Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs in 2025
Hoping to expand your career in public relations, corporate communications, or special events and promotions? A master's degree in public relations may be your next step in reaching those goals. Master's in public relations programs, which may include coursework similar to a Master's in Strategic Communication program, teach students to use the advanced communication skills and tools needed to advocate for a brand, organization, social cause, or candidate. Coursework will include public relations writing, ethical issues, research, data analysis, and how to produce multimedia content and compelling messages, shape brand reputation, and build relationships with clients in various industries. It seems every year, public relations as a business focus continually grows to be a focus.
A master's degree in public relations can lead to careers as:
- Communications Director
- Public Relations Manager
- Social Media Manager
- Publicist / Press Agent
- Corporate Spokesperson
- Promotions & Special Events Manager
- Communications Consultant
For many aspiring public relations experts, working in the industry while studying for your master's degree is critical for gaining hands-on experience and landing the best job after graduation. For busy professionals, an online master's in public relations program may be the best way to earn your degree while continuing to work and/or fulfill family obligations.
2025 Best Online Masters in Public Relations Programs
Looking for the top online Master's in Public Relations programs for 2025? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight the best programs, focusing on quality, flexibility, and career outcomes. Whether you're advancing your career or shifting paths, find the program that fits your goals. Explore our list to make an informed decision about your future in public relations. For details on how we rank these programs, check out our ranking methodology.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - Private 4-year - jhu.edu
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Public and Media Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's Public and Media Relations concentration within the MA in Communication program offers a strategic approach to crafting impactful communication strategies. Students explore advanced techniques in digital messaging, media engagement, and strategic communication principles. The hybrid program leverages comprehensive coursework to develop sophisticated public relations skills, enabling professionals to navigate complex media landscapes. By integrating writing, research, and technological proficiency, graduates gain expertise in developing compelling narratives, managing communication campaigns, and understanding contemporary media dynamics in diverse professional environments.
- Online and on-campus options
- 12-24 months to complete
- 10 course requirement
- Six concentration areas
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Visa eligible program
- Fall, Spring, Summer entry terms
- Washington D.C. location
- Designed for working professionals
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Health Communication - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's Health Communication concentration provides specialized training for professionals seeking to excel in medical communication sectors. The program uniquely blends strategic communication techniques with healthcare communication frameworks, preparing students to translate complex medical information into accessible narratives. Participants develop advanced skills in patient communication, healthcare marketing, and digital health messaging. By combining research methodologies, technological tools, and communication strategies, graduates are equipped to bridge communication gaps in medical institutions, public health organizations, and healthcare media platforms.
- Online and on-campus options
- 12-24 months completion time
- 6 concentration areas available
- 10 total course requirement
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Fall, Spring, Summer entry terms
- Washington D.C. location
- Visa eligible program
- Designed for working professionals
- Diverse elective course selection
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Digital Communication - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's Digital Communication concentration delivers cutting-edge training in modern communication technologies and strategies. Students explore advanced digital platforms, multimedia communication techniques, and emerging media trends. The curriculum emphasizes developing sophisticated digital storytelling skills, analytics comprehension, and strategic online communication approaches. Participants learn to leverage social media, create engaging digital content, and understand complex digital communication ecosystems. By integrating technological proficiency with strategic communication principles, graduates are prepared to lead digital communication initiatives across various professional sectors.
- Online and On-Campus Options
- 6 Concentration Areas Available
- 12-24 Month Completion Time
- 10 Total Course Requirement
- Fall, Spring, Summer Entry
- Flexible Evening/Weekend Classes
- Washington D.C. Location
- Visa Eligible Program
- Professional Network Opportunities
- Experienced Communication Faculty
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - usc.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy and Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
USC's Master of Science in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy, and Management represents a cutting-edge online program tailored for communication professionals seeking transformative leadership skills. Bridging technological innovation with strategic communication, the curriculum empowers students to craft sophisticated PR campaigns leveraging data-driven insights and emerging digital platforms. Students explore complex communication landscapes, developing advanced competencies in ethical leadership, global communication strategies, and multiplatform content creation. The flexible one or two-year track accommodates working professionals, providing comprehensive training in strategic management, persuasive storytelling, and collaborative team dynamics. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate the rapidly evolving public relations ecosystem with sophisticated analytical and creative communication capabilities.
- Fully online program.
- 12 months to complete.
- One-year or two-year track.
- Focus on emerging technologies.
- Ethical leadership development.
- Data-driven decision making.
- Global communication strategies.
- Business fundamentals included.
- Collaboration with diverse teams.
- Designed by industry leaders.
- Network with industry executives.
- QS World University Rankings #1.
- 900+ alumni online.
- 8% PR field growth.
- Multiplatform content creation.
- Influencer relations focus.
- Strategic management skills.
- Persuasive storytelling techniques.
- Effective communication campaigns.
- Support for diverse perspectives.
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - Private 4-year - columbia.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's Strategic Communication Master's program stands at the forefront of professional communication education, offering a transformative learning experience for communication professionals. The hybrid program strategically blends online flexibility with immersive campus residencies, enabling students to develop advanced strategic communication skills. Taught by distinguished industry experts, the curriculum prepares graduates for leadership roles across diverse communication sectors. With its innovative approach, the program covers critical areas like digital strategy, organizational communication, and media relations, ensuring students gain comprehensive, practical insights that directly translate to workplace excellence.
- Pioneering Strategic Communication program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Online with campus residencies
- 12-16 month program length
- Multiple professional experience tracks
- Industry-leading faculty
- More than 800 alumni network
- Launched in 2002
- Small, interactive class environment
- International student options available
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - georgetown.edu
Master's - Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Georgetown University's Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for professionals aiming to master strategic communication. This hybrid program blends online and on-campus learning, providing flexibility for students to complete 30 credit hours in 2-5 years. With a tuition of approximately $50,550, the program emphasizes real-world client work and an industry-aligned curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership roles in diverse sectors. Year-round entry options and the prestigious PRNEWS A-List Program recognition highlight its commitment to excellence.
- 30 total credit hours
- Full-time or part-time
- Online and on-campus
- Total tuition $50,550
- 2-5 years to complete
- Multiple entry semesters
- Real-world client work
- Industry-aligned curriculum
- PRNEWS A-List Program
- Washington D.C. location
Master's - Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Online Master's in Public Relations & Corporate Communications at Georgetown University is tailored for professionals seeking to advance in digital communications. This fully online program integrates advanced technologies such as AI and predictive modeling into its curriculum, offering a flexible learning environment. Students can complete the 30-credit program in 2-5 years, with a tuition of $50,550. The program features industry expert instructors, a digital curriculum tailored to career goals, and opportunities for hands-on experience through case studies and client projects, making it ideal for working professionals.
- 30 total credit hours
- Total tuition $50,550
- Fully online program
- 2-5 years to complete
- Full-time or part-time
- Fall, spring, summer entry
- 6-9 hours work per week
- Industry expert instructors
- Flexible digital curriculum
- Tailored to career goals
Duke University
Durham, NC - Private 4-year - duke.edu
Master's - Executive Master of Public Affairs
Concentration: leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Duke University's Executive Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in leadership is tailored for mid-career professionals aiming to tackle societal challenges through innovative leadership strategies. This hybrid program, blending online coursework with on-campus residencies in Durham and Washington, D.C., is designed for individuals with at least seven years of professional experience. Over 15 months, students engage in a curriculum focused on leadership development, policy analysis, and practical application, all while continuing their careers. The program emphasizes cohort-based learning and culminates in a capstone project, preparing graduates for impactful roles in public service.
- Hybrid learning format
- 15-month degree program
- Mid-career professionals targeted
- First cohort summer 2025
- Applications open August 2024
- Concentrations in leadership, management
- No full-time campus requirement
- Ranked #6 public policy program
- Capstone project integration
- Cohort-based learning model
Master's - Executive Master of Public Affairs
Concentration: management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Executive Master of Public Affairs at Duke University, concentrating on management, offers a hybrid learning model ideal for mid-career professionals seeking to advance in public service. This 15-month program combines online learning with residencies in Durham and Washington, D.C., catering to students with a minimum of seven years of work experience. It focuses on enhancing management skills, ethical leadership, and policy analysis, enabling students to address complex societal issues effectively without disrupting their professional lives. The program's structure supports a seamless integration of academic rigor with practical, real-world application.
- Hybrid executive MPA program
- 15-month flexible completion
- Mid-career professionals targeted
- First cohort summer 2025
- Applications open August 2024
- Minimum 7 years work experience
- Campus and DC residencies
- Leadership and ethics focus
- Online and in-person learning
- No workforce disruption
Choosing an Online Master's in Public Relations Program
Once you've decided to pursue an online master's in public relations, the next step is researching and selecting the right program. But how do you know which school is right for you? Keep these critical factors in mind to simplify your decision-making process.
Accreditation
A master's degree is a significant investment in your career, so make sure your selected program will provide you with a high-quality education. One way to ensure a program's quality is by checking its program accreditation. Accreditation means a third-party accrediting organization has evaluated the program according to rigorous academic standards and has met or exceeded these standards so that you can be assured of that program's high quality. Examples of accrediting organizations for master's in public relations programs include the Public Relations Student Society of America, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, as well as regional accrediting bodies such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Cost
The cost of a master's in public relations program can vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of school, geographic location, a student's residency status, and the program length. When considering the total cost of a program, it's important to include mandatory school fees, books, and other program materials in addition to the tuition price.
Online programs are often more affordable than their traditional on-campus counterparts, but this is not always the case. As an example of online program costs, the University of Florida offers a 33-credit online Masters in Public Relations program that costs $19,330. Textbooks and other course materials are not included in this program’s price.
Program Length
Most students complete a master's in public relations program in around two years of full-time study. In some cases, an accelerated program may allow students to finish their degree in 12-18 months. Factors that may impact a program's length include whether students enroll on a full- or part-time basis if any on-campus classroom time is required, and when. With online programs, students are often accepted on a rolling basis, enabling them to begin studying in the fall, spring, or even summer semesters.
Admissions Requirements
To gain admission to a master's in public relations program, students should keep in mind the following admissions requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree, ideally in communication or a related field
- GPA of 3.0 or above in their undergraduate coursework
- Transcripts from all undergraduate colleges attended
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Scores from applicable graduate school tests, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
In many cases, master's in public relations programs require applicants to have completed two to three years of relevant work experience in public relations, journalism, or communications. In addition to the requirements listed above, these students must submit a resume detailing their relevant work experience and/or professional writing samples.
Classes and Courses
A master's in public relations program often includes courses similar to the following, which are part of Webster University's online Master of Arts in Public Relations program:
- Introduction to Public Relations
- Media and Culture
- Writing for Public Relations
- Media Research
- Strategic Communications Applications
- Media Organization & Regulations
- International Communication
- Crisis Management Communication
In addition to the foundational public relations courses like those listed above, many master's in PR programs allow students to concentrate on a particular area of public relations, such as public affairs and government relations, crisis management, digital communication, or non-profit or cause communication. Many programs also finish with a capstone project or internship component, which encourages students to put everything they've learned into practice and gain professional public relations experience.
Advantages of Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs
For busy professionals or those with family commitments, an online master's in public relations program is a convenient and cost-effective way to earn an advanced degree. Online coursework allows students to complete assignments and attend lectures from home and on their own schedules, which is particularly important for students gaining professional experience in PR simultaneously. Often with a lower tuition cost than traditional on-campus programs, online programs also allow students in rural areas to choose from more schools without a lengthy commute. These factors make it easier than ever to pursue a master's degree in public relations.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Colorado
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University College University of Denver | 2211 South Josephine St. Denver, CO 80208 (303) 871-2291 |
Connecticut
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Quinnipiac University Programs | 275 Mount Carmel Avenue, OF-QUO Hamden, CT 06518 (877) 403-4277 |
Sacred Heart University | 5401 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 (203) 396-6877 |
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Florida | 1885 Stadium Road Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 273-3412 |
Montana
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Montana State University | McMullen Hall First Floor East, 1500 University Drive Billings, MT 59101-0245 (406) 657-2888 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 North River Road Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0681 |
Washington, DC
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
George Washington University | 2130 H Street NW Suite 709G Washington, DC 20052 |
Georgetown University | 640 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20001 (202) 687-8700 |