Online Master’s in Communication Studies Programs in 2024

With a keen interest in general communications and a passion for higher education and teaching, a master's in communication studies may be your graduate-level option. Many schools offer this master's degree, which gives students a broad foundation in high-level communication theories and practices. Some students in this field choose to go on to earn doctoral degrees and/or teach in the discipline. In any event, choosing a school with a quality online master's in communication studies program is paramount, as it will set the stage for your future career.

A master's degree in communication studies can lead to careers in:

• Education/teaching/research
• Publishing
• Public relations
• Advertising/Marketing
• Media
• Consultancy
• Government and non-profits
• Sales

For those concerned about going back to school, master's level communication studies programs are offered in various formats, from traditional classroom-based to online. This allows students to fit their education into their busy lives and schedules.

2024 Best Online Masters in Communication Studies Programs

With educational and business/organizational applications, an online Master's in Communication Studies is a jack-of-all-trades degree. Finding a great online program is made more accessible with our rankings, where we've considered costs, accessibility, program features, and more to narrow down our top choices for your consideration. Read on to see our rankings for Best Online Master's in Communication Studies programs for 2024.

#1) WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY - MORGANTOWN, WV

The online Master of Arts program in Communication Studies at West Virginia University offers two distinct emphases-one in Corporate and Organizational Communication and another in Theory and Research-tailored to diverse career aspirations. The Corporate and Organizational Communication emphasis caters to working professionals, providing online instruction to enhance communication skills and effectiveness in various professional settings. On the other hand, the Theory and Research emphasis aims to qualify students for roles in education, industry, and government institutions, focusing on teaching communication studies or pursuing advanced training for a doctorate. Both emphases contribute to the university’s commitment to providing high-quality education in the dynamic field of Communication Studies.

Learn more about WVU's offerings here and here.

Highlights:

• Typically completed in 1-2 years, depending on the track
• No GRE/GMAT or letters of recommendation required
• Asynchronous online courses

#2) MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY - MANKATO, MN

The online Master of Science in Communication Studies at the University of Minnesota, Mankato, is designed for students with a clear career focus in business or industry. The program emphasizes critical areas such as communication theory, research methods, organizational communication, conflict management, and culture and relationships. Students round out their academic journey with a practical component, choosing between an internship or an Alternate Plan Paper, ensuring that the knowledge gained directly applies to their chosen career path. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum to prepare students with the skills and insights necessary for success in diverse professional settings.

Learn more about MNSU Mankato's offering here.

Highlights:

• It can be completed in 2 years
• Fall, Spring, and Summer start dates
• An in-person option is also available

#3) UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA - TUSCALOOSA, AL

The University of Alabama’s online Master of Arts in Communication Studies program, specializing in Organizational Leadership, offers a comprehensive curriculum integrating communication theory with organizational leadership principles to enhance communication and leadership skills. Whether aspiring to advance within a current company or seeking a career change, the program focuses on developing dynamic communication skills for various contexts, fostering critical thinking, creating compelling messages for diverse audiences, and understanding the integral role of communication in organizational leadership. With 30 credit hours, the program includes 12 hours of core courses, 12 hours of specialization courses, and 6 hours dedicated to a professional, academic, or research track, allowing students to tailor their studies to individual interests. This online MA program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel as effective communicators and leaders in various professional settings.

Learn more about the University of Alabama's offerings here.

Highlights:

• 24/7 tech support
• Military-friendly Yellow Ribbon school
• Work-at-your-own-pace format

Choosing an Online Master's in Communication Studies Program

With the abundance of online graduate-level communications studies programs, narrowing them down may seem nearly impossible. However, key assurances should help you feel confident about choosing the right school. Be sure to consider the following when researching schools with master's in communication studies programs:

Accreditation

Those interested in entering a master's of communications studies program should look for a properly accredited school. A few regional accrediting associations to watch for are the Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and the Higher Learning Commission. Accredited programs are generally the most trustworthy, and you don't want to gamble on your education.

Program Cost

The total expenses for an online master's in communication studies program depend on several factors, including location, type of school, and more. Students will need to cover the costs of tuition, course materials, and any other mandatory school fees. For example, the Master of Arts in Communication Studies degree through the University of Alabama's Bama by Distance online program will cost you roughly $420 in tuition per credit hour, with 30 credits required.

Online master's in communication programs also save students money in transportation costs, such as gas, parking, and/or public transportation expenses.

Program Length

Most online master's in communication studies programs require 30-36 credit hours. Typically designed for working professionals, some online programs are broken into 8-week sessions. Generally, students can complete these online programs in 1-2 years, depending on how many courses they can take.

Admissions Requirements

The following requirements will generally need to be met to gain admission into an online master's of communication studies program…and remember, exact requirements vary by school:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited 4-year college or university
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Official transcripts from all universities attended
• Personal goal statement or essay

Classes and Courses

The curriculum of a master's in communication studies program will consist of courses that culminate in a final capstone project or thesis. Class titles may be similar to the following, which are offered as part of Stevenson University's online master's in communication program:

• Communication Theory and Applications
• Research Writing and Methods
• Communication Ethics in the Public Sphere
• Conflict Communication and Leadership
• Contemporary Organizations and Communication

Advantages of Online Master’s in Communication Studies Programs

An online master's in communication management is convenient and ideal for many potential grad students. Taking courses from home, on your schedule, is a life-saver for many working professionals and those with family obligations who wish to complete their graduate degrees. Aside from the flexibility, online options are typically less expensive overall, as students don't have to deal with the transportation costs of commuting and parking. An online master's in communication management program is also essential for those in more rural settings who don't have access to a nearby university. Many students appreciate utilizing technology to complete this degree in a way that fits into busy lifestyles.

Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Communication Studies Programs in 2024

Select Your State: Select StateAlabamaFloridaMarylandMinnesotaPennsylvaniaTexasWest Virginia

Alabama

Florida

Maryland

Minnesota

Pennsylvania

Texas

West Virginia

Organizations for Communication Studies Community

• National Communication Association
• International Communication Association
• Western States Communication Association
• Rhetoric Society of America
• American Forensic Association
• International Association for Intercultural Communication Studies