Why This Matters
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PROJECTED JOB GROWTH IS 9% OVER THE NEXT DECADE
The rise of social media requires skilled employees who can help companies to continually manage and maintain their public image.
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8,100 MORE COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONALS ARE NEEDED
Customer relations and community outreach will play a more important role over the next decade as businesses and organizations adapt to the speed at which news travels.
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PR MANAGERS MAKE ALMOST 3X MORE THAN OTHER U.S. WORKERS
With an average salary of $116,180 in 2019, public relations managers make $76,370 more than the average salary for all other occupations.
Our Research
Our list covers master’s programs in communications that provide students with a diverse skill set that can be applied to many roles in the communication sector, such as public relations managers, technical writers, and translators. The programs on our list offer on-campus, online, and combined learning formats.
Master’s programs in communications often receive regional or national accreditation. While accredited schools uphold high academic standards, regionally accredited communications programs are more prestigious than those with national accreditation. Regionally accredited schools also have more transferable credits than those without accreditation. Programs on our list are accredited regionally by organizations such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 71 hours to write this article
- 171 universities and colleges we assessed
- 284 education programs we compared
The Top 49 Master’s in Communications Degree Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
As you prepare for a career in communications, it’s important to also consider pursuing a master’s in public relations. While a program in communications focuses on using messaging to grow an organization or business, public relations programs are concerned with influencing or changing the public perception of a brand, product, or service. Master’s in communications programs often cover a wide range of topics, while public relations programs specialize in creating experts in media relations. Many programs combine these two subjects into one degree or offer a specialization such as strategic communication, organizational communication, journalism, or mass communication. Determine the importance of understanding media relations and media training in your future career when deciding which degree program is right for you.
Many master’s in communications programs take a year to complete. Specialization programs such as health communication or political communication can take up to two years to finish.
Communications will continue to play an important role over the next decade. The job outlook is favorable because public image, clear communication, and emotional messaging factor into purchasing decisions, brand trust, and effective team building.
Professional certifications in communications help demonstrate your expertise in the field. Communication Management Professional (CMP) and Strategic Communication Professional (SCP) certificates are awarded by the International Association of Business Communicators.
What’s Next?
Ask yourself these questions when researching masters in communication degree programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Most master’s in communications programs require prospective students to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent before acceptance. They might also need to submit a writing portfolio and a goal statement, as well as maintain a certain GPA.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Two years of full-time study is usually required to earn a master of arts or master of science degree in communications. More time may be needed if students must also complete a thesis to graduate. The programs on our list require students to complete between 10 and 48 credits to earn a master’s in communications degree.
Each program will have specific requirements for applicants as well as program application deadlines. Visit the school website or contact the school’s admission department to learn which materials you’ll need to submit.
Master’s programs generally require a considerable financial investment, so you should determine how you will cover the cost of your studies. Look for scholarships, grants, and loans you qualify for, as well as other financial aid packages that can help reduce tuition fees. You can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for government aid.