The discipline of communication is foundational to modern businesses, nonprofits, governments, and organizations. Effective communication professionals know how to analyze situations, think critically, strategize, and develop communication plans for daily operations as well as during times of conflict or crisis. We created the Smart Choice ranking for the Best Online Master’s in Communication Degree Programs to help professionals find the program that fits their short-term needs while propelling them towards their long-term goals.
The Value of an Online Master’s Degree in Communication
A master’s degree in communication is versatile, offering you a variety of career paths and equipping you with skills to handle communication across a variety of mediums as technology advances. A master’s degree in communication equips working professionals to advance their careers into positions of greater leadership and management. By acquiring the degree through an online program, you are able to continue to progress in your career, applying your learning directly to real-world situations. Many times, flexible curriculum in online degree programs allows for specialization so that the degree meets and furthers your professional career goals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that in the current decade, the areas of public relations, technical writing, and advertising, promotions, and marketing management will see above-average growth.
Our Methodology for This Ranking
We only considered online schools that are listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics and regionally accredited for this Smart Choice ranking of the best online master’s communication programs. With this baseline criterion, we evaluated colleges and universities based on reputation, flexibility, affordability, and return on investment.
Be advised that online degree programs are available for both a Master of Arts in Communication and a Master of Science in Communication. Generally, a Master of Arts degree includes an emphasis in the arts and humanities, whereas a Master of Science degree is more technical and science-based. Included in our rankings here are online degree programs within the full spectrum of the communications field: Public Relations, Journalism, Administration in Communication Arts, Publishing, Digital Journalism, Managerial Communication, Strategic Communication, Mass Communication, Technical Communication, Communication Studies, Studio and Digital Arts, Communications Innovation, Contemporary Communication, Integrated Marketing Communications, Technology and Communication, Applied Communication, Strategic Public Relations, Digital Storytelling, Media Communications, Advertising and Marketing Communications, Global Strategic Communications, Social Media, Web Design and Online Communication, Interactive Media, and Corporate and Organizational Communication.
#50. Kent State University’s College of Communication and Information
Kent State University is comprised of the main 866-acre Kent campus, as well as seven regional campuses throughout Northeast Ohio. This public university originated as a teacher-training school in 1910. Now, over 6,000 graduate students attend here, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 21 to 1. Twenty-seven percent of graduate students are enrolled only in distance education. Regional accreditation has been granted by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers a Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication degree program that is fully online. Concentrations are available in Public Relations or Reporting/Editing for Journalism Educators. Through the Public Relations curriculum, working professionals develop skills in critical thinking for organizations, financial literacy, and public relations. Students receive training in social media, management, crisis communications, branding, internal communications, and strategic campaigns. The Reporting/Editing for Journalism Educators curriculum is aimed at educators who want to teach high school journalism, and covers skills and theory in such topics as reporting public affairs, computer-assisted reporting, online journalism, legal problems for mass media, and design for cyber media. The degree requires the completion of 36 semester hours, including common core courses and professional courses for the concentration. Students choose between a professional project or thesis option for their capstone requirement.
#49. University of Denver’s University College
Located on a 125-acre campus a few miles south of downtown Denver, the University of Denver enrolls over 6,100 graduate students. This private, nonprofit university began in 1864, not long after the city of Denver itself was founded. The university enjoys a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1. The University of Denver has secured regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Organizational and Professional Communication Program offers online master’s degrees aimed at mid-career communication professionals who want to improve their skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making as they navigate the challenges of traditional and digital communication methods. Coursework is designed to improve students’ abilities in interpersonal, organizational, and managerial communications. Concentrations are available in: Alternative Dispute Resolution; New Media and Internet Marketing; Organizational Communication; Organizational Development, Training, and Learning; and Public Relations and Marketing. The degree program involves 12 courses totaling 48 credits, delivered in 10-week terms by practitioner faculty from the University of Denver.
#48. Northern Arizona University’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Northern Arizona University’s humble beginnings involved 23 students, one professor, and two copies of Webster’s International Dictionary bound in sheepskin. What began as a small school in 1899 has become a major public university in Flagstaff, Arizona, with nearly 4,400 graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. Regional accreditation is administered through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Communication in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences provides an online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication. Curriculum includes 36 units, with 15 units of core requirements in communication and 21 units in an area of emphasis. Students choose between an emphasis in Communication Studies or Documentary Studies. The program culminates in thesis or project options. Students acquire skills in analysis, problem-solving, critical thinking, research, theoretical application, and written communication. Students develop independent research projects with faculty mentors as guides, toward a degree that is personally designed to meet professional goals.
#47. Ball State University’s College of Communication, Information, and Media
In 1899, a group of business leaders in Muncie, Indiana, envisioned and opened a small school to help boost development. Among these leaders was Frank C. Ball, who remained involved and became a major philanthropic donor. In 1965, the institution was named Ball State University. Located one hour northeast of Indianapolis, this public university enrolls over 4,200 graduate students, 57% of whom participate solely through distance education. Ball State University has obtained regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Communication, Information, and Media has created the first and only graduate program in public relations certified by the Public Relations Society of America. Students acquire skills in strategic communications, planning, and management as they pursue their Master of Arts in Public Relations in this fully online program. Asynchronous online courses are taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses. Through the accelerated format, students can earn their degree in as little as 18 months. The program requires the completion of 30 credit hours, as well as a three-hour capstone project or a six-hour thesis. Specializations involving 12 credit hours are available in subject areas such as business, communication studies, public affairs, and sports communication.
#46. University of Memphis’ College of Communication and Fine Arts
The University of Memphis traces its roots to a normal school founded in 1912. This public university with a 1,607-acre campus is located in a quiet, residential neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee. Nearly 4,000 graduate students attend here, and 22% of them attend class solely through distance means. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Communication and Fine Arts has developed an online graduate degree program for a Master of Arts in Journalism. The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. Uniquely, courses are conducted in real time using conferencing software. The degree requires 30-36 semester hours, depending upon which of three options students choose: 1) a 30-hour program with eight courses and a thesis, 2) a 33-hour program with 10 courses and a professional project, or 3) a 36-hour program with twelve courses including a specialty study and culminating experience. Tuition costs $461 per credit hour.
#45. H-E-B School of Business & Administration at University of the Incarnate Word
In 1869, three young French women came to San Antonio, Texas, to minister to the sick during the cholera epidemic. The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word went on to establish orphan homes and schools for children, which eventually transformed into the University of the Incarnate Word. Today, this private, nonprofit institution continues in a spirit of Christian service. More than 2,200 graduate students attend here and enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1. The University of the Incarnate Word has earned regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Through UIW Online, students have access to a fully online degree program for a Master of Arts in Administration in Communication Arts. The program prepares students to become successful administrators holding management positions in the communication arts industry, including television, radio, print media, and public relations. Students learn to analyze issues and communicate ethical courses of action during this 39-hour degree program. Curriculum includes 18 hours of core coursework in administration and management topics, 15 hours of concentration coursework in communication and media topics, 3 hours of elective coursework in any graduate level communication arts class, and 3 hours of a capstone course. Terms last eight weeks. Tuition costs $850 per credit hour.
#44. University of Missouri’s School of Journalism
Founded in 1839, the University of Missouri was the first public university west of the Mississippi River. The institution is centrally located in the city of Columbia, and serves a graduate student population of over 7,700. Nearly one-quarter of graduate students attend the university solely through distance education. The student-to-faculty ratio is 20 to 1. Regional accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Journalism offers an online degree program for a Master of Arts in Journalism with emphasis areas in Health Communication, Interactive Media, Strategic Communication, and Media Management. Health Communication prepares students for roles in the health care industry. Interactive Media equips students for communication roles using digital media. Strategic Management is aimed at professionals in advertising, marketing, and public relations, to improve their decision-making and ability to create strategies that meet organizational goals. Media Management enables students with successful careers in the communications field to move into management positions. Courses in the online environment are as rigorous as on-campus classes. Faculty members are successful teachers and researchers as well as practitioners in the field. This 37-hour degree program requires one on-campus seminar that takes place over a weekend in the fall. Students who average two courses per semester generally complete their degree in three years.
#43. University of Houston-Victoria’s School of Arts and Sciences
The University of Houston System is comprised of four public universities and four off-campus centers. The city of Victoria, Texas, about two hours southwest of Houston, proudly hosts University of Houston-Victoria. Just under 1,400 graduate students attend here, and well over half of them participate through distance education only. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. Regional accreditation has been granted by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Students can earn a Master of Science in Publishing degree completely online from the University of Houston-Victoria’s School of Arts and Sciences. This 39-credit degree program is comprised of three parts: 1) eight core courses, 2) a concentration in Communication, English, or History, and 3) a virtual internship with a publisher. Students learn multiple facets of the publishing industry through core coursework in topics such as publication design, contracts, style and editing, digital publishing, management, strategic marketing, and business. Graduates enter the field with a practical, intellectual foundation in the history of publishing as well as the necessary skills to compete.
#42. National University’s School of Professional Studies
National University was founded in 1971 and became the flagship institution of the National University System when it was established in 2001. The administrative offices are located in the seaside city of La Jolla, California. National University boasts five schools and one college, a graduate enrollment of over 7,800, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 20 to 1. Notably, 69% of graduate students are enrolled solely through distance education. National University has secured regional accreditation through the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The School of Professional Studies has created an entirely online degree program for a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism. During this 13-month program, students learn theoretical and practical approaches to the fast-paced, often-changing nature of modern news. The degree is designed to equip new media professionals to use emerging technologies to create news in a competitive, global information market. The program involves 14 courses, which includes a program prerequisite and 13 core courses. Near the end of the program, students are matched with a mentor in the field, and graduate with an electronic portfolio of their work to boost their opportunities for employment. Applicants must possess a bachelor of arts degree and prove basic competency in digital and writing skills.
#41. Dyson College of Arts and Sciences at Pace University
In 1906, the Pace brothers opened the schools of accountancy and business with just 13 students. Located in the city of New York, their small school has now become Pace University, a private, nonprofit institution with a graduate student enrollment of over 4,100. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1. Regional accreditation is administered through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The Dyson College of Arts and Sciences offers a Master of Science in Publishing degree that may be completed entirely online in as little as two years. The degree prepares students for successful careers by providing a foundation in the business of publishing, digital media, and editorial and marketing skills. Students gain the necessary tools to be experts in content creation and editing, and understand industry strategies for adapting as technology evolves. The 36-credit degree program includes six core courses in publishing, four elective courses in publishing and/or business, and either two research seminars or an internship sequence. All students are required to write a thesis.
#40. Bellevue University’s College of Arts and Sciences
With vision and determination, the Chamber of Commerce in Bellevue, Nebraska, founded Bellevue University in 1966. This private, nonprofit institution hosts a main campus in Bellevue as well as 14 additional campuses spread across four states. Nearly 3,600 graduate students attend here and there are 32 students to every faculty member. Notably, 82% of graduate students attend only through distance education. Bellevue University has obtained regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Students at the College of Arts and Sciences may earn a 36-credit Master of Arts in Managerial Communication degree through a flexible, online program. Curriculum is designed to equip students to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze communication challenges and develop innovative solutions. This degree includes 24 credits in core communication courses with an emphasis on leadership skills, and 12-credit concentrations in Executive Coaching, Business, Computer Information Systems, Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Transnational and Cross-cultural Communication. Tuition costs $525 per credit hour.
#39. Concordia University, St. Paul’s College of Arts and Letters
Concordia University, St. Paul began in 1893 under the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and is now part of the ten-member Concordia University System. This private, nonprofit institution enrolls over 1,600 graduate students, 73% of whom attend classes solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Concordia University states that its fully online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication degree program is “designed to help students create solutions to communication challenges using strategic thinking and logical analysis.” This 36-credit-hour program contains courses that last seven weeks. Required courses include topics in project management, media strategies, conflict management, crisis communication, innovative communication, intercultural communication, persuasive communication, and corporate responsibility. Tuition costs $475 per credit hour.
#38. Walden University’s College of Management and Technology
Walden University is a private, for-profit institution founded by two teachers in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1970. The university was established with the intent to be student-centered, seek positive social change, and be accessible to working professionals. Over 43,000 graduate students attend this distance-only university where the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. Walden University has earned regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Management and Technology offers a Master of Science in Communication online degree program intended to prepare students to successfully navigate the constantly-evolving field of communications, creating messages that effectively reach audiences through a variety of media. This 21-month program offers a unique opportunity to initially earn a Graduate Certificate in Communication after the first four courses. Curriculum includes 27 semester credits of core coursework and three semester credits of a capstone course. Courses include Communication Theory and Practice, Persuasive Storytelling, and Communication Using Social and Digital Media. Tuition costs $725 per semester hour.
#37. Lasell College’s Department of Communication
The 50-acre campus of Lasell College is located in Newton, Massachusetts, along a high-tech corridor just eight miles from downtown Boston. Founded in 1851, this private, nonprofit academic institution enjoys a low student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. Over 300 graduate students attend here, and over half of them enjoy their classes solely through distance means. Regional accreditation is provided by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: Through the Department of Communication, students have the opportunity to earn a Master of Science in Communication with a specialized concentration in Health Communication, Integrated Marketing Communication, or Public Relations. This fully online 36-credit degree program is taught by practitioner faculty and includes 21 credits in core communication curriculum. The degree offers a foundation in comprehensive industry knowledge and skills, coupled with concentrations that are formatted for students’ professional interests. The program culminates in a capstone research or internship project, thesis, or exam. Tuition costs $595 per credit.
#36. Montana State University Billings’ College of Arts and Sciences
Billings, the largest city in Montana, is home to the state’s urban university on 98 acres under the famous Rimrocks. Montana State University Billings is a public academic institution that began as a normal school to train teachers in 1927. Just over 400 graduate students call this university home, and more than half of them participate solely through online means. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. Montana State University Billings has secured regional accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Details: An online degree program for a Master of Science in Public Relations is available through the Department of Communication and Theatre. This degree equips students to facilitate and negotiate communication between individuals, groups, and organizations. Students may choose from four plans of study: Public Relations Theory, Health Communication, Public Communication, or Media and Society Communication. The degree requires the completion of at least 30 credits. Applicants from a variety of backgrounds in public relations are welcome to apply. However, the number of students admitted each year is usually limited, so applications are vetted through a rating system. Full-time students usually complete the program in three or four semesters. Tuition varies depending on the number of credits taken.
#35. East Carolina University’s College of Fine Arts and Communication
East Carolina University is a member of the public University of North Carolina System and is the third largest university in the state. It opened its doors as a teacher training school in 1909. Situated in Greenville, North Carolina, just 85 miles east of Raleigh, the university enrolls over 5,000 graduate students and reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 18 to 1. Regional accreditation is administered through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Communication offers an online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication with an emphasis on health communication. The two required core courses are Communication Theory and Research Methods. From there, students select 12 semester hours of electives from courses such as Media and Health Communication, Interpersonal Health Communication, Communication in Health Organizations, and more. Students gain understanding in topics such as computer-mediated communication, doctor-patient interactions, and health advertising. This 30-semester-hour degree may be completed with a thesis or non-thesis option and prepares students to enter the health care industry, nonprofit sector, or doctoral degree programs.
#34. Austin Peay State University’s College of Arts and Letters
Clarksville, Tennessee, is home to the urban campus of Austin Peay State University. This public institution began by Act of the General Assembly of 1927 and was named in honor of Governor Austin Peay. Over 850 graduate students attend here. There are 18 students to every faculty member. Austin Peay State University has obtained regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Department of Communication has developed an online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication Arts with concentrations in Corporate Communication or Media Management. The 34-hour degree includes required core courses, a research component, and elective courses. Students pursuing the Corporate Communication concentration will solidify their professional skills in corporate marketing communication (advertising, broadcast media, public relations, social media, etc.). The Media Management concentration equips students for executive management in broadcast and cable franchise industries.
#33. South Dakota State University’s College of Arts and Sciences
South Dakota State University was founded in 1881 as an agricultural college and eventually became a university in 1964. Over 1,600 graduate students now call this public university home in the small city of Brookings, South Dakota. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Master of Mass Communication online degree program through the College of Arts and Sciences is designed with skills-based courses that build on theoretical foundations. Mid-career professionals in journalism, advertising, and public relations will improve their marketable skills and be equipped to compete in the ever-changing world of communications. This degree includes a total of 32 or 36 credits, determined by the number of elective courses a student chooses to pursue. Core requirements include classes such as Cross-Platform Storytelling, Media Law Case Studies, and Cross-Platform Campaigns. Class size in online courses at South Dakota State University average 15 students. Tuition costs $431.25 per credit hour.
#32. Quincy University
Quincy University is a Catholic, Franciscan liberal arts university in the river city of Quincy, Illinois, also known as Gem City. This private, nonprofit institution was founded by Franciscan Friars in 1860. Nearly 200 graduate students attend here, and over 50 of them are enrolled solely in distance education. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1. Quincy University has earned regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Students at Quincy University may earn a Master of Arts in Communication degree through a fully online program that began in June 2013. Though online, this degree program strives to follow the Catholic Franciscan tradition of positive, open contact between faculty and students. Curriculum is designed to expand student knowledge and ability to communicate in a fast-paced business environment, applying classic theory to new media concepts. Ten courses are delivered over five semesters. The program is aimed at students with an undergraduate degree in communications as well as professionals from a variety of career fields.
#31. Minnesota State University, Mankato’s College of Arts and Humanities
Located in Mankato, Minnesota, about 85 miles southwest of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota State University, Mankato enrolls nearly 2,000 graduate students. This public university began in 1868 as a normal school serving 27 students. Today, the student-to-faculty ratio is 23 to 1 and regional accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Arts and Humanities offers two online degree programs related to the field of communications. Students may pursue a Master of Science in Communication Studies or a Master of Arts in Technical Communication. The Master of Science in Communication Studies degree program requires the completion of 36 credits, including nine core credits in Communication Theory, Communication Research Methods, and Communication Pedagogy. A remaining 12-15 credits may be chosen from within the department, and six credits outside of the department. A capstone internship finalizes student learning.
The Master of Arts in Technical Communication online degree program is for students seeking to become information developers, technical or professional writers, and editors. Core curriculum includes skill-based coursework such as manuals writing, web design, and technical editing, and theory-based coursework such as technical and scientific literature and rhetorical theory courses. Students who work full-time generally complete the degree in two years.
#30. Liberty University’s School of Communication and Creative Arts
Jerry Falwell, an evangelical Southern Baptist pastor, founded Liberty University in 1971 as a Christian, liberal arts institution in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University is now the fifth largest university in the United States, and the largest Christian university in the world. Ninety-six percent of the university’s 31,000 graduate students attend solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. Liberty University has secured regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Communication and Creative Arts offers three online degree programs in the field of communications. The Master of Arts in Communication is a 36-hour program designed to survey communication theory and apply methods of communication in a variety of roles. This program culminates in an exam, thesis, or project. The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication is a 36-hour program emphasizing the principles and practices needed to succeed in growing organizations in the digital communication age. This program ends with a thesis or project. The Master of Fine Arts in Studio and Digital Arts is a 60-hour program that gives students the practical skills needed to thrive in the worlds of studio art or graphic design. This degree culminates in a thesis/portfolio research and project. All three degree programs follow an eight-week class format and cost $540 per credit hour for full-time students.
#29. Roy H. Park School of Communications at Ithaca College
Ithaca College traces its roots to the modest Ithaca Conservatory of Music that began in 1892. Located in Ithaca, New York, in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca College boasts both natural beauty and urban flair. This private, nonprofit college enrolls just over 450 graduate students who enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1. Regional accreditation is administered through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The Roy H. Park School of Communications offers a highly collaborative 24-month executive-style online degree program for a Master of Science in Communications Innovation. This 32-credit program is aimed at accomplished communication professionals seeking a future of even greater success and innovation. Curriculum provides a foundation in media economics, systems modeling, human perception, storytelling, consumer behavior, research methods, product/interface design, global leadership, and relevant legal and ethical issues. No more than 10 students are accepted into this highly selective program each year. While most of the coursework is delivered online, the curriculum also includes five long-weekend travel trips called Destination Intensives. These intensives involve face-time and on-site learning at top companies worldwide. (Past intensives included Disney Imagineers, Facebook, ABC News, and more.) A final Research and Development Project demonstrates student learning and provides a valuable product upon graduation.
#28. California Baptist University
California Baptist University is seated in Riverside, California, near the Santa Ana River and a short drive from sunny Pacific Ocean beaches. Founded in 1950 by the California Southern Baptist Convention, this private, nonprofit university is home to over 1,500 graduate students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. California Baptist University has obtained regional accreditation through the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The Master of Arts in Communication online degree program requires 30 major units and takes 12 months on average to complete. Christian faculty challenge students to incorporate biblical thought into modern day communication theories. Students learn to think critically and develop professional skills and strategies for strategic communication in businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. Designed for the working professional, the program equips students for a wide variety of career opportunities and advancements. Tuition costs $544 per unit.
#27. American University’s School of Communication
The United States Congress chartered American University in 1893 and the doors officially opened in 1914. This Methodist-affiliated private, nonprofit institution enrolls students from all 50 states and 137 countries. Over 5,300 graduate students attend here. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The School of Communication uses an engaging online learning platform to deliver a degree program for a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication. This program equips students to think creatively and analytically to develop successful communication campaigns in a noisy world where every organization is vying for attention. Student learning is grounded in theory and applied to the real-world media landscape. This program consists of 10 courses (30 credits) taught by highly experienced faculty. Each course lasts eight weeks. A final capstone course involves the creation of a public relations portfolio. The program can be completed in as little as 20 months. Applicants from a variety of backgrounds may apply.
#26. Troy University’s College of Communication and Fine Arts
Troy University was established in 1887 as a normal school to train teachers. Located in the rural college town of Troy, Alabama, this public university enrolls nearly 4,000 graduate students. Notably, over half of Troy University’s graduate students attend classes solely through distance education. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1. Troy University has earned regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Hall School of Journalism and Communication offers an online program for a Master of Science in Strategic Communication degree. Professionals in a myriad of fields can benefit from the curriculum in this degree program, as it teaches effective communication, leadership, critical thinking, ethics and legal issues, advertising, public relations, and cutting-edge technologies. Students complete a capstone course at the end of this 30-semester-hour program which involves developing an effective communication campaign. Up to 12 semester hours may be transferred in.
#25. Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor University began in 1873 as a small elementary and secondary school. This private, Christian, liberal arts university is located in Spring Arbor, Michigan. Over 1,000 graduate students attend here, 39% of whom pursue their education solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. Regional accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Communication and Media Department offers a 100% online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication. Students complete one seven-week course at a time, and can earn their degrees within 20 months in a highly collaborative online learning environment. The curriculum is designed to teach effective communication skills to benefit organizations and teams, all through a Christian worldview. Concentrations are available in Leadership, Ministries, and Education. The Leadership concentration prepares students for research and application of effective communication, as well as conflict resolution and team building. The Ministries concentration looks at communication through a pastoral lens for application in religious and nonprofit organizations. The Education concentration equips students to teach communications and master emerging technologies. Tuition costs $633 per credit hour.
#24. Drexel University’s College of Arts and Sciences
In 1891, philanthropist and financier Anthony J. Drexel founded what would become Drexel University. This innovative, urban research institution is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is one of America’s 15 largest private universities. Online education began in 1996. Nearly 9,500 graduate students call Drexel University home, and there are only 10 students to each faculty member. Drexel University has secured regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The College of Arts and Sciences offers an online degree program for a Master of Science in Communication, with two concentrations, taught by highly qualified faculty. Students seeking careers as technical writers, computer documentation specialists, and training specialists can opt for the Technical Communication concentration. Students seeking careers in journalism and public relations can pursue a concentration in Public Communication. Both programs are 45 credits and can be attended full-time or part-time. Students may begin in any academic quarter. Curriculum includes a six-month internship as well as a professional exit portfolio reviewed by faculty and a professional outside the university. Tuition costs $1157 per credit.
#23. Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University
Founded in 1890, Washington State University is a four-year land-grant public institution. The university lies in prairie country, in the small city of Pullman, near the eastern Washington border. Washington State University is home to over 4,800 graduate students who enjoy a 15 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Regional accreditation is administered through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Details: The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication offers a fully online degree program culminating in a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication. Both experienced professionals and new entrants to the field of communication are welcome to apply to this cohort-structured program. The degree is applicable to arenas such as advertising, public relations, corporate communication, and communication management. This 30-credit program includes 12 credits in Professional Core Courses, 15 credits in Strategic Communication Core Courses, and three credits in a Capstone Course with a project or portfolio presentation. Each student creates multimedia materials that are crafted for his or her specific career goals, combining cutting-edge research and technologies with traditional theories and best practices. Tuition costs $586 per credit in the spring and fall, and $509 per credit in the summer.
#22. Seton Hall University’s College of Communication and the Arts
In 1856, a Catholic bishop founded Seton Hall College in the town of South Orange, New Jersey. This private, nonprofit institution became Seton Hall University in 1950. Now, over 3,800 graduate students attend here and experience a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1. Seton Hall University has obtained regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The College of Communication and the Arts has designed a unique cohort-based online degree program for a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership. Two cohorts are admitted per year, in the fall and spring. Over the course of 18 months, students move together through five learning modules: 1) Strategic Communication and Leadership, 2) Organizational Leadership, Management and Communication 3) Leadership Communication Strategies 4) Diversity and Globalization, and 5) Strategic Planning. Three required on-campus residencies allow students to meet instructors, network, and give class presentations. This degree program is designed to equip professionals to achieve business success in greater career responsibilities. Applicants should possess at least five years of significant experience.
#21. Notre Dame of Maryland University’s School of Arts and Sciences
Notre Dame of Maryland University was established as a women’s college by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1895 and is rooted in Catholic traditions. The university is located on a 58-acre wooded campus in a residential area of Baltimore, Maryland. Nearly 1,600 graduate students attend this private, nonprofit institution where the student-to-faculty ratio is 11 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The School of Arts and Sciences offers a fully online degree program culminating in a Master of Arts in Contemporary Communication degree. This flexible program allows students to pursue their education while continuing their career. The degree focuses on new communication approaches, so that upon graduation, students are uniquely positioned for leadership roles in fast-growing areas in the field of communication such as public relations, organizational communication, and website and social media development. Only two courses in this 36-credit program are core requirements. Of the remaining 30 credits, at least 18 must be chosen from Communication Arts and Computer Studies courses. The remaining six credits may be taken from English, Philosophy, Art, or Interdisciplinary courses.
#20. University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a public, land-grant, research university chartered in 1869. The university’s campus is so beautiful as to be defined as a botanical garden. Over 5,000 graduate students attend here. The student-to-faculty ratio is 21 to 1. The University of Nebraska Lincoln has earned regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: A Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communications is available fully online through the College of Journalism and Mass Communications. Students may choose between three specializations: Integrated Media Communications (36 credit hours), Media Studies (30 credit hours), or Professional Journalism (36 credit hours). The program is designed with media professionals, educators, and business professionals in mind. Students gain relevant knowledge of communication theories and applications that are immediately useful in the workplace. Thesis and non-thesis options are available. Non-resident tuition costs $609 per credit hour.
#19. St. Bonaventure University’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication
In the southwest corner of New York state lies St. Bonaventure University, which itself creates the hamlet of St. Bonaventure, New York, with just over 2,000 people. This private, nonprofit institution began in 1858 in the Catholic-Franciscan tradition. Over 350 graduate students attend St. Bonaventure University now, and the student-to-faculty ratio remains low at 11 to 1. Regional accreditation is provided by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: Students in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication can earn a Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications degree through a fully online program. This degree requires 33 credit hours of core and elective coursework; core classes include a field-work requirement to analyze the marketing communications program of an organization. Elective courses such as Internet Advertising and Social Media, The Mobile Web, and Advertising Design are available. Faculty trained in online teaching deliver courses in eight-week segments. Each class provides the opportunity to develop work that will become part of a final Integrated Marketing Communications Campaign Project that is required for graduation.
#18. University of Central Missouri’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
The University of Central Missouri was founded in 1871 and its 1,561-acre campus resides in the small city of Warrensburg, Missouri, about 50 miles southeast of Kansas City. This public university enrolls over 3,500 graduate students, and over one-quarter of those students pursue their education solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. The University of Central Missouri has secured regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Department of Communication and Sociology offers a fully online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication. This degree requires 31 hours in core and elective courses, which are taught in eight-week sessions. Communication professionals will be prepared for leadership roles in both corporate and nonprofit realms. Courses include (but are not limited to) Theories, Research Problems, Advanced Organizational Communication, and Strategic Crisis Communication. An optional certificate in Strategic Communication and Leadership is available onsite at training locations worldwide. Applicants must have professional experience and/or an undergraduate degree in a communications field. The degree can be completed in 12-18 months.
#17. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Media and Journalism
As the nation’s first public university, the University of North Carolina welcomed students to campus in 1795. Now one of three academic institution anchors in a region known as “The Research Triangle,” the university enjoys a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1 and enrolls nearly 11,000 graduate students. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is ranked #30 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category. Regional accreditation is administered through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Media and Journalism offers an online Master of Arts in Technology and Communication degree program designed for working professionals who wish to attend part-time and complete their degree in 2.5 years. Campus residencies are required at least twice, with a two-day orientation and then a week-long summer session. This cohort-based program admits no more than 20 students at a time for a strong learning community. Curriculum includes courses such as Writing for Digital Media, Digital Data and Analytics, New Media and Society, Strategic Communication, and more. Thirty credits are required to complete the degree. Non-resident tuition costs $1,362 per credit hour.
#16. Mississippi College’s Department of Communications
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is a private, nonprofit institution that maintains a strong Christian vision. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in Mississippi and the second oldest Baptist university in the United States. Located near Jackson, Mississippi, the college enrolls 2,000 graduate students and reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Mississippi College has obtained regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Department of Communications offers a Master of Science in Applied Communication online degree program aimed at students who would like to become more marketable in their career or prepare to pursue a doctoral degree. Students may choose a generalist degree in Applied Communication, or a special concentration in Journalism or Theater. Master’s degrees are also available in Professional Communication in Health Services, Professional Communication in Sports, and Public Relations and Corporate Communication. Degree requirements vary by concentration. Tuition costs $523 per hour.
#15. Arizona State University’s College of Letters and Sciences
The Arizona State University public research university system is located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. In 1885, it began as a normal school to train teachers. Now, this five-campus system enrolls nearly 16,000 graduate students. Arizona State University is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as #1 for “Most Innovative Schools.” The student-to-faculty ratio is 24 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Letters and Sciences offers a fully online degree program for a Master of Science in Technical Communication. This custom-designed degree program offers courses that are delivered by the same award-winning faculty who instruct on campus. Courses teach students to design, produce, and manage print and digital texts through traditional and contemporary means. The program prepares students for careers in writing, editing, design, and research. Tuition costs $492 per credit.
#14. George Washington University’s College of Professional Studies
An Act of Congress created George Washington University in 1821, and it is the largest institution of higher education in the District of Columbia. The university prides itself on being located amidst the core of American government, and active in the political, scientific, technological, and artistic communities. This private, nonprofit university enjoys a student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to 1. Nearly 15,000 graduate students attend here. George Washington University has earned regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: The College of Professional Studies offers two online degree programs in the field of communications. The Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Public Relations is a fully online program that requires the completion of 11 courses (33 credit hours). Curriculum and format are designed for working professionals to master public relations skills and apply strategic thinking in practical settings. This program culminates in an independent Capstone Research Project. Tuition for the Strategic Public Relations degree costs $1,545 per credit hour.
The Master of Professional Studies in Publishing degree program is also fully online and requires 10 courses (30 credit hours). Curriculum includes tracks in Business and Marketing, Editorial, or Technology and Design. The degree provides a broad foundation for the entire industry, integrating print and electronic publishing, copyright law, marketing, distribution, and more. Tuition for the degree in Publishing costs $800 per credit hour.
#13. Asbury University’s School of Communication Arts
A Methodist evangelist founded Asbury University in 1890 as Kentucky Holiness College. Located 20 minutes southwest of Lexington in Wilmore, Kentucky, this multi-denominational, nonprofit institution became a university in 2010 and enrolls over 225 graduate students. Sixty-three percent of Asbury University’s graduate students attend classes solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. Regional accreditation is provided by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Communication Arts offers a degree program for a Master of Arts in Communications: Digital Storytelling that is predominantly online, but does require some visits to the campus. Applicants without a media undergraduate degree are required to attend a 2-4 week session on campus. All students visit the campus near the end of the program to consult with their supervising professor about their Master’s Thesis/Creative Project. This degree program teaches students how to tell and interpret significant stories in society to engage and transform culture. Through a Biblical worldview, instructors teach the fundamentals of storytelling, communication and narrative theories, research, and technology as a tool for message transmission. The degree requires 30-45 credit hours and prepares students for careers in film, television, radio, journalism, public relations, web-based media, and church media. Tuition costs $576 per credit hour.
#12. Webster University’s School of Communications
A Catholic religious organization called The Sisters of Loretto founded Webster University (originally called Loretto College) in 1915. Fifty-two years later, this private, nonprofit institution was the first to transfer its ownership from the Catholic Church to a lay board of directors, and today Webster University is non-denominational. Located in Saint Louis, Missouri, the university enrolls over 13,000 graduate students, over one quarter of whom engage solely in online courses. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1. Webster University has secured regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Communications offers four online Master of Arts degrees: Advertising and Marketing Communications, Communications Management, Media Communications, and Public Relations. Instructors are professional educators, practitioners, artists, and theorists. Students entering these programs must initially consult with an academic advisor to review their qualifications and experience in their intended field. Prerequisite courses may be necessary. Each of the four degrees requires 36 credit hours in core and elective courses. Tuition costs $755 per credit hour.
#11. James L. Knight School of Communication at Queens University of Charlotte
Queens University is located in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina. Originally founded in 1857 as a Presbyterian school called Charlotte Female Institute, Queens University became co-ed after World War II and now enrolls nearly 600 graduate students, 41% of whom participate solely online. The university is private and nonprofit, reporting a low student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1. Regional accreditation is administered through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Knight School of Communication delivers a fully online degree program for a Master of Arts in Communication. This 36-credit-hour degree program teaches students how to craft effective messages that will engage people across multiple platforms. The progressive curriculum applies traditional communication theory to contemporary, real-world settings, and develops the soft skills that today’s employers are seeking. The program culminates with the creation of a digital portfolio of the student’s work and a unique capstone project on a specific communication topic. Students can complete their degree within 24 months. Tuition costs $780 per credit hour.
#10. University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communication
The University of Florida is one of the largest universities in the United States. The university opened in Gainesville in 1906 and now boasts a 2,000-acre campus, but traces its beginnings to a small seminary in Ocala, Florida, in 1853. This public research university now has a graduate population of over 16,500 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 21 to 1. The University of Florida is ranked #47 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category and has obtained regional accreditation through the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Journalism and Communication offers an online Master of Arts in Mass Communication with three specialization options: Global Strategic Communications, Social Media, or Web Design and Online Communication. The degree can be completed in as little as 18 months. The Global Strategic Communications track (33 credit hours) gives students tools to engage diverse audiences. The Social Media track (33 credit hours) creates savvy, credentialed professionals who understand social media from all angles. The Web Design and Online Communication track (37 credit hours) equips students to master design tools and develop coding skills. Classes are conducted live online and are also recorded.
#9. Gonzaga University’s Graduate School of Professional Studies
Gonzaga University was opened by Father Joseph Cataldo in 1887 to train boys for the priesthood. This private, nonprofit institution now offers many degree programs to both men and women, but maintains its philosophy to educate the whole person in mind, body, and spirit. Located on a 131-acre campus overlooking the Spokane River in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University serves over 2,500 graduate students, 41% of whom attend solely online. The student-to-faculty ratio is 11 to 1. Regional accreditation is issued through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Details: Gonzaga University is ranked #4 by U.S. News and World Report for Best Regional University in the West. The Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership Studies online degree program through the Graduate School of Professional Studies offers a foundation in communication theory that equips students to apply contemporary strategies in their organizations. Concentrations are available in Strategic and Organizational Communication, International and Intercultural Communication, and College Teaching of Communication. The program consists of 30 total credits, including 12 credits in Theory and Practice Core Courses, 12 credits in Communication Electives, and six credits in Capstone Requirements. The capstone can be a project or thesis. One three-day residency is required. Tuition costs $900 per credit.
#8. Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications at Northwestern University
The first classes at Northwestern University began in the fall of 1855 with two faculty members and 10 students. Located on the shore of Lake Michigan in Evanston, Illinois, this private, nonprofit institution now serves over 12,500 graduate students alone. The student-to-faculty ratio is 7 to 1. Northwestern University is ranked #12 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category. Northwestern University has earned regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Integrated Marketing Communications master’s degree program was founded at Medill. This cutting-edge strategic communications degree program consists of 13 courses tailored for working professionals. The five core course requirements are Financial Accounting, Statistics and Marketing Research, Marketing Management, Consumer Insight, and Strategic Process. Online students can complete their degree in under two years. Classes begin in the winter, spring, summer, or fall. Applicants may possess a bachelor’s degree in any field. Relevant work experience is not required, but recommended. Tuition costs $3,886 per course.
#7. Marist College’s School of Communication and the Arts
Marist College began in 1929 as a school to train future Marist Brothers, an international community of Catholic Brothers. This private, nonprofit institution’s 210-acre campus overlooks the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York. Nearly 850 graduate students attend Marist College, and 69% of them participate solely through distance education. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16 to 1. Regional accreditation is provided by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: Marist College offers a fully online degree program for a Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication. This 30-credit program focuses on digital interactive marketing that delivers a consistent message across a variety of channels. Courses include but are not limited to Principles of Integrated Marketing Communication, Brand Management, Public Relations Management, and Social Media Strategies and Tactics. Classes start in the fall or spring. Part-time students may take up to three years to obtain the degree, while full-time students may complete it in as little as three semesters. Tuition costs $750 per credit hour.
Marist College also offers a Master of Arts in Communication 30-credit online degree program for students who want to advance their careers in communication by learning to write effectively, conduct research, lead with strong analytical skills, and understand strategies for addressing conflict. Some of the available courses are Communication Theory, Persuasion, and Media Relations. Classes begin in August and are available to part-time and full-time students. The program ends with a comprehensive exam or thesis.
#6. Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism at University of Southern California
The University of Southern California opened its doors to 53 students back in 1880, and now includes more international students than any other university in the nation. Located just outside of busy downtown Los Angeles, the university offers an urban learning environment with a large graduate enrollment of nearly 24,000 students, 20% of whom are enrolled in distance-only education. This private, nonprofit institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1. The University of Southern California has secured regional accreditation through the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism offers a fully online degree program for a Master of Communication Management degree. This program is aimed at busy professionals who are seeking to make a leadership impact in the business world. Nine courses (32 credit hours) are delivered through a 15-week semester structure; the program takes 20 months to complete. Courses include Managing Communication, Strategic Corporate Communication, Global Marketing Communication, and a final capstone practicum to enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Tuition costs $1,602 per credit.
#5. Harvard Extension School at Harvard University
Harvard University is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, established in 1636 and named after the college’s first benefactor. About 14,500 graduate and professional students attend Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This private, nonprofit institution boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio of 8 to 1. Harvard University is ranked #2 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category. Regional accreditation is administered through the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The Harvard Extension School offers a Master of Liberal Arts, Journalism degree which includes 12 courses that can be completed primarily online, with at least one class taken on Harvard’s campus. Short, intensive on-campus class options are available. The degree prepares students for success in journalism through the mastery of reporting and writing for traditional and digital arenas. Students may use their elective options to earn a professional certificate in one of 13 topics, thereby tailoring their degrees to specific interests and professional goals. This program includes a capstone course during which students produce a portfolio of publishable work. The admissions process requires that students complete three courses to demonstrate their ability to thrive at Harvard. Tuition costs $2,400 per course.
#4. Brian Lamb School of Communication at Purdue University
Founded in 1869 as a land-grant university, the Purdue University system has six campuses, with a main campus in West Lafayette, Indiana. This public research university enrolls over 9,500 graduate students who enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to 1. Purdue University has obtained regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Brian Lamb School of Communication offers a fully online Master of Science in Communication degree program, designed with an emphasis on strategic communication. The same award-winning faculty who teach on campus instruct online students, applying communication theory to real-world experience. The degree includes core courses such as Global Strategic Communication, Strategic Communication and Ethics, and Crisis Communication. The program consists of 10 courses totalling 30 credits, which can be completed in 20 months. No thesis or on-site residencies are required. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, but do not need a background in communications. There are three start dates per year in the spring, summer, and fall. Out-of-state tuition costs $731.20 per credit.
#3. Quinnipiac University’s School of Communications
Quinnipiac University is located in Hamden, Connecticut, and was founded as a small college in 1929. This private, nonprofit institution draws its name from an altered version of a Native American word. It became a university in 2000. Quinnipiac University enrolls just under 2,500 graduate students who enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. Over 30% of graduate students are enrolled solely in distance education. Regional accreditation is issued through the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The School of Communications offers three advanced degrees through its online program: a Master of Science in Interactive Media, a Master of Science in Journalism with a writing track, and a Master of Science in Sports Journalism with a writing track. Curriculum is designed with the intent that students develop skills to thrive in the highly competitive and rapidly changing field of Communications. The degree in Interactive Media includes concentrations in Multimedia Production, Social Media, User Experience Design, or a custom plan. All three degree programs include 36 total credits, with start dates in the fall and spring. Tuition costs $895 per credit.
#2. Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies
Northeastern University is a private, nonprofit research institution founded in 1898. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern University enrolls a graduate student population just under 6,300. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1. Northeastern University is ranked #47 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category. Northeastern University has earned regional accreditation through the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: Northeastern University offers an online degree program for a Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication. Courses teach best practices so students develop effective personal and professional communication skills. This program includes seven required courses, three elective courses, and five courses in one of the following concentrations: Human Resources Management; Human Services; Leadership; Leading and Managing Technical Projects; Project Management; Social Media and Online Communities; or Sport and Social Change. Students attending part-time will complete the program in three years. At full-time attendance, students will obtain their degree in two years. Tuition costs $615 per credit hour, for an estimated total tuition cost of $27,675.
#1. Krieger School of Arts and Sciences at John Hopkins University
Named after entrepreneur and philanthropist John Hopkins, America’s first research university is located in Baltimore, Maryland. This private, nonprofit institution was founded in 1876 and now enrolls a graduate student population of over 15,000. The student-to-faculty ratio is 9 to 1. One quarter of graduate students attend solely online. John Hopkins University is ranked #10 by U.S. News and World Report in the National Universities category. Regional accreditation is provided by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Details: A Master of Arts in Communication degree program is available entirely online through the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences. The degree program provides theoretical knowledge as well as real-world job skills. Students choose either a strategic planning track or a research track. The research track requires a thesis. Concentrations are available in Public and Media Relations, Political Communication, Health Communication, Digital Communication, Corporate/Nonprofit Communication, and Applied Research in Communication. Classes begin in the spring, summer, and fall. A minimum of 10 courses is required and may be completed on a part-time or full-time basis; tuition costs $3,741 per course. On average, students take two years to earn their degree. A dual MA in Communication and MBA degree program is available, as well as a combined MA in Communication with a certificate in Nonprofit Management.