Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs in 2025
If you are passionate about telling unique stories through videography, advertising, production, media writing, public relations, and more, a master's degree in media communications may be for you. This advanced degree can propel you to new heights in the communications field, leading to rewarding opportunities and higher salaries. If you are ready to take the next step in your communications career, enrolling in an online master's of media communications program should be a top priority.
The following exciting careers can be achieved with a master's in media communications degree:
- Documentary film director
- Broadcast journalist
- Market researcher
- Social media specialist
- Magazine journalist
- News producer
- Public relations/advertising executive
Those interested in a graduate-level media communications degree will be happy to find that online options are readily available to fit the needs of busy working professionals.
2025 Best Online Masters in Media Communication Programs
Looking for the best online masters in media communication programs? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our list considers quality, flexibility, and affordability. Start your journey today with a program that matches your needs. For the rankings section, we've evaluated schools based on key factors like curriculum, faculty, and student support. Curious about how we rank? Check out our ranking methodology for details.
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT - Private 4-year - qu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Interactive Media and Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
Quinnipiac University offers an innovative Master of Science in Interactive Media and Communications, tailored for those aiming to excel in the digital realm. This program, delivered entirely online, focuses on equipping students with essential skills in web design, social media, digital content creation, and user experience design. Designed to be completed in 16 to 21 months, it caters to both career changers and professionals looking to deepen their expertise in digital communication. With a curriculum that includes a practice-based portfolio capstone and a variety of career-focused electives, graduates are prepared to make significant contributions across diverse industries. Highlights include a fully online format, 30 credit hours, and the opportunity for an internship, making it a versatile choice for aspiring digital communicators.
- 30 total credit hours
- Fully online program
- 16-21 months completion time
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Diverse career-focused electives
- Professional portfolio capstone
- Internship opportunity available
- Dual-degree option available
- Suitable for various backgrounds
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Global Media
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona's Master of Arts in Global Media provides a transformative educational experience that prepares professionals to understand and engage with complex international media dynamics. Through an innovative curriculum, students explore critical global issues like climate change, social inequality, and political tensions from a media perspective. The program distinguishes itself by cultivating sophisticated analytical and communication skills essential for high-impact careers in nonprofits, international agencies, governmental organizations, and media sectors. Emphasizing comparative media systems and digital research methodologies, students develop comprehensive insights into global communication strategies and contemporary media challenges.
- 31 total credits required
- Cost per credit: $650
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Global media challenges focus
- Capstone project option
- Esteemed faculty worldwide
- Comparative media systems study
- Digital and research skills development
- Online program format
- Analytical skills emphasis
Pace University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - pace.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's online Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media delivers a comprehensive 36-credit program that equips media professionals with advanced digital communication skills. The curriculum blends strategic learning with practical application, offering students flexibility through two concentration options and innovative learning tracks. Graduates develop expertise in digital storytelling, media production, and strategic communication, preparing them for leadership roles across diverse media industries. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through real-world client projects, internships, and a student-run PR agency, ensuring students gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Real-world client assignments
- Internship or thesis track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 3.0 GPA preferred
- Four-year undergraduate degree
- Portfolio submission option
- Small class sizes
- Alumni network support
- Career services available
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Concentration: Digital Filmmaking and Media Production - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focused specifically on Digital Filmmaking and Media Production, Pace University's specialized concentration provides aspiring media professionals an immersive learning experience. This 36-credit online master's track delves deep into advanced digital media techniques, emphasizing practical skill development through complex production assignments and real-world client projects. Students explore cutting-edge digital filmmaking technologies, narrative strategies, and professional production workflows. The curriculum balances technical training with creative expression, preparing graduates to excel in contemporary media production environments across film, television, digital platforms, and emerging multimedia channels.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Thesis or internship track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Networking with industry leaders
- Real-world media projects
- Small class sizes
- Career services support
- Experienced industry faculty
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Concentration: Social Media and Public Relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's Social Media and Public Relations concentration offers a strategic approach to modern communication landscapes. This 36-credit online master's program equips students with advanced skills in digital communication, brand management, and strategic messaging. Participants explore sophisticated social media marketing techniques, crisis communication strategies, and innovative public relations methodologies. The curriculum blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling students to develop comprehensive communication competencies. Through real-world client projects and industry-connected learning experiences, graduates gain the expertise needed to navigate complex media ecosystems and drive impactful communication strategies.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Real-world client projects
- Internship or thesis track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Alumni network includes HBO/NBC
- Small class sizes
- Faculty with industry experience
- Career services support
Point Park University
Pittsburgh, PA - Private 4-year - pointpark.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Media Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Point Park University's online Master of Arts in Media Communication delivers a comprehensive 36-credit program targeting professionals aspiring to transform their media careers. The flexible curriculum supports students in broadcasting, sports media, and documentary domains, enabling degree completion within two years. Students leverage professional-grade equipment, engage with industry-experienced faculty, and choose between thesis and professional tracks. The program strategically balances theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing graduates to navigate the complex, evolving media landscape through hands-on learning and specialized skill development.
- 36-credit Master's program
- On-campus and online options
- Complete in two years
- Three concentration choices
- Professional industry faculty
- Thesis and professional tracks
- Access to professional equipment
- Practical experience opportunities
- Multiple elective options
- Located in Pittsburgh media market
Master's - Master of Arts in Media Communication
Concentration: Journalism - Online Learning - Visit Website
Point Park University's Media Communication Master's program in Journalism provides a robust graduate experience for communication professionals. Situated in downtown Pittsburgh, the program offers diverse study tracks including journalism initiatives, professional pathways, and thesis options. Students can specialize across disciplines like environmental studies, education, criminal justice, and business, enabling personalized academic exploration. With strong emphasis on portfolio development and publication opportunities, the curriculum cultivates advanced journalistic skills and provides strategic connections with partner media organizations, positioning graduates for competitive careers in contemporary media environments.
- Three study track options
- Concentrations in multiple disciplines
- Downtown Pittsburgh location
- Portfolio development focus
- Publication opportunities available
- Specialization options in business
- Professional track flexibility
- Concurrent M.A./M.B.A. option
- Partner media organization connections
- Career-targeted curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Media Communication
Concentration: Broadcasting, Sports Media, Documentary - Online Learning - Visit Website
Point Park University's Master of Arts in Media Communication presents a specialized 36-credit graduate program concentrating in Broadcasting, Sports Media, and Documentary production. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum combines flexible online and on-campus learning with advanced multimedia training. Students benefit from industry-experienced faculty guidance, professional equipment access, and immersive storytelling techniques. The program's innovative approach balances theoretical foundations with practical experience, offering thesis and professional tracks that prepare graduates for cutting-edge careers in media production, communication, and content creation across diverse platforms.
- 36-credit M.A. program
- On-campus and online courses
- Complete in two years
- Three concentration options
- Professional equipment access
- Industry-experienced faculty
- Thesis and professional tracks
- Flexible course structure
- Multimedia storytelling focus
- Practical experience opportunities
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MN - Public 4-Year - stcloudstate.edu
Master's - Strategic Media Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Cloud State University offers an M.S. in Strategic Media Communications, tailored for professionals aiming to excel as content strategists and multimedia storytellers. This fully online program is structured for flexibility, allowing students to graduate in five semesters by enrolling in two courses each semester. It emphasizes digital content strategy, marketing communications, and strategic leadership, equipping graduates with the skills needed for leadership roles in various industries. The program also provides stackable certificate options, remote media contribution opportunities, and a capstone project focused on applied communications planning, all under the guidance of faculty with extensive industry experience.
- Fully online master's degree
- Complete in 5 semesters
- Two courses per semester
- Stackable certificate options
- Faculty with industry experience
- Career advancement focused
- Strategic communication skills
- Digital content strategy emphasis
- Capstone applied communications plan
- Remote media contribution opportunities
Choosing an Online Master's in Media Communication Program
While an online master's in media communication is a convenient choice, prospective students should diligently find a program that works for them. Choosing a high-quality, widely respected online program will take you far in your career, so no stone should be left unturned. To find the right online master's in media communications program, consider the following:
Accreditation
Finding an accredited school is a great way to ensure you choose a legitimate online graduate program. Various accrediting bodies exist, but regional organizations such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or the Higher Learning Commission are some of the most common. In addition to this, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications also endorses media communications programs.
Program Cost
The total cost of an online master's in media communication will depend on several factors, such as state/location, type of school, and more. Generally, students will be responsible for covering tuition costs, mandatory fees, and course materials such as textbooks. Online programs can eliminate transportation-related expenses such as gas, parking, and public transportation costs.
For example, full-time students can expect to pay roughly $965 per credit for the online MS in Interactive Media and Communications through Quinnipiac University. This does not include additional technology fees or miscellaneous fees such as books and supplies.
Program Length
Most online master's in media communications programs can be completed within two years, though this may fluctuate due to part-time or full-time attendance. Around 30 credits are needed to be eligible to graduate with the degree. Some programs allow students to continue to work while they earn their degree, while others recommend full-time devotion to the program. It's a good idea to check with your school of choice to see the available scheduling options.
Admissions Requirements
While each school will have its own set of admissions requirements, they commonly include:
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate work
- Professional resume or CV
- Written statement of purpose outlining career goals/professional interests
- Three or more writing samples of professional or scholarly writing
- Three letters of recommendation
Classes and Courses
Online master's in media communications programs focus on a mix of high-level core communications courses and elective courses. Remember that some schools have developed a "hybrid" course delivery method, where many courses are taken online. Still, some in-person or teleconference-based courses and meetings may be required.
As an example, course titles for the Master of Communications and Media Management program at Colorado State University include:
- Digital Media Writing and Production
- Technologies of Public Communication
- Organizational Media Production
- Digital Media Research & Evaluation Methods
- Managing Communication Systems
Advantages of Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs
Many students find that earning their master's degree in media communications online has many advantages and benefits. For those building upon an already existing career, continuing to work while earning a graduate degree is immensely helpful, and online programs make this a snap. For students who live in more rural areas, without the option of attending a program at a nearby university, the online master's in media communications is invaluable. For those trying to keep costs down, the generally lower cost of online programs, combined with the transportation savings, make this option the most affordable. No matter who you are or what your individual needs dictate, an online master's in media communications can take you where you need to go.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Colorado
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Colorado State University | 475 17th Street, Suite 300 Denver, CO 80202 (970) 491-1814 |
Connecticut
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Sacred Heart University | 5401 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 (203) 396-6877 |
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Lynn University | 3601 N. Military Trail Boca Raton, FL 33431 (561) 237-7000 |
Georgia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Brenau University | 500 Washington St. SE Gainseville, GA 30501 (135) 227-3341 x2 |
University of Georgia | 120 Hooper Street Athens, GA 30602 (706) 542-1704 |
Nebraska
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Nebraska - Lincoln | 313 N 13th St Lincoln, NE 68588 (402) 472-2875 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 North River Road Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0861 |
Tennessee
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Austin Peay State University | 601 College Avenue Clarksville, TN 37044 (931) 221-7378 |
University of Tennessee at Knoxville | 2441 Dunford Hall, 915 Volunteer Blvd. Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-3031 |
Virginia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Regent University | 1000 Regent University Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (800) 373-5504 |
Virginia Commonwealth University | 901 West Main Street, Room 2216 Richmond, VA 23284 (804) 828-2660 |
Washington
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Washington Programs | 102 Communications, Box 353740 Seattle , WA 98195 (206) 543-6745 |