Master’s in Communication in Indiana
The Hoosier State offers several options for students looking for a master's in communication program. With on campus and online programs to choose from, students can also tailor their degree to their own career aspirations with concentrations available in health communication, journalism and media studies, corporate communication, public relations and many others. Upon graduation, communication experts will be well prepared to advance their careers in one of Indiana's top industries, including life sciences and healthcare, automotive and motor sports, cybersecurity and information technology and advanced manufacturing.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Indiana
Indiana offers some of the most dynamic communication master's programs in the Midwest. MastersInCommunications.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the top graduate communication programs across the state, highlighting institutions that deliver exceptional academic experiences. Our comprehensive assessment considers factors like faculty expertise, research opportunities, curriculum innovation, and student outcomes. Whether you're passionate about media studies, strategic communication, or digital journalism, Indiana's programs provide robust pathways for professional growth. These rankings reflect our commitment to helping students find their ideal academic journey. Check out our detailed ranking methodology to understand our rigorous evaluation process.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdue.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication/ Public Relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's strategic communication and public relations Master of Science in Communication program offers a comprehensive digital learning experience designed for communication professionals seeking advanced skills. The 30-credit online curriculum provides specialized training in messaging strategies, digital platforms, and communication techniques. Students can complete the program in just 20 months, gaining expertise across five concentration areas including strategic communication. The program's competitive $520 per credit hour tuition makes it an accessible option for in-state residents, with no prior communication experience required and opportunities for graduate certificates.
- Online Master's in Communication
- 20 months completion time
- 30 total credits required
- $520 in-state per credit
- Five concentration options
- No prior communication experience needed
- Graduate certificates available
- Ranked #1 online communication program
- Flexible online coursework
- Taught by industry experts
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Branding and Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's branding and marketing-focused Master of Science in Communication delivers a rigorous 20-month online program tailored for professionals seeking advanced communication expertise. The curriculum emphasizes critical skills in marketing, digital media, and strategic communication, enabling students to develop comprehensive professional competencies. With a competitive $520 per credit in-state tuition, students can customize their educational journey across five specialized concentrations. The program offers flexibility, career-focused learning, and expert instruction from industry practitioners, making it an ideal pathway for communication professionals.
- Fully online Master's program
- Five concentration options
- $520 per credit in-state
- No prior communication experience needed
- 30 total credits required
- Completion possible in 20 months
- Ranked #1 online communication program
- Graduate certificates available
- Taught by industry practitioners
- Career-focused curriculum
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Communication Technologies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's digital media and communication technologies Master of Science in Communication provides an innovative online learning experience for professionals seeking cutting-edge media skills. The 30-credit program enables students to master communication technologies, messaging strategies, and digital platforms across five specialized concentrations. Completable in just 20 months with a competitive $520 per credit in-state tuition, the curriculum prepares graduates to thrive in rapidly evolving communication landscapes. The program offers career-focused training, opportunities for graduate certificates, and expert instruction from industry leaders.
- Online Master's program
- 5 concentration options
- $520 in-state per credit
- 30 total credits required
- 20 months completion time
- No prior communication experience needed
- Top-ranked communication program
- Career-focused curriculum
- Graduate certificates available
- Learn from industry experts
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - Public 4-Year - indianapolis.iu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: corporate communication, health communication, media criticism, public communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis's Master of Arts in Applied Communication in Corporate Communication provides professionals a transformative pathway to advanced communication strategies. The program cultivates sophisticated analytical skills, enabling students to navigate complex organizational communication landscapes. By integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications, students develop nuanced competencies in strategic messaging, stakeholder engagement, and communication design. Graduates emerge equipped to lead communication initiatives, drive organizational change, and address multifaceted communication challenges across diverse professional environments.
- M.A. in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- 3.3 GPA minimum requirement
- Interdisciplinary electives allowed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Research methods background preferred
- Communication analysis experience
- Academic writing skills needed
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: health communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis's Master of Arts in Applied Communication in Health Communication prepares students to become innovative communication professionals in healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes understanding intricate communication dynamics within medical contexts, focusing on patient engagement, health messaging, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students develop sophisticated strategies for addressing complex health communication challenges, learning to design effective interventions, interpret research, and communicate critical health information across diverse populations and organizational platforms.
- 30 credit hours total.
- 15 core credit hours.
- 15 elective credit hours.
- Thesis or project option.
- B+ average required.
- No GRE required.
- TOEFL for international students.
- 3 letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement needed.
- Official transcripts required.
- Strong writing skills preferred.
- Liberal arts background beneficial.
- Work-related experience valued.
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA preferred.
- GRE optional for scholarships.
- Interdisciplinary electives allowed.
- Focus on applied outcomes.
- Enhances analytical skills.
- Prepares for social change.
- Advisor approval for electives.
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: media criticism - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis's Master of Arts in Applied Communication with Media Criticism concentration offers an intellectually rigorous exploration of contemporary media landscapes. Students develop sophisticated analytical skills to critically examine media texts, cultural representations, and communication practices. The program equips scholars with advanced theoretical frameworks for understanding media's societal impacts, training them to deconstruct complex media narratives, evaluate communication strategies, and contribute meaningful scholarly insights into evolving media environments.
- Master's in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- Minimum 3.3 GPA required
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite
- Research methods background needed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Provisional admission possible
- Analytical skills emphasized
- Interdisciplinary electives available
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN - Public 4-Year - usi.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Indiana's University of Southern Indiana offers a dynamic Master of Arts in Communication that prepares professionals for advanced communication roles across diverse professional landscapes. This fully online program strategically blends critical, cultural, and social scientific communication perspectives, enabling students to develop sophisticated leadership and analytical skills. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum allows rapid completion within one year, featuring small interactive classes and asynchronous learning formats. Students gain comprehensive insights into complex communication processes, preparing them for strategic roles in organizational communication, public relations, and media management.
- 100% Online Program
- Complete in 2 Years
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- Undergraduate GPA 3.0 Required
- Unconditional/Conditional Admission Options
- Flexible Asynchronous Classes
- Small Class Interactions
- Career Advancement Focused
- Comprehensive Final Exam
- Multiple Start Dates Annually
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN - Public 4-Year - indstate.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana State University's Master of Arts in Communication with a Public Relations concentration offers a strategic and immersive learning experience for aspiring communication professionals. Students engage in advanced coursework focusing on contemporary public relations techniques, strategic messaging, and media engagement. The program's innovative 4+1 structure allows for accelerated degree completion, integrating research methods, cross-cultural communication skills, and professional development. Graduates emerge equipped with comprehensive abilities to craft compelling narratives, manage complex communication challenges, and navigate the evolving media landscape through targeted public relations strategies.
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's program
- Two concentration options
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Provisional graduate admission
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0
- Research methods focus
- Flexible culminating experience
- Professional media skills
- Cross-cultural communication emphasis
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana State University's Master of Arts in Communication featuring a Media Studies concentration provides an intensive academic journey into advanced communication technologies and theoretical frameworks. The program delves deep into digital media trends, critical analysis of communication platforms, and emerging technological paradigms. Through a flexible 4+1 curriculum, students explore sophisticated research methodologies, develop comprehensive media literacy, and gain practical skills in analyzing contemporary media ecosystems. The concentration prepares professionals to critically interpret, strategically navigate, and innovatively contribute to complex media environments across multiple platforms.
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's Program
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Provisional graduate admission available
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0+
- Communication core courses
- Research methods focus
- Flexible elective options
- Multiple culminating experience paths
Purdue University Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, IN - Public 4-Year - pfw.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication with a concentration in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication provides a comprehensive exploration of advanced communication dynamics. Students gain sophisticated insights into organizational communication strategies, interpersonal interaction patterns, and professional communication frameworks. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, emphasizing critical thinking, research methodologies, and communication skill development. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate complex communication landscapes in corporate, non-profit, and governmental settings, with specialized expertise in understanding human interaction, group dynamics, and strategic messaging across diverse professional environments.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research abilities
- Improves writing and argumentation
- Supportive Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Emphasis on new technologies
- Awareness of diverse perspectives
- Competent communication skills
- Critically engaged citizens
- Historical traditions of discipline
- Productive conflict processes
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication with a Media Studies concentration offers an innovative pathway into contemporary communication landscapes. The curriculum provides rigorous training in media analysis, digital communication trends, and strategic content development. Students explore complex media ecosystems, examining technological transformations, audience engagement strategies, and critical perspectives on communication platforms. Emphasizing research-driven approaches, the program equips graduates with advanced skills in media interpretation, strategic communication planning, and multimedia production, preparing them for leadership roles in journalism, digital marketing, corporate communication, and emerging media industries.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Enhances problem-solving skills
- Develops research abilities
- Improves analytical skills
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Scholarships available
- Bachelor's degree required
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Diverse course offerings
- Specializations available
- Focus on argumentation and writing
- Understanding of new technologies
- Awareness of diverse perspectives
- Competent in reading and writing
- Critically engaged citizens
- Historical traditions of discipline
- Productive conflict processes
- Interpersonal communication focus
- Small group communication
- Organizational communication
- Mediated communication
- Public communication contexts
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Critical/Cultural Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication featuring a Critical/Cultural Studies concentration delivers a profound examination of communication through social, cultural, and theoretical lenses. The program challenges students to critically analyze communication practices, power structures, and cultural representations. Participants develop sophisticated analytical skills, exploring how communication reflects and shapes societal dynamics, identity formations, and systemic inequalities. Graduates gain exceptional abilities to deconstruct complex communicative processes, understand intersectional perspectives, and contribute meaningful insights across academic, professional, and social domains, making significant contributions to contemporary communication discourse.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored program of study
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research and analysis
- Improves argumentation and writing
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Scholarship opportunities available
- Prepares for diverse communication roles
- Strong community network
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Diverse course offerings
- Focus on new technologies
- Awareness of diverse perspectives
- Critical engagement skills
- Competent communication skills
- Historical traditions of discipline
- Productive conflict processes
- ScholarshipUniverse tool access
See below for more details about the master's in communications programs available in Indiana.
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
Ball State University in Muncie offers two options for masters-level communication degrees, both offered as traditional on campus programs.
What to Know: The Master's Degree in Communication Liberal Arts & Sciences includes 12 credits of general communication core courses, 15 credits specific to your master's in communication liberal arts and sciences and nine credits of electives, including the opportunity for a paid professional internship. The Master's Degree in Organizational and Professional Communication and Development is aimed at helping students advance their professional careers in public relations, human resources, sales and marketing and many other communication-related fields.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for Indiana residents is $9,456 per academic year, and $21,954 for non-residents per academic year.
Anything Else?: Both programs culminate in either a thesis / research paper or a written and oral comprehensive examination.
INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY
Indiana State University in Terre Haute offers a Master of Arts in Communication degree in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 33-credit program that includes study of many areas of communication including political communication, international communication, rhetorical studies, journalism, health communication, interpersonal communication and more.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit hour for Indiana residents is $404, and $793 per credit hour for non-residents. These fees do not include additional university or course fees.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the program is March 10.
INDIANA UNIVERSITY - PURDUE UNIVERSITY - INDIANAPOLIS
Indiana University - Purdue University in Indianapolis offers a Master of Arts in Applied Communication.
What to Know: The on campus Master of Arts in Applied Communication program offers optional concentrations in Corporate Communication, Health Communication, Media Criticism and Public Communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for Indiana residents is $3,665 per semester, and $9,200 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is January 15 for consideration for the fall semester. The regular admission deadline is May 15 for the fall semester.
IPFW – INDIANA UNIVERSITY - PURDUE UNIVERSITY - FORT WAYNE
Indiana University - Purdue University in Fort Wayne offers a Master of Arts and Master of Science in Professional Communication as an on campus program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts or Master of Science in Professional Communication offers three specialties for students to choose from: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication Theory, Media Studies or Critical/Cultural Studies.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for Indiana residents is $342 per credit hour, and $775 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The recommended application deadline is February 15 for the fall semester. The final application deadline for domestic students is April 15. The recommended application deadline for the spring semester is September 15 and the final deadline is November 15.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
Purdue University in West Lafayette offers an online Master of Science in Communication program, as well as traditional on campus Master of Arts or Master of Science in Communication programs.
What to Know: The online Master of Science in Communication program can be completed in as little as 20 months and offers two professional concentrations: Strategic Communication/Public Relations and Integrated Communication and Advertising. The on campus Masters in Communication program is customizable, allowing students to choose majors and minors that appeal to their career aspirations, including Health Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Media, Technology & Society, Organizational Communication and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: The total program cost for the online program is $13,500 for Indiana residents, and $22,500 for non-residents. Graduate level tuition at Purdue University for on campus programs is $4,996 per semester for Indiana residents and $14,397 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester for the on campus program is December 1. The online program reviews applications on a rolling basis for the fall, spring and summer semesters.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTWEST – HAMMOND
Purdue University Northwest offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Hammond.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program offers courses in the evening hours to accommodate working professionals, and is designed to be completed in two years.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for Indiana residents is $288 per credit hour, and $636 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester is April 15 for domestic students, November 15 for the spring semester and April 15 for admission in the summer.
Indiana Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Ball State University Programs | 2000 University Avenue Room 351 Muncie, IN 47306 (765) 285-1882 |
Indiana State University Programs | 217 N. 6th Street, Gillum Hallm Third Floor Terre Haute , IN 47809 (812) 237-3244 |
Indiana University - Purdue University - Indianapolis Programs | 425 University Blvd, CA-309 Indianapolis, IN 46202 (317) 274-0566 |
PFW - Purdue University Fort Wayne Programs | 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd. Fort Wayne , IN 46805 (260) 481-6160 |
Purdue University Programs | West Lafayette, IN 47907 (877) 497-5851 |
Purdue University Northwest - Hammond Programs | 2200 169th Street Hammond , IN 42323 (219) 989-2988 |