Online Master's in Communications Programs Guide

Get started with an online masters in communications program and take the first step towards advancing your career in the field.
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Updated June 15, 2023

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Sharpen your critical thinking skills and pave your pathway to success with an online master’s in communications.

If you are seeking the skills necessary to succeed in a wide variety of careers, a degree in communications might be the program for you. In one of these degrees, you will learn how to express your ideas in a wide variety of formats - and to increasingly diverse audiences. Whether you are seeking employment as a public relations specialist or as a technical writer, a master’s in communications can help you achieve the skills and notoriety you need to be successful.

What kind of communications degree should you get?

If you are a strong writer and speaker, you likely already have some of the qualifications needed to be successful in the communications industry. However, finding the right program can be tricky. You should look for a degree that provides you with essential training in topics such as technology, digital media strategies, organizational leadership, and advertising, for example.

If you are already working in the communications field - or looking to change from an existing career into a communications pathway - it can be difficult to find the time to pursue a degree. An online program can provide you with the flexibility and affordability you need to be successful. Still not sure if an online degree in communications is the right choice for you? Make sure you check out our comprehensive ranking of the Best Online Colleges and Universities for a broader view of the best schools.

How much money do people make with a master’s degree in communications?

Your average salary and job growth after receiving a communications degree will likely vary depending on the specific career you pursue. These jobs are expected to grow at an average pace by 2026, with an expected addition of 43,200 new jobs. The demand for these positions remains high as more professionals are needed to create, disperse, and edit new information across a variety of digital, print, and multimedia platforms.

Depending on the career you choose, you can expect to earn an average salary of about $57,530 per year. This is considerably higher than the median wage for all occupations, and many professionals earn even more. The highest paid individuals in the communications sector, those who are employed in technical writing, earn well over $70,000 per year.

What can you do with a master’s degree in communications?

With a degree in communications, there are a wealth of opportunities available to you. You might choose to become a public relations specialist, working to maintain favorable public images for organizations or individuals, or you could go into social media marketing. You might find yourself working as a photographer, a writer, or an editor, or you could become a broadcast news analyst.

What do all of these careers have in common? They require you to think on your feet to craft favorable messages for the individuals, organizations, or ideas you represent. As a communications professional, you will constantly be innovating, creating, and broadcasting purposeful messages to a wide variety of audiences.

What are the requirements for a master’s degree in communications?

To obtain a master’s degree in communications, you will need to first complete an undergraduate program of study. Although this degree should ideally be in a communications-related field, such as English, journalism, or marketing, you could easily pursue graduate studies in communications after completing an unrelated undergraduate program. You may also be required to take and submit scores from the GRE.

While enrolled, you will take classes in the humanities as well as in topics that are specific to your individual communications pathway. For example, you might take electives in technical writing, public relations, or broadcast journalism, depending on your final career goals.

What are the best online master’s degrees in communication?

We’ve found that the best degrees are those that offer not only fair prices, but ample flexibility and convenience as well! To find the best degrees for you, we look at the best schools in the country based on reputation, student satisfaction, program quality, and return on investment. Then we review the bottom line - just how much is this going to cost? Check out our methodology page for a more in-depth description of our data.

Once we determine all of the above, we curate a list of stellar schools for you! These not only represent the best degrees you can get, but also ones that will fit your budget. Check out our picks below!

#1 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students searching for flexibility should consider the University of Florida for a media communications degree. The master's degree in global strategic communication is one of the top-ranked programs that attracts remote learners, who can choose from 42 online master's programs at the Gainesville, Florida, school. A busy schedule is no barrier to graduate education with degrees such as this program.

A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. A big draw to a master's in global strategic communication program is the intensive coursework that provides enrollees with advanced preparation in their field. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.

The school charges residents of Florida $10,770 per year and out-of-state residents $27,335 per year. Paying for tuition is always a concern, and grants and scholarships are an avenue for exploration. Another source of financial aid are loans, which students can pursue from the government or private banks.

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

#2 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Southern California, a private college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Los Angeles, California, campus. People can choose from 55 master's degrees available online. One option is the master's in communication management for communications students.

Graduate students can use online education's flexibility and adaptability to accomplish longstanding goals. Recorded video sessions may be available to allow anytime viewing, and faculty may let enrollees complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. This online format allows faculty to seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.

Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 11% per year, but some programs may vary. Master's degree-seekers usually need a bachelor's degree in the major or a related one to receive consideration. Consult with the program to find out more about application requirements and deadlines.

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

#3 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Columbia University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Columbia University is a private college in New York City. The institution’s 12 master's degrees available from a distance help make the college a leader in online graduate education. The master's degree in technology, media, and communication is ideal for learners interested in the communications field.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Busy enrollees may have access to recorded videos that facilitates anytime viewing and can complete their assignments within a reasonable timeframe as faculty allow. A hallmark of this institution is a lot of experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

Though this number can vary between programs, applicants get admitted at a rate of 5% each year. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. The program department can provide more application information, such as what documents to submit and how to do that.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,763
Out-of-state
$57,763
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,600
Out-of-state
$47,600
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
31,456
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

At Northeastern University, prospective graduate students receive advanced preparation in degrees designed for busy learners. Though located in Boston, Massachusetts, the school offers online master's degree opportunities for remote learners, including the MS in corporate and organization communication. The program’s appeal includes a flexible online format that allows degree-seekers to work and pursue other interests.

A bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the major, or a related field, is usually required for admission unless otherwise stated. A master’s degree such as the corporate and organizational communication program is a worthy undertaking for many people because the investment often pays off with advanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay. Degree recipients can pursue a Ph.D. program or other terminal degree.

Tuition is $24,793 per year for residents of Massachusetts or other states. Education funding options include institutional scholarships and grants, and opportunities elsewhere like through foundations and other nonprofits. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bills.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,420
Out-of-state
$52,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,793
Out-of-state
$24,793
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
22,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign attracts graduate students who want extra flexibility to pursue communications degrees without significantly interrupting their lives. A master's degree in health communication is among the 30 online master's degrees delivered from the Champaign, Illinois, campus. This degree’s flexibility is a draw for those who may have had challenges pursuing graduate education because of their busy schedules.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential to apply to master’s programs. The potential job opportunities and higher pay make the master's degree in health communication a worthy pursuit for many people. Degree recipients can pursue a Ph.D. program or other terminal degree.

The average tuition for students living in Illinois is $14,997 per year, and $28,404 if they live elsewhere. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bills.

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

#6 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The MA in digital communication is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in communication who want to advance their careers in this field. Enrollees complete an accredited curriculum with little need to relocate or give up their full-time jobs.

The school’s 13-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities to students. Learners complete a strong curriculum in digital communication delivered by faculty with industry expertise. Graduates leave the program equipped for more advanced career opportunities and the option to pursue a doctoral program.

Tuition is charged at $10,552 per annum for North Carolina residents and $28,278 for those living out of state. The financial aid options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships to help fund their master’s. Another option are student loans, and about 25% of enrollees use them to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% 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 Programs Guide

American University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can earn a media communications degree at American University, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs. Based in the District of Columbia, the school’s catalog includes 16 online master's degrees such as the master's degree in strategic communication.. This adaptable degree opportunity makes graduate education accessible to caretakers, full-time workers, and anyone unable to relocate for school.

Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in the same field or a related one. The enhanced job opportunities and potentially higher pay make the master's degree in strategic communication program a worthy pursuit for many people. A doctorate or another terminal degree is the next step for some people who graduate from this program.

The school charges residents of the District of Columbia and elsewhere $30,351 per year. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Many students use loans to help pay for the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$49,070
Out-of-state
$49,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,351
Out-of-state
$30,351
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
14,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Marist College

  • Poughkeepsie, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Marist College’s online graduate programs emphasize quality and affordability. The master's in integrated marketing communication has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in communications need to advance their education in this field. This program successfully blends a rigorous curriculum and a flexible online format.

The school has a 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the master's in integrated marketing communication program. Faculty teach a rigorous curriculum that both educates and engages communications learners. Obtaining this degree gives the holder an advantage in career advancement opportunities and higher pay negotiations.

Tuition is charged at $15,300 per annum for New York residents and out-of-state students. Many learners at the institution qualify for grants and scholarships to help reduce the price of tuition. They may also be directed to financial aid, used by about 53% of the school’s enrollees, as a means to fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,925
Out-of-state
$39,925
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,300
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
6,738
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Many students want to attend graduate school online and Liberty University offers that privilege from the Lynchburg, Virginia, campus. People can choose from 67 master's degrees available online. The master's degree in communication studies is ideal for learners interested in the communications field.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees may find it easy to work this master’s degree into their schedules. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

The admission rate for this school is 51% on average per year, but expect some variations across programs. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. Consult with the program to find out more about application requirements and deadlines.

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

#10 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Purdue University

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Purdue University attracts graduate students who want extra flexibility to pursue communications degrees without significantly interrupting their lives. The school, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, offers top-ranked degrees such as the master of communication among the 20 online master's programs. Accessibility is a key determining factor for many degree-seekers exploring graduate school, and this degree addresses that concern with a flexible format.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. The master of communication program provides advanced education beyond a bachelor’s, preparing enrollees for career advancement and other opportunities. Preparation for a doctoral program is another benefit of this degree.

The average tuition for students living in Indiana is $9,208 per year, and $28,010 if they live elsewhere. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to find out if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Loans may also be available as an option for many students.

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

#11 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Drexel University enrolls students in one of the nation’s best communication programs for online degree-seekers. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. The MS in strategic and digital communication provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

The convenient online format makes this school an especially good choice for many. Students report being able to work and prioritize other obligations without sacrificing advanced education. Enrollees also benefit from a learning environment that is student-focused, thereby giving them the attention they need for academic success.

School application requirements for a master’s include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. The school accepts around 75% of all who apply, though different programs have different averages.Once accepted, students will pay $35,181 per year in in-state tuition, with grants, loans, and scholarships popular funding streams for those who qualify.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,146
Out-of-state
$52,146
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,181
Out-of-state
$35,181
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
24,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#12 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Webster University

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn communications degrees at Webster University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. The Saint Louis, Missouri, school offers a master's degree in communications management among its 31 online master's degrees. People who may have had challenges pursuing graduate school because of their hectic schedules can appreciate this degree’s flexibility.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. What draws students to a master’s like the master's degree in communication management program is the advanced training it provides to people who want to assume leadership roles and other higher-level opportunities. Degree recipients can also apply to terminal programs in their field, such as a Ph.D.

Students living in Missouri or other states pay an average of $13,500 in tuition per year. Learners can pay for their education with institutional and external grants and scholarships. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,500
Out-of-state
$13,500
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
9,860
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Arizona State University

  • Tempe, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Arizona State University, a public college located in Tempe, Arizona, specializes in rigorous programs that meet the diverse needs of today's learners. The master's degree in communication is one such option for students interested in the media communications field.

Graduate students can appreciate online education's flexibility and adaptability. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. The program does not sacrifice the rigor one expects from a graduate degree for flexibility, thereby providing advanced preparation for higher-level work and further education.

According to the latest data, the school accepts about 86% of applicants each year, but that may vary by program. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Consult the program to find out more details like how to submit transcripts and recommendation letters if required.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$28,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$26,160
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
53,286
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

University of Denver

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private college located in Denver, Colorado, the University of Denver has a lot to offer. The institution’s 16 master's degrees available from a distance help make the college a leader in online graduate education. The master's concentration in marketing communication is ideal for learners interested in the communications field.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Caretakers, professionals, and other busy enrollees may immediately see how they can balance work, family, and their education. Candidates gain invaluable knowledge that employers value or they may use to enter a doctoral program.

The school’s admissions statistics show that about 59% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
12,931
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

South Dakota State University

  • Brookings, SD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

South Dakota State University’s online graduate programs emphasize quality and affordability. People with a bachelor’s in media communications may want to explore the top-ranked master of mass communication. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.

The school has a 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that benefits students in the master of mass communication program. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in media communications. In an increasingly competitive workforce, those with a master’s degree stand out because of the rigorous academic preparation they underwent.

Paying for college is a top issue and South Dakota students can expect to pay $8,083 per year, and out-of-state students pay $15,541. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. Student loans are also available, with 52% of enrollees using them to finance all or part of their degree.

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

#16 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

West Virginia University

  • Morgantown, WV
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can earn a communications degree at West Virginia University, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs. Among the academic programs available at the Morgantown, West Virginia, school are 18 online master's degrees, and the master's degree in communication studies is a top-ranked option. People who may have had challenges pursuing graduate school because of their hectic schedules can appreciate this degree’s flexibility.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in the same major or a related field. Students in the MA in communication studies program complete rigorous coursework they couldn’t access in a bachelor’s degree alone. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.

The average tuition for students living in West Virginia is $10,134 per year, and $26,154 if they live elsewhere. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Another source of financial aid are loans, which students can pursue from the government or private banks.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,976
Out-of-state
$25,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,134
Out-of-state
$26,154
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,839
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Queens University of Charlotte

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Queens University of Charlotte offers communications students an online MA in communication that is a top-ranked program in its class. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The master's in communication provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

A big draw to this program is the convenient online format that many learners appreciate. Students can fit in other responsibilities such as work, caregiving, and family life because of the program’s flexibility. Another key benefit is the support enrollees receive from faculty and the academic community whether they study on campus or online.

It is to be expected that applicants will need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. The acceptance rate is 65% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. If accepted, students in North Carolina can expect to pay around $13,824 per year before applying grants, loans, and scholarships.

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

#18 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Michigan State University

  • East Lansing, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Michigan State University. The MA in communication has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in communication need to advance their education in this field. This program successfully combines the rigor of graduate coursework with the flexibility of the online format.

Students enrolled in the benefit from the school's 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Learners complete a strong curriculum in communication delivered by faculty with industry expertise. In an increasingly competitive workforce, those with a master’s degree stand out because of the rigorous academic preparation they underwent.

Paying for college is a top issue, and Michigan students can expect to pay $18,858 per year, and out-of-state students pay $37,056. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition. About 42% of enrollees take out student loans, so there are plenty of ways to fund this degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Quinnipiac University

  • Hamden, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Quinnipiac University is a private college with many programs to offer from the Hamden, Connecticut, campus. The institution’s two online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to study from wherever they live. Communication students can pursue the MS in interactive media and communications among the options.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability make it an attractive choice for many graduate students. Recorded video sessions may be available to allow anytime viewing, and faculty may let enrollees complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. Students receive the rigorous academic preparation they expect without sacrificing quality.

The school accepts an average of 70% of applicants each year, though this number can vary between programs. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree for admission to most master’s programs. Contact the program department, or admissions, to determine entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

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

#20 Online Master’s in Communications Programs Guide

Gonzaga University

  • Spokane, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Gonzaga University is home to a number of quality online graduate programs. People with a bachelor’s in communication may want to explore the top-ranked master's in communication and leadership. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

Students in the master's in communication and leadership program receive more individualized attention with an 11-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices in communication. This academic preparation is a prerequisite for higher-level careers in business and industry or a doctoral program in some cases.

Tuition for Washington students and out-of-state students is $16,672 per year. Many learners at the institution qualify for grants and scholarships to help reduce the price of tuition.There are also student loans available, an option taken up by about 43% of enrollees at this institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$44,280
Out-of-state
$44,280
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,672
Out-of-state
$16,672
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
7,537
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

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