In this article, we profile the top 50 most affordable master’s degree in communications online programs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of media and communication occupations is projected to grow four percent from 2018 to 2028. This growth is on par with the average for all occupations and should result in over 27,000 new jobs. While there are changes to media and communication organizations, there is still a demand to disseminate and create content through various platforms. As a result, many reputable colleges and universities now offer online master’s in communications programs that allow individuals to work while earning their degree.
Top 50 Affordable Master’s Degree in Communications Online Programs Methodology
We reviewed 125 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources (U.S. News and World Report) that offered online master’s in communications or closely related disciplines. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution rankings with U.S. News and World Report, and affordable graduate tuition and fees of less than $32,000. We then ranked the schools according to raw affordability and selected the 50 most affordable.
Below are the resulting selections for our top 50 most affordable master’s in communications online programs.
#50 – American University
Online Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication
Washington, District of Columbia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,113
American University’s master’s in communications online focuses on crafting messages that stand out amidst a competitive landscape. The program accepts both full- and part-time students with completion timelines of 10 months and less than two years respectively. Courses may include principles of strategic communication, research for strategic communication, and writing for strategic communication. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to a communication career and submit a 1,000-word essay, two letters of recommendation, and transcripts. No GRE or GMAT is required to apply for admission. American University has an excellent reputation backed by a #77 national ranking by U.S. News and World Report.
#49 – Sacred Heart University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication and Public Relations
Fairfield, Connecticut

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $30,427
Sacred Heart University offers an online master’s in communications focusing on strategic messaging and public relations that lead to successful careers across a wide variety of industries. Courses may include media ethics in a professional context, strategic communication for diverse populations, and the PR agency in the digital age. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and transcripts from previous schools. In addition, students must submit a resume, personal statement, and two letters of support. Standardized tests are not required. Sacred Heart University ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories, including #218 in national universities.
#48 – Northeastern University
Online Master’s in Corporate and Organizational Communication
Boston, Massachusetts

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $25,085
Students looking for an affordable online communications program may find the Northeastern University online communication degree an excellent fit due to its affordable tuition and excellent academics. The program offers students six different concentrations including public and media relations, cross cultural communication, social media, human resources, leadership, and project management. The College of Professional Studies requires students to submit a resume, statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation along with a conferred bachelor’s degree. No test scores are required. The degree is backed by Northeastern’s stellar academic reputation as a top 40 national university according to U.S. News and World Report.
#47 – Pennsylvania State University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communications
University Park, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,186
Penn State University World Campus offers one of the best online communications masters degrees combining theory and analytics that help prepare graduates for successful communication careers in virtually any setting. The 30-credit program’s main focus is using data and theory to create strategic messaging for stakeholders. Graduates have gone on to careers as marketing managers, market research analysts, public relations specialists, public affairs officials, and advertising consultants. Courses may include ethics and decision-making in strategic communications, reaching multicultural populations with strategic communications, and research methods in strategic communications. The program welcomes students with a bachelor’s degree from any background to apply. No GRE is required.
#46 – Rider University
Online Master’s in Business Communication
Lawrenceville, New Jersey

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,398
Rider University’s online master’s in communications program focuses on business communication processes and procedures that improve targeted messaging within both internal and external contexts. Graduates have gone on to successful careers as public relations consultants, copywriters, advertising managers, sales managers, and more. Buttressed by a #38 U.S. News and World Report ranking, Rider’s program invites those with a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 2.7 undergraduate GPA to apply to the program. In addition, students must submit a resume, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. An interview may be required. Students can choose from six start times during the year, which means no long wait periods between applying.
#45 – Rutgers University
Online Master’s Degree in Communication and Media
New Brunswick, New Jersey

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,983
Rutgers University’s master’s in communications online offers students the rigor and affordability that come from a graduate degree from the prestigious institution. The communication program gives students eight different specializations such as communication and media research, corporate purpose and social impact, health communication, public relations, and much more. The core classes and specializations ensure students obtain a strong foundation in communication along with subject matter expertise that can make them very competitive for high-level communication jobs. Rutgers has an excellent academic reputation among its peers as well as the business community. The institution ranks #62 in national universities and #22 in top public schools.
#44 – Quinnipiac University
Online Master’s in Interactive Media and Communications
Hamden, Connecticut

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,730
Quinnipiac University offers one of the best online communications masters degree programs thanks to its flexible scheduling and affordable tuition. The program teaches graduates to create a wide range of effective content in different settings. The program touches on contemporary aspects of media such as web design, social media analytics, and user interface. So in addition to content writing and creation, students learn to effectively operate the most current applications used to convey messages. Courses may include audio and video design, content creation and strategy, and understanding your audience. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, 500-word statement, resume, writing sample, and two letters of recommendation. Applicants must also supply a URL to a portfolio showing their ability as a writer, journalist, graphic designer, or social media specialist.
#43 – Michigan State University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communications
East Lansing, Michigan

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,858
Michigan State University’s College of Communication Arts and Sciences offers an online master’s in communications focusing on strategic communications. The program is designed for current communication professionals with at least three years of work experience. The degree is 100% online with one, two, and three-year completion tracks. Students can choose from three career specializations in media analytics, digital media, and organizational leadership. Courses may include digital media strategies, evaluation techniques for working professionals, and persuasion techniques for working professionals. Michigan State University’s program is backed by an exceptional academic reputation backed by its #34 ranking in top public schools by U.S News and World Report.
#42 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master’s Degree in Communication
Manchester, New Hampshire

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
Ranking #42 on our list of most affordable online communications programs, Southern New Hampshire University offers students with a quality program delivered entirely online with no residential or campus visit requirements. In addition to the general curriculum, students can choose from concentrations in new media and marketing and public relations. Courses may include crisis communication in a 24/7 world, integrated public relations campaigns and measurement, and new media campaign design and marketing. Students must possess a bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 GPA. In an effort to make graduate school more accessible, SNHU does not require GRE test scores for any of its programs.
#41 – University of Illinois
Online Master’s in Health Communication
Champaign, Illinois

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,083
The University of Illinois College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers one of the best online communications masters in the country due to its rigorous coursework and affordable tuition. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the health communication space where timely and accurate information is critical for both internal and external audiences. The 32-credit program includes classes such as conflict management in health care, cultural considerations in health care, impact of health information technology, and successful health campaigns. The program is backed by the institution’s #48 national ranking by U.S. News and World Report. In addition, the university ranks in several other categories including #52 in most innovative schools and #14 in top public schools.
#40 – Temple University
Online Master’s in Communication Management
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,846
Temple University ranks as one of the top online communications programs backed by rigorous curriculum and commitment to student success. The 31-credit program is practitioner based and focuses on preparing graduates for successful careers in communication-related fields. Administered through the Klein College of Media and Communication, the degree can be completed in just one year with the ability to also earn certificates in strategic communication and cross-cultural leadership and conflict management and dispute resolution. Individuals from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply, although applicants with communication experience are preferred. U.S. News and World Report ranks Temple University #44 in top public schools.
#39 – Azusa Pacific University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Azusa, California

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,842
Azusa Pacific University offers an online master’s in communications designed to support working adults seeking a graduate degree to increase their career prospects. The degree encompasses public relations, organizational communication, integrated marketing, and more. Courses may include business and organizational fundamentals for strategic communication, conflict management and resolution, strategic communication theory and practice, and writing and media content development. In its commitment to making graduate school attainable, Azusa does not require any standardized testing for admission. And with the degree entirely online, students can attain a graduate degree without interrupting personal commitments. Azusa ranks #228 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#38 – Point Park University
Online Master’s in Communication Technology
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,478
Point Park University offers a master’s in communications online that blends communication theory and practice with the latest technology. The program focuses on multimedia communication, graphic design, integrated marketing, and social media, which results in a graduate possessing the latest skills and knowledge needed for several cutting-edge careers. The 36-credit degree takes students 2-3 years to complete and allows students to transfer up to nine credits. Students can choose from concentrations in applied practices or social media. Core classes may include applied mass communication research methods, communication law and regulation, and media ethics and responsibilities. Point Parks ranks #21 in best value schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#37 – Gonzaga University
Online Master’s in Communication and Leadership
Spokane, Washington

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,096
Gonzaga University offers one of the best online communications masters degrees focusing on communication and leadership. The degree is delivered entirely online aside from one short residency at its main campus in Spokane, Washington. The degree is steeped in the tradition of the Jesuit tradition, which focuses on servant leadership. The coursework is taught by leading faculty in the communication discipline and offers students several courses to choose from. Students can choose from six concentrations such as change leadership, college teaching, digital media strategies, strategic communication, and more. Backed by an exceptional reputation, Gonzaga ranks #79 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#36 – Regent University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,952
Regent University offers one of the top online communications programs due to its exceptional curriculum and affordable tuition. The program is designed for working professionals who want to balance coursework with other obligations such as work and family. In addition to core classes, students can choose concentrations in media arts management and promotion and political communication. Regent uses a streamlined admission process where applicants are required to submit unofficial transcripts, government ID, and complete an academic questionnaire. Applicants are not required to submit GRE test scores as part of the application. Coursework may include leadership theory and communication and social media and internet marketing.
#35 – Franklin University
Online Master’s in Marketing and Communication
Columbus, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,080
When searching for an affordable online communications program, potential students may find the program at Franklin University a plausible option due to its low-cost tuition and potential return on investment. The program is a dual-disciplined major, focusing on communication and marketing, that combines the best of both areas. The degree can be completed in just 14 months, which allows students to start earning a return on their investment right away. The degree is 100% online with no expensive or inconvenient campus residency requirements. In addition, students with an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 are not required to submit GMAT or GRE test scores.
#34 – Maryville University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication and Leadership
Saint Louis, Missouri

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,646
Coming in at #34 on our list of most affordable best online communications masters, Maryville University provides students with a career and skills-based degree that can be leveraged into advanced career opportunities in fields such as public relations, communication consulting, college teaching, and much more. In addition, students learn the latest technology platforms and communication channels organizations use to increase brand awareness and marketing. Graduates have gone on to hold lofty positions in several Fortune 500 companies. In addition to the degree, graduates can also earn certificates in Salesforce, Google Adwords, and Hubspot, making them even more marketable upon graduation.
#33 – National University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
La Jolla, California

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,480
National University offers an online master’s in communications focusing on strategic messaging. Graduates learn the art and science of communicating with both internal and external audiences that can impact organizational operations, brand awareness, market share, and overall company culture. The 45-quarter credit program includes courses such as communication in a global environment, emerging interactive media, integrated marketing communication, and legal and ethical aspects of communication. Administered through the College of Letters and Sciences, the institution is committed to making graduate school for working adults as accessible as possible through no GRE test requirements when applying or campus visits as part of the curriculum.
#32 – Marist College
Online Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communication
Poughkeepsie, New York

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,400
Marist College offers one of the top online communications programs with a focus on integrated marketing and communication needed to take an organization to the next level. Students are required to submit an application, transcripts, three letters of recommendation, resume, and personal statement. If admitted, students will take courses such as analytical tools for decision making, integrated marketing communication, marketing foundations in IMC mobile marketing, and social media strategies and tactics. Full-time students can complete the entire degree in just three semesters. Part-time students have up to three years to complete the 30-credit program. As one of the top colleges in the country, Marist ranks #10 n top regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#31 – Bay Path University
Online Master’s in Communications and Information Management
Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,670
Bay Path University makes our list at #31 for best online communications masters. The program is 12 courses (36 credits) and is usually completed in 1-2 years. Admission requirements include 3.0 preferred GPA, current resume, 250-word minimum essay, and two letters of recommendation. No test scores are required. Courses may include applied research strategies, competitive threats and challenges, and strategies for fiscal management. Graduates have gone on to positions in top leadership at several organizations across a wide variety of industries as the degree teaches skills and knowledge that are widely applicable. Bay Path enjoys a sound regional reputation and ranks #94 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.
#30 – Queens University of Charlotte
Online Master’s in Communication
Charlotte, North Carolina

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,390
Queens University of Charlotte offers one of our top online communications programs based on its convenient scheduling, affordable tuition, and highly trained faculty. The program is practitioner-based and focuses on empowering graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a contemporary communication career. The average student completes the degree in just two years. Application requirements include bachelor’s degree with a preferred GPA of 3.0. Those with GPAs at or above 3.0 or with five years of professional work experience may have the GRE requirement waived. Students must also submit transcripts, resume, personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
#29 – Webster University
Online Master’s in Communications Management
Saint Louis, Missouri

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,500
Webster University offers a master’s in communications online designed for current communication professionals seeking further job responsibilities as a result of obtaining a graduate degree. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply and may be required to take six credits of undergraduate coursework if recommended by a departmental adviser. Core classes may include media and culture, media organization and regulations, and media production management. Webster ranks #17 in regional universities West and #33 in best social mobility performance by U.S. News and World Report due to its commitment to research and student success for the publication’s 2020 rankings.
#28 – University of Kentucky
Online Master’s in Information Communication Technology
Lexington, Kentucky

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,404
The University of Kentucky ranks as one of best online communications masters with a focus on communication technology. The main programmatic mission is to prepare students with the ability to use and integrate technology tools and platforms to better convey messages. Students can choose from career tracks in health, policy and regulation, and technology and analytics. Entrance requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Information Communication Technology bachelor degrees are preferred but not required. Students must also upload a resume, statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. GRE scores are not required.
#27 – Washington State University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Pullman, Washington

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,095
Washington State University offers an online master’s in communications through its nationally ranked Edward R. Murrow College of Communication. Applicants need to submit transcripts and a written statement of purpose. Preferred candidates will have a GPA of 3.0 and are not required to submit GRE scores. Strategic communication courses include consumer behavior and brand development, creative media strategies and techniques, and professional marketing communication management and campaigns. The degree includes courses that teach students the latest technological tools used to communicate to stakeholders at the internal and external levels. In addition, students learn how to properly craft messages for various means and outcomes.
#26 – University of Florida
Online Master’s in Agricultural Education and Communication
Gainesville, Florida

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737
The University of Florida offers one of the top affordable online communications program degrees in the country. Students can choose from agricultural communication, agricultural education, extension education, and leadership development. The agricultural communication degree is designed for individuals seeking careers in agriculture and agribusiness related to marketing, public value, and market position. Careers may include advertising and public relations for an agriculture-related business, faculty or communication support for government or educational agencies, or mass media reporting on agriculture or natural resources. The University of Florida is highly respected among its peer organizations and ranks #34 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#25 – Arizona State University
Online Master’s in Technical Communication
Tempe, Arizona

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608
Arizona State University offers one of the top online communications programs in the country. The degree is comprised of coursework that covers content management and strategy, as well as communication technology with courses taught by engaging faculty with industry experience and years of teaching practice. Courses may include applied rhetoric and technical communication, fundamentals of technical communication, social media in the workplace, and principles of technical data. Admission requires students to have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 on the last 60 credit hours. In addition, applicants must submit statement of purpose, three letters of reference, and a portfolio. No test scores are required.
#24 – University of North Carolina
Online Master’s in Digital Communication
Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,522
The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill offers one of the best online communications masters backed by a world-class institution with leading faculty and staff. Offered through the acclaimed Hussman School of Journalism and Media, students receive mentorship from leading faculty who have published in the top journals and have years of experience working in the industry. The program accepts up to 20 communication professionals each year who are evaluated on a holistic basis including a bachelor’s degree, GRE scores, GPA, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and resume. UNC ranks highly in several categories including #29 in national universities, #5 in top public schools, and #10 in best value schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#23 – Mississippi College
Online Master’s in Communication
Clinton, Mississippi

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,130
Students searching for online communications programs may find Mississippi College’s degree an excellent option. The program is entirely online and blends theory and practice for a degree that results in a knowledgeable professional who possesses the practical skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced communication career. Students can choose from concentrations in journalism, theater, health services communication, sports communication, and corporate public relations. And like all Mississippi College programs, the Christian tradition is weaved into coursework and learning outcomes. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcomed to apply and test scores are not required. Mississippi College ranks #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#22 – Drake University
Online Master’s in Communication
Des Moines, Iowa

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,818
Offered by Drake’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, the master’s in communications online is delivered entirely over the internet with no campus visitation requirements and can be finished in just one year. Courses may include advanced writing and strategic message design, applied communication theory and research, and innovation and change in contemporary communication. To provide a career focus to the core coursework, students can choose from concentrations in brand communication, communication leadership, and public affairs and advocacy. As a regional leader in education, Drake ranks #130 in national universities and #68 in best value schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#21 – University of Iowa
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Iowa City, Iowa

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,666
The University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers one of the top online communications programs for working professionals seeking career advancement through completing a graduate degree from a respected research university. The University of Iowa is highly regarded among its peers and ranks #84 in national universities, as well as several other categories, such as #34 in top public schools and #76 in best value schools by U.S. News and World Report. The program focuses on four pillars including strategic communication, writing, digital technology, and research. The curriculum is designed to create a subject matter expert in communication who possesses practical skills related to content creation and management.
#20 – Kansas State University
Online Master’s in Mass Communications
Manhattan, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,277
Kansas State University offers an online master’s in communications through its A.Q. Miller School of Journalism and Mass Communications, leading to careers in several fields such as new media, corporate communication, advertising, public relations, management, consulting, and much more. Preferred applicants will have a bachelor’s degree with undergraduate coursework in mass communications or journalism along with a 3.0 GPA. In addition, a personal statement, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation are required. No test scores are required to apply. Core classes may include digital media audiences and analytics, issues in media management, research methods in mass communications, and strategic health communication.
#19 – Bellevue University
Online Master’s in Business and Professional Communication
Bellevue, Nebraska

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,205
Bellevue University offers one of our top online communications programs for working professionals seeking a flexible and affordable graduate degree. The curriculum focuses on professional communication skills and allows students to choose from concentrations that fit their career needs such as computer information systems, executive coaching, human resource management, project management, cross-cultural communication, and more. Students are required to complete a 24-credit core and a 12-credit concentration. Core classes may include conflict and negotiation, ethics and decision making, introduction to business and professional communication, and twenty-first century communication technologies. Students from all academic and career backgrounds are welcome to apply.
#18 – Florida International University
Online Master’s in Global Strategic Communications
Miami, Florida

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,106
Florida International University offers an affordable online communications program in global strategic communications, preparing graduates for a successful career as a globally minded and socially responsible leader in the communication field. In addition to the degree, students can also earn an embedded certificate in conflict resolution and consensus building to further leverage their skills and knowledge into career opportunities. Applicants must submit transcripts, two letters of recommendation, resume, statement of purpose, and GRE test scores. GRE waivers are available for those with a professional record of accomplishment or a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. FIU is ranked #12 in top social mobility performers by U.S. News and World Report.
#17 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Communication Education
Phoenix, Arizona

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,074
Grand Canyon University offers a master’s in communications online focusing on communication education. The degree prepares graduates for postsecondary teaching jobs as well as occupations in training, consulting, public relations, and more. Applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. In an effort to make graduate school accessible and convenient for working adults, Grand Canyon University does not require the GRE as part of the admission process allowing potential students to save time on money. Courses may include curricular and instruction methods in higher education, effective pedagogy for higher education, media literacy, and relationships in the workplace.
#16 – Lasell University
Online Master’s in Communication
Newton, Massachusetts

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,960
Lasell University offers an affordable online communications program that can be completed in 12-24 months. Students are able to select one specialization including digital media, health communication, integrated marketing communication, public relations, and more. Lasell’s admission criteria include transcripts, one page personal statement, and resume. In its efforts to make graduate school accessible, students are not required to submit test scores. And with six start dates, students who are admitted will not have to wait long periods of time to begin their coursework. Lasell ranks in multiple U.S. News and World report categories such as #116 in best regional universities North and #78 in top social mobility performers.
#15 – University of Missouri
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Columbia, Missouri

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,478
The University of Missouri’s online master’s in communications is designed for current communication professionals with at least three years of work experience. The degree is for those who are interested in learning evidence-based decision making strategies to solve complex communication problems for an organization or client. Graduates go on to careers as media relations managers, journalists, public relations officer, and much more. The 37-credit offering is fully online aside from just one campus visit requirement where students will be able to network with peers and faculty. Housed in the School of Journalism, courses include changing media business models, online audience development, and public relations.
#14 – West Virginia University
Online Master’s in Corporate and Organizational Communication
Morgantown, West Virginia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,134
West Virginia offers one of the best online communications masters with an emphasis on corporate communication. Graduates learn to effectively communicate within several business contexts and organizational networks such as co-workers, administrators, clients, and the like. In addition, students learn contextual communication to various organizational audiences including corporations, schools, non-profits, and more. Moreover, curriculum involves learning the latest technology tools used to craft and deliver messages. Admission is streamlined and does not require letters of recommendation or GRE test scores. West Virginia University ranks in several U.S. News and World Report categories, including #228 in national universities and #109 in top public schools.
#13 – Purdue University
Online Master’s in Communication
West Lafayette, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,992
Working professionals looking for an affordable online communications program may find the degree at Purdue University a good fit due to its innovative coursework and return on investment. Students can choose from in-demand concentrations such as communication and advertising, public relations, leadership, and health communication. The program is designed specifically for full-time professionals who are unable to take in-person courses and need the flexibility of an online degree. The program can be finished in just 12-20 months, which means graduates can begin benefiting from their master’s right away. Courses may include focus groups and interviewing for strategic communication, introduction to integrated marketing communication, and strategic communication and social media.
#12 – Bowling Green State University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication and Social Media
Bowling Green, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,831
Bowling Green’s master’s in communications online is geared towards working communication professionals seeking the convenience of an online degree in combination with course rigor from a top university. Specifically, the institution’s degree is for media and communication professionals working in corporations, non-profits, and media organizations. Courses may include advertising research and practice, principles of multimedia production and courseware design, and qualitative and quantitative methods for strategic communication. The program is buttressed by a leading research institution that ranks in multiple U.S. News and World Report categories, including #246 in national universities, #119 in top public schools, and #234 in top social mobility performance.
#11 – Ohio University
Online Master’s in Organizational Communication
Athens, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,720
Offered by the School of Communication studies, Ohio University provides working professionals with an affordable online communications program focusing on applied curriculum to help graduates advance their career opportunities. Students learn to understand processes and procedures as they relate to communication based opportunities and challenges within organizations. Applicants must submit GRE scores (only if GPA is less than 3.0), goal statement, resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. In addition, three years of professional work experience is preferred. Ohio University ranks #185 in national universities, #122 in best value schools, and #77 in most innovative schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#10 – Washburn University
Online Master’s in Communication and Leadership
Topeka, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,416
Breaking into the top ten on our list of online communications programs, Washburn University offers a fully online degree focusing on communication and leadership. The 30-credit hour degree is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and welcomes people from all academic backgrounds who possess a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their last 60 credit hours. The program’s goal is to help graduates become excellent leaders with stellar communication skills, self-awareness, and analytical decision-making. Students engage in coursework such as communication in conflict and negotiation, leadership and resource stewardship, and public policy and global leadership. Washburn ranks #293 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#9 – South Dakota State University
Online Master’s in Mass Communication
Brookings, South Dakota

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,217
South Dakota State University offers an affordable online communications program designed for working adults seeking a flexible degree with challenging coursework. The degree is specifically designed for journalists and other communication professionals seeking to develop their new media skills for their current or future occupations. The degree can be finished in just under two years, with half of all coursework being skills-based, which means graduates enter the workforce ready to contribute and add value to their team or organizations. The program is fully accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. SDSU ranks #272 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#8 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication
Saint Paul, Minnesota

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,550
Concordia University offers an online master’s in communications with a focus on strategy. The degree enables students to learn effective problem-solving and logical analysis when it comes to communication challenges and opportunities. The degree is especially relevant for individuals seeking leadership positions where communication skills are critical to success. Students take courses such as communication inquiry and management, corporate social responsibility and ethical leadership, and project management and analytics. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. It is also required that potential students submit official transcripts and write a personal statement.
#7 – University of Wisconsin
Online Master’s in Technical and Professional Communication
Menomonie, Wisconsin

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,520
The University of Wisconsin Stout ranks as one of our best online communications masters degrees with three embedded certificates in communicating with emerging media, improving the user experience, or communication studies and rhetoric. The 30-credit degree is fully online with most students finishing in just two years while balancing full-time work. Courses may include communicating in trans-national environments, communication strategies for emerging media, user-centered research for technical communicators, and visual rhetoric for technical and professional communicators. The program is backed by a leading regional university within the renowned University of Wisconsin system and ranks #72 in best regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#6 – University of Central Missouri
Online Master’s in Communication
Warrensburg, Missouri

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,439
The University of Central Missouri offers a very affordable online communications program designed to enhance skills in management, film, videography, news, radio, teaching, and overall communication. Applicants must possess a 2.5 GPA and have completed at least 15 undergraduate communication courses. In addition, it is required to submit a statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation. Test scores are not part of the application. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to confer the degree to those who successfully complete all requirements. The degree is designed for full-time working individuals who desire an online degree that enables them to balance career and coursework.
#5 – Southern Utah University
Online Master’s in Professional Communication
Cedar City, Utah

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,338
Southern Utah University offers a master’s in communications online that can be completed in just one year and requires no campus visitations. Designed for the working professional, this degree offers maximum flexibility with its coursework while providing deep and rigorous inquiry. The degree is for any current or aspiring communication professional and is relevant for such industries such as television and radio, public relations, advertising and marketing, college teaching, public affairs, and more. Core classes include applied communication theory, communication and professional development, and quantitative communication research. Southern Utah is ranked #72 in regional universities West and #33 in top public schools by U.S. News and World Report.
#4 – Liberty University
Online Master’s in Communication
Lynchburg, Virginia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,333
Ranked in our top four of affordable online communications program offerings, Liberty University specializes in online programs for working adults. The 33-credit degree is flexible and efficient and can be completed in just one year. The program focuses on communication forces that shape interaction at all levels, including interpersonal and mass communication. Students learn to become more effective at leadership and engagement in their personal and professional lives often resulting in greater personal and career success and satisfaction. Courses include conflict analysis and resolution, effective social media, international and intercultural communication, and strategic storytelling. Liberty is a Christian institution and infuses religious principles into its coursework.
#3 – Texas Tech University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication and Innovation
Lubbock, Texas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,181
Texas Tech University’s master’s in communications online focuses on developing graduates for senior-level positions where communication and strategic planning are critical components of the job. The degree teaches students to craft effective messages within an organizational context, as well as ever-changing digital environments. Designed for the working professional, the program is 100% online and asynchronous, meaning students can work on the material as their schedule allows – there are no set times that dictate when the student should be online. Designed for communication professionals, applicants must submit a personal statement, resume, writing samples, and references. A 3.0 GPA waives the GRE test score requirement.
#2 – Spring Arbor University
Online Master’s in Strategic Communication and Leadership
Spring Arbor, Michigan

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,176
Spring Arbor University offers an online master’s in communications that is both affordable and innovative. Along with coursework, students get paired with mentors who are communication influencers that assist in the student’s personal and professional development. It is the only communication program of its kind in the United States. In addition, students leave the program with an ePortfolio of work that can be used throughout their careers. The degree can be finished in just 18 months and does not require GMAT or GRE testing for admittance, saving the potential student time and money. Spring Arbor ranks #43 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.
#1 – Tarleton State University
Online Master’s in Communication Studies
Stephenville, Texas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,215
The Department of Communication, housed with the College of Liberal Arts, offers a master’s in communications online for working professionals seeking to leverage a communication graduate degree into enhanced career opportunities. The program focuses on computer-mediated communication skills and knowledge, along with organizational communication skills at both the interpersonal and institutional levels. The 30-credit program can be finished in just 18 months, allowing graduates to reap the rewards of their degree right away. Students can also earn certificates in Organizational Communication and/or Social Media Strategy. Tarleton State ranks #70 in regional universities West by U.S. News and World Report.
BCO Staff
April 2020
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