discussions and lectures. Synchronous formats are ideal for students who need structure to keep them on pace.
Most universities set minimum and maximum credit standards for both part-time and full-time students, meaning those enrolled are limited in their course load options. If you want to finish in less than two years, you should look for an accelerated program, where the maximum credit load allows you to double up. If you must balance a full-time job with your studies, look for part-time options. Full-time students usually complete their degrees within two years, while part-time students take 4-5 years.
Courses in an Online Master’s in Communication Program
Advanced Public Speaking
Regardless of your specialization is, public speaking is an important component in any communication program. Online public speaking classes often require students to record and submit speeches, sometimes given in front of an audience. Typically, the audience consists of just family members and friends.
Interpersonal Communication
Communication directors and managers must have excellent communication skills in order to manage employees. It’s also important to communicate well in one-on-one conversations with important company stakeholders. This class teaches those interpersonal communication skills, helping students improve their listening as well as their speaking.
Organizational Communication
Often, communication professionals must oversee organization-wide communication. In an organizational communication course, individuals learn to enhance interdepartmental and employee communication through internal newsletters and company events. For example, students learn to ensure that employees receive notifications about important company changes before presenting those changes to the general public.
Ethics and Legal Issues in Communication
In courses like this one, students examine case studies and learn about laws and regulations that affect communication professionals. Learners also get the chance to develop their own ethical frameworks and learn how to make educated ethical decisions on behalf of an organization.
Communication Theory
In this class, students examine popular communication theories and learn how to apply them in practical situations. This course typically includes a term paper that requires students to choose a theory and explain how it relates to a communications-related current event. Communication theory courses encourage students to take a stance on each theory and incorporate their favorites into their professional practices.
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Communication?
Senior positions in marketing and advertising often require supervisory skills, critical and creative thinking, and the ability to coordinate departments. Graduates with an online master’s in communication have these skills and can secure these positions.
Common Questions About Master’s in Communication Degrees
Is a Master’s in Communication Worth It?
A master’s in communication can lead to fulfilling careers that earn above average salaries. According to Payscale, the average salary of individuals with a master’s degree in communications is over $71,000.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in Communication?
Graduates with a master’s degree in communication can work in marketing, public relations, and advertising, and administration.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master’s Degree in Communications?
GA master’s degree in communications typically takes two years to complete, though students in part-time or accelerated programs may take more or less time.
