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 University-New Brunswick's Master of Communication and Media (MCM) program is tailored for professionals aiming to excel in the fast-paced communication sector. Offering seven distinct tracks, it equips students with advanced skills in areas like digital media and strategic communication. The 36-credit hybrid program is designed for flexibility, catering to working adults with its mix of online and on-campus classes. Its proximity to major media hubs enhances networking and job prospects. Notably, the program does not require GRE scores and boasts an 86% graduation rate within two years, preparing graduates for leadership positions in communication and media fields.
- 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
Specializing in Public Relations, Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Master of Communication and Media program is a 36-credit curriculum aimed at PR professionals looking to elevate their careers. The program can be completed in just 15 months, offering a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications in media relations and crisis communication. With flexible learning options and a GRE waiver available, students benefit from a career-oriented curriculum taught by experienced practitioners. This program is ideal for those seeking to navigate the evolving PR landscape and secure roles in a growing industry.
- 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
The Digital Media concentration within Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Master of Communication and Media program is designed for professionals aiming to master digital storytelling and content creation. This fully online, 36-credit program offers the flexibility needed for working individuals, with no GRE requirement. A high graduation rate of 86% within 24 months underscores its effectiveness. Students learn from faculty who combine academic theory with real-world insights, preparing for diverse careers in digital media and strategic 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 with a concentration in Digital Media Studies is a 36-credit on-campus program that merges theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. This program stands out for its emphasis on digital interaction, leveraging state-of-the-art technology to prepare students for the evolving digital landscape. Students can expect to engage in dynamic real-world scenarios, enhancing their creative thinking and strategic messaging skills. The inclusion of a Communication Portfolio course uniquely positions graduates for professional opportunities, making it an ideal choice for those aiming to excel in digital media communications.
- 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
The Master of Arts in Communication at Seton Hall University, specializing in Communication in Organizations, offers a 36-credit on-campus curriculum focused on enhancing workplace communication and decision-making skills. This program distinguishes itself by blending creative thinking with practical application, preparing students for leadership roles in various sectors. A highlight is the Communication Portfolio course, which bridges academic studies with professional advancement. Tailored for those looking to deepen their understanding of organizational dynamics, this track emphasizes problem-solving and strategic relationship building within a global framework.
- 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
Specializing in Public Relations, Seton Hall University's Master of Arts in Communication is a comprehensive 36-credit on-campus program designed for aspiring PR professionals. It focuses on strategic message development and building mutually beneficial relationships within a global context. Students benefit from a dynamic learning environment that incorporates state-of-the-art technology and real-world scenario preparation. The program's unique Communication Portfolio course facilitates the transition from academia to the professional world, making it a prime choice for those seeking to navigate the complexities of public relations in the digital age.
- 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 University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media program is designed for professionals aiming to excel in the fast-paced communication sector. This 36-credit hybrid program stands out for its flexibility, offering seven specialized tracks without the need for GRE scores. With an 86% graduation rate within two years, it's tailored for those balancing work and study, featuring weeknight classes and optional internships. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership in digital media, marketing, and corporate communications.
- 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
Specializing in Public Relations, Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media program is a 36-credit hybrid offering that can be completed in just 15 months. It's ideal for working professionals, with a GRE waiver and competitive tuition. The curriculum focuses on PR analytics, crisis communication, and strategic messaging, preparing students for high-demand roles. Flexible scheduling, including weekend options, supports those working full-time.
- 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
The Communication and Media Studies concentration within Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media program offers a fully online, 36-credit curriculum. No GRE is required, and students can choose from seven specializations. With an 86% graduation rate within 24 months, the program is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers. It features a blend of theoretical and practical learning, weeknight classes, and access to a vast alumni network.
- 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's Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication is a comprehensive 30-credit program tailored for aspiring marketing communication leaders. It uniquely combines digital content creation, social media strategies, and crisis management with a strong emphasis on strategic planning and corporate social responsibility. This program stands out for its practical approach, integrating real-world applications with theoretical foundations to prepare students for high-level roles in marketing and public relations. Graduates emerge with enhanced critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of global strategic communication, making them highly competitive in the evolving communication sector.
- 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 M.S. in Professional and Technical Communication at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is designed for professionals aiming to master communication in technology-centric environments. This 30-credit program emphasizes strategic communication, visual and information design, and the application of communication theories to solve complex problems. Graduates emerge with the ability to lead in diverse industries, equipped with proficiency in multiple media tools and a deep understanding of how technology integrates with communication strategies. The curriculum fosters leadership and management skills, preparing students for advanced roles where innovative communication solutions are key.
- 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
2025 Affordable New Jersey Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable New Jersey Master's in Communication degree options is key for students planning their education in 2025. The table highlights programs across NJ, focusing on tuition and program details. It's important to choose low-cost and cost-effective options to manage expenses while pursuing higher education. This guide helps compare different schools, making it easier to find a program that fits your budget and goals in the Garden State.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Rutgers University-Newark |
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| The College of New Jersey |
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| Rutgers University-New Brunswick |
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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
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