Master’s in Communication in Ohio
Ohio offers aspiring communications experts a wide range of graduate degree options, including 6 schools offering traditional on-campus master's in communication programs and 4 schools offering fully online programs. Students in the Buckeye State can also choose from a variety of program concentrations, such as organizational communication, public relations, health communication, communication technology, media studies, and many others. Upon graduation, students will be well prepared for doctoral study, academic careers teaching communication at the college level or even to begin or advance their careers in the communication field. Major companies that call Ohio home and may provide employment opportunities for master's program graduates include Bridgestone, Goodyear, Big Lots!, KeyBank, Proctor & Gamble, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, Ohio Health and Cleveland Clinic. For aspiring journalists and corporate communicators, there are a number of newspapers, radio stations, and television stations across the state, including those in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo that may hire program graduates, as well as public relations, marketing, and communications companies in those same cities.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Ohio
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Ohio? 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 great networking opportunities. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or digital communication, our rankings guide you to the best options. Check out our detailed rankings and see which Ohio programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
University of Akron Main Campus
Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication provides a comprehensive online graduate experience targeting communication professionals seeking career advancement. Designed for flexibility, the program enables students to develop advanced strategic communication skills while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Faculty-led coursework emphasizes practical applications across diverse industries, preparing graduates for leadership roles. Students gain theoretical knowledge and real-world expertise through a curriculum that explores communication strategies, professional development, and industry-specific communication techniques.
- 100% online format
- Master of Arts Degree
- Strategic Communication focus
- Award-winning faculty
- Flexible for busy schedules
- Practical applications emphasized
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Bachelor's degree required
- No GRE required
- Real-world skills development
- Covers various industries
- Enhances communication expertise
- Online graduate certificates available
- Contact Dr. Andrea Meluch for info
- Graduate School Admissions online
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Health and Crisis Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication with Health and Crisis Communication concentration offers specialized training for professionals seeking expertise in critical communication scenarios. This online program equips students with advanced skills in navigating complex communication challenges within healthcare and emergency management contexts. Students develop strategic approaches to communication during high-stakes situations, learning to effectively manage information dissemination, crisis response, and public messaging strategies essential for healthcare organizations and emergency response teams.
- 100% Online Master's Program
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Curriculum
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Industry-relevant Communication Skills
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication focusing on Social Media provides a cutting-edge digital communication curriculum for modern professionals. Students explore advanced strategies for leveraging social media platforms, understanding digital communication trends, and developing sophisticated online engagement techniques. The program covers content creation, audience analysis, branding strategies, and digital communication management, preparing graduates to excel in rapidly evolving digital communication landscapes across various industries and organizational contexts.
- 100% Online Master's Degree
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Program
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Accommodates Busy Schedules
Ohio University-Main Campus
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
Master's - Communication and Development
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio University-Main Campus offers a Master's in Communication and Development Studies, focusing on leveraging communication to drive social change. This interdisciplinary program blends theory with practice, equipping students for roles in NGOs, non-profits, government, and academia. It emphasizes a global outlook, offering hands-on experiences in areas like community development and global health. Financial aid, including scholarships and assistantships, is available for competitive candidates. The program seeks applicants with a strong academic record, welcoming international students to contribute to global communication strategies.
- Focus on social change.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum.
- Global perspective emphasized.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Customizable study options.
- Financial aid available.
- Competitive admissions process.
- International student support.
- Scholarships and assistantships.
- Preparation for global careers.
- NGO and non-profit focus.
- Government agency preparation.
- Academic career pathways.
- Community development studies.
- Global health communication.
- Media advocacy options.
- Environment sustainability focus.
- Food sustainability studies.
- Fulbright Scholars enrolled.
- Ford Foundation Scholars.
- Return Peace Corps Volunteers.
- Small cohort sizes.
- Diverse international community.
- Capstone project required.
- 48 credit hours minimum.
Master's - Organizational Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Organizational Communication at Ohio University is an online program designed for professionals aiming to elevate their communication expertise. Offered by the Scripps College of Communication, it delves into essential communication theories and practices, tailored for career progression. The program is structured for completion in 18-24 months, offering flexibility and practical knowledge in organizational dynamics and leadership. With 30 credit hours required, no GRE, and tuition under $17,000, it's an affordable path to enhancing professional communication skills.
- 100% online program
- 18-24 months completion time
- 30 total credit hours
- Less than $17K tuition
- No GRE required
- Flexible learning format
- Optional stackable certificates
- Experienced faculty guidance
- Career advancement focused
- Multiple elective options
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Bowling Green, OH - Public 4-Year - bgsu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University's Master of Arts in Media and Communication delivers a comprehensive graduate experience focused on advancing professional communication skills. The program provides students with in-depth training across multiple communication domains, exploring research methods, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications. Students can engage with specialized areas of study, including international communication and strategic messaging. Emphasizing academic rigor and professional development, the program prepares graduates to excel in diverse media and communication careers. Flexible learning options, including online and campus formats, accommodate different student needs and professional backgrounds.
- Offers MA in Media and Communication.
- Specializations in Strategic Communication.
- Online and campus options available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- Focus on research and theory.
- Application deadlines in October, January, April.
- Prepares for diverse media careers.
- Includes teaching experience opportunities.
- Emphasizes global communication strategies.
- Requires specific academic criteria for admission.
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: International/Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University's International/Intercultural Communication concentration offers a transformative graduate experience centered on understanding global communication dynamics. This specialized track provides students with advanced theoretical knowledge and research methodologies for analyzing cross-cultural communication contexts. Participants develop sophisticated skills in navigating complex international communication landscapes, leveraging world-class faculty expertise. The program's research-driven curriculum prepares students for leadership roles in global organizations, academic research, and international strategic communication. Competitive graduate assistantships and collaborative learning environments further enhance the academic journey.
- Multiple MA specialization tracks
- PhD and MA program options
- Research-focused curriculum
- Graduate assistantships available
- Collaborative learning environment
- Located in low-cost living area
- Online strategic communication option
- Emphasis on diverse perspectives
- Professional development programs
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication and Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University's Strategic Communication and Social Media online master's program represents a cutting-edge approach to digital communication education. Designed for working professionals, this innovative curriculum equips students with advanced skills in crafting data-driven communication strategies across digital platforms. The program's flexible seven-week courses enable seamless integration of academic learning with professional responsibilities. Students gain comprehensive expertise in social media analytics, digital advertising, and strategic messaging, preparing them for dynamic careers in contemporary communication environments. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, research methodologies, and emerging communication technologies.
- 100% online master's degree
- Seven-week flexible courses
- Part-time study option
- Strategic communication focus
- Social media specialization
- Advanced research methodologies
- Digital and non-digital applications
- Diverse career path preparation
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Master's - Communication Studies
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University's Communication Studies Master's program offers a comprehensive academic experience focused on advanced communication theories and research methodologies. Students explore intricate social and behavioral communication dynamics, gaining critical analytical skills applicable across professional domains. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for diverse career paths in academia, business, and nonprofit sectors. With flexible graduation options including thesis, project, and internship tracks, students can customize their academic journey. The program provides robust preparation for doctoral studies and professional advancement, emphasizing scholarly exploration and practical communication strategies.
- Master's degree in Communication Studies
- In-person program at Kent Campus
- 30 total credit hours required
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA
- Thesis, project, or internship options
- Dual degree with MBA available
- Minimum 9 credit hours at 60000 level
- Research methods course required
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Career paths in teaching, research
Master's - Interpersonal Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University's Interpersonal Communication Master's program provides an immersive graduate experience centered on advanced communication skill development. Specialized coursework enables students to analyze complex verbal and nonverbal communication interactions, interpret diverse communication contexts, and leverage emerging communication technologies. The 32-credit program offers multiple graduation pathways, accommodating diverse professional backgrounds. Designed for both working professionals and recent graduates, the curriculum emphasizes practical and theoretical understanding of interpersonal communication dynamics. Students develop sophisticated communication strategies applicable across professional landscapes, with opportunities for personalized academic exploration.
- 32-credit Master's degree
- Four graduation options available
- 2-2.5 years program length
- Interpersonal Communication concentration
- GPA requirement: 3.0/4.0
- GRE recommended, not mandatory
- Communication background preferred
- Three recommendation letters required
- Writing sample needed
- International student TOEFL requirements
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH - Private 4-year - udayton.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Dayton's Master of Arts in Communication provides a comprehensive academic experience targeting communication professionals seeking advanced theoretical and practical skills. Students navigate a robust curriculum exploring diverse communication domains including mass media, organizational dynamics, health communication, and public relations. The program emphasizes research methodology, analytical thinking, and strategic communication approaches. Graduates emerge prepared for leadership roles across multiple sectors, equipped with sophisticated communication strategies and interdisciplinary perspectives that transcend traditional communication boundaries.
- 36 semester hours required
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Core research methods focus
- Mostly on-campus program
- Multiple communication specializations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Research and thesis options
- Collaborative learning environment
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Interdisciplinary Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Dayton's Interdisciplinary Track within the Master of Arts in Communication offers a uniquely flexible academic pathway for students seeking broad communication expertise. This innovative program integrates core communication principles with specialized interdisciplinary perspectives from fields like political science, psychology, and business administration. Students explore complex communication landscapes through research-driven coursework, developing advanced analytical skills applicable across professional domains. The curriculum encourages personalized academic exploration, enabling students to craft specialized communication competencies aligned with individual career aspirations and intellectual interests.
- 36 semester hours required
- On-campus program with limited online courses
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Research-focused communication studies
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- 4 core communication courses
- Thesis or practicum option
- Rolling admissions process
- Flexible research areas
- Career preparation focus
See below for additional information about each of the master's in communications programs offered in Ohio.
CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Cleveland State University offers a Masters in Communication Disorders program in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication Disorders program. The Communication Sciences and Disorders Program at Cleveland State University is situated within the College of Health. The program includes a Master’s level Speech-Language Pathology degree program and a pre-professional undergraduate degree program.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $4,909 per semester for Ohio residents based on a course load of 9 credits per semester, and $9,261 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Students may enter the program in the fall or spring semesters.
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY
Kent State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as an on campus program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies focuses on the social and behavioral study of communication theory and research designed to prepare students for doctoral study as well as for professional careers. Students have the option to specialize in global, health, interpersonal or mediated/mass communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $11,536 per year for Ohio residents, and $21,524 per year for non-residents.
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Ohio State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Columbus.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is designed for students who plan to enter a doctoral program, begin a research career in the communication field, or whose eventual goals include teaching at the college or university level. The emphases of the program are research methodologies and the skills needed to advance the communication field.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $6,212 per semester for Ohio residents based on a course load of 8 or more credits per semester, and $17,464 per semester for non-residents. The school offers funding packages to nearly all students accepted to the master's in communication program.
Anything Else?: Students begin the program in the fall semester only, and application materials should be submitted no later than December 1 for full consideration for funding opportunities.
UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
The University of Akron offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that culminates in either a comprehensive exam for students planning to enter a professional career following graduation, or a thesis for students planning to enter doctoral study. The program offers three areas of concentration: Communication Studies, Media Studies, and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $442 per credit hour for Ohio residents and $747 per credit hour for non-residents. Additional mandatory fees apply.
Anything Else?: The program begins in the fall semester. For students seeking a graduate assistantship, the application deadline is March 1. For admission only, the application deadline is May 1.
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
The University of Cincinnati offers a Master of Arts in Communication program with full-time and part-time on campus options.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program allows students to earn their degree on a full-time or part-time (evening courses) basis to accommodate working students. The program offers the following options for specializations: Organizational Communication and Public Relations, Media and Cultural Studies, Health and Environmental Communication, Interpersonal Communication and Leadership, Culture and Globalization, and Rhetorical, Interpretive, Critical and Quantitative Methods. The program culminates in a thesis for students interested in Ph.D. programs, or a "Praxis" project, which consists of an advanced internship and a final paper.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $724 per credit hour for Ohio residents and $1,311 per credit hour for non-residents. Additional mandatory fees apply.
Anything Else?: Full-time students are accepted for the fall semester only, and the application deadline is February 1. The application deadlines for part-time students are February 1 for the fall semester and October 15 for the spring semester.
UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
The University of Dayton offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that focuses on research, theory, message development and analysis. Students may also choose to complete an interdisciplinary course of study combining communication courses with disciplines such as English, business, psychology or political science.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $925 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: All application materials for students interested in teaching assistantships should be submitted by March 9.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Ohio
ASHLAND UNIVERSITY
Ashland University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication program is an 18-month, 30-credit hour program with a strong focus on health and safety, public relations and strategic communication. Students choose from either a health or public relations track for their coursework.
What Does It Cost?: The cost of tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year is $584 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications for the program are reviewed on a rolling basis. It is suggested that all application materials are received by the school no later than one month before the intended start date.
BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
Bowling Green State University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Media and Communications program with a specialization in Strategic Communication.
What to Know: The online Master of Arts in Media and Communications program is designed for media and communications professionals working in non-profit organizations, for-profit companies and the media. Students enroll part-time and complete their degrees in two years, with coursework in organizational communication, social media, advertising and public relations.
What Does It Cost?: The University estimates total tuition for the program at $18,000-$20,000 total as of fall 2018.
Anything Else?: The program offers 7-week online courses and 6 program start dates throughout the year.
FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY
Franklin University in Columbus offers an online Master of Science in Marketing and Communication program.
What to Know: The online Master of Science in Marketing and Communication program is a fully online program designed to be completed in 16 months and does not require the GRE or GMAT to apply. The integrated curriculum focuses on modern-day marketing and communication tactics and trends.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for this program for the 2018-2019 academic year is $670 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission in the fall semester is August 20, and January 7 for the spring semester.
OHIO UNIVERSITY
Ohio University in Athens offers a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication in a fully online format.
What to Know: The online Master of Arts in Organizational Communication program is designed for working professionals to complete on their own schedules in 15 months (assuming two courses per semester) or two years (completing one course per semester). Students complete their coursework in organizational communication via online class discussions and group projects and video conferences with instructors, which allows them to earn their degree from the comfort of home at times that work with their work schedules.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for online programs is $240 per credit hour as of fall 2018.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission in the fall semester is July 1, November 1 for the spring and April 1 for the summer semester.
Ohio Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Ashland University | 401 College Avenue Ashland, OH 44805 (419) 289-5688 |
Bowling Green University | 306 Kuhlin Center Bowling Green, OH 43403 (419) 372-8349 |
Cleveland State University Programs | 2112 Euclid Avenue, IM 275 Cleveland, OH 44115 (216) 687-3807 |
Franklin University Programs | 201 S. Grant Avenue Columbus, OH 43215 (614) 797-4700 |
Kent State University Programs | 400 Janik Drive, 211 Art Building Kent , OH 44242 (330) 672-2659 |
Ohio State University Programs | 3016 Derby Hallm 154 N. Oval Mall Columbus , OH 43210 (614) 292-8444 |
Ohio University Programs | 400 Schoonover Center, 20 E. Union Street Athens, OH 45701 (740) 593-4828 |
University of Akron Programs | 302 Buchtel Common Akron, OH 44325 (330) 972-7111 |
University of Cincinnati Programs
| 155 B. McMicken Hall Cincinnati, OH 45221 (513) 556-5860 |
University of Dayton Programs | St Joseph Hall 121, 300 College Park Dayton, OH 45469 (937) 229-2028 |