Master’s in Communication in Michigan

Michigan offers prospective master's students several options for communication degrees, from traditional on-campus programs to fully online options. Areas of emphasis include general communication studies, journalism, public relations, organizational communication, intercultural communication and political communication. Following graduation, communication specialists may apply to doctoral programs across the country for further study or seek employment in various communication fields. Major communication companies with offices in Michigan that may offer employment opportunities include Weber Shandwick, JR Thompson Company, and MSL Group. In addition to media outlets throughout the state, Michigan's major automotive/manufacturing, tourism and agriculture industries may provide employment opportunities for recent communication graduates.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Michigan

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

#1

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI - Public 4-Year - msu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Michigan State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication, designed to enhance your communication skills and strategic thinking. This program provides two tracks: a pre-Ph.D. track for those aiming for doctoral studies and a career-oriented track for professionals seeking to advance in their fields. Students can specialize in areas like interpersonal, organizational, or political communication. The curriculum includes core courses in Communication Theory and Quantitative Research Methods, with flexibility to tailor your studies. This program is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of communication dynamics and apply this knowledge in various professional settings.

  • Two major directions: thesis and final examination.
  • Focus areas include interpersonal and organizational communication.
  • 30 credit hours required for graduation.
  • Core courses: Communication Theory, Quantitative Research Methods.
  • Pre-Ph.D. track includes applied statistics.
  • Career-oriented track enhances professional communication skills.
  • Specialization in Nonprofit Fundraising available.
  • Flexible curriculum design with faculty advisor.
  • Alumni work in government, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors.
  • Quantitative research methods for social-scientific understanding.

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

Michigan State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication, designed to enhance your communication skills and prepare you for a variety of careers or further academic pursuits. With two tracks available—thesis (pre-Ph.D.) and final examination (career-oriented)—students can tailor their studies to their future goals. The program emphasizes quantitative research methods, communication theory, and practical application in areas like interpersonal, organizational, and political communication. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and the program offers flexibility with courses both within and outside the communication field. Specializations, such as nonprofit fundraising, allow students to focus on specific interests.

  • Two tracks: thesis and final examination.
  • Focus areas include interpersonal communication.
  • Organizational communication emphasis available.
  • Mediated communication studies.
  • Persuasion and social influence focus.
  • Political communication specialization.
  • Intercultural communication studies.
  • 30 credit hours to graduate.
  • Communication Theory required course.
  • Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods required.
  • Pre-Ph.D. track includes applied statistics.
  • Career-oriented track for professional development.
  • Specialization in Nonprofit Fundraising available.
  • Flexible curriculum design.
  • Courses inside and outside communication.
  • Quantitative research methods emphasized.
  • Faculty advisor consultation.
  • Improve communication strategies.
  • Synthesize research results.
  • Alumni in government, nonprofit, for-profit sectors.

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Concentration: Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

Michigan State University's Master of Arts in Communication program offers a flexible curriculum designed to enhance your communication skills and strategies. With two tracks available—pre-Ph.D. and career-oriented—students can tailor their studies to their professional goals. The program emphasizes quantitative research methods and allows for specialization in areas like interpersonal, organizational, and political communication. Graduates find success in various sectors, including government, nonprofit, and for-profit industries. The program also offers a unique specialization in nonprofit fundraising, providing practical experience in the field. This degree is ideal for those looking to advance their career or prepare for doctoral studies in communication.

  • Two major directions: thesis and final examination.
  • Focus areas include interpersonal and organizational communication.
  • Specialization in nonprofit fundraising available.
  • 30 credit hours required for graduation.
  • Courses in Communication Theory and Quantitative Research Methods.
  • Pre-Ph.D. track includes applied statistics.
  • Career-oriented track improves professional communication skills.
  • Flexible curriculum design with faculty advisor.
  • Quantitative research methods emphasized.
  • Alumni work in government, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors.
  • Specialization requires practicum in nonprofit organization.
  • Small classes for more intimate learning environment.
  • Faculty members act as mentors and encouragers.
  • Program prepares students for Ph.D. programs.
  • Enhances ability to develop communication strategies.
  • Students learn to apply coursework to real-world problems.
  • Opportunity to synthesize research results.
  • Graduates have a strong foundation in social-scientific scholarship.
  • Program supports students interested in philanthropy.
  • Practical experience through specialization practicum.
Show More 2 Programs ˅
#2

Calvin University

Grand Rapids, MI - Private 4-year - calvin.edu

Master's - Master of Media and Strategic Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Calvin University's Master of Media and Strategic Communication (MMSC) program is designed for those aiming to excel in applied communications careers such as advertising, public relations, and multimedia journalism. This program uniquely combines communication strategy with media-making practice, offering a competitive edge in the field. With no prior media production experience required, the program starts with an 8-week basics course. It emphasizes real-world experience through Skylight, a student-run creative media agency, and offers flexibility with a pace that fits your schedule. The program is on-campus, with rolling admissions, and is taught by committed Christian professors who focus on ethics in communication careers.

  • On-campus program
  • Rolling admissions
  • No media production experience required
  • 8-week basics course
  • Combines strategy and practice
  • Real-world experience with Skylight
  • Flexible pace
  • Taught by Christian professors
  • Focus on ethics in communication
  • Earn degree in as little as one year
  • 4+1 program for undergraduates
  • Advocate for communities and businesses
  • Craft messages for different platforms
  • Evaluate message effectiveness
  • Communicate with power and integrity
#3

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI - Public 4-Year - wmich.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Michigan University's Master of Arts in Communication is a dynamic 30-credit-hour program designed to elevate professional communication skills. Featuring a flexible hybrid format, students can complete the degree in 2-3.5 years, tailoring their education through specialized electives. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in leadership, public relations, training, and consulting, with strong potential for increased earning power and advanced career opportunities.

  • 30-credit hour Master's program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 10 total courses
  • 7 customizable electives
  • Small class sizes (15 students)
  • World-renowned faculty
  • State-of-the-art media facilities
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • Potential doctoral program pathway
#4

Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI - Public 4-Year - cmich.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Michigan University's Master's in Communication offers a transformative academic journey for professionals seeking advanced communication skills. This rigorous 33-credit hour program equips students with cutting-edge theoretical frameworks and research methodologies. Students gain hands-on experience through collaborative research, conference presentations, and potential teaching opportunities. With a strong focus on practical and academic applications, graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in academia, corporate communications, government, and doctoral studies.

  • Master of Arts Degree
  • 33 Total Credit Hours
  • On-Campus Format
  • Research-Focused Program
  • Faculty Research Collaboration
  • Graduate Teaching Assistantships
  • Conference Presentation Opportunities
  • Doctoral Preparation Track
  • Individualized Faculty Mentorship
  • Internship Opportunities Available
#5

Grand Valley State University

Allendale, MI - Public 4-Year - gvsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Grand Valley State University offers a Master of Science in Communication, designed to enhance professional effectiveness and leadership skills. This 36-credit program is tailored for working professionals, with courses offered in the evening at the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus. It emphasizes research-based decision-making, leadership, and the application of communication theories. The program can be completed in two to three years part-time, with assistantships available. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a minimum GPA, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Scholarships and financial aid options are available to eligible students.

  • 36 credits required
  • Face-to-face format
  • Evening classes available
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Leadership skills development
  • Research-based decision-making focus
  • Courses at Grand Rapids Campus
  • Part-time completion in 2-3 years
  • Assistantships available competitively
  • Admission requires bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA for admission
  • Rolling admissions basis
  • Scholarships and financial aid available
  • Focus on communication theories
  • Application fee waived for GVSU alumni
  • Individualized projects count towards degree
  • Strong ties with business and community
  • Internship opportunities available
  • Faculty specialize in relevant skills
  • Enhances career development opportunities

See below for more information about the master's in communication programs offered in Michigan:

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Central Michigan University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Mount Pleasant.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication degree is a 33-credit hour program that provides students with a broad education in the theories and principles of human communication. The program culminates in either a thesis or a comprehensive exam.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $596 per credit hour.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for enrollment in the fall is March 15, and October 15 for the spring semester.

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti offers two master's-level communication programs, one as a traditional on-campus program and the other a fully online program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a traditional on campus program that focuses on communication theory, research, performance and applied communication contexts. There are two concentrations for students to choose from: Communication Studies or Interpretation/Performance Studies.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $750 per credit hour for Michigan and Ohio residents, and $1,335 per credit for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for enrollment is February 15 and students begin in the fall term.

GRAND VALLEY UNIVERSITY

Grand Valley University offers a Master of Science in Communication Studies program on their campus in Allendale.

What to Know: The Master of Science in Communications program is a 36-credit hour program that can be completed on a full-time or part-time schedule. The program allows students to gain professional experience at the campus newspaper, student-run television or radio stations, and internships in professional settings on campus and off campus.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $651 per credit hour.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is July 15, November 1 for the winter semester and April 1 for the spring/summer semester.

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Michigan State University offers two options for master's level communication programs, one a traditional on-campus Master of Arts in Communication and the other a fully online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is offered on campus in East Lansing, and students choose from a pre-Ph.D. thesis track or a career-oriented final examination track. Both tracks offer students the opportunity to concentrate their studies in various areas of communication, such as interpersonal communication, organizational communication, political communication and intercultural communication.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $9,066 per semester for Michigan residents based on a 12 credit hour course load, and $17,814 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline is April 1 for admission to the fall semester.

OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Oakland University in Rochester offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program allows students to choose from three concentrations: Culture and Communication, Interpersonal Communication and Media Studies. The program aims to prepare students for further academic study or for professional careers in communication.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $738 per credit hour for Michigan residents, and $1,027 per credit hour for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline is February 15 for admission to the fall semester.

WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY

Wayne State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program with several concentrations to choose from on their campus in Detroit.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program offers students the choice of several emphases that teach the theory, research and practice of communication. Students can choose from Communication Studies, Dispute Resolution, Journalism, Media Arts, Media Studies, Public Relations & Organizational Communication and a joint program in Dispute Resolution and Law.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $690 per credit hour for Michigan, Ohio or Ontario residents, and $1,457 per credit hour for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline is June 1 for the fall semester and November 1 for the winter semester.

WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo offers a Master of Arts in Communication as an on campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 30-credit hour program that teaches communication theory and practice to prepare students for doctoral study or careers in various industries.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $651 per credit hour for Michigan residents, and $1,232 per credit hour for non-residents.

Anything Else?: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for September and January admission until all available slots are filled. The application deadline for early admission is February 1.

Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Michigan

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Eastern Michigan University offers a fully online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication program. The program is designed for working professionals, and is meant to be completed in two years of study. For more information about Eastern Michigan University's online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication, click here.

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Michigan State University offers an online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program that incorporates the digital communication strategies into coursework on advertising, public relations and media. The program requires nine courses and a capstone project. For more information about Michigan State University's online program, click here.

Michigan Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

SchoolContact Information
Central Michigan University
Moore Hall 333
Mount Pleasant , MI 48859
(989) 774-3177
Eastern Michigan Univeristy
124 Quirk - Easter Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
(734) 487-3130
Grand Valley State University
290 LSH
Allendale , MI 49401
(616) 331-3668
Michigan State University
404 Wilson Road
East Lansing , MI 48824
(517) 355-1794
Oakland University
316 Wilson Hall
Rochester , MI 48309
(248) 370-2065
Wayne State University
585 Mangoogian Hall
Detroit , MI 48201
(313) 577-2943
Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49005
(269) 387-3130