Master’s in Communication in Nevada

Nevada is home to two schools that offer master's-level communication programs. Both programs are offered in traditional on-campus formats, one in Las Vegas and the other in Reno. These programs aim to prepare students for Ph.D. programs and careers in communication following graduation. Major employers in Nevada that may provide employment opportunities for recent graduates include the many hotels, resorts and hospitality companies that call Las Vegas and its surrounding areas home, such as MGM Resorts International and Las Vegas Sands, two of the state's largest employers. Other employment opportunities may be found at marketing, graphic design, and public relations companies based in Las Vegas, as well as local media outlets (i.e. newspapers, radio, and television stations) in Las Vegas, Reno, and smaller towns nearby.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Nevada

Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Nevada? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our list highlights schools offering strong academics, expert faculty, and valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or corporate communications, our rankings guide you to programs that deliver results. Learn more about how we rank these programs by visiting our ranking methodology page.

#1

University of Nevada-Reno

Reno, NV - Public 4-Year - unr.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Concentration: relationships and family - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Reno's Master of Arts in Communication Studies with a relationships and family concentration offers an innovative program exploring complex interpersonal dynamics. Designed for professionals seeking deep insights into communication patterns, the curriculum provides comprehensive training in relational communication strategies. Students engage with cutting-edge research methodologies, examining how communication influences family systems and personal interactions. The program's flexible structure allows for personalized learning paths, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications in relationship counseling, family therapy, and organizational communication consulting.

  • Thesis and non-thesis options
  • Specialization in multiple tracks
  • Social justice communication focus
  • Career prep for multiple fields
  • Diverse communication methodologies
  • Teaching assistantships available
  • Fall semester applications
  • Graduate School admission requirements
  • Interpersonal communication emphasis
  • Organizational communication track

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Concentration: organizational communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

Emphasizing organizational communication, this University of Nevada-Reno Master's program equips students with advanced strategic communication skills for complex professional environments. Learners develop critical analytical frameworks to understand workplace interactions, communication technologies, and leadership dynamics. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates to navigate intricate organizational challenges. Students gain expertise in communication design, conflict resolution, and strategic messaging, positioning themselves as innovative communication professionals across diverse industry sectors.

  • Thesis and non-thesis options
  • Specialization in multiple areas
  • Social justice focused curriculum
  • Diverse career preparation
  • Intercultural communication emphasis
  • Organizational communication track
  • Research methodology training
  • Teaching assistantships available
  • Fall semester admission
  • Prepares for Ph.D. programs

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Concentration: intercultural communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Reno's intercultural communication concentration provides a transformative graduate experience exploring global communication landscapes. Students critically analyze cross-cultural communication patterns, developing sophisticated understanding of international interaction dynamics. The program integrates theoretical perspectives with practical skills, enabling graduates to become effective communicators in multicultural professional environments. Coursework emphasizes comparative communication strategies, linguistic diversity, and contemporary global communication challenges, preparing students for leadership roles in international organizations, diplomacy, and global media.

  • Thesis and non-thesis options
  • Specialized communication tracks
  • Social justice focus
  • Diverse career preparation
  • Interpersonal communication emphasis
  • Graduate teaching assistantships available
  • Fall semester applications
  • Multiple concentration areas
  • Intercultural communication studies
  • Rhetorical studies option
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV - Public 4-Year - unlv.edu

Master's - Master of Arts - Communication Studies

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies designed to equip students with advanced skills in various communication domains. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering both Thesis and Professional Project tracks to cater to academic and professional aspirations. Students delve into interpersonal, organizational, and public communication, enhancing their ability to analyze and engage in effective communication strategies. The curriculum is rich in research methodologies and ethical communication practices, preparing graduates for leadership roles in diverse sectors or further academic pursuits. With a focus on relational and small group communication, alongside media studies, UNLV provides a comprehensive education in the art and science of communication.

  • Two degree track options
  • Focuses on Relational Communication
  • Public Communication emphasis
  • Research and professional paths
  • Interpersonal communication expertise
  • Small group communication focus
  • Organizational communication skills
  • Advanced research methods training
  • Ethical communication principles
  • Media studies component
*Institutional characteristics data extracted from IPEDS 2023, NCES.

2025 Affordable Nevada Masters in Communication Degree Options

Finding affordable Master's in Communication programs in Nevada is key for students planning their 2025 education. The table lists options with tuition ranges, helping you compare. Affordable and low-cost programs make higher education accessible. Nevada offers several choices, ensuring students can find a program that fits their budget. This is crucial for those aiming to advance their careers without heavy debt. The right program balances cost and quality, preparing graduates for success in communication fields.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
  • Multiple program track options
  • Converged media curriculum
  • Digital broadcast facility
  • Innovative media technologies
  • Research-focused graduate program
  • Career preparation across platforms
  • Theoretical and practical knowledge
  • Critical thinking development
  • $5,600 - $8,400 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,100 - $28,700 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Nevada-Reno
  • 30 total graduate credits required
  • Three specialized study tracks
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Professional project or thesis option
  • Graduate assistantships available
  • Research grants up to $500
  • Multimedia storytelling focus
  • Graduate faculty mentorship
  • $5,300 - $7,900 (Graduate In-State)
  • $18,800 - $28,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2023.

Keep reading for additional information about Nevada's two master's in communication programs:

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA - LAS VEGAS

The University of Nevada in Las Vegas offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as a traditional on-campus program.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program allows students to choose from two emphases: Interpersonal Communication or Rhetorical Studies. Students also choose from a professional track that prepares graduates for careers in communication following graduation or a Ph.D. track that prepares them for doctoral study.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for full-time students for the 2017-2018 academic year was $6,158 per semester for Nevada residents, and $20,346 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is March 1, and November 1 for the spring.

UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA - RENO

The University of Nevada in Reno offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program in an on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program has a thesis or non-thesis option, and offers students the choice of concentrating their studies on the interpersonal, organizational or public areas of conflict management.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the fall 2018 semester is $274 per credit hour for Nevada residents, and an additional $7,236 for non-residents who are taking 7 credits or more.

Anything Else?: Students can begin their studies in the fall or spring semesters. The application deadline for the fall semester is February 1, and October 1 for the spring.

Nevada Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

Jump to City:

Azusa, CA

Azusa Pacific University

  • Master's - Strategic Communication, MA

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online master's program
    • 30 total program units
    • Per unit cost: $690
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Christian perspective integration
    • Industry professional faculty
    • Multiple entry points annually
    • Real-world client projects

Chico, CA

California State University-Chico

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30 total units required
    • Advanced research methods training
    • Thesis or comprehensive exam options
    • Multiple communication specialties
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Five-year completion timeline
    • Advanced coursework in communication theories
    • Interdisciplinary approach

Davis, CA

University of California-Davis

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

    Concentration: mediated communication - Campus Based - Website

    • Two tracks: Thesis and Non-thesis.
    • Two years of study required.
    • Close faculty collaboration.
    • Robust advising services.
    • Online application process.
    • Focus on communication theories.
    • Tailored to career goals.
    • Prepares for academia, research.

Fullerton, CA

California State University-Fullerton

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Concentration: Argumentation and Persuasion - Campus Based - Website

    • Specializations in various communication areas.
    • Prepares for doctoral studies or teaching.
    • Diverse student body and faculty.
    • Emphasis on research and practical application.
    • Comprehensive exams, thesis, or research project required.
    • Hands-on teaching experience available.
    • Faculty with national and international reputations.
    • Focus on critical thinking and scholarly discipline.
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Concentration: Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Website

    • Specializations in multiple areas
    • Hands-on teaching experience
    • Diverse student community
    • Comprehensive exams required
    • Thesis or research project
    • Preparation for doctoral studies
    • Focus on practical application
    • Faculty with national/international reputations
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • Specializations in various communication areas.
    • Diverse student body including international students.
    • Faculty with national and international reputations.
    • Preparation for doctoral studies or teaching careers.
    • Hands-on teaching experience available.
    • Comprehensive exams, thesis, or research project required.
    • Focus on applying theory in practical settings.
    • Opportunities for informal learning outside the classroom.

Long Beach, CA

California State University-Long Beach

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-unit comprehensive MA program
    • 2-year typical completion time
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • No specific communication degree prerequisite
    • Teaching and graduate assistantships available
    • Diverse communication course offerings
    • Prepares for doctoral or teaching careers
    • Multiple elective communication areas

Los Angeles, CA

University of California-Los Angeles

  • Master's - Master of Science in Communication

    Campus Based - Website

    • Ph.D. in Communication
    • Three research areas
    • 11 course requirement
    • Comprehensive funding package
    • Normative 5-year program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Strong faculty mentorship
    • Research-focused curriculum

University of Southern California

  • Master's - Communication (MA)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts in Communication
    • 32 total units required
    • Two program options available
    • Core courses: COMM 525, 526, 550, 552
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Comprehensive exam or thesis pathway
    • Maximum 2 400-level courses allowed
    • Up to 4 transfer units accepted

Northridge, CA

California State University-Northridge

  • Master's - Communication Studies, MA

    Campus Based - Website

    • 33-unit graduate communication program
    • Multiple research and career paths
    • Advanced communication theory focus
    • Thesis or project option
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Performance and cultural studies
    • Rhetorical studies concentration
    • Professional career preparation
  • Master's - Communication Studies, MA

    Concentration: Performance, Language and Cultural Studies - Campus Based - Website

    • 33 units of coursework
    • Culminating experience options
    • 3.0 GPA for admission
    • Tailored study program
    • Comprehensive communication perspective
    • Performance, Language, Cultural Studies
    • Rhetorical Studies
    • Communication Theory
  • Master's - Communication Studies, MA

    Concentration: Rhetorical Studies - Campus Based - Website

    • 33 units of coursework
    • Culminating experience options
    • 3.0 GPA for admission
    • Tailored study opportunities
    • Prepares for Ph.D. pursuits
    • Community college instruction prep
    • Communication industry career prep
    • Includes Performance, Language Studies

Riverside, CA

California Baptist University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 30 Total Program Units
    • 12 Months Completion Time
    • $600 Per Unit Cost
    • Asynchronous Course Format
    • Strategic Communication Focus
    • Biblical Perspective Integration
    • Advanced Communication Skills

Sacramento, CA

California State University-Sacramento

  • Master's - M.A. in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-unit graduate communication program
    • Flexible evening class schedules
    • Multiple culminating experience options
    • Paid Teaching/Graduate Assistantships
    • Two to three years completion time
    • Tuition $5,906 per year (in-state)
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • No mandatory GRE scores

San Bernardino, CA

California State University-San Bernardino

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-unit graduate program
    • Two-year completion timeline
    • Evening classes available
    • Flexible professional schedules
    • Graduate internship opportunities
    • Three culminating experience options
    • Multiple funding opportunities
    • Award-winning faculty

San Diego, CA

National University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication

    Online Learning - Website

    • 10-month online master's degree
    • 45 quarter units total
    • Four-week course structure
    • Flexible online/in-person options
    • Year-round enrollment
    • Advanced communication strategy focus
    • Multidisciplinary communication approach
    • Professional faculty network

San Francisco, CA

San Francisco State University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication Studies

    Campus Based - Website

    • 4-semester full-time program
    • Diverse communication seminar topics
    • Western Regional Graduate Program
    • Social justice focused curriculum
    • Three culminating experience options
    • Research methods training
    • Career paths in multiple sectors
    • Graduate seminar style courses

Stockton, CA

University of the Pacific

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

    Concentration: Media and Public - Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts in Communication
    • Four concentrations available
    • Communication Education focus
    • Communication Studies focus
    • Political Communication focus
    • Media and Public Relations focus
    • Stockton campus location
    • In-person course format
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

    Concentration: Communication Education - Campus Based - Website

    • 2 years program length
    • In-person course format
    • Stockton campus location
    • Four concentrations available
    • Communication theory focus
    • Methodology and practice training
    • Prepares for doctoral programs
    • Solves work-related communication problems
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

    Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts in Communication
    • Four concentrations available
    • In-person course format
    • Located on Stockton campus
    • 2 years program length
    • Focus on communication theory
    • Methodology and practice training
    • Prepares for doctoral programs
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

    Concentration: Communication Studies - Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts in Communication
    • Four concentrations available
    • In-person course format
    • Located on Stockton campus
    • 2 years program length
    • Focus on communication theory
    • Methodology and practice training
    • Prepares for doctoral programs
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.