Master’s in Communication in Oregon
Oregon is home to three schools that offer master's-level communication programs. All three schools provide on-campus programs in the Portland area, and offer several options to focus on various places, including strategic communication, journalism, organizational communication, and rhetorical studies. For working professionals, the University of Oregon's program offers evening and weekend classes to better accommodate a busy work schedule. Following graduation, students are prepared for doctoral study, advanced communication careers or employment in Oregon's major industries such as food and beverage, outdoor gear and apparel, forestry and wood products, high technology, and advanced manufacturing. Major companies headquartered in Oregon that may provide employment opportunities include Nike, Lithia Motors, Columbia Sportswear, OshKosh B'gosh, and Precision Castparts, Corp.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Oregon
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Oregon? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our list highlights schools known for their strong communication courses, expert faculty, and great job placement rates. Whether you're into digital media, public relations, or corporate communication, Oregon has options. Want to know how we pick the best? Check out our ranking methodology for details.
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR - Public 4-Year - uoregon.edu
Master's - Communication and Media Studies, MS
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Oregon's Master's in Communication and Media Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed for students eager to explore the complexities of media and its societal impacts. With a strong emphasis on research, this program prepares graduates for careers in academia, media research, and beyond. Students benefit from learning alongside global experts in a collaborative environment that fosters innovative thinking. The curriculum is research-focused, aligning closely with the university's PhD program, and requires a bachelor's degree for admission. Applicants must submit recommendations, a personal statement, a writing sample, and a resume/CV.
- Interdisciplinary Master's Program
- Accredited Journalism School
- R1 Research Institution
- Bachelor's Degree Required
- Aligned with PhD Program
- Research-Focused Curriculum
- Application Requires Recommendations
- Personal Statement Needed
- Writing Sample Required
- Resume/CV Submission
Master's - Strategic Communication, MS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Designed for mid-career professionals, the University of Oregon's Strategic Communication MS program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in market research, marketing strategies, and campaign planning. Located in Portland, this program emphasizes creativity, leadership, and ethical considerations in professional communication. It's ideal for those looking to advance in public relations, advertising, or corporate communication. The program boasts an award-winning design and addresses contemporary communication issues. Applicants have the option to submit GRE scores and must provide a portfolio as part of the application process.
- Strategic Communication MS
- Mid-career professional focus
- Optional GRE submission
- Portland campus location
- Creativity and leadership skills
- Marketing and ethics curriculum
- Professional communication emphasis
- Award-winning program design
- Contemporary communication issues
- Application requires portfolio
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu
Master's - MA/MS in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon State University's MA/MS in Communication program stands out for its rigorous exploration of symbolic human interaction, blending theoretical and critical perspectives. Designed for those seeking to deepen their understanding of communication, the program offers both MA and MS tracks, allowing students to tailor their studies towards research or applied contexts. With a 45-credit requirement, the curriculum emphasizes advanced research methodologies, ethical scholarly practices, and interdisciplinary approaches. Students can specialize in areas like relational, rhetorical, and media theories, culminating in a thesis or creative project. Situated in Corvallis, the program also provides opportunities for internships, enriching the academic experience with practical exposure.
- Master's degrees: MA and MS
- Located in Corvallis, Oregon
- Total program credits: 45
- Theoretical and research-focused curriculum
- Multiple theory concentration options
- Research methods training
- Thesis or creative work required
- Scholarly ethics emphasis
- Interdisciplinary communication approach
- Elective credits include internships
Portland State University
Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - pdx.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Portland State University's Master of Science in Communication stands out for its comprehensive approach to preparing students for the evolving communication landscape. Situated in the heart of downtown Portland, the program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application across media, technology, and strategic communication fields. With opportunities like Graduate Teaching Assistantships, students gain both financial support and hands-on experience. The curriculum is designed to foster research proficiency and community involvement, equipping graduates to excel in diverse professional environments. Notably, the program features rolling admissions and an accelerated 4+1 option for motivated undergraduates.
- Master of Science in Communication
- Downtown Portland campus location
- Graduate Teaching Assistantships available
- 4+1 Accelerated graduate program
- Rolling admissions process
- Diverse communication focus areas
- Faculty experts in multiple domains
2025 Affordable Oregon Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable Master's in Communication programs in Oregon is key for students planning their 2025 education. The right program balances quality with low-cost options, making higher education more accessible. Oregon offers a variety of economical choices, ensuring students don't have to compromise on their goals due to high tuition. This table highlights options across the state, from Portland to smaller regions, providing a clear view of what's available. It's a practical tool for comparing cost-effective programs, helping students make informed decisions about their future in communication.
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Keep reading for details on each of the master's in communication programs available in Oregon.
PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Portland State University offers a Master of Science in Communication degree in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program is a 46-credit hour program that offers two tracks: a research track which culminates in a thesis and is designed for students interested in Ph.D. programs in communication, and a professional track which culminates in an exam and final project and is designed for students interested in professional careers in communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $12,993 for three academic terms (fall, winter and spring) for Oregon residents, and $18,825 for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Portland State University offers courses in 10-week quarters in fall, winter, spring and summer. The M.S. in Communication program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
UNIVERSITY OF OREGON
University of Oregon offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program on its Portland campus.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program is designed for professionals working in public relations, advertising, marketing and corporate communication and courses are offered evenings and weekends. Most students complete the program in two academic years of six 10-week terms.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition as of fall 2018 is approximately $35,460 for Oregon residents and $52,308 for non-residents and international students.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is November 15 for enrollment the following fall. The second round application deadline is February 15, and the third round application deadline is April 15.
UNIVERSITY OF PORTLAND
The University of Portland offers a Master of Arts in Communication program and a Master of Science in Management Communication, both in on-campus formats.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program prepares students for professional communication careers as well as doctoral study, and offers students the choice of these concentrations: journalism, organizational communication and rhetorical studies. The Master of Science in Management Communication is offered in conjunction with the Dr. Robert B. Pamplin, Jr. School of Business and focuses on the role of communication in organizing and developing personnel in organizations.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the graduate communication programs is $1,273 per credit hour for the 2018-2019 academic year.
Anything Else?: Applications for both programs are reviewed on a rolling basis, until the following deadlines: July 19 for the fall semester, December 7 for the spring semester and April 12 for the summer semester.
Oregon 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