Master’s in Communication in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to seven schools that offer master's-level communication programs, including several fully online or hybrid online/on-campus programs that make getting a master's degree more convenient for working students. Programs across the state prepare communication students for Ph.D. programs, teaching jobs in academia, and careers in various communication fields, such as public relations, healthcare communication, marketing, advertising, journalism, and online and social media. With its proximity to Philadelphia and New York City, the nation's media capital, there are tremendous communication career opportunities for graduates of these programs. In addition, the Garden State offers potential employment in any of its major industries, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, information technology, financial services, and transportation and logistics. A densely populated state, New Jersey is also home to many local and regional media outlets, including newspapers, radio, and television stations that may provide job opportunities for aspiring journalists.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in New Jersey
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in New Jersey? You're in the right place. mastersincommunications.org has done the homework for you, ranking top programs to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're aiming to boost your career or dive deep into communication studies, our list highlights the best options. Curious about how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for all the details.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - Public 4-Year - newbrunswick.rutgers.edu
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers' Master of Communication and Media (MCM) is a dynamic graduate program designed for professionals seeking to advance in rapidly evolving communication fields. With seven specialized tracks, students gain cutting-edge skills in digital media, public relations, and strategic communication. The flexible 36-credit program accommodates working professionals, offering on-campus, online, and hybrid courses. Strategically located near major media markets, the program provides unparalleled networking and career opportunities. No GRE required, with 86% of students graduating within 24 months, making it an efficient pathway to leadership roles in communication and media industries.
- No GRE required
- 36 credit, self-paced program
- Flexible on-campus, online options
- 7 specialized concentration tracks
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Working professionals welcome
- Internship opportunities available
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University's Master of Communication and Media with Public Relations specialization provides a comprehensive 36-credit program designed for PR professionals seeking career advancement. Students can complete the degree in as little as 15 months through flexible, self-paced learning options. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on media relations, crisis communication, reputation management, and strategic analytics. Graduates gain expertise in emerging PR concepts, positioning themselves competitively in a field projected to see 14,900 new specialist jobs by 2024.
- 15-month accelerated degree
- 36 total credit program
- Flexible course formats
- GRE waiver available
- Competitive tuition
- Blended theory and practice
- Multiple course delivery options
- Weekend course availability
- Career-focused curriculum
- Experienced practitioner faculty
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Digital Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers' Master of Communication and Media offers a dynamic pathway for professionals seeking to advance in digital media careers. With a fully online Digital Media concentration, students gain cutting-edge skills in storytelling, content creation, and strategic communication. The flexible 36-credit program allows working professionals to balance education and career, featuring expert faculty who blend theoretical knowledge with practical insights. No GRE is required, and 86% of students complete the degree in 24 months or less, positioning graduates for roles in content curation, digital media analysis, and emerging communication industries.
- Fully online Digital Media track
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE required
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Multiple industry career paths
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - Private 4-year - shu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Master of Arts in Communication is a 36-credit on-campus program designed to enhance students' communication skills through a blend of theory and practical application. It focuses on critical communication skills, creative thinking, and the use of state-of-the-art technology. The program offers three specialized tracks: Digital Media Studies, Communication in Organizations, and Public Relations, each tailored to specific career paths. A unique Communication Portfolio course aids in transitioning from academic studies to professional opportunities. Ideal for those seeking to advance their communication competencies in a dynamic, interactive environment.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Focus on theory and practical application
- Communication Portfolio course
- Enhances creative thinking skills
- Uses state-of-the-art technology
- Digital Media Studies track
- Communication in Organizations track
- Public Relations track
- Interactive learning environment
- Prepares for professional opportunities
- Focus on human interaction
- Research practices included
- Dynamic real-world scenarios
- Sharpens communication competencies
- Builds strategic messaging skills
- Enhances workplace communication
- Focus on decision making
- Problem solving in organizations
- Global framework in Public Relations
- Strategic relationships building
- Advanced concepts and theories
- Focus on digital interaction
- Leadership and diversity topics
- Thesis-related coursework included
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Communication in Organizations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Master of Arts in Communication is a 36-credit on-campus program designed to enhance students' communication skills through theory and practical application. It offers three specialized tracks: Digital Media Studies, Communication in Organizations, and Public Relations. The program emphasizes creative thinking, technology use, and real-world application, preparing students for employment or further study. A unique Communication Portfolio course aids in transitioning from academic to professional settings. Ideal for those seeking to advance their communication expertise in various sectors.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- Prepares for employment or further study
- Emphasizes creative thinking
- Technology use in communication
- Real-world application focus
- Enhances communication skills
- Theory and practical application
- Dynamic and interactive environment
- State-of-the-art technology use
- Sharpens communication competencies
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Master of Arts in Communication is a 36-credit on-campus program designed to enhance critical communication skills through theory and practical application. Students engage in a dynamic learning environment, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to prepare for real-world scenarios. The program offers three specialized tracks: Digital Media Studies, Communication in Organizations, and Public Relations, each tailored to develop specific competencies. A unique Communication Portfolio course aids in transitioning from academic studies to professional opportunities. This program is ideal for those seeking to advance their communication expertise in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- State-of-the-art technology used
- Real-world scenario preparation
- Enhances critical communication skills
- Theory and practical application
- Dynamic learning environment
- Prepares for professional opportunities
- Focus on decision making
- Problem solving within organizations
- Strategic message development
- Builds mutually beneficial relationships
- Examines advanced concepts
- Global framework perspective
- Interactive environment
- Communication Research Methods course
- Communication Ethics course
- Thesis-related coursework required
- Master's Project I and II
- Select nine credits of electives
- Total program hours: 36
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers' Master of Communication and Media offers professionals a dynamic pathway to advance their careers in rapidly evolving communication landscapes. This versatile 36-credit program empowers students with expert faculty guidance, blending cutting-edge theory and practical skills across seven specialized tracks. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible hybrid format allows students to balance academic pursuits with career demands. With no GRE requirement and an impressive 86% graduation rate within 24 months, the program strategically prepares graduates for leadership roles in content curation, corporate communications, marketing, and digital media sectors.
- 36-credit flexible program
- No GRE required
- 7 unique specializations
- Hybrid learning options
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight evening classes
- Optional internship opportunities
- Full/part-time student friendly
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media with a Public Relations Specialization equips professionals with cutting-edge skills in media relations, crisis communication, and strategic messaging. This flexible 36-credit program can be completed in as little as 15 months, catering to working professionals seeking career advancement. Students benefit from competitive tuition, a GRE waiver, and intensive training in PR analytics, strategy, and ethics. The program offers diverse learning formats and prepares graduates for high-demand roles in an evolving media landscape.
- 15-month degree completion
- Hybrid learning options
- GRE waiver available
- 36 total credit hours
- Flexible course scheduling
- Career-ready PR skills
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Weekend course options
- Over 60% students work full-time
- Competitive tuition rates
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Communication and Media Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers' Master of Communication and Media offers professionals a cutting-edge pathway to advance their careers in dynamic information-driven fields. This flexible 36-credit program allows students to specialize in areas like Communication and Media Studies while balancing work and education. With no GRE requirement and options for fully online learning, students can access expert faculty blending theoretical and practical insights. The program boasts an impressive 86% graduation rate within 24 months, strategic location near major media markets, and opportunities for career transformation across multiple industries.
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE scores required
- Seven specialization options
- Fully online options available
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Internship opportunities
- Expert faculty blend theory/practice
- Over 1,800 alumni network
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Wayne, NJ - Public 4-Year - wpunj.edu
Master's - Integrated Marketing Communication, MA
Campus Based - Visit Website
William Paterson University of New Jersey offers a Master's in Integrated Marketing Communication, designed for students aiming to excel in the dynamic field of marketing communication. This 30-credit program blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in marketing, public relations, and strategic communication. The curriculum covers essential topics like digital content creation, social media communication, and crisis management, ensuring students are well-equipped for the challenges of the modern communication landscape. With a focus on real-world applications, the program fosters critical thinking and strategic planning skills, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking to advance their careers in communication.
- 30-credit program
- Focus on digital content
- Social media communication
- Crisis management training
- Strategic communication research
- Global strategic communication
- Corporate social responsibility
- Content writing and branding
- Organizational communication
- Graduate capstone project
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Blends theory with practice
- Enhances critical thinking skills
- Strategic planning focus
- Real-world application emphasis
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - njit.edu
Master's - M.S. Professional and Technical Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master's in Professional and Technical Communication at NJIT empowers professionals to develop advanced communication skills in a technology-driven landscape. Students gain expertise in strategic communication, visual design, and innovative problem-solving techniques. The comprehensive 30-credit program prepares graduates to excel in complex communication roles across diverse industries, leveraging cutting-edge media tools and sophisticated communication theories.
- 30 total required credits
- Advanced professional communication skills
- Leadership and management focus
- Technology and communication integration
- Visual design and information design
- Communication theory expertise
- Multiple media tool proficiency
- Problem-solving communication approach
See the listing below for more details about the master's in communication programs offered in New Jersey:
FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY
Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Madison.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program combines the study of communication theory and practice and culminates in a capstone project in which students apply concepts they have learned during the program toward the creation and completion of a communication-based project.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $1,272 per credit hour. This does not include additional mandatory university and course fees, or the cost of books and supplies.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. To learn more about FDU’s program, click here.
KEANE UNIVERSITY
Keane University in Union 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 concentration in organizational communication, in which students can take a traditional approach to study theory and research or a more applied approach. The program culminates in either a thesis or a comprehensive examination.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $8,566 per semester for full-time students who are residents of New Jersey and $10,998 per semester for full-time students who are non-residents.
Anything Else?: Students can begin the program in either the fall or spring semester. The application deadline for the fall is June 30, and December for the spring. To learn more about Keane’s program, click here.
MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY
Montclair State University's School of Communication and Media offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Public and Organizational Relations program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Public and Organizational Relations program focuses on developing four areas of expertise: strategic thinking, communication skills, media-savvy, and leadership mindset. The 33-credit hour program typically meets once per week in the evening, and can be completed full-time over 4 semesters, or part-time in 5-6 semesters.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year are $713 per credit hour for New Jersey residents and $1,029 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Applications to the program are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. To learn more about Montclair’s program, click here.
RIDER UNIVERSITY
Rider University offers a Master of Arts in Business Communication program on their campus in Lawrenceville, as well as an online Master of Arts in Business Communication - Health Communication Concentration program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Business Communication program is offered weekday evenings on the Lawrenceville campus and is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study (including summer classes).
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year for the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is $870 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is August 1, December 1 for spring entry, and May 1 for summer entry. TO learn more about Rider’s program, click here.
RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
Rutgers University offers a Master of Communication and Media program that is available in a number of formats: on-campus in New Brunswick, online or hybrid of online/on-campus learning.
What to Know: The Master of Communication and Media program is a professionally-focused program that prepares students for various careers in communication, including public relations, marketing, and media. The degree can be completed in as little as 18 months, and courses are offered on campus, online, and in a hybrid format.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for 2018 are $18,984 for New Jersey residents and $30,792 for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Admission is offered on a rolling basis for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. To learn more about Rutgers’ program, click here.
SETON HALL UNIVERSITY
Seton Hall University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on its campus in South Orange.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit on-campus program that offers three different focus areas: Digital Communications and Communication Technologies, Communication in Organizations, and Public Relations. Enrolled students take courses in Strategic Planning, Internet and Communications, Global Perspectives, and much more.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate-level tuition through Spring 2022 is $1,350 per credit hour for the Communication and Arts programs. This does not include mandatory university fees.
Anything Else?: Admission is offered on a rolling basis for the fall and spring semesters and is completed online. The priority application deadline for the fall semester is May 1, and the priority application deadline for the spring is November 1. To learn more about SHU's program, click here.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in New Jersey
NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
The New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark offers an online Master of Science in Professional & Technical Communication program.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Professional & Technical Communication program is designed for working professionals and offers the flexibility of completing coursework whenever it is convenient. Five core courses are taken by all students, and then students can customize their coursework by taking electives in their preferred areas of technical communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 academic year was $22,690 for New Jersey residents, and $1,248 per credit hour for non-residents (online graduate programs only).
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is August 1, and November 15 for the spring semester. To learn more about NJIT’s online program, click here.
RIDER UNIVERSITY
Rider University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Business Communication - Health Communication Concentration program that teaches students how to advance public health policy, influence the health and lifestyle behaviors of individuals and groups and improve overall health outcomes in their future healthcare careers. To learn more about Rider University's online program, click here.
RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
Rutgers University offers its Master of Communication and Media program in an online format in addition to a traditional on-campus or hybrid format. The program has seven options for concentrating studies to prepare students for various careers in communication, including public relations, digital media, and health communication. For more information about Rutgers University's online program, click here.
New Jersey Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Fairleigh Dickionson Univerisity Programs | 285 Madison Avenue Madison, NJ 07940 (973) 443-8466 |
Keane University Programs | 1000 Morris Avenue Union , NJ 07083 (908) 737-0471 |
Montclair State University Programs | 285 Madison Avenue Madison, NJ 07940 (973) 655-7774 |
New Jersey Institute of Technology Programs | 154 Summit St. Newark, NJ 07102 (973) 596-3000 |
Rutgers University Programs | 4 Huntington Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (848) 932-7500 |
Seton Hall University Programs | 400 South Orange Ave. South Orange, NJ 7079 (973) 761-9000 |