Master’s in Communication in Alabama
Students in Alabama who aspire to a master's in communications degree have five varying options to choose from, with courses offered both online and on campuses across the state.
Following graduation, experts in communication can seek employment in academia and research, as well as in Alabama's key industries of automotive, aerospace, agricultural projects as well as bioscience and healthcare. Large corporate employers that may be in need of communications experts include Mercedes, Airbus, Honda, and Hyundai.
Alabama Master's in Communications Program Facts
- Most Affordable Per Credit Hour: University of Alabama
- Most Expensive Per Credit Hour: Auburn University
- Number of Programs Available: 6
- Number of Online Programs Available: 2
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Alabama? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our rankings consider key factors like faculty expertise, program flexibility, and alumni success. Start your search with confidence, knowing our list is based on thorough research. Learn more about how we rank programs at our ranking methodology page.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - Public 4-Year - uwa.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Alabama's Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications delivers a cutting-edge online curriculum strategically designed to empower communication professionals. Spanning just one year, the program equips students with advanced multimedia marketing techniques, digital strategy skills, and comprehensive advertising insights. With an affordable $429 per credit hour and innovative resources like free Adobe Creative Suite, students gain extensive practical knowledge without financial burden. The comprehensive program emphasizes portfolio development, social media analytics, and real-world professional skill enhancement across marketing and communication domains. Graduates emerge prepared to lead sophisticated marketing campaigns and navigate complex media landscapes with strategic expertise.
- Fully online graduate program
- 30 total credit hours
- 1-year program completion
- Tuition $429 per credit
- Free Adobe Creative Suite
- No traditional textbook costs
- Comprehensive portfolio required
- Internship potential with current work
- Marketing and communications focus
- Expert faculty instruction
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Arts in Communication Studies delivers a rigorous 30-31 credit-hour program strategically designed to cultivate advanced communication expertise. Students dive deep into comprehensive coursework exploring communication theory, research methodologies, journalism, media studies, and public relations. The flexible curriculum allows students to customize their academic journey through elective courses and choose between a thesis or comprehensive exam track. With robust graduate faculty mentorship, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a commitment to developing critical analytical skills, this program prepares communication professionals to excel in diverse professional environments. The optional 18 credit-hour Communication Graduate Certificate provides additional specialized training for ambitious scholars.
- 30-31 credit-hour program
- Focus on communication, PR, journalism, media
- Thesis or comprehensive exam option
- 18 credit-hour certificate available
- Foundational courses in theory, research methods
- Elective coursework in various disciplines
- Graduate faculty mentorship
- Research and internship opportunities
- Top ten in research publication analytics
- Builds critical and analytical skills
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Management
Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's Master of Arts in Communication Management stands out as a comprehensive graduate program meticulously crafted for communication professionals seeking transformative career advancement. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling students to develop sophisticated communication strategies across diverse organizational contexts. With flexible evening and weekend scheduling, working professionals can seamlessly integrate advanced learning into their existing careers. Faculty experts guide students through innovative research methodologies, creating an intellectually stimulating environment that cultivates critical thinking and strategic communication skills. The program's research-focused approach prepares graduates for potential doctoral studies and leadership roles in communication-intensive sectors.
- Master of Arts in Communication Management
- Evening and weekend classes
- Research-focused curriculum
- Preparation for Ph.D. programs
- Limited graduate teaching assistantships
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the University of South Alabama's Master of Arts in Communication, a comprehensive graduate program meticulously designed to cultivate advanced communication expertise. Students engage in a robust 33-semester-hour curriculum that blends theoretical foundations with practical research methodologies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication theory exploration, and specialized coursework, preparing graduates for diverse professional and academic trajectories. With a flexible structure accommodating both working professionals and full-time students, candidates develop sophisticated research skills through quantitative analysis, thesis development, and comprehensive scholarly training.
- 33 semester hours total
- 6 hours dedicated to thesis
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Core courses in communication theory
- Research methods training
- Quantitative research focus
- Up to 9 transfer credits allowed
- Completed within 7 years
- Written qualifying examinations
- Independent study options available
Troy University
Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Master of Science in Strategic Communication provides a dynamic online learning environment tailored for communication professionals seeking rapid career advancement. The accelerated program delivers comprehensive training in digital media strategies, crisis communication techniques, and sophisticated messaging frameworks. Students develop critical analytical skills, explore multimedia communication technologies, and construct a robust professional portfolio. The curriculum emphasizes practical application across diverse industry sectors, enabling graduates to excel in advertising, public relations, marketing, and strategic communication leadership roles. With flexible 9-week terms and no strict application deadlines, the program accommodates working professionals' demanding schedules while preparing them for potential doctoral studies.
- Fully online master's program
- Completed in under a year
- 9-week flexible terms
- No application deadline
- Multiple career pathways
- Advanced communication skills
- Digital media expertise
- Crisis communication training
- Doctoral program preparation
- Experienced faculty mentorship
2025 Affordable Alabama Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable programs is key for students looking to advance their education without high costs. The table highlights Master's in Communication options in Alabama for 2025, focusing on tuition and economical choices. It helps compare what each school offers, making it easier to find a program that fits your budget. With costs varying, selecting a low-cost option can significantly reduce financial stress. This guide aims to simplify your search for quality education that won't break the bank.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| University of West Alabama |
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| Faulkner University |
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| The University of Alabama |
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AUBURN UNIVERSITY
Auburn University offers a master's degree in communication as a traditional on-campus program.
What to Know: Auburn University's School of Communication and Journalism's Graduate Program in Communication is a 30-credit hour program in which students take classes in human communication, public relations and media studies.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition and fees for Alabama residents is $5,484 per semester or $609 per credit hour depending on the program, and $14,820 for non-residents per semester. Cost details.
Anything Else?: Full-time students typically take four semesters, or two years, to complete the program. Students pursuing a master's degree who do not have an undergraduate degree in a communications-related field generally take five semesters.
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa offers Master of Arts in Communication Studies program, which can be taken as an online program or a traditional classroom program.
What to Know: The on-campus Master of Arts in Communication Studies program is a 30-credit hour, the theory-based field of study that emphasizes three research areas: organizational and interpersonal communication, rhetoric and political discourse and communication and culture. The online Master of Arts in Communication Studies program focuses solely on organizational leadership to help students gain skills that are directly applicable to any workplace.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the online program is $375 per credit hour. Graduate tuition for the on-campus program is $5,390 per semester for Alabama residents and $14,050 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for students applying for fellowships for the on-campus program is March 1. The deadline for the on-campus program is May 1 for students seeking August admission, and November 1 for students seeking January admission. The online program admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. However, admission into the online program to begin with summer classes needs to be confirmed by May 1, for fall classes August 1 and for spring classes by December 1.
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has a Master of Arts in Communication Management degree offered as a traditional classroom program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Management program is specifically targeted at professionals in communication-related fields and students seeking an advanced degree in communication. Classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate working students.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees are $437 per credit hour for Alabama residents and $995 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for fall admission is August 1, and December 1 for spring admission.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
The University of South Alabama offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Mobile.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a broad-based degree program that integrates theoretical and research components of mass communication and organizational and rhetorical communication. Coursework consists of 33 credit hours, including 12 hours of core courses followed by electives and a final project or thesis.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees are $421 per credit hour for Alabama residents and $842 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for fall admission is July 1, and December 1 for spring admission.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Alabama
TROY UNIVERSITY
Troy University offers an online Master of Science in Strategic Communication program.
What to Know: Troy University's Master of Science in Strategic Communication is a 30-credit hour program that can be completed within one year. Students gain knowledge in effective communication, emerging communication technologies, crisis communication management and the strategic use of social media.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for Troy University online studies is $494 per credit hour. This does not include additional mandatory fees, which can be found here.
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
University of Alabama offers an online Master of Arts in Communication Studies program. Read more this offering and about the rest of their communication program options here.
Alabama Online Master’s in Communication Program Specializations
- Alabama Online Master’s in Communication Studies Programs
- Alabama Online Master’s in Strategic Communication Programs
Alabama Related Online Degree Specializations
Alabama Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Azusa, CA
Azusa Pacific University
- Master's - Strategic Communication, MA
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online master's program
- 30 total program units
- Per unit cost: $690
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Christian perspective integration
- Industry professional faculty
- Multiple entry points annually
- Real-world client projects
Chico, CA
California State University-Chico
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 30 total units required
- Advanced research methods training
- Thesis or comprehensive exam options
- Multiple communication specialties
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Five-year completion timeline
- Advanced coursework in communication theories
- Interdisciplinary approach
Davis, CA
University of California-Davis
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: mediated communication - Campus Based - Website
- Two tracks: Thesis and Non-thesis.
- Two years of study required.
- Close faculty collaboration.
- Robust advising services.
- Online application process.
- Focus on communication theories.
- Tailored to career goals.
- Prepares for academia, research.
Fullerton, CA
California State University-Fullerton
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Concentration: Argumentation and Persuasion - Campus Based - Website
- Specializations in various communication areas.
- Prepares for doctoral studies or teaching.
- Diverse student body and faculty.
- Emphasis on research and practical application.
- Comprehensive exams, thesis, or research project required.
- Hands-on teaching experience available.
- Faculty with national and international reputations.
- Focus on critical thinking and scholarly discipline.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Concentration: Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Specializations in multiple areas
- Hands-on teaching experience
- Diverse student community
- Comprehensive exams required
- Thesis or research project
- Preparation for doctoral studies
- Focus on practical application
- Faculty with national/international reputations
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- Specializations in various communication areas.
- Diverse student body including international students.
- Faculty with national and international reputations.
- Preparation for doctoral studies or teaching careers.
- Hands-on teaching experience available.
- Comprehensive exams, thesis, or research project required.
- Focus on applying theory in practical settings.
- Opportunities for informal learning outside the classroom.
Long Beach, CA
California State University-Long Beach
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 30-unit comprehensive MA program
- 2-year typical completion time
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- No specific communication degree prerequisite
- Teaching and graduate assistantships available
- Diverse communication course offerings
- Prepares for doctoral or teaching careers
- Multiple elective communication areas
Los Angeles, CA
University of California-Los Angeles
- Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Ph.D. in Communication
- Three research areas
- 11 course requirement
- Comprehensive funding package
- Normative 5-year program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Strong faculty mentorship
- Research-focused curriculum
University of Southern California
- Master's - Communication (MA)
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Communication
- 32 total units required
- Two program options available
- Core courses: COMM 525, 526, 550, 552
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Comprehensive exam or thesis pathway
- Maximum 2 400-level courses allowed
- Up to 4 transfer units accepted
Northridge, CA
California State University-Northridge
- Master's - Communication Studies, MA
Campus Based - Website
- 33-unit graduate communication program
- Multiple research and career paths
- Advanced communication theory focus
- Thesis or project option
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Performance and cultural studies
- Rhetorical studies concentration
- Professional career preparation
- Master's - Communication Studies, MA
Concentration: Performance, Language and Cultural Studies - Campus Based - Website
- 33 units of coursework
- Culminating experience options
- 3.0 GPA for admission
- Tailored study program
- Comprehensive communication perspective
- Performance, Language, Cultural Studies
- Rhetorical Studies
- Communication Theory
- Master's - Communication Studies, MA
Concentration: Rhetorical Studies - Campus Based - Website
- 33 units of coursework
- Culminating experience options
- 3.0 GPA for admission
- Tailored study opportunities
- Prepares for Ph.D. pursuits
- Community college instruction prep
- Communication industry career prep
- Includes Performance, Language Studies
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 30 Total Program Units
- 12 Months Completion Time
- $600 Per Unit Cost
- Asynchronous Course Format
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Biblical Perspective Integration
- Advanced Communication Skills
Sacramento, CA
California State University-Sacramento
- Master's - M.A. in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 30-unit graduate communication program
- Flexible evening class schedules
- Multiple culminating experience options
- Paid Teaching/Graduate Assistantships
- Two to three years completion time
- Tuition $5,906 per year (in-state)
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- No mandatory GRE scores
San Bernardino, CA
California State University-San Bernardino
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 30-unit graduate program
- Two-year completion timeline
- Evening classes available
- Flexible professional schedules
- Graduate internship opportunities
- Three culminating experience options
- Multiple funding opportunities
- Award-winning faculty
San Diego, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Website
- 10-month online master's degree
- 45 quarter units total
- Four-week course structure
- Flexible online/in-person options
- Year-round enrollment
- Advanced communication strategy focus
- Multidisciplinary communication approach
- Professional faculty network
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco State University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- 4-semester full-time program
- Diverse communication seminar topics
- Western Regional Graduate Program
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Three culminating experience options
- Research methods training
- Career paths in multiple sectors
- Graduate seminar style courses
Stockton, CA
University of the Pacific
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Media and Public - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Four concentrations available
- Communication Education focus
- Communication Studies focus
- Political Communication focus
- Media and Public Relations focus
- Stockton campus location
- In-person course format
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Communication Education - Campus Based - Website
- 2 years program length
- In-person course format
- Stockton campus location
- Four concentrations available
- Communication theory focus
- Methodology and practice training
- Prepares for doctoral programs
- Solves work-related communication problems
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Four concentrations available
- In-person course format
- Located on Stockton campus
- 2 years program length
- Focus on communication theory
- Methodology and practice training
- Prepares for doctoral programs
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Communication Studies - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Four concentrations available
- In-person course format
- Located on Stockton campus
- 2 years program length
- Focus on communication theory
- Methodology and practice training
- Prepares for doctoral programs