Embarking on a master’s in communications opens doors to career opportunities in a rapidly evolving media landscape. An MA or MSc program covers a diverse curriculum encompassing strategic communication, media analytics, digital marketing, crisis communication, and global perspectives. It prepares students for leadership roles such as public relations manager, with a median salary of $125,620 a year, or technical writer, with a median annual salary of $79,960.
The program typically takes one to two years for full-time completion. Costs vary widely, with public university tuition averaging $12,394 and private nonprofit university tuition averaging $28,445. The investment equips graduates with advanced communication skills and strategic insights, positioning them for impactful careers in the dynamic field of communications.
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- Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
- 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
- All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
- Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
- Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded
Our Methodology
We ranked 256 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online business administration bachelor’s degree programs in the U.S. using 17 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes, student experience and application process.
We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of February 2024.
We scored schools based on the following metrics.
Student Outcomes:
- Graduation rate within eight years of normal time
- Median earnings 10 years after graduation
- Pell Grant recipient graduation rate within eight years of normal time
- Retention rate
- Pell Grant graduation rate vs. overall graduation rate
Affordability:
- Average in-state tuition rate and fees
- Median federal student loan debt
- Student loan default rate
- Percentage of students who take out loans
- Student Experience:
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- Socioeconomic diversity
- Program’s coursework (excluding student orientations, field experiences and labs) is available 100% online
- Proportion of undergraduate students enrolled in at least some distance learning courses
Credibility:
- Fully accredited
- Nonprofit status
Application Process:
- Acceptance rate
- Uses Common App
We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 88% or higher.
Find our full list of methodologies here.
Best 49 Accredited Master’s in Communications
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How to Choose a Master’s in Communications Program
Choose your area of study
Selecting an area of study for a master’s in communications involves aligning your passion and career goals with specialized fields. Explore concentrations like public relations, digital media, or strategic communication. Reflect on your interests, whether in analytics, social media, crisis management, or cross-cultural communications. Research each area’s curriculum, faculty expertise, and industry relevance. Choose a concentration that resonates with your professional aspirations, allowing you to delve deeply into a specific aspect of communication and positioning yourself for success in a niche that aligns with your skills and interests.
Research schools and programs
When researching master’s in communications programs, start by evaluating the accreditation and reputation of potential institutions. Choosing a non-accredited institution may cost you in financial aid as well as institutional reputation. Examine faculty credentials, industry connections, and program offerings. Utilize reputable ranking sources to gauge program excellence. Consider class sizes, internship opportunities, and available resources. Connect with current students or alumni for insights into their experiences. Scrutinize admission requirements, including standardized test expectations. Investigate any unique features such as workshops, industry partnerships, or guest lectures. By conducting a comprehensive investigation, prospective students can make informed decisions, ensuring their selected program aligns with their career goals and provides a robust educational foundation in communications.
Prepare for tests and applications
To prepare for a master’s in communications program, focus on excelling in standardized tests like the GRE. Craft a compelling personal statement outlining your communication goals and achievements. Secure strong letters of recommendation that highlight your academic and professional capabilities. Familiarize yourself with the specific admission requirements of each program and ensure timely submission of all necessary documents. Practice for interviews, if required, and tailor your application materials to each institution. By diligently preparing for both standardized tests and comprehensive applications, you enhance your chances of securing admission to a master’s in communications program that best suits your needs.
Select your program
When selecting a master’s in communications program, align your career aspirations with program offerings. Evaluate concentrations, faculty expertise, and industry connections. Consider program formats — online or on-campus — based on your learning preferences. Investigate internship opportunities, practical experiences, and any unique features such as workshops or industry collaborations. Assess factors like class sizes, alumni networks, and the program’s overall reputation. Ensure the curriculum resonates with your professional goals, allowing you to specialize in areas that align with your interests. By selecting a program that offers a tailored and comprehensive educational experience, you position yourself for success in the dynamic field of communications.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Determine how to fund your master’s in communications by exploring various financial avenues. Begin your search by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Investigate scholarships, grants, and assistantships offered by the institution. Assess tuition costs and factor in additional expenses such as software, equipment, or residency fees. Explore federal and private student loan options with careful consideration of repayment terms. Consider part-time work or internships to supplement income. Engage with the financial aid office for guidance on merit-based aid opportunities and create a detailed budget to ensure a well-rounded financial plan.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s Degree in Communications Program
A master’s in communications program offers a comprehensive educational experience, equipping students with advanced skills to navigate the intricacies of contemporary communication landscapes. Expect a diverse curriculum covering strategic communication, media analytics, digital marketing, crisis management, and global perspectives. The program fosters critical thinking and creativity, emphasizing practical applications through real-world projects and industry collaborations. Students engage with emerging trends like data-driven decision-making and digital storytelling.
With a duration typically spanning one to two years, communication programs provide in-depth knowledge and hands-on experiences, preparing graduates for leadership roles in public relations, media management, digital marketing, and corporate communication. The immersive nature of the program ensures a transformative educational journey, enhancing communication expertise and positioning individuals as adept professionals in the dynamic field of communications.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s degree in communications program
- Strategic Communication Management: Focusing on effective communication strategies, this course explores the principles of strategic communication management. Students learn to develop and implement communication plans to address organizational goals and challenges.
- Media Analytics and Data-driven Decision Making: In the era of data-driven communication, this course equips students with analytical skills. Topics include media measurement, audience analysis, and using data to inform communication strategies.
- Digital Media and Social Media Marketing: Exploring the impact of digital media, this course covers social media marketing strategies, content creation, and analytics. Students gain practical insights into navigating the evolving landscape of digital communication.
- Crisis Communication and Reputation Management: Addressing the critical role of communication in crisis situations, this course delves into crisis management strategies and reputation repair. Students analyze real-world cases to develop effective crisis communication plans.
- Global Communication and Cross-cultural Perspectives: With a focus on global communication dynamics, this course examines cross-cultural perspectives. Students explore the challenges and opportunities of communicating in diverse cultural contexts, preparing them for international communications roles.
Master’s in Communications Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in communications degree program?
Applying to a master’s in communication program involves thorough preparation. Research admission requirements, including standardized test expectations such as the GRE. Craft a compelling personal statement highlighting your communication goals and achievements. Secure strong letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts. Familiarize yourself with specific application deadlines and submit all necessary documents, including transcripts and a well-structured resume. Tailor your application materials to each institution, showcasing your alignment with their program. If required, prepare for interviews and engage with admissions counselors for insights. By meticulously following application guidelines, you enhance your chances of securing admission to a master’s in communication program.
How much does a master's in communications degree cost?
The cost of a master’s in communications varies widely, influenced by factors like institution type, location, and program duration. Based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics, public schools are generally more affordable — tuition for public universities averages $12,394 annually, while the tuition for private nonprofit universities averages $28,445. Additionally, consider extra costs like software, equipment, and residency fees. Scholarships, grants, and assistantships can offset expenses. Thoroughly research program costs and explore funding options to make an informed decision aligning with your budget and educational goals.
How long does it take to earn a master's in communications degree?
A master’s in communications typically takes one to two years of full-time enrollment, offering an expedited yet comprehensive educational experience. The duration may vary based on program formats, with online options providing flexibility and part-time enrollment potentially extending completion timelines. The inclusion of internships, capstone projects, or thesis requirements can increase the overall program length. This relatively swift timeframe ensures graduates quickly acquire advanced communication skills, strategic insights, and practical experiences, positioning them for success in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of communications.