Master’s in Communication in Kentucky
The Bluegrass State is home to six universities that offer master's level communication programs. With mainly on-campus programs available, and a couple of online or hybrid options for students to consider, aspiring communication experts have the opportunity to specialize in organizational communication, public relations, mass communication, healthcare and other areas of the communication field. Graduates of master's in communication programs may seek employment in one of Kentucky's major industries, such as agriculture, automotive, healthcare or food and beverage. Fortune 500 companies with major operations in Kentucky include Yum! Brands, Kindred Healthcare, Ford Motor Company, UPS, and Humana Inc.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Kentucky
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Kentucky? 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. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or corporate communication, our list highlights Kentucky's standout programs. Discover which schools made the cut and why. Learn more about how we rank programs by visiting our ranking methodology page.
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY - Public 4-Year - uky.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kentucky's Master of Arts in Communication offers a comprehensive and dynamic program that prepares students for advanced professional roles. With a robust 30-credit curriculum, students gain sophisticated research skills and theoretical insights across diverse communication domains. The program provides flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks, enabling personalized academic exploration. Students benefit from renowned faculty mentorship and engage in cutting-edge research opportunities spanning media studies, interpersonal dynamics, and health communication. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, advanced methodological training, and practical applications in academic, organizational, and media environments.
- 30 credit hours required
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Media Studies concentration
- Interpersonal Communication focus
- Health Communication specialty
- Research methods training
- Communication theory coursework
- Teaching assistantships available
- Typically full student funding
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Interpersonal Communication, this University of Kentucky master's program provides an intensive exploration of human interaction theories and research methodologies. Students develop advanced analytical skills through a carefully structured 30-credit curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with practical applications. The program's flexible approach allows students to customize their academic journey through thesis and non-thesis tracks. Emphasizing scholarly collaboration and individual research interests, graduates are prepared for advanced professional roles in academia, consulting, and organizational communication.
- 30 credit hours required
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Core courses in Communication Theory
- Research Methods included
- Interpersonal or Mass Communication choice
- CV required for admission
- Personal statement required
- Three letters of recommendation
- Assistantship application optional
- GRE not required for 2024-2025
- Focus on individual scholarly interests
- Collaboration with faculty emphasized
- Prepares for advanced careers
- Prepares for further academic pursuits
- Prestigious faculty
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Mass Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kentucky's Mass Communication master's track offers a sophisticated program designed to cultivate advanced media research and communication expertise. Through a rigorous 30-credit curriculum, students explore complex media landscapes, communication theories, and research methodologies. The program provides comprehensive training in statistical analysis, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications across media studies. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis options, enabling personalized academic exploration. With opportunities in media studies, interpersonal communication, and health communication, graduates are prepared for diverse professional environments.
- 30 credit hours required
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Core courses in Communication Theory
- Research Methods and Statistics included
- Focus on Media Studies
- Interpersonal Communication focus
- Health Communication specialization
- No GRE required for 2024-2025
- Financial support available
- Prepares for academia and media roles
- Diverse career opportunities
- Collaborative faculty and student research
- Accessible admission requirements
- Comprehensive educational experience
- Tailored to individual career goals
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY - Public 4-Year - moreheadstate.edu
Master's - Communication, M.A.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Morehead State University's Master of Arts in Communication emerges as a cutting-edge online program strategically designed for communication professionals seeking career advancement. The comprehensive curriculum spans 30 credit hours and can be completed within one year, offering unprecedented flexibility for working students. Unique program strengths include deep explorations of organizational and intercultural communication dynamics, comprehensive writing and research skill development, and advanced theoretical frameworks. Students benefit from a robust academic experience that emphasizes practical communication leadership skills, preparing graduates for diverse professional environments. The program's flexible online format eliminates geographical barriers, enabling students nationwide to enhance their communication expertise without disrupting current career trajectories.
- 100% online delivery
- 30 credit hours required
- Can complete in one year
- Focus on writing, research, theory
- Explores organizational communication
- Covers intercultural communication
- Advanced public speaking included
- Media criticism course
- Admission requires 2.5 GPA
- GRE score or alternative needed
- TOEFL required for non-native speakers
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Enhances managerial skills
- Develops oral communication skills
- Improves written communication
- Teaches teamwork and critical thinking
- Promotes professionalism
- Career options in various fields
- Graduates work in diverse industries
- Specialty courses available
- Flexible schedule for students
- No campus visits required
- Suitable for busy professionals
- Strong focus on practical skills
- Accessible from anywhere
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Sciences & Disorders
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University offers a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences & Disorders, designed to prepare students for careers in speech-language pathology. This campus-based program requires 63 credit hours and emphasizes evidence-based practices in diagnosing and treating communication disorders. With in-state tuition at $530 per credit and free textbooks, it provides an affordable pathway to a high-demand profession. The program includes extensive clinical training through practicums and externships in medical and educational settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. Accredited and nationally ranked, it boasts a 90%+ employment rate for graduates. A bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission.
- 63 total credit hours required
- In-state tuition $530/credit
- Free textbooks provided
- Multiple clinical experiences
- 90%+ employment rate
- Accredited speech-language pathology program
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Externships in medical/school settings
Bellarmine University
Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - bellarmine.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bellarmine University's Master of Arts in Communication program stands out for its comprehensive approach to blending theoretical foundations with practical skills. Tailored for working professionals, the program offers evening classes and a curriculum rich in communication theory, ethical considerations, and modern organizational challenges. Students benefit from a close-knit learning environment, access to cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for hands-on experience. Admission criteria include a 3.2 GPA and prerequisite course grades of B or higher, ensuring a dedicated cohort. The program's flexibility and focus on real-world application make it an excellent choice for those looking to advance in the communication field.
- 10-course program
- Weeknight classes
- Small student-to-faculty ratio
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Focus on communication theory
- Ethical and legal issues coverage
- Contemporary organizational issues
- Admission requires 3.2 GPA
- Prerequisite scores of B or higher
- Designed for working professionals
- Hands-on experiences
- Small group analysis
- Applied coursework
- Preparation for career advancement
- Flexible for part-time students
- Spring or fall enrollment
- Real-world application focus
- Field experiences
- Full-time faculty members
- Optimal learning environment
- Dynamic industry focus
- Early Entry Dual Enrollment option
- Graduate-level classes in senior year
- Replaces up to 12 undergraduate credits
- Contact for more information
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY - Public 4-Year - louisville.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Louisville offers a Master of Arts in Communication designed to enhance your understanding and application of communication theories and research methods. This 30-credit program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to choose between a thesis or non-thesis path, alongside a wide selection of electives to tailor their studies. With a focus on both quantitative and qualitative research, students gain practical skills through options like a practicum. Notably, applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher are exempt from the GRE requirement, making this program accessible to a broader range of students. The curriculum emphasizes a balance between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, preparing graduates for diverse communication careers.
- 30 credit hours
- Thesis or non-thesis
- 15 hours of core courses
- 12 hours of electives
- Practicum option available
- 3.0 GPA required
- GRE not required
- Focus on communication theory
- Quantitative and qualitative research
- Develop practical skills
2025 Affordable Kentucky Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable Master's in Communication programs in Kentucky for 2025 is key for students aiming to advance their careers without high costs. The table lists options with tuition ranges to help you compare. Affordable and low-cost programs make higher education accessible, especially in areas like Louisville and Lexington. This guide helps you find economical choices that fit your budget while offering quality education.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Eastern Kentucky University |
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Western Kentucky University |
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Murray State University |
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Keep reading for details on all of the master's in communication programs offered in Kentucky.
BELLARMINE UNIVERSITY
Bellarmine University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Louisville.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program was designed to accommodate working professionals as well as full-time students. Full-time students enroll in the fall semester and take four classes per term for fall and spring semesters followed by two courses in the summer session. Part-time students may take one or two courses per term until they finish the program.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $760 per credit hour for the Master of Arts in Communication program.
Anything Else?: While a concentration is not required for this program, students may elect to concentrate in Healthcare Communication.
MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY
Murray State University in Murray offers Master of Arts or Science in Mass Communication or Public Relation as traditional on campus programs, in addition to a Master of Arts or Science in Organizational Communication that may be taken full online, in person or in a hybrid format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts or Science in Mass Communication or Public Relations programs are 31-credit hour programs that culminate in a comprehensive final project. The Master of Arts in Organizational Communication program is a 33-credit hour program that culminates in an oral defense of a thesis, and the Master of Science in Organizational Communication program is a 31-credit hour program that culminates in a comprehensive examination.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $544 per credit hour for Kentucky and regional residents, $800 per credit hour for non-residents and $644 per credit hour for online programs.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for all programs at Murray State University.
UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
The University of Kentucky in Lexington offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on its campus in Lexington.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 30-credit hour program that culminates in either a master's thesis or comprehensive written and oral exams.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year is $6,526 per semester for Kentucky residents and $15,682 per semester for non-residents. Some courses may have additional mandatory fees, and these costs do not include books or other supplies.
Anything Else?: New graduate students are admitted to the fall semester only. The application deadline is January 5.
UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
The University of Louisville offers a Master of Arts in Communication program that can be taken either on campus or as a hybrid online/in-person program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 37-credit hour program that culminates in a thesis or comprehensive exam.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $705 per credit hour for Kentucky residents, $1,470 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The program does not require an experiential component, but some students may choose to do a practicum in a private business, community organization or government agency that deals with communication in order to gain real-world experience while they study.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Kentucky
ASBURY UNIVERSITY
Asbury University based in Wilmore offers an online Master of Arts in Communication: Digital Storytelling degree.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication: Digital Storytelling program may be taken fully online if students have taken undergraduate media courses and/or have extensive professional experience. For students with less experience in digital storytelling and communication, students may need to take some production-oriented courses on campus during two-week summer intensives.
What Does It Cost?: Check with the bursar's office for the latest tuition and fees.
Anything Else?: This program was designed with working professionals in mind and can be taken on a part-time basis to accommodate a full-time work schedule.
MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY
Murray State University offers one of their master's programs, the M.A./M.S. in Organizational Communication as a distance learning program in addition to traditional classroom or hybrid formats. Learn more about Murray State University's online program option here.
Kentucky 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