Master’s in Communication in South Carolina

South Carolina offers two schools with master's-level communication degrees. The College of Charleston and the University of South Carolina provide on-campus master's programs. The College of Charleston offers a program with evening classes that prepares students for professional communication careers and careers in teaching or academia. The University of South Carolina offers an accelerated bachelor's/master's program, a professionally-focused mass media program and a joint master's in media and law degree program. Upon graduation, students may seek employment at a local media outlet, advertising or public relations agency, government entity, or non-profit organization across the state. Significant industries in South Carolina that may provide employment opportunities include aerospace, automotive, agribusiness, life sciences and healthcare, as well as education and technology.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in South Carolina

Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in South Carolina? 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 student support. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or corporate communication, our rankings can guide your decision. Check out our ranking methodology to see how we choose the best programs.

#1

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC - Public 4-Year - cofc.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Online Learning - Visit Website

The College of Charleston offers a Master of Arts in Communication program that stands out for its comprehensive approach to preparing students for the dynamic field of communication. This online program emphasizes advanced writing, research, and media skills, alongside fostering critical thinking and public speaking abilities. Designed by experts, the curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are ready for leadership roles that demand ethical and effective communication. With a focus on diverse team collaboration and media understanding, the program is ideal for those aiming to excel in various professional settings. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a keen interest in communication.

• Advanced writing skills
• Research and analytics focus
• Public speaking development
• Critical thinking enhancement
• Diverse team collaboration
• Media understanding
• Ethical communication emphasis
• Leadership preparation
• Renowned faculty
• Practical training
• Theoretical knowledge
• Bachelor's degree required
• Passion for communication
• Professional path preparation
• Effective messaging skills
• Decoding messages
• Intensive projects
• Applied projects
• Dedicated professors
• Communication fundamentals
• Minor option available
• Upper-level courses
• Design your experience
• Student opportunities
• Scholarships and awards

#2

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC - Private 4-year - bju.edu

Master's - Communication Studies, MA

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bob Jones University offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies designed to enhance professional communication skills across various industries. This program stands out for its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, including a unique communication consulting project. With a focus on research skills development and strategic communication, students can tailor their studies to fit career goals in corporate, academic, or non-profit sectors. The curriculum is enriched by experienced faculty and opportunities for teaching assistantships, all within a framework that integrates a Christian worldview. Admission is interview-based, emphasizing the program's commitment to fostering meaningful professional relationships and competencies.

• Master of Arts in Communication
• Practical communication consulting project
• Research skills development
• Customizable course options
• Career preparation across sectors
• Optional graduate thesis track
• Interview-based admission process
• Professional conference opportunities
• Christian worldview integration
• Quantitative and qualitative research
• Strategic communication focus
• Teaching assistant opportunities
• Experienced doctoral-level faculty

*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

Keep reading for details on the master's in communication programs offered in South Carolina.

COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

The College of Charleston 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 33-credit hour program that offers courses in the evenings and is designed to be completed in 21-24 months of study. The program teaches communication theory, basic and applied research and the critical skills needed for a professional communicator, teacher, or scholar. The program culminates in either a field internship opportunity or a master's thesis.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $569 per credit hour for South Carolina residents and $1,448 per credit hour for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program is designed to be started in the fall semester. The priority application deadline is March 1.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

The University of South Carolina offers three master's in communication programs on their campus in Columbia.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Mass Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that includes a required practicum with a newspaper, magazine, television or radio station, advertising or public relations agency, or government or non-profit entity to gain professional experience prior to graduation. Coursework includes research methods, strategic communication, multimedia journalism and media law. Students have the choice of focusing on either multimedia journalism or strategic communication management. The accelerated Master's in Mass Communication program allow students to complete their bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. The dual Master's in Communication and Law program allows students to earn a master's in communication degree alongside a law degree and finish in four years.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year is $25,993 per year for South Carolina residents taking 6 or more credits per semester, and $33,777 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is May 15 and October 1 for the spring semester.

South Carolina Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs