Master’s in Communication in Colorado

Colorado offers prospective communications experts several options for master's in communications programs. Students can choose from on campus, online and hybrid programs, with a number of degree specializations such as marketing communication, public relations, organizational communication and many others. Upon graduation, communication experts will be well prepared to begin their careers in academia or in one of the state's major industries, such as tourism, aerospace, technology, outdoor recreation, financial services or health and wellness.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Colorado

Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Colorado? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights schools known for their strong communication courses, expert faculty, and great career support. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or digital communication, our rankings guide you to programs that stand out. Check out our ranking methodology to see how we pick the best.

#1

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu

Master's - Communication, MA

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Colorado Denver's Master of Arts in Communication offers a comprehensive 30-credit generalist degree emphasizing intellectual and professional development. Students engage with advanced communication research and practical skills through a hybrid learning environment. The program's flexible curriculum combines theoretical foundations with applied learning, preparing graduates for diverse professional paths in communication management, marketing, and public relations. Unique opportunities include optional certificate programs in Strategic Communication, Health Communication, and Digital Studies, enabling students to customize their academic experience and enhance career marketability.

  • 30-credit generalist communication degree
  • Hybrid online and in-person format
  • Five required core courses
  • Five elective courses
  • Optional certificate programs available
  • Evening courses accommodate working professionals
  • Focuses on research and practical skills
  • Prepares for diverse communication careers
  • Faculty expertise in multiple communication domains

Master's - Communication, MA

Concentration: Rhetorical Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Rhetorical Studies concentration within University of Colorado Denver's Communication MA provides an intensive exploration of communication theory and research. Students delve into sophisticated analytical frameworks, examining communication's complex social and cultural dimensions. The 30-credit program balances theoretical depth with practical application, offering flexible online and in-person learning modalities. By integrating rhetorical analysis with contemporary communication practices, students develop advanced critical thinking and research skills applicable across professional and academic contexts. Optional certificate programs further enhance students' interdisciplinary communication expertise.

  • 30-credit program
  • Combines online and in-person
  • Offers certificates in specialized areas
  • Prepares for diverse communication careers
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Focus on theory and applied skills
  • Opportunities for internships
  • Scholarships available for eligible students
  • Faculty expertise in various communication fields
  • Supports intellectual and professional growth

Master's - Communication, MA

Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Colorado Denver's Media Studies concentration in the Communication MA program offers a dynamic exploration of contemporary media landscapes. Students critically analyze media technologies, cultural representations, and communication processes through a comprehensive 30-credit curriculum. The hybrid format provides flexibility for working professionals, blending theoretical insights with practical skills development. Emphasizing research-driven approaches, the program prepares graduates for innovative roles in digital media, strategic communication, and emerging communication industries. Optional certificate opportunities and evening class schedules accommodate diverse professional backgrounds and learning preferences.

  • 30-credit generalist communication degree
  • Hybrid online and in-person format
  • Five required core courses
  • Five elective courses
  • Optional certificate programs
  • Weekday evening class options
  • Research and applied skills focus
  • Career-oriented learning outcomes
  • $1,000 scholarship available
  • Minimum 3.75 GPA for scholarship
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Regis University

Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu

Master's - Master of Arts Specialization: Communication

Online Learning - Visit Website

Regis University's Master of Arts in Communication offers a comprehensive graduate experience designed to elevate professional communication capabilities. Through an innovative online platform, students explore advanced communication theories and practices, developing critical skills in strategic messaging, digital media engagement, and interpersonal dynamics. The program distinguishes itself by emphasizing practical workplace applications, enabling students to master conflict resolution techniques, craft persuasive communication strategies, and adapt to evolving media landscapes. With a flexible curriculum and competitive tuition, graduates emerge prepared for leadership roles in corporate communications, public relations, and content development, backed by a strong 95% career placement rate.

  • Online program format
  • 12-24 months completion time
  • 33 total program credits
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • 95% graduates work in field
  • $599 per credit hour
  • Licensed educator discount
  • Multiple career pathways
  • Conflict management focus
#3

University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Northern Colorado offers a Master of Arts in Communication, tailored for professionals aiming to elevate their communication prowess. This hybrid program blends evening and weekend classes with online flexibility, ideal for working individuals. It emphasizes rhetorical and communication theories, research methodologies, and interpersonal communication, alongside leadership development. With small class sizes, students benefit from close faculty mentorship and internship opportunities, preparing them for diverse career paths. The curriculum is designed to enhance professional skills through a career-focused approach, making it a standout choice for those seeking to advance in the communication field.

  • 33 total credits required
  • Located in Greeley, Colorado
  • Evening and weekend classes
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Flexible summer and online options
  • Small class sizes
  • Close faculty mentorship
  • Internship opportunities
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • Rhetorical and communication theory
  • Research methods training
  • Interpersonal communication focus
  • Leadership skill development
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2023, administered by NCES.

2025 Affordable Colorado Masters in Communication Degree Options

Finding affordable Master's in Communication programs in Colorado for 2025 is key for students aiming to advance their careers without high costs. The table lists options with tuition ranges to help compare. Affordable and cost-effective education matters as it opens doors for more students to gain valuable skills. Colorado offers diverse settings from Denver to Boulder, making it a great place to study. Choosing a program that fits your budget is crucial for long-term success in the communication field.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of Denver
  • Fully online flexible format
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Multiple concentration options
  • 6 concentrations available
  • Start in as few as 18 months
  • $835 per credit hour
  • 10-week term length
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • $46,700 - $70,000 (Graduate)
University of Northern Colorado
  • 33 total credits required
  • Located in Greeley, Colorado
  • Evening and weekend classes
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Flexible summer and online options
  • Small class sizes
  • Close faculty mentorship
  • Internship opportunities
  • $11,800 - $17,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,300 - $30,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Regis University
  • Online program format
  • 12-24 months completion time
  • 33 total program credits
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • 95% graduates work in field
  • $599 per credit hour
  • Licensed educator discount
  • $13,000 - $19,400 (Graduate)
*IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

Read on for more details about master's in communications programs available in Colorado.

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

Colorado State University in Denver offers two master's-level communications programs, one being a traditional on campus program and the other a hybrid online/on campus professional program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program is offered in a traditional classroom format and offers the following areas of study: Deliberative Practices, Media and Visual Culture, Relational and Organizational Communication and Rhetoric and Civic Engagement. The Master of Communication and Media Management degree is an online hybrid program that is aimed at professionals who want to advance their careers in communications and offers courses in traditional and digital communications tools, strategies and practices.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for the on campus program is $757 per credit hour for Colorado residents, and $1,557 per credit hour for non-residents. The hybrid program is $709 per credit hour.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester is January 5 for the on campus program. The application deadline for the online program is June 30 for admission to the fall semester.

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO - BOULDER

The University of Colorado in Boulder offers a traditional on-campus Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program emphasizes three areas of specialization: Community & Social Interaction, Organizational Communication and Rhetoric and Culture.

What Does It Cost?: Full-time graduate level tuition is $6,372 per semester for Colorado residents, and $14,922 per semester for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for program entry in the fall semester is December 1.

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO - COLORADO SPRINGS

The University of Colorado in Colorado Springs offers an online Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communications program allows students to tailor their course of study to fit their professional goals. Students are encouraged to develop expertise in either professional communication with an emphasis on organizational communication, leadership and strategic communication or advanced general studies with an emphasis on communication competence in their own particular area of interest.

What Does It Cost?: Full-time graduate level tuition is $5,176 per semester for Colorado residents, and $10,468 per semester for non-residents based on a course load of 9 credits per semester.

Anything Else?: The Master of Arts in Communication program admits students on a rolling basis with program starts in the fall and spring semesters.

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO - DENVER

The University of Colorado in Denver offers a traditional on campus Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication degree is a generalist program with professional and academic tracks. The 33-credit program requires 11 courses including one Introduction course, one methods class, five seminars and four electives.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition is $455 per credit hour for Colorado residents, and $1,243 per credit hour for non-residents. This tuition cost does not include additional mandatory fees and program materials.

Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for a fall semester start is February 15. Applications will be considered until May 1, which is the non-priority deadline for fall semester start. October 1 is the priority application deadline for a spring semester start.

UNIVERSITY OF DENVER

The University of Denver offers three options for master's-level communication degrees, all offered as on campus programs.

What to Know: The University of Denver offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program, which is a broad generalist program that allows students to concentrate in interpersonal and family communication, culture and communication, or rhetoric and communication ethics. The Master of Arts in Media and Public Communication combines theory and practice and allows students to choose from concentrations in strategic communication or media and globalization. The Master of Arts in International and Intercultural Communication allows students to choose from a wide variety of courses to develop their own tailored areas of concentration.

What Does It Cost?: For the 2017-2018 school year, the cost per credit is $1,320.

Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for all three programs is February 15 for a fall semester program start.

UNIVERSITY OF DENVER - UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

The University of Denver's University College offers an online Master of Arts in Communication Management program with several degree concentrations for students to choose from.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Management program offers courses entirely online or on campus in the evenings, and offers degree concentrations in Public Relations, Organizational Communication, Organizational Development, Marketing Communication, Learning and Development and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the entire master's program is $32,928, which does not include related program fees.

Anything Else?: Classes begin June 11. The program is comprised of 48 credits, which are taken as 12 courses.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO

The University of Northern Colorado in Greely offers an on campus Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is designed for working professionals, with flexible class schedules offered in the evenings and weekends with some summer and online availability.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the M.A. in Communication program is $5,193 per semester based on a nine-credit course load for Colorado residents. Tuition for non-residents is $10,008 per semester. This tuition cost does not include additional university and course fees.

Anything Else?: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but the priority deadline for fall admissions is March 1.

Colorado Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

Jump to City:

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
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.