Master’s in Communication in New York
Aspiring communications experts in New York have a wealth of options available to them, from online courses to on campus programs. Several programs are available in the nation's media capital, New York City, while others are found around the Empire State.
New York's major industries, particularly mass media, financial services, tourism, healthcare and retail corporations offer many exciting career opportunities for students graduating from master's in communication programs.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in New York
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in New York? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights schools known for their quality education, expert faculty, and strong alumni networks. Whether you aim to boost your career or dive deep into communication studies, our rankings guide your decision. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
St Bonaventure University
Saint Bonaventure, NY - Private 4-year - sbu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marketing Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
St. Bonaventure University's Master of Arts in Marketing Communication transcends traditional communication education by integrating design thinking and strategic storytelling. This fully online program cultivates professionals who can navigate complex media landscapes with innovative communication strategies. Students develop comprehensive skills in crafting compelling narratives across digital and traditional platforms, emphasizing conceptual thinking and ethical communication practices. The ACEJMC-accredited curriculum prepares graduates for dynamic marketing leadership roles, offering flexible learning paths and customizable elective options that align with evolving industry demands.
- Fully online flexible program
- ACEJMC-accredited communication school
- Design thinking skills development
- Customizable elective options
- 2.8 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Two recommendation letters required
- $1,000 Graduate Scholarship available
- Focus on strategic communication
- Prepares for marketing leadership roles
- Industry-aligned curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Digital Journalism
Online Learning - Visit Website
St. Bonaventure University's Master of Arts in Digital Journalism revolutionizes media education by equipping students with advanced storytelling capabilities across contemporary platforms. The comprehensive 30-credit program blends foundational journalism principles with cutting-edge digital communication techniques, preparing professionals to excel in rapidly transforming news environments. Students develop sophisticated reporting skills, learn ethical storytelling approaches, and master technological tools essential for modern journalism. The curriculum emphasizes digital narrative construction, social media strategies, and multimedia reporting, positioning graduates to become innovative communicators in an increasingly digital media landscape.
- 30-credit master's program
- Digital journalism focus
- Undergraduate GPA 2.5+ required
- Writing sample needed
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for graduation
- Digital project presentation required
- Ethical journalism emphasis
- Diverse digital storytelling skills
- Advanced reporting techniques
- Social media storytelling course
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY - Public 4-Year - buffalo.edu
Master's - Communication MA
Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Master's in Communication provides a comprehensive academic journey for professionals seeking advanced communication expertise. Spanning 36 credit hours, the program strategically prepares students for impactful roles in academia, business, and government sectors. The curriculum deeply explores communication theory and sophisticated research methodologies, offering a robust full-time study pathway. Students engage with interactive in-person instruction, developing critical analytical skills and scholarly understanding of communication processes. The program emphasizes comprehensive training that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical professional applications.
- 36 credit hours required
- 2 years to complete
- Full-time study option
- In-person instruction
- $75 application fee
- Focus on communication theory
- Research methodologies emphasis
- Prepares for academia, business, government
- Terminal master's degree offered
- Scholarly study of communication process
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Misinformation and society - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Communication MA specializing in Misinformation and Society offers an innovative research-driven graduate experience. Students critically examine digital media landscapes, political discourse, and complex information ecosystems. The program's flexible curriculum allows personalized academic exploration, enabling deep investigations into misinformation's societal impacts. Advanced theoretical frameworks and cutting-edge research methodologies equip graduates to analyze, understand, and address contemporary communication challenges. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, students develop sophisticated analytical skills applicable across academic, governmental, and professional communication environments.
- No traditional communication tracks
- Flexible research-driven curriculum
- Broad communication theory focus
- Innovative research methodologies
- Multiple research concentration areas
- Supports individual academic goals
- Practical communication theory application
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Digital and social media - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Digital and Social Media Communication MA provides a forward-thinking graduate experience centered on advanced digital communication research. Students navigate complex media landscapes through comprehensive theoretical training and innovative research methodologies. The program emphasizes practical skills in digital platforms, social media strategies, and emerging communication technologies. Tailored to individual academic interests, students explore cutting-edge research areas while developing sophisticated analytical capabilities. The curriculum prepares professionals to excel in rapidly evolving digital communication environments, bridging academic insights with practical industry applications.
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Six primary research focus areas
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Supports individual academic goals
- Research methodology training
- Practical communication theory application
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Health communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Health Communication MA offers a specialized graduate pathway examining communication's critical role in healthcare environments. Students develop advanced research skills and theoretical understanding of communication's impact on health messaging, patient interactions, and medical information dissemination. The program provides comprehensive training in medical communication strategies, research methodologies, and interdisciplinary approaches to health-related communication challenges. Graduates emerge prepared to contribute meaningfully in healthcare organizations, public health institutions, medical research settings, and academic environments, equipped with nuanced communication expertise.
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Research methodology training
- Diverse research focus areas
- Individual academic support
- Supports career development goals
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - Private 4-year - columbia.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's Master of Science in Strategic Communication delivers an immersive 16-month academic experience designed to transform communication professionals. The program strategically integrates comprehensive coursework with practical skill development, emphasizing analytical frameworks and organizational communication strategies. Students engage in a dynamic curriculum featuring a transformative Capstone Project with real-world organizations, enabling direct industry application. With flexible options including an accelerated 12-month track and optional graduate internships, the program cultivates advanced communication expertise. Located in vibrant New York City, students benefit from intimate class environments, personalized mentorship, and extensive networking opportunities with industry executives and Columbia's prestigious global alumni network.
- 16-month full-time program
- Accelerated 12-month option
- On-campus classes
- Capstone Project with real organizations
- Elective classes across Columbia
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia's global alumni network
- Optional graduate-level internship
- Small class sizes
- Individualized feedback
- Strategic communication skills
- Analytical frameworks
- Organizational mindset
- Supportive community
- Career guidance
- Location in New York City
- Strong academic record required
- Analytical writing skills needed
- 1–2 years professional experience preferred
- Multiple relevant internships considered
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's hybrid Master of Science in Strategic Communication offers a groundbreaking professional development pathway for communication practitioners. Engineered for flexibility, the part-time online program accommodates working professionals through synchronous coursework and periodic residencies. Participants gain sophisticated digital communication strategies, advanced analytical techniques, and stakeholder engagement methodologies across a 24-36 month curriculum. The program uniquely supports two professional experience cohorts, ensuring targeted learning experiences. Students complete a compelling real-world capstone project while maintaining professional commitments, receiving comprehensive access to Columbia's extensive resources and maintaining robust connections with industry leaders.
- Part-time online with residencies
- Flexible 24-36 month completion
- Two professional experience cohorts
- Synchronous online coursework
- Real-world capstone project
- Small class sizes
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia resources
- Suitable for full-time professionals
- Academically rigorous curriculum
University at Albany
Albany, NY - Public 4-Year - albany.edu
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University at Albany's MA Communication in Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication offers an immersive academic journey for aspiring communication professionals. This specialized concentration explores nuanced human interactions across cultural boundaries, emphasizing advanced research methodologies and strategic communication techniques. Students delve deeply into complex communication dynamics, analyzing interpersonal communication patterns, cultural nuances, and cross-cultural messaging strategies. The program uniquely prepares graduates to navigate diverse professional environments, develop sophisticated communication skills, and understand intricate human interaction frameworks. Practical internships and faculty-guided research complement theoretical coursework, enabling students to transform academic insights into real-world communication expertise.
- Master of Arts in Communication.
- Concentrations in four areas.
- Research project or practicum option.
- Rolling admissions for Fall, Spring, Summer.
- Transcripts required for application.
- Three letters of recommendation needed.
- Statement of goals required.
- Writing sample submission.
- No GRE scores required.
- TOEFL/IELTS for international students.
- Core courses in theory and methods.
- Electives in Department of Communication.
- Capstone project required.
- Opportunities for faculty-assisted research.
- Internships with notable organizations.
- Prepares for executive and managerial roles.
- Potential for doctoral study.
- Accelerated undergraduate/graduate option.
- Combined BA/MA program available.
- Dynamic communication leader focus.
- Innovative messaging strategies.
- Face-to-face interaction analysis.
- Organizational communication focus.
- Political communication emphasis.
- Health communication specialization.
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Albany's MA Communication in Organizational Communication provides a comprehensive exploration of communication dynamics within professional settings. This concentration equips students with advanced strategies for analyzing, designing, and implementing effective organizational communication frameworks. Participants develop critical skills in interpreting workplace communication challenges, developing strategic messaging approaches, and understanding complex organizational interactions. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates to become innovative communication leaders capable of transforming organizational communication practices. Students gain expertise in communication technologies, leadership communication, conflict resolution, and strategic messaging techniques essential for contemporary professional environments.
- Four concentration areas available
- Internship and research opportunities
- No GRE scores required
- Rolling admissions for Fall/Spring/Summer
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Capstone research or practicum
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Mentorship from active faculty
- Develop advanced communication skills
- Prepares for doctoral study
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University at Albany's MA Communication in Political Communication offers an intensive academic experience for students seeking to understand complex communication landscapes in political contexts. This specialized concentration provides comprehensive training in political messaging, media analysis, campaign strategies, and communication policy development. Students explore sophisticated techniques for crafting persuasive political narratives, analyzing media representations, and understanding communication's role in democratic processes. The program combines rigorous theoretical study with practical research opportunities, preparing graduates to become strategic communication professionals in political organizations, media institutions, advocacy groups, and governmental agencies. Participants develop advanced skills in political communication research, strategic messaging, and critical media analysis.
- Four concentration areas available
- No GRE scores required
- Internship opportunities offered
- Research or practicum capstone
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Rolling admissions
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- International students welcome
- Career-focused curriculum
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York, NY - Public 4-Year - baruch.cuny.edu
Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's MA in Strategic Communication delivers a comprehensive professional development pathway for aspiring communication leaders. Engineered for working professionals, the 36-credit program balances rigorous theoretical foundations with practical industry applications. Students customize their educational journey through five mandatory courses and seven strategic electives, with flexible full-time or part-time scheduling. The program's distinctive approach enables candidates to complete their degree within two years, culminating in a substantial thesis or capstone project. Graduates are positioned to excel across diverse economic sectors including for-profit, non-profit, and governmental organizations, emerging as sophisticated communication strategists with advanced analytical and strategic communication skills.
- 36 Credits
- Evening classes
- Full-time or part-time
- 5 Required Courses
- 7 Elective Courses
- Thesis or Capstone
- 70-75 students
- Classes limited to 28
- 2 years full time
- 6:05-9:00 pm EST
- Most students work full-time
- Spring and fall semesters
- Summer and winter terms
- Expert strategic communication professionals
- Leaders and future scholars
- Culmination experience
- Work across economic sectors
- For-profit, non-profit, government
- Next generation professionals
- Knowledge, theory, skills
- Customized coursework
- Varied elective options
- Tailored career goals
- Professional growth
- Network of colleagues
See below for details about master's in communications programs available in New York.
ITHACA COLLEGE
Ithaca College offers a Master of Science in Communication Innovation program as an online course of study.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication Innovation is a 24-month online master's degree with 7 to 10 hours of work per week that can be completed when it is convenient for working professional students.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the MS degree in Communication Innovation is $56,000, not including travel expenses for destination intensive courses. Students are permitted to divide tuition costs into four payments (one per semester) of $14,000.
Anything Else?: Students choose five long-weekend destination intensive courses to supplement online learning, offered in various sites over the program's two years.
RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
Rennsselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy offers a traditional on campus Ph.D. in Communication and Rhetoric program.
What to Know: The Ph.D. program in Communication and Rhetoric offers a multidisciplinary curriculum in communication, culture, design and media.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition is $51,000 per year for full-time students.
SUNY - UNIVERSITY OF ALBANY
SUNY in Albany offers a Master of Arts in Communication program that is accessible to both full-time students and working professionals with evening, online and hybrid courses.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program prepares students for careers in communication professions within a variety of contexts: political, organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, technology and health. The program allows students to choose from one of the following concentrations: health communication, interpersonal and intercultural communication, organizational communication or political communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $453 per credit for New York residents, and $925 per credit for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The deadline for applications is July 15 for a fall semester program start, and November 1 for a spring semester start.
SUNY - OSWEGO
SUNY College in Oswego offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program online and in an on campus classroom format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to select one of three tracks in the 34-credit program: Integrated Media & Social Networks, Health Communication and Organizational Communication.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit hour is $453 for New York residents, and $925 for non-residents.
Anything Else?: SUNY - Oswego reviews applications on a rolling basis.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY - NEWHOUSE SCHOOL
Syracuse University's Newhouse School offers a variety of master's level communications degrees.
What to Know: Among the many master's level communications programs at the Newhouse School, students can choose from degree programs in advertising, arts journalism, broadcast & digital journalism, communications management, media and education, media studies, public diplomacy, public relations and television, radio & film.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition and fees vary depending on the program selected. For more information about the current costs of each program, please visit the tuition and financial aid page.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the on campus master's level programs is January 15. For more information about these deadlines, please visit the admissions requirements page.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY - COLLEGE OF VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS
Syracuse University's College of Visual & Performing Arts offers a Master of Arts in Communication & Rhetorical Studies program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication & Rhetorical Studies program offers a strong academic research focus and is aimed at students who plan to pursue a doctoral-level education.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $1,559 per credit hour for graduate students at the College of Visual & Performing Arts.
Anything Else?: The application deadline is February 1 for admission in the fall.
Buffalo Master’s in Communication Programs
SUNY - UNIVERSITY OF BUFFALO
SUNY in Buffalo offers a Master of Arts in Comunication program that is offered in a traditional, on campus format.
What to Know: The 36-credit program focuses on the scholarly study of the communication process, with coursework focusing on communication theory and research methodologies. It is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for New York residents is $13,383 per year, and $24,723.50 per year for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for students requesting financial aid is January 15. For all other students, applications will be processed until classes start in the fall.
New York City Master’s in Communication Programs
BARUCH COLLEGE
Baruch College in New York City offers a Master of Arts in Corporate Communication program in a traditional classroom format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Corporate Communication program is designed for working professionals, with classes offered in the evenings and can be completed in three semesters.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit for New York residents is $425, and $780 per credit for non-residents and international students. There is also an academic excellence fee of $500 per semester.
Anything Else?: The MA in Corporate Communication is a 36-credit hour program that consists of six required courses and six elective courses, with classes taking place from 6:05 - 9:00 p.m.
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
Columbia University in New York City offers an Executive Master of Science of Strategic Communication hybrid program that combines online study with on campus classroom work.
What to Know: The Executive Master of Science of Strategic Communication program is designed for experienced communication professionals and those in leadership positions in a wide range of industries who wish to become experts in communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the Executive Master of Science program is $2,018 per point, which does not include fees, texts and course materials. A full summary of fees can be found here.
Anything Else?: Each semester features a combination of multi-day intensive study, weekend classes and online activities and engagement. When not at Columbia, students access resources, submit assignments and communication via an online learning platform.
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY – STEINHART
New York University's Steinhardt in New York City offers a Master of Arts in Media, Culture and Communication in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Media, Culture and Communication program focuses on the study of global media and culture, digital media and new technologies, media history and theory, political communication and more. The 36-credit hour program can be taken full- or part-time.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $1,660 per credit hour for graduate studies at NYU Steinhardt.
Anything Else?: The deadline for applications is February 1 for a fall semester program start.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in New York
FORDHAM UNIVERSITY
Fordham offers a graduate level Strategic Marketing Communications program that is delivered in an online format.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Strategic Marketing Communications program is designed to be completed in four consecutive terms. The curriculum includes courses on media strategy, crisis communications, consumer behavior, market research analysis, and more.
What Does It Cost?: MS program tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 school year are $1,511 per credit for continuing students (started prior to Fall 2017), and $1,555 per credit for new students (started Fall 2017 or later).
Anything Else?: While the coursework is delivered online, all students are required to come to New York twice during their program for residencies at leading advertising, PR, and marketing firms.
MARIST COLLEGE
Marist College in Poughkeepsie offers students two options for online master's-level communication degrees.
What to Know: The online Integrated Marketing Communication Master's program focuses on digital interactive marketing and strategic communication tactics, with courses offered in public relations, social media, marketing research, branding, strategy and global marketing insights.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for both online programs is $800 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications for fall enrollment are due by August 1.
ST. BONAVENTURE UNIVERSITY
St. Bonaventure University offers a Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) that is 100% online.
What to Know: The Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications program can be completed in as little as one year - two seven-week courses per semester. The curriculum addresses topics such as creative message strategy, new media, and marketing communications research.
What Does It Cost?: The cost to attend St. Bonaventure's IMC program is $24,915 total, or $755 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Students are able to customize their IMC program curriculum with two electives.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
Syracuse’s Newhouse School portfolio of programs includes a fully online Master of Science in Communication program; choose from three specializations: Public Relations, Advertising and Journalism Innovation.
Anything Else?: The online program offers four start dates per year with differing application deadlines. For more information about these deadlines, please visit the admissions requirements page.
New York Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
School | Contact Information |
---|---|
Baruch College Programs | One Bernard Baruch Way New York, NY 10010 (646) 312-3723 |
Columbia University Programs | 2970 Broadway, MC 4119 New York, NY 10027 (212) 854-9666 |
Fordham University Programs | 441 E Fordham Rd Bronx, NY 10458 (212) 636-6538 |
Ithaca College Programs | 935 Danby Road Ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 274-3011 |
Marist College | 3399 North Road Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 (888) 877-7900 |
New York University - Steinhardt Programs | 239 Greene Street, 8th Floor New York,, NY 10003 (212) 988-5191 |
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Programs | 110 8th Street Troy, NY 12180 (518) 276-2576 |
St. Bonaventure University Programs | 3261 W State Rd. St. Bonaventure, NY 14778 (844) 424-4960 |
SUNY - Albany Programs | 1400 Washington Avenue Albany, NY 12222 (518) 442-3980 |
SUNY - Buffalo Programs
| 359 Baldy Hall Buffalo, NY 14260 (716) 645-1505 |
SUNY - Oswego Programs
| 7060 State Route 104 Oswego , NY 13126 (315) 312-2265 |
Syracuse University Programs | 215 University Place Syracuse, NY 13244 (844) 797-2666 |
Syracuse University - College of Visual & Performing Arts Programs | 200 Crouse College Syracuse, NY 13244 (315) 443-7175 |