Master’s in Communication in Virginia
Virginia offers a variety of master's in communication programs across the state, including traditional on-campus programs and online programs that allow students to learn whenever fits their schedule. Students can also choose from a myriad of areas of study to prepare themselves for careers in politics, strategic communication, public relations, digital media journalism, and more.
Due to Northern Virginia's proximity to Washington D.C., the U.S. government and its various agencies provide communications graduates in Virginia with many potential employment opportunities. Other major employers in Virginia include Capital One, Deloitte Consulting, Verizon, and Padilla Public Relations. A few potential career titles for graduates of a master's in communications programs include media strategist, political consultant, speechwriter, journalist, editor, publicist, and marketing director, among many others.
2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Virginia
Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Virginia? 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 you to make an informed choice. Check out our ranking methodology to see how we pick the best.
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - odu.edu
Master's - Lifespan & Digital Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's Master's in Lifespan & Digital Communication is a cutting-edge graduate program designed for communication professionals seeking advanced skills in generational and digital communication strategies. This unique program combines relational communication and digital media studies, preparing students to tackle complex communication challenges across diverse age groups. Graduates develop critical skills in strategic communication, media studies, and relationships, health, and wellness. The flexible program offers both on-campus and online options, making it accessible for working professionals and career changers seeking innovative communication expertise.
- Unique U.S. Lifespan Communication focus
- Online and on-campus options
- Three focus area options
- Strategic communication skills
- Digital media and relationships studies
- Award-winning faculty
- Global communication perspective
Master's - Lifespan & Digital Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Discover Old Dominion University's groundbreaking Master's in Lifespan & Digital Communication, a unique program that equips professionals to innovate and solve 21st-century communication challenges. Designed for aspiring communication experts, this comprehensive graduate degree blends relational communication and digital media studies, offering flexible online and on-campus learning. Students explore strategic communication, media studies, and relationships across generational domains, gaining critical skills to improve communication quality, media effectiveness, and societal inclusiveness.
- On-campus and online options
- Unique lifespan communication focus
- Strategic communication specializations
- Award-winning faculty
- Three focus area options
- Media studies concentration
- Relationships, health, wellness track
Master's - Lifespan & Digital Communication
Concentration: Relationships, Health, and Wellness - Online Learning - Visit Website
Embark on a cutting-edge Master's journey in Lifespan & Digital Communication at Old Dominion University. This unique program blends relational communication and digital media studies, preparing professionals to tackle 21st-century communication challenges. Students gain critical skills in communication development across generations, learning innovative research methods and strategies to improve communication quality in personal, social, and professional contexts. The flexible program offers both on-campus and online options, accommodating diverse student needs.
- Unique Lifespan Communication focus
- Online and on-campus options
- Three focus area choices
- Award-winning faculty
- Strategic communication pathway
- Media studies concentration
- Relationships, health, wellness track
- Innovative communication research
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA - Public 4-Year - jmu.edu
Master's - Communication and Advocacy
Concentration: Environmental Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University's Master's in Communication and Advocacy program equips students with advanced skills in advocacy studies, theory, applied contexts, and communication research methods. Tailored for those aiming to excel in various advocacy areas, the program offers concentrations in Environmental Communication, Health Communication, and Strategic Communication. Through a blend of core and elective courses, students gain specialized competencies, preparing them for impactful careers in their chosen fields. The program fosters a deep understanding of communication strategies, enabling graduates to advocate effectively across diverse sectors. With a focus on practical application and theoretical knowledge, students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of today's dynamic communication landscape.
- Three concentration options
- Focus on advocacy studies
- Includes communication research methods
- Prepares for diverse advocacy careers
- Core and elective courses available
- Environmental Communication concentration
- Health Communication concentration
- Strategic Communication concentration
- Develops specialized competencies
- Practical and theoretical focus
- Prepares for dynamic communication roles
- Enhances communication strategy skills
- Supports impactful advocacy practices
- Tailored for specific advocacy areas
- Equips for effective sector advocacy
Master's - Communication and Advocacy
Concentration: Health Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University offers a compelling Master's in Communication and Advocacy with three dynamic concentrations. This program empowers students to develop advanced communication strategies across diverse professional landscapes. Graduates gain rigorous research skills and practical advocacy techniques, preparing them for leadership roles in environmental, health, and strategic communication sectors. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with applied learning, equipping students with versatile communication competencies for complex professional challenges.
- Three concentration options
- Advocacy studies focus
- Communication research methods
- Applied communication practices
- Develops specialized competencies
Master's - Communication and Advocacy
Concentration: Strategic Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University's Master's in Communication and Advocacy equips students with advanced communication skills across multiple professional domains. The comprehensive program offers three unique concentrations: Environmental, Health, and Strategic Communication. Students develop robust research methods and advocacy practices, preparing them for diverse career paths. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, theoretical foundations, and specialized knowledge that empowers graduates to excel in communication-driven professional environments.
- Three distinct concentration options
- Advocacy studies core focus
- Communication research methods
- Practical applied contexts
- Develop specialized communication competencies
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Liberty University's Master of Arts in Communication equips professionals with advanced communication skills across diverse contexts, including interpersonal, ministry, business, and educational settings. This comprehensive program develops critical communication expertise through a Christian worldview, preparing graduates for leadership roles in communication fields. Students engage in rigorous theoretical analysis, research methods, and professional practices, positioning themselves for career advancement and potential doctoral studies.
- Online and residential formats
- Christian worldview integration
- Transfer up to 15 credits
- 2.5 undergraduate GPA required
- Research and scholarship focused
- Career paths in communications
- Graduate-level communication theory
- Interprofessional communication skills
- Scholarly writing emphasis
- International student options
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Unlock your communication potential with Liberty University's dynamic Master's in Communication. This fully online program equips professionals to excel in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Students dive deep into strategic communication theories, learn cutting-edge storytelling techniques, and develop skills in intercultural and digital communication. Designed for working professionals, the flexible 8-week courses allow you to balance career, family, and advanced education. With affordable tuition and no standardized testing for admission, this program prepares you for leadership roles in advertising, public relations, corporate communications, and beyond.
- 100% online master's degree
- 33 total credit hours
- 8-week course format
- No standardized testing
- Transfer up to 50% credits
- Graduate tuition $565/credit
- Military graduate rate $275/credit
- Minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA
- Multiple communication career paths
- Christian faith integration
Radford University
Radford, VA - Public 4-Year - radford.edu
Master's - Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Radford University's Master of Science in Strategic Communication prepares professionals for versatile communication roles across diverse industries. The comprehensive program equips students with advanced communication tactics, including public relations, organizational communication, and social media analysis. Designed for working professionals, the flexible two-year curriculum offers multiple delivery formats and locations. Students develop expertise in communication strategies that drive organizational goals, positioning themselves for high-demand careers with competitive salaries ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually.
- Master of Science Degree
- Multiple campus locations
- No GRE required
- 2.75 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Thesis or comprehensive exam option
- In-person, online, hybrid formats
- 6:1 student-teacher ratio
- 72% job placement rate
- Cohort program available
- SMART lab research opportunities
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA - Public 4-Year - vcu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Mass Communications
Concentration: Media Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University offers a fully online program designed for career advancement. With options for fast-track or part-time study, students can graduate in as little as 14 months. The program does not require GRE scores, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. Concentrations include Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, focusing on strategic management and leadership skills. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to update their skills, change careers, or achieve personal goals. Flexible course schedules cater to working professionals, ensuring a balance between education and career.
- Fully online program.
- No GRE required.
- Graduate in 14 months.
- Flexible part-time option.
- Integrated Communication concentration.
- Media Leadership concentration.
- Designed for working professionals.
- Strategic management focus.
- Leadership skills development.
- Accessible to wide range of applicants.
Read on for more details about each master's in communications program available in Virginia:
George Mason University
Located near Washington D.C. in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in a traditional classroom format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program offers four distinct areas of study: Strategic Communication/Public Relations, Health Communication, Science Communication and Individualized Communication Studies.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for in-state residents at George Mason University's College of Humanities & Social Sciences is $595 per credit and $1,416 per credit for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The deadline to apply for the fall semester is March 1.
James Madison University
James Madison University in Harrisonburg offers a Master of Arts in Communication and Advocacy program that prepares students for careers in academia as well as in interpersonal and organizational advocacy.
What to Know: The program is a 36-credit hour program that includes 18 hours of core coursework, nine hours of concentrated study in advocacy topics including environmental, health and strategic communication, and nine hours dedicated to a major project or elective coursework.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for Virginia residents is $473 per credit hour, and tuition for non-residents is $1,231 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications for admission are reviewed beginning February 15. Applications will then be reviewed on a rolling basis until May 15 or until all available seats in the program are filled.
Liberty University
Liberty University in Lynchburg offers two options for Master of Arts in Communication degrees: one in strategic communications and the other in general communication. Both programs are offered in online or on-campus formats.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program focuses on small group communication, listening and nonverbal communication, interpersonal communication, leadership and strategies of persuasion. The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program provides hands-on experience and real client interactions to help students prepare for careers in public relations, marketing, advertising, web strategies, and social media.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for the on-campus Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Master of Arts in Communication programs are $545 per credit hour. For the online programs, part-time tuition is $615 per credit hour and $565 per credit hour for full-time students.
Anything Else?: Both programs require 36-credit hours of study, as well as a thesis or capstone project.
Radford University
Radford University offers a Master of Science in Strategic Communication program, which takes a broad approach that allows students to learn multiple communication tactics.
What to Know: Students can take specialized classes in areas such as video production, social media, and analytics, public relations, political communication, training and development, interactive media and more.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for Virginia residents taking 12 or more credits per semester are $5,778 per semester and $10,264 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The 36-credit hour program allows full-time students to complete the program in two years while working professionals can take one to three courses per semester while continuing their career.
Regent University
Regent University, a private Christian University in Virginia Beach, offers three Master of Arts in Communications programs that can be taken online, on campus or a hybrid of both online and in-person classes.
What to Know: Students can choose from Master of Arts in Communication - Media & Arts Management & Production, Master of Arts in Communication - Strategic Communication or Master of Arts in Communication - Political Communication
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition cost for Master of Arts programs the Regent University School of Communication & the Arts is $650 per credit hour for a total program cost of $21,450, which does not include fees, course materials or books.
Anything Else?: All three degree options are 33-credit hour programs that are offered as fully online programs meant to suit the schedules of students working full- or part-time, or as online/on-campus hybrid programs with time spent on the Virginia Beach campus.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond offers a Master of Science in program as well as a Master of Science in Mass Communication - Integrated Communications program.
What to Know: The Strategic Public Relations program is a fast-track, one year program, with weekend courses taken as a cohort over four semesters. The Multimedia Journalism program is taken three courses each semester over two years, with two courses taken in the evening and one course taken online.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for Virginia residents taking a full-time course load are approximately $6,806 per semester, and graduate tuition and fees for non-residents is $13,147 per semester.
Anything Else?: The application deadlines for both the Strategic Public Relations and Multimedia Journalism programs are January 15 and March 15. The Multimedia Journalism program requires an academic degree in journalism or at least two years of professional journalism experience.
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences offers a Master of Arts in Communication program at their Blacksburg campus.
What to Know: The 33-credit hour program offers advanced study in strategic communication and society, media and technology research.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for Virginia residents is $718.50 per credit hour, and graduate tuition for non-residents is $1,448.25 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The priority deadline for application is January 19 for consideration for financial aid.
Norfolk Master’s in Communication Programs
Norfolk State University
Norfolk State University offers a Master of Arts in Media and Communication degree as a traditional on-campus program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Media and Communication offers students three sequences to choose from: interpersonal communication, mass communications, and journalism.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for Virginia residents taking 12 or more credits per semester are $5,778 per semester and $11,856 for non-residents.
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University in Norfolk offers a Master of Arts in Lifespan & Digital Communication program, which combines the study of relational communication and digital media studies as it develops over the human lifespan.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Lifespan and Digital Communication aims to prepare students for careers in the areas of applied research and policy, community networking and outreach, education and training and health and wellness.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for Virginia residents taking 9 credits per semester is $4,614 per semester and $11,391 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The program requires 36-credit hours of study, generally taken over two years.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Virginia
Liberty University
Liberty offers three online master’s in communications programs. See more about their program offerings here.
Regent University
Regent offers four online master’s in communications programs and specialties. See more about their program offerings here.
Virginia Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
George Mason University Programs
| 4400 University Drive, 3D6 Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 993-1090 |
James Madison University Programs | 54 Bluestone Drive Harrisonburg, VA 22807 (540) 568-3386 |
Liberty University | 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 (800) 424-9595 |
Norfolk State University Programs | 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, VA 23504 (757) 823-8330 |
Old Dominion University Programs | 5115 Hampton Boulevard Norfolk, VA 23529 (757) 368-4114 |
Radford University Programs
| PO Box 6932 Radford, VA 24142 (540) 831-6553 |
Regent University Programs
| 1000 Regent University Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (800) 373-5504 |
Virginia Commonwealth University | 901 West Main Street, Room 2216 Richmond, VA 23284 (804) 828-2660 |
Virginia Tech Programs | 181 Turner Street, NW Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-7136 |