Online Master’s in Social Media Marketing & Management Programs in 2025
If you’re passionate about social media, digital marketing, or building online communities, an online master’s degree in social media could be the next step toward an exciting career. In today’s digital age, social media is central to culture and communication. Master’s in social media programs, often emphasized within broader programs like strategic communication or business administration, teach students how to develop and manage social media platforms, employ digital marketing techniques, and oversee online communities. Coursework often covers social media storytelling, branding strategies, metrics, and digital communication research methods.
Career opportunities for online Master’s in Social Media graduates include roles such as:
- Social Media Manager
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Brand Advocate
- Public Relations Executive
Many professionals pursue their master’s while working in the industry, making online programs convenient for those balancing work and family commitments.
Master's in social media programs, which also may be found as an emphasis within a broader master's in strategic communication or master's in business administration program, teach students the development and management of social media platforms, digital media marketing techniques, apps, and web development and management of online communities.
2025 Best Online Masters in Social Media Programs
Masters in Communications is the premier platform for evaluating online social media graduate programs nationwide. Our comprehensive research highlights the top educational opportunities for aspiring digital communication professionals seeking advanced degrees. Students can discover programs that blend cutting-edge digital strategy, analytics, and communication theory through our expert-driven rankings. These online master's programs prepare graduates to navigate complex social media landscapes in corporate, nonprofit, and creative sectors. Check out our detailed rankings below to find the perfect program matching your career goals. Read our detailed ranking methodology for insights into our selection process.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Mass Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Master of Arts in Mass Communication with a Social Media concentration represents a sophisticated digital communication pathway. This pioneering program deconstructs complex social media ecosystems, enabling students to master strategic content development, audience engagement techniques, and advanced analytical methodologies. Tailored for forward-thinking communication professionals, the curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing graduates to navigate intricate digital landscapes. Students learn platform-specific strategies, develop brand management skills, and gain comprehensive insights into measuring social media performance across diverse organizational contexts.
- 100% Online Degree Program
- 36 Credit Hours Total
- Complete in 16 Months
- $815.75 Per Credit Hour
- Total Degree Cost: $29,367
- Taught by Industry Professionals
- Advisory Council Guided Curriculum
- Networking with Peers/Alumni
- Courses Taught Globally
- Hands-on Practical Assignments
- Detailed Instructor Feedback
- Creative Storytelling Focus
- Platform-specific Best Practices
- Social Media Metrics Training
- Brand Management Skills
Master's - Master of Arts in Mass Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Florida's online Master of Arts in Mass Communication Social Media concentration delivers a transformative digital marketing education. By integrating advanced strategic frameworks with hands-on learning experiences, the program equips professionals to excel in dynamic digital communication environments. Students develop sophisticated content creation skills, learn comprehensive audience engagement techniques, and master performance measurement methodologies. The curriculum emphasizes creative storytelling, platform-specific best practices, and strategic digital communication approaches, positioning graduates for leadership roles in contemporary media and marketing landscapes.
- 100% Online Program
- $815.75 per Credit Hour
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 16-Month Completion Possible
- Taught by Industry Professionals
- Top-10 Public University
- Comprehensive Social Media Curriculum
- Networking Opportunities
- Personalized Faculty Attention
- Capstone Course Included
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's online Master of Science in Social Media Management delivers a transformative digital communication experience designed for career-driven professionals. The program strategically blends comprehensive digital strategy training with market analysis techniques, enabling students to craft compelling narratives across diverse platforms. Emphasizing innovative communication approaches, students develop advanced skills in strategic media planning, consumer engagement, and emerging digital trends. With a unique Christian worldview perspective, the curriculum prepares graduates to lead social media initiatives in corporate, entrepreneurial, and nonprofit environments, leveraging flexible 8-week courses and a comprehensive 33-credit curriculum.
- 100% Online Degree Program
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- 8-Week Course Format
- SACSCOC Accredited
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Christian Worldview Perspective
- No Tuition Increase 9 Years
- Military-Friendly Program
- Multiple Start Dates
- Graduate in Approximately 1-2 Years
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master of Science in Social Media Management program offers a dynamic pathway for professionals seeking advanced digital communication expertise. Through a meticulously designed 33-credit curriculum, students master intricate social media marketing strategies, content creation techniques, and strategic communication methodologies. The program emphasizes practical learning, enabling students to develop sophisticated digital narratives and analyze emerging technological trends. Tailored for working professionals, the flexible 8-week format and competitive $565 per credit hour tuition make advanced education accessible. Graduates emerge equipped to design innovative marketing campaigns, understand complex digital landscapes, and drive meaningful engagement across multiple platforms.
- 100% Online Degree
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- 8-Week Course Format
- $565 Per Credit Hour
- No Standardized Testing
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Multiple Start Dates
- Faith-Based Curriculum
- Hands-On Portfolio Development
- Career-Focused Learning
Master's - Master of Science in Marketing – Social Media Management
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's Master of Science in Marketing with a Social Media Management concentration provides a comprehensive digital marketing educational experience. This 36-credit online program cultivates advanced skills in strategic social media planning, brand management, and ethical digital communication. Students learn to develop sophisticated marketing campaigns, leverage emerging platforms, and understand complex digital engagement strategies. The curriculum goes beyond traditional marketing approaches, integrating cutting-edge technological insights with practical application. With an affordable, stable tuition structure and flexible learning options, the program prepares professionals to navigate the rapidly evolving digital marketing landscape with expertise and innovation.
- 100% Online Program
- 36 Credit Hours Total
- Less Than 2 Years Completion
- SACSCOC Accredited
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Military Tuition Discounts
- 8-Week Course Format
- Multiple Start Dates Annually
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL - Private 4-year - saintleo.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Social Media Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Leo University's Master of Business Administration with Social Media Marketing concentration delivers a comprehensive digital marketing education tailored for modern professionals. This meticulously designed online program empowers students to master advanced social media strategies, web analytics, and multichannel campaign optimization. Through a robust 36-credit curriculum, students develop critical skills in data analysis, targeted marketing techniques, and strategic digital communication. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates to navigate complex digital marketing landscapes and drive innovative brand engagement strategies across diverse industry sectors.
- 100% online degree program
- 36 credit hours total
- Specialization in Social Media Marketing
- Up to 45% scholarship available
- No entry period restrictions
- Accredited U.S. business program
- 1:1 faculty support
- Advanced marketing data analysis
- Multichannel campaign optimization
- Web analytics techniques
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Social Media Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Leo University's online MBA in Social Media Marketing represents a cutting-edge approach to digital marketing education. The program strategically equips professionals with advanced analytical skills, focusing on comprehensive digital strategy development and data-driven decision-making. Students explore sophisticated web analytics, multichannel marketing techniques, and emerging digital communication technologies. By combining rigorous academic training with flexible online learning, the curriculum prepares graduates to excel in dynamic marketing roles, leveraging insights from complex digital platforms and transforming traditional marketing paradigms.
- 100% online program
- 36 credit hours total
- Up to 45% scholarship
- ACBSP Business Accreditation
- Guided 1:1 faculty support
- Potential transfer credits
- Focuses on digital marketing
- Career paths in digital strategy
- Experienced faculty support
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Leo University's Online MBA concentrating in Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics provides a sophisticated pathway for professionals seeking advanced digital marketing expertise. The program delivers comprehensive training in complex data mining, web analytics, and strategic marketing intelligence. Students gain hands-on experience analyzing intricate social media datasets, developing nuanced marketing insights, and mastering emerging technological tools. By integrating comprehensive research methodologies with cutting-edge digital techniques, graduates are positioned to lead innovative marketing strategies across rapidly evolving business environments.
- Online MBA concentration
- Marketing research focus
- Social media analytics emphasis
- Data mining techniques
- Web analytics training
- Gamification course available
- 40% job market growth
- Comprehensive marketing strategies
- Industry-driven curriculum
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - Public 4-Year - fitchburgstate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University's Master of Science in Applied Communication delivers a targeted Social Media concentration that transforms digital communication professionals. The immersive online program cultivates advanced social media strategic thinking, empowering students to navigate complex digital landscapes. Through comprehensive coursework, students master content creation, analytics, and emerging technological trends. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in research methodologies, ethical communication practices, and innovative marketing techniques. Designed for working professionals, the flexible two-year program enables seamless integration of academic learning with professional development, positioning graduates for leadership roles in digital media, marketing, and strategic communication sectors.
- 100% Online Program
- 36-credit Master's Degree
- Complete in 2-6 years
- No GRE Required
- 3.0 Minimum GPA
- Flexible Course Schedule
- Professional Career Focus
- Capstone Project Required
- Diverse Communication Courses
- Social Media Marketing Skills
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University's online Master's in Applied Communication specializes in Social Media, offering a comprehensive 36-credit program tailored for dynamic communication professionals. Students dive deep into strategic digital communication, exploring advanced content creation, data-driven marketing approaches, and cutting-edge social media technologies. The curriculum bridges theoretical knowledge with practical industry applications, enabling students to develop sophisticated digital communication strategies. With a focus on flexible learning and career advancement, the program prepares graduates to excel in evolving digital communication landscapes, providing comprehensive skills in analytics, strategic thinking, and innovative media practices across various professional environments.
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36-credit Social Media Concentration
- Complete in 2-6 years
- No GRE Required
- 3.0 Minimum GPA Needed
- Career-Focused Curriculum
- Capstone Project Included
- Affordable Graduate Tuition
- Diverse Career Opportunities
- Experienced Practitioner Faculty
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO - Private 4-year - lindenwood.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Marketing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lindenwood University's online Master of Science in Social Media Marketing provides a strategic, comprehensive digital marketing curriculum designed to transform professionals into social media experts. The program delves into advanced content creation techniques, sophisticated audience targeting strategies, and comprehensive social media campaign development. Students explore emerging digital communication trends, leveraging practical skills that directly translate to industry leadership. With a flexible 30-credit structure allowing completion within 12-24 months, the program offers affordable tuition at $551 per credit hour and supports career advancement in digital marketing. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application, preparing graduates for high-potential roles in advertising, brand management, and digital communications.
- 100% Online Degree
- $551 per Credit Hour
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- 12-24 Month Completion
- Up to 9 Transfer Credits
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Thesis and Applied Project Options
- Expert Faculty with Industry Experience
- Career-Focused Curriculum
- Preparation for Digital Marketing Certifications
Choosing an Online Master's in Social Media Marketing & Management Program
Once you've decided to pursue an online master's in social media, 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 when deciding between master's programs.
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. Legitimate program accreditation signifies that a third-party accrediting organization has evaluated the program according to rigorous academic standards and has met or exceeded these standards. Examples of accrediting organizations for master's in social media programs include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and 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 New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Cost
The cost for a master's in social media program can vary based 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. For example, USC Annenberg's 32-unit Master of Science in Digital Social Media runs roughly $1,995 per unit in addition to mandatory fees. Meanwhile, Liberty University's online, 33-credit-hour Master's in Social Media Management degree program costs approximately $565 per credit for full-time students and online program fees.
Program Length
Most master's in social media programs are designed to be completed in 1-2 years of full-time study. 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 social media program, students should keep in mind the following admissions requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree, ideally in communication, web design, marketing, 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)
- Resume detailing relevant work experience if applicable
Classes and Courses
A master's in social media program often includes courses similar to the following, which are part of University of Florida's online Master's in Social Media program:
- Introduction to Social Media
- Introduction to Multimedia (Video Storytelling)
- Branding Using Social and Mobile Media
- Advertising and Social Media
- Mass Communication Theory
- Research Methods in Digital Communication
- Social Media Metrics and Evaluation
- Personal Branding and Professional Development
- Social Media and Emerging Technology
In addition to digital and social media courses like those listed below, programs may include foundational communication, web development, and/or business courses. Many programs also finish with a capstone project or internship component, which encourages students to put everything they've learned into practice.
Advantages of Online Master’s in Social Media Programs
For busy professionals or those with family commitments, an online master's in social media program is a convenient and potentially cost-effective way to earn an advanced degree. Online coursework allows students to complete assignments and attend lectures from home and on their schedules, which is particularly important for students gaining professional experience 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 social media.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Social Media Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Florida | 1885 Stadium Road Gainseville, FL 32611 (135) 227-3341 x2 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 N River Rd. Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0681 |
Virginia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Liberty University | 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 (800) 424-9595 |