Master’s in Communication in California

The Golden State offers a wealth of graduate-level communications programs. From online courses to traditional classroom programs and hybrid formats, there is sure to be a master's in communication program to suit every prospective student and every region of the state.

California's major industries, including agriculture, entertainment, technology, and tourism, all need expert communications specialists. Many small businesses and professional communications firms also offer ample job opportunities for graduates of master's in communication programs.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in California

Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in California? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top schools to help you find the perfect fit for your career goals. Our list highlights programs known for their quality, faculty, and resources. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or digital communication, our rankings guide you to the right choice. Check out our ranking methodology to see how we pick the best.

#1

University of the Pacific

Stockton, CA - Private 4-year - pacific.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Communication Education - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of the Pacific's Master of Arts in Communication with a Communication Education concentration provides an innovative pathway for educators and communication professionals seeking advanced training. Uniquely structured to blend theoretical foundations with practical skills, this program prepares students to excel in communication instruction and organizational learning environments. Students delve deep into pedagogical strategies, communication theory, and research methodologies specific to educational communication contexts. The two-year, in-person program at the Stockton campus offers specialized coursework that develops critical teaching and communication competencies. Graduates emerge equipped to design effective communication curricula, conduct scholarly research, and drive educational communication innovation across academic and professional settings.

• 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
• Graduate-level instruction
• Tailored study options

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Communication Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of the Pacific's Communication Studies concentration within the Master of Arts in Communication offers a comprehensive exploration of interpersonal, organizational, and social communication dynamics. This rigorous two-year program emphasizes analytical research, theoretical frameworks, and advanced communication practices. Students engage in sophisticated scholarly investigations, examining communication phenomena across diverse contexts. The Stockton campus-based program provides an immersive learning experience that cultivates critical thinking, advanced research skills, and nuanced understanding of communication processes. Graduates develop expertise in analyzing complex communication interactions, preparing them for leadership roles in academia, research, consulting, and professional communication environments.

• 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
• Solves work-related communication problems
• Communication Education concentration
• Communication Studies concentration
• Political Communication concentration
• Media and Public Relations concentration
• Hands-on approach with students
• Curriculum, requirements, and tuition details available

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Political Communication concentration at University of the Pacific's Master of Arts in Communication program offers a strategic approach to understanding communication within political landscapes. Students critically analyze political discourse, media interactions, public policy communication, and strategic messaging techniques. This two-year program equips graduates with advanced skills in political communication research, campaign strategies, and media relations. Participants explore theoretical frameworks while developing practical competencies in crafting persuasive communication strategies across governmental, nonprofit, and political organizational contexts. The Stockton campus-based program prepares students to become sophisticated communication professionals capable of navigating complex political communication environments with analytical precision and strategic insight.

• 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
• Solves work-related communication problems
• Communication Education concentration
• Communication Studies concentration
• Political Communication concentration
• Media and Public Relations concentration
• Hands-on approach with students
• Develops critical thinking skills
• Enhances research skills
• Improves practical communication skills
• Graduate-level instruction
• Tailored for career advancement
• Ideal for various professional paths

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Media and Public - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of the Pacific's Media and Public Relations concentration within the Master of Arts in Communication provides a comprehensive exploration of strategic communication practices. This sophisticated two-year program prepares students to excel in contemporary media landscapes by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical communication skills. Students develop advanced expertise in crafting compelling narratives, managing organizational communications, and understanding complex media ecosystems. The Stockton campus-based program emphasizes strategic communication planning, digital media strategies, and professional communication techniques. Graduates emerge as versatile communication professionals equipped to navigate rapidly evolving media environments, develop innovative communication strategies, and lead communication initiatives across diverse organizational contexts.

• 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
• 2 years program length
• Combines theory and practice
• Prepares for doctoral studies
• Solves work-related communication problems
• Graduate-level instruction
• Hands-on approach with students
• Curriculum details available
• Admissions requirements specified
• Tuition and fees information
• Application process outlined
• Designed for professional advancement
• Enhances communication skills

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#2

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA - Public 4-Year - fullerton.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Fullerton's Master of Arts in Communication Studies offers a comprehensive exploration of communication theories and processes. Students gain advanced insights into diverse communication domains, including interpersonal, intercultural, and organizational communication paradigms. The program cultivates robust research skills, preparing graduates for potential doctoral studies or professional roles in teaching, training, and conflict mediation. Featuring a diverse academic environment, the curriculum emphasizes scholarly research, critical thinking, and practical application. Faculty members are distinguished by national and international research reputations, providing students with cutting-edge perspectives and mentorship opportunities. Graduates can expect rigorous academic training with flexible completion options like comprehensive exams, thesis, or research projects.

• 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.
• High expectations for scholarly integrity and ethical conduct.
• Access to scholarships and teaching fellowships.

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Concentration: Argumentation and Persuasion - Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Fullerton's Master of Arts in Communication Studies, specializing in Argumentation and Persuasion, provides an advanced academic pathway for communication professionals. This concentrated program delves deeply into theoretical frameworks and practical strategies of persuasive communication. Students explore complex argumentative techniques, developing sophisticated analytical skills applicable across professional contexts. The curriculum emphasizes research methodology, critical thinking, and strategic communication principles. Designed for scholars seeking in-depth understanding, the program prepares participants for potential doctoral studies or specialized teaching careers. With renowned faculty and a diverse learning environment, students receive comprehensive training in developing, analyzing, and executing persuasive communication strategies.

• 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.
• Opportunities for informal learning outside classroom.
• Admission requires communication studies background.

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Concentration: Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Fullerton's Master of Arts in Communication Studies, focusing on Intercultural Communication, offers a transformative educational experience for global communication professionals. This specialized program explores complex cultural communication dynamics, preparing students to navigate diverse interpersonal and organizational environments. Participants develop advanced skills in understanding cultural nuances, communication barriers, and cross-cultural interaction strategies. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, emphasizing research, critical analysis, and experiential learning. Students benefit from a diverse academic community, hands-on teaching opportunities, and faculty with distinguished international research backgrounds. Graduates emerge equipped to excel in multicultural professional settings, academic research, and global communication roles.

• 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
• Broad exposure to communication discipline
• Opportunities for informal interaction
• High achievement expectations
• Self-reliance and creativity emphasized
• Scholarly integrity and ethical conduct
• Graduate Degree Programs section available
• Admission requirements detailed
• Program requirements outlined
• Scholarships available
• Faculty members listed
• Teaching fellowship opportunities
• Student activities supported
• Career guidance in communication studies
• Contact information for inquiries
• Graduate director available for questions
• Department chair contact provided
• Intermittent advisor availability noted

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#3

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - usc.edu

Master's - Communication (MA)

Campus Based - Visit Website

USC's Master of Arts in Communication provides a cutting-edge graduate program that blends humanistic and social scientific communication research methodologies. Students navigate between two dynamic academic pathways: a comprehensive examination track and a rigorous thesis-based option. The curriculum strategically develops advanced communication skills through intensive core coursework, preparing graduates for sophisticated academic research and professional communication roles. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and flexibility in course selection, students can customize their learning experience while gaining profound insights into complex communication theories and practices.

• 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

#4

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA - Private 4-year - apu.edu

Master's - Strategic Communication, MA

Online Learning - Visit Website

Azusa Pacific University's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication is tailored for professionals aiming to elevate their communication expertise in a digital age. This online program stands out for its integration of Christian values with modern communication theories, preparing students for leadership roles across various sectors. With a curriculum that includes real-world client projects, students apply strategic communication principles to solve contemporary challenges. The program's flexibility, combined with a per-unit cost of $690, makes it an attractive option for those balancing career and education. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and the program is recognized for its military-friendly policies and financial aid availability.

• 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
• Yellow Ribbon Military Friendly
• Financial aid available

#5

California Baptist University

Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication

Online Learning - Visit Website

California Baptist University's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication offers a transformative online learning experience, empowering communication professionals to navigate complex media landscapes. Through rigorous coursework, students develop advanced strategic messaging skills, organizational communication strategies, and digital narrative techniques. The program uniquely integrates biblical perspectives with contemporary communication theories, preparing graduates to lead innovative communication initiatives. With a comprehensive curriculum spanning digital media trends, leadership communication, and strategic campaign development, students gain practical insights applicable across diverse professional environments.

• 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
• Digital Media Trends Explored
• Leadership Communication Emphasis

*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (NCES).

See below for details about masters in communications programs available in each region of California:

Los Angeles Metro Area / Southern California Master’s in Communication Programs

One of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, the Los Angeles area offers several options for masters-level communication degrees. Major industries in L.A., including entertainment, media, tourism, finance, and technology offer a wealth of potential job opportunities following graduation. Sample job titles may include public relations account executive, publicist, writer/editor, and advertising executive, among many others.

California State University - Fullerton

California State University in Fullerton offers a traditional classroom Master of Arts in Communication program with three options for concentrations.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program allows students to choose from three concentrations: Communication, Tourism & Entertainment, Professional Communications, and Communications Research and Theory.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester are estimated at $4,143 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program admits new students in the fall quarter with a deadline of May 4.

California State University - Long Beach

California State University in Long Beach offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as a traditional on-campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program provides students with advanced instructions in the major theories and research methods in communication with graduates typically going on to doctoral programs or to become communication instructors.

What Does It Cost?: The yearly tuition and fees for in-state students is $6,302 and for non-residents is $11,882.

Anything Else?: The program admits new students in the fall semester only with a deadline of February 15.

California State University - Los Angeles

California State University in Los Angeles offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as a traditional on-campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program is designed to provide students with an understanding of research methods and theories that explore the nature and functions of human communication in various areas including interpersonal and organizational communication, intercultural communication, and performance studies among others. The program requires that students select and develop an area of specialization.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester are estimated at $4,033 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program admits new students in the fall semester with a deadline of February 15.

California State University - Northridge

California State University in Northridge offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as a traditional on-campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program provides advanced study in human communication to prepare students to pursue academic and professional career paths. The program includes coursework in performance, language and cultural studies, rhetorical studies, and communication theory.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester are estimated at $4,152 per semester, with an additional $270 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program is comprised of 33 units of coursework, and students will choose to finish the program with comprehensive studies, a thesis or an applied scholarly project.

California State University - San Bernardino

California State University in San Bernardino offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Communication program with two tracks for students to choose from.

What to Know: Students of in the Master of Arts in Communication program allows students to choose from a Communication Studies track or an Integrated Marketing Communication track. The Communication Studies track requires 47 units of study and four core classes, and the Integrated Marketing Communication track requires 50 units of study and five core classes. Both tracks have the capstone options of thesis, project, or comprehensive exam.

What Does It Cost?: For in-state students, tuition and fees are $2,779 per quarter for full-time graduate students. For non-residents, there is an additional fee of $264 per unit.

Anything Else?: The program only accepts students for the fall term. Completed applications received by February 28 receive first priority, while applications received between February 28 and May 15 receive second priority.

Chapman University

Chapman University in Orange offers a Master of Science in Health & Strategic Communication program that focuses on the intersection of health and communication.

What to Know: The Master of Science in Health & Strategic Communication program, which can be completed in one or two years, allows students to study the role of effective communication in medical settings, health promotion and education, and physical and mental well-being.

What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit for the program is $1,095, which does not include additional mandatory fees.

Anything Else?: Chapman University School of Communication reviews applications for admission on a rolling basis.

University of Southern California

The University of California at Davis offers several masters-level communications degrees, including one online program and many traditional on-campus programs.

What to Know: The University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism offers several master's level programs including a Master of Journalism program, Master of Specialized Journalism, a Master of Communication Management, a Master of Digital Social Media, and a graduate program in Strategic Public Relations. USC also offers two dual degree programs and an online Master of Communication Management program. The Master of Communication Informatics program is a cross-disciplinary joint degree from USC Annenberg and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering that prepares students to be experts in the emerging field of data science for communication. The dual degree in Global Communication is a joint degree program between USC Annenberg and the London School of Economics & Political Science that allows students to study in California and London.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition for master's students at USC is estimated at $36,000 per year for students taking a full-time course load of up to 10 credits per semester.

Anything Else?: Application deadlines vary depending on the program selected. For a full listing of application deadlines, see the USC Annenberg Admissions page.

San Francisco Bay Area Master’s in Communication Programs

The San Francisco Bay Area, the country's leading technology industry hub, offers aspiring communications professionals several options for master's in communications programs. Several programs specifically prepare students for work as digital media content producers, social media managers, and digital media strategists.

California State University - East Bay

California State University - East Bay in Concord offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in a traditional classroom format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 45-credit hour program that culminates in a thesis, project or comprehensive exam. Students construct programs based in theory and research and complemented with specialized seminars in rhetoric, organizational or interpersonal communication, media studies, and political communication.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents are estimated at $8,268 per year and $14,604 per year for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program admits new students in the fall quarter only. The deadline for applications for early review is February 25^th and the deadline to submit materials for late review is May 31^st.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program in an on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program has a focus on social justice and includes advanced study of communication processes to understand complex human problems and discern ethical choices in local and global communities.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester is estimated at $4,346 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: Full-time students generally take two years to complete the program.

San Jose State University

San Jose State University offers two graduate level communication programs on campus: a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program and a Master of Science in Mass Communications program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program is a 35-unit program that combines the study of the following areas: Intercultural Communication, Organizational Communication, Performance Studies, Cultural Studies Interpersonal Communication, and Crisis and Conflict Resolution. The Master of Science in Mass Communications program is designed to help public relations, advertising, and journalism professionals expand their knowledge and develop research and multimedia skills needed for leadership positions in their respective fields. Courses are taught mostly in the evening to accommodate students working daytime jobs.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester are estimated at $4,577 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the Master of Arts in Communication Studies is March 1 for admission to the fall semester. The application for the Master of Science in Mass Communications is April 1 for admission to the fall semester.

Stanford University

Stanford University offers a co-terminal Master of Arts in Communication degree program for undergraduate students at Stanford to complete a bachelor's degree and master's degree simultaneously.

What to Know: Students can choose from two tracks within the co-terminal program: Journalism or Media Studies.

What Does It Cost?: Students can calculate the tuition for their co-terminal program based on their undergraduate tuition group by checking with the Registrar's Office.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the Master of Arts in Communication program is January 31^st. Master’s admissions offering is ONLY for Stanford undergrads.

Sacramento / Northern California Master’s in Communication Programs

As the capital of California, Sacramento offers graduates of master's in communication programs several job opportunities in politics and local and state government as political consultants, campaign strategists, lobbyists, communications directors for non-profit organizations and public relations strategists.

California State University - Chico

California State University in Chico offers a traditional classroom Master of Arts in Communication Studies program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program offers coursework in rhetoric, communication theory, and philosophy, political communication, and interpersonal and intercultural communication, and allows students to choose between either thesis or comprehensive examination plans of study.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking six or more units per semester are estimated at $4,393 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: Qualified graduate students may apply for graduate teaching assistant-ships that come with stipends and provide students with professional teaching experience.

California State University - Fresno

California State University in Fresno offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in a traditional classroom format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 30-credit hour program that culminates in a thesis, project, or comprehensive exam. The program involves a study focused on diverse communication contexts, including communication theory, rhetorical study, organizational communication, interpersonal communication, research methods, group communication, family communication, health communication, and intercultural communication.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for California residents taking seven or more units per semester are estimated at $4,012 per semester, with an additional $396 per unit fee charged to non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program admits new students in the fall quarter with a deadline of April 1.

California State University - Sacramento

California State University in Sacramento offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as a traditional on-campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program provides advanced study in instructional, organizational, interpersonal, health, rhetorical, mass, and digital communication. Students develop expertise in their chosen areas of study through coursework, collaborative projects, and mentoring relationships.

What Does It Cost?: For in-state students, tuition is $6,738, without fees. For non-residents, there is an extra fee of $372 per unit.

Anything Else?: Deadlines for application are January 15 for fall admission and September 15 for spring admission.

University of California - Davis

The University of California at Davis offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: Students gain advanced qualitative and quantitative skills necessary for professional research and teaching in the areas of social interaction, mediated communication, and the development of communication theories.

What Does It Cost?: The current graduate tuition cost for California residents is $13,608 per year and $28,710 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is January 5, and the general application deadline is April 15.

San Diego Masters in Communication Programs

San Diego's major employers are military and defense, biotechnology and medical, tourism and hospitality, and information technology industries. A wide variety of industries and businesses to choose from, graduates may seek careers as healthcare communication experts, technology and corporate communications experts, hospitality publicists, and government relations liaisons among many others.

San Diego State University

The School of Communication at San Diego State University offers a Master of Arts in Communications Studies program in a traditional, on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program prepares students for a career in academia or developing their research and analytic skills for careers in corporate, non-profit and governmental organizations.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition and fees for graduate students who are California residents are $8,922 per year and $16,050 per year for non-residents.

Anything Else?: Full-time students generally take two years to complete the program.

Online Master’s in Communication Programs in California

California Baptist University

California Baptist University in Riverside offers an online Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The 30-credit hour online-only program aims to prepare students for a variety of communication careers in the areas of business, public health communication, community relations, advertising and market research, teaching and law.

What Does It Cost?: The cost per unit is $585, with a total program cost estimated to be around $17,000.

Anything Else?: The program is generally completed in 12 months.

National University

National University in La Jolla offers an online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program aims to prepare students for professional positions in communications by teaching theoretical and practical approaches to developing strategic communications programs.

What Does It Cost?: The cost per unit for graduate-level courses at National University is $416.

Anything Else?: The program learning outcomes include the production of multi-public, multi-channel communication campaigns, managing campaigns by developing budgets, task lists, and schedules, applying formative research to campaigns and messages, creating persuasive campaigns, delivering communication presentations online and demonstrating leadership and collaborative skills.

University of Southern California

USC offers an online Master of Arts in Communication Management program that is aimed at new and experienced working professionals who want to become leaders in their chosen communication fields. See more information about the overall USC offerings here.

California Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs