Online Master’s in Mass Communication Programs in 2024

Choosing to advance your career in mass communications is a big step. A master’s degree in mass communication can give you a competitive advantage for your desired job or promotion. Aside from this, a graduate degree in mass communications will help to broaden your writing skills so that you can communicate professionally and effectively to a broader range of audiences, all while honing your research and presenting skills.

Industries that encourage or require a master’s in mass communications to reach management or other esteemed positions include:

• Broadcast news
• Public relations
• Advertising
• Marketing
• Media

Read our Essential Guide to Mass Communication: History, Methods, Ethics, and the Future.

However, deciding to earn a graduate-level degree in mass communications is just the first step. Choosing the right school to meet your unique goals and desires is crucial to the journey. With online master’s in mass communications programs available, students now have more flexibility when deciding how to earn their graduate degree. See below for a list of online master's in mass communication programs.

2024 Best Online Masters in Mass Communication Programs

Mass communications is a broad area in which students can access the top careers in multiple areas of communication. In an era where effective communication is paramount, especially in the dynamic field of mass communications, our 2024 Top Online Master's in Mass Communications program rankings serve as a valuable guide for aspiring professionals and experienced communicators alike. The featured programs have been meticulously evaluated based on curriculum innovation, faculty expertise, program flexibility, and overall reputation. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, specialize in a specific area, or enter the field of mass communications, these rankings are tailored to help you make an informed decision in pursuing an advanced degree that aligns with your career goals.

#1) STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY - NACOGDOCHES, TX

Stephen F. Austin State University’s online MA in Mass Communication program offers a flexible and unique graduate experience, allowing students to advance their education and career options at their own pace. Unlike specialized degrees, this program takes a generalist approach, providing a comprehensive understanding of various aspects within the mass communication field, spanning advertising, public relations, broadcasting, and journalism. The curriculum aims to broaden students’ perspectives, enabling them to make informed decisions in the ever-changing media industry and adapt to evolving career trajectories. Designed for working professionals, the online format ensures accessibility, while additional opportunities such as internships and graduate assistantships contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.

Learn more about SFASU's offering here.

Highlights:

• Admission dates in Spring, Summer, and Fall
• 30 coursework hours are required for the thesis and media project program versions
• 36 coursework hours are required for the nonthesis program version

#2) OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY - STILLWATER, OK

Oklahoma State University’s online Master’s in Mass Communications program offers specialized tracks in Global Communications, Brand Communication, and Sports Communication, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the evolving communication landscape. This program is a strategic choice for acquiring specific communication expertise, refining research and presentation skills, and delving into effective and persuasive communication strategies. Students gain practical experience through hands-on work with various media outlets, spanning print, television, radio, and digital platforms. The program’s mission centers on providing students with real-life experience in media production, distribution, and advertising sales, fostering a comprehensive and practical education.

Learn more about OSU's offerings here.

Highlights:

• The program has been continuously accredited for over 90 years
• The thesis option requires 31 credit hours and 6 hours for thesis research
• The non-thesis option requires 32 credit hours with 7 hours for study abroad, practicum, or creative component

#3) UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS - LITTLE ROCK, AR

Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in Mass Communication program is designed to foster critical thinking regarding mass media, its journalistic and strategic communication practices, and media content and its impact on the public. This 33-hour program offers two distinctive options: a media research track, equipping students with the skills to analyze and conduct scholarly research in mass communication, and a professional mass media track, providing advanced training in multi-platform journalism or strategic communication/public relations. The program culminates with students choosing between writing a master’s thesis or creating a professional project for their capstone experience, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of mass communication.

Learn more about UA Little Rock's offering here.

Highlights:

• GRE optional
• Early Entry application available to qualified undergrad students
• A limited number of graduate assistantships may be available

Choosing an Online Master's in Mass Communications Program

While many master’s in mass communications programs are available, they are not all created equal. That’s why it’s essential to research programs to ensure that they have a favorable reputation and are the right fit. There are a few key elements to be considered when looking into a master’s of mass communications program:

Accreditation

Schools and programs with proper accreditations help students gain some peace of mind about the degree's educational quality, as these programs are held to rigorous academic standards. Schools can be accredited regionally by organizations such as the Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges, or the Higher Learning Commission. Nationally accredited agencies for graduate-level mass communications degree programs include the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications.

Program Cost

Mass communications graduate degree costs can fluctuate wildly based on location, type of school, and many other factors. In general, students will need to cover the costs of tuition, any mandatory school fees, books and supplies, and other related expenses.

Overall costs for online master’s in mass communications programs are generally lower than traditional, in-person programs but can fluctuate wildly. Students enrolled in online programs also don’t have to worry about commuting expenses like gas and public transportation. Florida International University, for example, offers a 12-month online MS in Mass Communications degree with a total cost of $25,000 for both Florida and non-Florida residents.

Program Length

The typical length of a master's in mass communications program is roughly two years or around 36 total credit hours. Most credit hours are made up through coursework, but some are typically made up via a thesis or final project towards the end of the degree program.

Admissions Requirements

Generally speaking, the following requirements must be met to be eligible for admission into a graduate-level mass communications program:

• Completion of a bachelor's degree with a major or minor in Journalism, Communication, or related field
• GPA of 3.0 or above; those with a GPA under 3.0 may be required to complete the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) with sufficient scores
• Personal statement or resume outlining past educational and professional experience and describing the student's goals
• Two or more letters of recommendation from past professors or professional supervisors

Classes and Courses

Students enrolled in a graduate-level mass communications program can expect to take a mix of advanced communications courses and electives. For example, Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas offers the following course titles as part of its online Master of Arts in Mass Communication program:

• Media Research Methods
• Media Law & Ethics
• Seminar in Public Relations
• Topics in Mass Communication
• Seminar in Broadcasting
• Management Problems in Media

Advantages of Online Master’s in Mass Communication Programs

For those with busy schedules and family/work obligations, an online master’s in mass communications degree is an excellent option. In addition to taking coursework from the comfort of your own home, many programs allow you to study at your speed and can even be customized to fit your specific objectives. As with traditional classroom-based programs, students enrolled in online programs will take applicable coursework followed by a final project or thesis to be eligible to graduate.

An online master’s in mass communications program is ideal for those who don’t live close enough to a university to make commuting feasible and those whose busy lives couldn’t easily accommodate a traditional graduate program. Online programs are often accelerated; students can complete them in as little as 12 months. With access to staff and faculty, online students can also collaborate to create a program with more individual customizations.

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

Select Your State: Select StateArkansasFloridaNebraskaOklahomaSouth DakotaTexas

Arkansas

Florida

Nebraska

Oklahoma

South Dakota

Texas

Organizations for Mass Communication Community

• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
• Association of Schools of Journalism and Mass Communication