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 possible 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 with Strategic Communication concentration offers a pioneering approach to professional communication education. This innovative program empowers students to master complex communication strategies across generational landscapes. By integrating digital media studies with strategic communication principles, students develop advanced skills in crafting targeted messaging, understanding audience dynamics, and leveraging multimedia platforms. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications, enabling graduates to become versatile communication professionals who can navigate rapidly evolving media environments and organizational communication challenges.
- 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
Old Dominion University's Master's in Lifespan & Digital Communication with Media Studies concentration provides a comprehensive exploration of contemporary communication technologies and methodologies. Students delve into advanced media analysis, digital content creation, and strategic communication frameworks. The program equips professionals with critical skills to interpret, design, and optimize media strategies across diverse platforms. By examining media's societal impact and technological innovations, graduates develop a nuanced understanding of communication dynamics, preparing them for leadership roles in digital media, strategic communication, and content development.
- 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
Old Dominion University's Master's in Lifespan & Digital Communication with Relationships, Health, and Wellness concentration offers a groundbreaking approach to understanding communication's role in personal and professional wellness. Students explore intricate communication strategies that promote health literacy, interpersonal relationships, and holistic well-being. The program combines rigorous academic research with practical interventions, enabling graduates to develop communication approaches that enhance individual and community health outcomes. Participants gain skills in crafting meaningful messages, understanding generational communication patterns, and implementing evidence-based communication strategies.
- 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's Environmental Communication concentration provides advanced training in communication strategies and advocacy techniques focused on ecological challenges. Students develop specialized skills in analyzing environmental communication theories, crafting persuasive messaging around sustainability issues, and conducting targeted research methods. The program uniquely prepares professionals to communicate complex environmental narratives across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, integrating theoretical foundations with practical advocacy approaches.
- 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's Health Communication concentration within the Communication and Advocacy master's program offers comprehensive training in strategic communication approaches for healthcare environments. Students acquire advanced skills in designing health messaging, analyzing communication effectiveness, and developing targeted interventions for diverse population groups. The curriculum emphasizes research methodologies, interpersonal communication dynamics, and evidence-based communication strategies essential for addressing contemporary healthcare communication 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 Strategic Communication concentration delivers advanced professional development in organizational communication dynamics. Students learn sophisticated techniques for internal and external communication management, brand positioning, crisis communication strategies, and digital media engagement. The program combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, equipping graduates with comprehensive skills to navigate complex communication landscapes in corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors.
- 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 offers a robust curriculum designed to enhance communication skills in various professional settings, from business to ministry. Rooted in a Christian perspective, the program emphasizes advanced theoretical knowledge, practical research, and professional application, preparing students for leadership and further academic pursuits. With options for both online and on-campus study, it caters to diverse student needs, offering flexibility without compromising on the depth of education or the integration of faith-based values into communication practices.
- 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
Liberty University's online Master of Arts in Communication is tailored for professionals seeking to advance their careers in the digital age. This program focuses on strategic communication, digital storytelling, and intercultural competencies, all delivered through a flexible online format. Ideal for those balancing work and study, it offers accelerated 8-week courses with no entrance exams, making advanced education accessible. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for success in fields like public relations, corporate communications, and advertising, all while incorporating Christian ethical standards into modern communication strategies.
- 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 offers a Master of Science in Strategic Communication, tailored for professionals aiming to excel in dynamic communication fields. This hybrid program blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills in areas like public relations and social media strategy, catering to the evolving demands of the industry. With a flexible two-year schedule, it accommodates working professionals through various delivery formats. The program stands out for its personalized approach, evidenced by a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, and boasts a 72% job placement rate, preparing graduates for lucrative careers. Options include a thesis or comprehensive exam, alongside access to cutting-edge SMART lab research.
- 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
Virginia Commonwealth University's Master of Science in Mass Communications, with a concentration in Media Leadership, is tailored for professionals aiming to elevate their careers in the dynamic field of media. This online program stands out for its flexibility, offering both fast-track and part-time study options, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 14 months. Notably, the program does not require GRE scores, broadening access for diverse applicants. The Media Leadership concentration emphasizes strategic management and leadership skills, preparing graduates for high-level roles in media organizations. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program offers flexible scheduling to balance academic and professional commitments effectively.
- 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.
2025 Affordable Virginia Masters in Communication Degree Options
Finding affordable Virginia Masters in Communication Degree Options is key for students in 2025. The table lists schools in VA with Master's programs, focusing on tuition range. Affordable and low-cost options help students manage expenses while pursuing higher education. This guide makes it easier to compare choices without overspending.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Regent University |
|
|
| Liberty University |
|
|
| Radford University |
|
|
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
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