Master’s in Communication in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers nine schools across the state with master's in communications programs, including many fully online or hybrid online/on-campus programs that make getting a master's degree convenient for working professionals. Students can also select a program that allows them to concentrate their studies in several different areas of communication, including sports communication, health communication, non-profit communication, journalism, advertising, integrated marketing communication, public relations and many others. With many advertising, marketing, and public relations companies based in Boston, graduates with master's degrees in communication programs will have a wide range of potential employers to explore. Unlike traditional communications organizations, Massachusetts has several major industries that may hire communications experts, including financial services, healthcare, information technology, renewable energy, and agricultural products.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Massachusetts
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Massachusetts? You're in the right place. At mastersincommunications.org, we've done the heavy lifting to rank top programs for you. Our rankings help you find a program that fits your goals and needs. We focus on quality, affordability, and outcomes. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for all the details. Start your journey to a brighter future in communication today.
Emerson College
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - emerson.edu
Master's - MA in Digital Communication Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Emerson College's Digital Communication Leadership Master's program revolutionizes professional development for experienced communication practitioners. Strategically designed for mid-career professionals, this 100% online degree transforms workplace capabilities through innovative digital communication strategies. Students explore leadership dynamics, marketing technologies, and strategic communication frameworks without traditional entrance exam barriers. The asynchronous curriculum allows seamless integration of academic advancement with professional responsibilities, empowering students to customize learning pathways tailored to their career objectives.
- 100% online graduate program
- 32 total credit hours
- Asynchronous coursework
- No GRE required
- Focuses on leadership skills
- Customizable curriculum
- Designed for working professionals
- Flexible semester start times
- Executive format available
- Courses in conflict resolution
- Team management topics
- Project management training
- Digital marketing content
- UX design options
- Public relations modules
Master's - MA in Political Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's Political Communication Master's program provides a comprehensive exploration of contemporary communication landscapes. Targeting aspiring political communication professionals, the curriculum delves into strategic messaging, digital analytics, and sophisticated communication technologies. Students develop advanced skills in crafting compelling narratives, understanding media dynamics, and leveraging digital platforms for political engagement. The program's flexible structure enables personalized learning experiences, preparing graduates to navigate complex communication challenges in political, governmental, and nonprofit sectors.
- Online MA program.
- Focus on digital leadership.
- Core courses in management.
- Electives in strategic communication.
- Skills in digital analytics.
- User experience design included.
- Prepares for executive roles.
- Flexible learning options.
- Competitive admissions requirements.
- Diverse student body.
- Practical digital age skills.
- Leadership and management focus.
- Strategic communication electives.
- Digital media expertise.
- Career advancement focus.
- Online learning flexibility.
- Executive preparation program.
- Digital communication leadership.
- Tailored learning paths.
- Focus on digital transformation.
Master's - MA in Public Relations
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's Public Relations Master's program equips communication professionals with sophisticated strategic communication competencies. The rigorous curriculum integrates advanced digital media techniques, strategic messaging principles, and comprehensive communication technologies. Students explore innovative approaches to public relations, developing expertise in digital analytics, user experience design, and strategic communication methodologies. By emphasizing real-world applications and leadership development, the program prepares graduates to excel in dynamic communication environments across diverse professional sectors.
- On-campus master's programs.
- Specializations in key areas.
- Tailored learning tracks.
- Integration of work experience.
- Focus on digital media.
- Strategic messaging skills.
- Real-world application focus.
- Leadership and management courses.
- Digital analytics and UX design.
- Preparation for executive roles.
Master's - MA in Sports Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's Sports Communication Master's program offers an accelerated 4+1 pathway for ambitious communication professionals. This innovative degree provides a concentrated, comprehensive exploration of sports media, communication strategies, and digital engagement techniques. Students leverage cutting-edge research methodologies and technological insights to understand complex sports communication landscapes. The program's strategic curriculum combines academic rigor with practical skill development, enabling graduates to transform sports communication practices through advanced digital strategies and professional expertise.
- Accelerated one-year master's track
- Undergraduate seniors take graduate courses
- Requires 32 total graduate credits
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Eligible for current Emerson undergrads
- Undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses
- Capstone or thesis required
- Technology and research course requirements
- Letter of recommendation needed
- Professional resume required
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - Public 4-Year - fitchburgstate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University offers a Master of Science in Applied Communication with a concentration in Social Media, tailored for professionals aiming to master digital communication. This 100% online program spans 36 credits, focusing on social media strategy, content creation, and analytics, preparing students for leadership roles in the digital space. With no GRE/MAT required, the program emphasizes practical skills, ethical communication, and intercultural training, culminating in a capstone project. Designed for flexibility, students can complete the program in 2 to 6 years, accommodating working professionals' schedules. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission, ensuring a cohort of dedicated and capable students.
- 100% Online Delivery
- 36-Credit Master's Program
- Complete in 2-6 Years
- No GRE/MAT Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Capstone Project Included
- Flexible Course Schedule
- Professional Career Focus
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Intercultural Communication Training
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA - Private 4-year - merrimack.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Master of Arts in Communication delivers a comprehensive program targeting emerging communication professionals seeking versatile skill development. Spanning just 12 months, this hybrid degree enables students to explore strategic digital communication techniques with remarkable flexibility. The curriculum emphasizes practical learning experiences, allowing participants to cultivate advanced media production and communication strategy competencies. With six unique concentration options, students can customize their academic journey to align precisely with individual career aspirations. Generous fellowship opportunities and affordable tuition make this program particularly attractive for ambitious communication practitioners seeking accelerated professional advancement.
- 12-month full-time program
- Six career-focused concentrations
- On-campus and hybrid options
- 32 total graduate credits
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- Evening classes available
- No GRE required
- Tuition: $1,100 per credit
- Multiple start terms annually
- NECHE accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Business Analytics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Business Analytics concentration within the Master of Arts in Communication program equips professionals with cutting-edge analytical communication skills. This specialized track integrates data-driven insights with strategic communication principles, preparing graduates to leverage sophisticated analytics in complex organizational environments. Students develop advanced capabilities in interpreting communication metrics, designing targeted messaging strategies, and utilizing quantitative research methods. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, enabling learners to transform complex data into compelling narrative frameworks that drive meaningful business outcomes. Competitive pricing, flexible learning formats, and no GRE requirement further enhance the program's accessibility for aspiring communication analytics professionals.
- 12-month full-time completion
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- On-campus and hybrid options
- Six concentration pathways
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total program credits
- Evening classes available
- Multiple start terms
- NECHE accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Content Creation - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Digital Media and Content Creation concentration provides an immersive master's experience for communication professionals passionate about innovative media production. This cutting-edge program prepares students to excel in rapidly evolving digital landscapes by developing sophisticated content generation, multimedia storytelling, and strategic communication skills. Participants learn advanced techniques in digital content design, social media strategy, and multimedia production, enabling them to create compelling narratives across diverse platforms. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on practical experiences, ensuring graduates are equipped to lead digital communication initiatives in contemporary media environments. Flexible learning options and competitive tuition make this concentration particularly appealing for forward-thinking communication practitioners.
- 12-month full-time program
- On-campus and hybrid options
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- Six career-focused concentrations
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total credit hours
- Multiple start terms available
- Evening classes offered
- NECHE accredited
2025 Affordable Massachusetts Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable programs for a Master's in Communication in Massachusetts is key for students planning their education for 2025. The table lists options with tuition ranges to help compare costs. It's important to pick a program that fits your budget without sacrificing quality. Massachusetts offers several low-cost choices, making higher education more accessible. This guide focuses on economical solutions to advance your career in communication.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Lasell University |
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| Bridgewater State University |
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| Suffolk University |
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See below for more information about master's in communication programs offered in Massachusetts:
LASELL COLLEGE
Lasell College offers a Master of Science in Communication degree as a fully online program in Newton that is web-facilitated on-campus.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program allows students to choose from the following concentrations: Health Communication, Integrated Marketing Communication, and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition is $600 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The program is generally completed in 12-24 months, and all classes are capped at 23 students.
REGIS COLLEGE
Regis College offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program on their campus in Weston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program is a 30-credit hour program that includes coursework in intercultural communication, organizational communication, communication data analytics and research methods and public relations. Students may choose an optional concentration of sports communication or non-profit communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $720 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with on the spot admission decisions provided during 30-minute interviews following submission of the application.
Boston Master’s in Communication Programs
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Boston University's College of Communication offers many options for master's in communication programs offered on their campus, as well as one online program option.
What to Know: Boston University's College of Communication offers many options for master's in communication programs, including a Master of Science in Journalism, Master of Science in Advertising, Master of Science in Mass Communication: Marketing Communication Research, Master of Arts in Emerging Media Studies, Master of Science in Public Relations and many others. For a full listing of master's degree options, visit this page.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $52,816, which does not include additional mandatory fees, supplies, or room and board.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for all master's programs is February 1, and the final deadline is May 1.
EMERSON COLLEGE
Emerson College offers a Master of Arts in Public Relations on their campus in Boston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Public Relations program allows students to choose from the following concentrations: political communication, sports communication and strategic public relations as well as the opportunity to count previous work experience toward the master's degree.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $1,251 per credit hour, which does not include additional fees, books or supplies.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for admission in the fall is March 1, and November 1 for admission in the spring.
NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Northeastern University offers a Master of Science in Corporate & Organizational Communication as an on campus or online program, as well as a fully online Master of Science in Technical Communication degree.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Corporate & Organizational Communication program is offered in an online or on-campus format, and allows students to choose from 8 concentrations: Social Media and Online Communities, Public Relations, Human Resource Management, Usability/User Experience, Project Management, Leadership, Cross-Cultural Communication and Leading Communication Strategy and Development.
What Does It Cost?: The estimated cost of the program in 2018 is $31,410.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of September 7 for admission to the fall semester.
SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY
Suffolk University offers a Master of Arts in Communication degree with either a concentration in Public Relations & Advertising or Integrated Marketing Communication on their campus in Boston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication programs are both 36-credit programs offered on a full- or part-time schedule. The Integrated Marketing Communication program offers both business courses in marketing, consumer behavior and international communication as well as communication courses in advertising, public relations and social media. The Public Relations and Advertising program offers courses on strategic marketing, public relations, intercultural communication, advertising and more.
What Does It Cost?: Full-time tuition for both programs for the 2018-2019 academic year is $14,760 per semester, or $1,230 per credit hour for part-time students.
Anything Else?: Priority application deadline for the fall semester is March 15, October 15 for the spring and April 1 for the summer. Following these priority deadlines, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Massachusetts
BAY PATH UNIVERSITY
Bay Path University in Longmeadow offers two fully online master's-level communication programs.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program is a 36-credit hour, 12 course program that focuses on new and emerging media, including social media and multimedia communication campaigns. The Master of Science in Communication & Information Management is a 36-credit, 12 course program that teaches students how to use tools, techniques and technology to evaluate and interpret information.
What Does It Cost?: The tuition cost for both the Master of Science in Communication and the Master of Science in Communication & Information Management in 2018 is $830 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Most students complete these programs in 12 to 24 months while continuing to work full-time.
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
In addition to their traditional on campus master's in communication programs, Boston University also offers a fully online Master of Science in Health Communication program that prepares students for careers as communicators in various segments of the healthcare industry. For more information on Boston University's online program, click here.
LASELL COLLEGE
In addition to their on campus master's in communication program, Lasell College offers their Master of Science in Communication degree as a fully online program as well. The program allows students to concentrate in Health Communication, Public Relations or Integrated Marketing Communication. For more information on Lasell College's online program, click here.
Massachusetts 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