Online Master’s in Political Communication Programs in 2024

If you strive to utilize your strategic communication skills to shape political thought, a master's in political communication may be your degree pathway. Graduate students in political communication programs take courses in news writing, public opinion research, online advocacy, speechwriting, campaign management, political advertising, and more. Upon completion, these students come away with a deep understanding of the political process and media work. Also, you can’t avoid politics with the presence of current social media processes.

Those with a master's in political communication hold job titles such as:

• Communications Director for a political campaign
• Media Consultant for national grassroots organizations
• Public Affairs Strategist
• Digital Media Analyst
• Social Media Strategist
• Interactive Media Developer
• Political Reporter/Correspondent

Fortunately, those interested in pursuing this graduate-level pathway can often enroll in online programs to earn their degree. At the same time, they continue to work or take care of other obligations.

Choosing an Online Master's in Political Communication Program

Selecting an online master's in political communications program should not be taken lightly. However, students should research a few key elements when searching for the right program.

Accreditation

One of the first things to look for when researching colleges is proper accreditation. An accredited program signifies academic excellence and can ensure quality. There are many accrediting bodies, but regional organizations such as the Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges, or the Higher Learning Commission are some of the most common.

Program Cost

Tuition and other related costs can fluctuate dramatically between schools offering an online master’s in political communication. In general, students are responsible for covering the costs of tuition, mandatory fees, and course materials (such as textbooks). The advantage of an online program is that it eliminates transportation and parking expenses that would otherwise need to be factored into the total cost.

Tuition for the online master's in political communication through Regent University is $650 per credit hour, with 33 total credit hours required. This does not include additional fees or materials.

Program Length

Generally speaking, an online master's in political communication will take most students roughly two years to complete, though there are sometimes options for a shorter duration. Part-time or full-time program options will also impact the total length. Though programs differ, most will require 33 to 38 credit hours to graduate with the degree.

Admissions Requirements

Standard admissions requirements for online master's in political communication programs include the following:

• Bachelor's degree
• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Transcripts from all colleges attended
• Satisfactory GRE scores
• Statement of purpose
• Resume or CV
• Multiple letters of recommendation

Classes and Courses

A typical online master's in political communication curriculum will consist of core courses and electives taught by faculty and industry professionals. Students are expected to meet weekly objectives and complete assignments. Usually, a capstone course is where students must complete a final project or thesis.

The following are course titles from the online master's in political communication program through the University of Florida:

• Introduction to Digital Political Campaigning
• Fundamentals of Political Engagement
• Applications of Political Communications
• Mass Communication Research Methods
• Social Media Metrics

Advantages of Online Master’s in Political Communication Programs

The benefits of distance learning and online degrees are almost too numerous to count. Those interested in pursuing a master's degree think that work, family, and other essential commitments will prevent them from being able to think again, thanks to online learning. Most online programs allow students to determine when and where they complete coursework and assignments, allowing them the flexibility to fit into busy lifestyles. Aside from the sheer convenience, those enrolled in an online master's in political communications program enjoy the cost savings of not having to commute daily, a true advantage for those in more rural areas who don't have a university nearby.

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

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Florida

Virginia

Washington

Washington, DC