A master’s in public relations is for aspiring communications experts. These programs help individuals master the various stakeholders, technology, and strategies necessary to become successful public relations professionals. Participants engage in media analysis, targeted customer branding, and writing exercises, ultimately developing the communications expertise required for corporate, nonprofit, and government employers.
Online students can find part-time or full-time degree options. A master’s degree in public relations requires 30-36 credit hours; full-time attendees will need four semesters (nine credits each semester) to graduate.
Prospective students will pay between $14,000 and $28,000 in tuition, though this figure varies based on a student’s residency status. Successful graduates will qualify for senior-level or managerial positions in the public relations field. Example positions include media director, senior public relations strategist, or communications specialist. These roles have the potential to earn an average annual salary of nearly $120,000.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Public Relations Program
Choose your area of study
Public relations graduate degrees often fall within the purview of a school’s communications or business department; you might sometimes see degrees listed as a Master of Arts in Communications with a concentration in public relations. However, most schools offer a specific Master of Public Relations.
Within each degree program, you should choose a specific area to focus your studies. Consider your long-term professional interests and goals, and research whether an institution’s master’s program offers related coursework and electives. For example, some programs emphasize corporate communication strategies, whereas others may instead focus on digital branding.
Research schools and programs
After narrowing down those programs whose coursework best aligns with your interests, consider other aspects of each program.
- How will you attend class? Many programs deliver public relations courses through an asynchronous format; some integrate scheduled, interactive lessons instead. The former is ideal for students seeking a more independent, flexible program. The latter builds a stronger sense of an online community. There are pros and cons to both.
- Is there a thesis or final project required to graduate? Most public relations degrees mandate a three-credit comprehensive capstone project. In this course, you can apply your skills to a real-world public relations problem, giving you valuable professional experience.
- Are you eligible for the program? Some degree programs only accept students with prior professional experience or a minimum undergraduate GPA. Confirm that your background meets eligibility for the program.
- Will this program lead to professional credentials? Some public relations degrees specifically prepare students for professional certification in the field, such as the Accreditation for Public Relations. These extra qualifications can give you an edge in your job search.
Most of the information you seek is available through program websites and information sessions. Contact an admissions counselor to get any specific questions answered or discuss accommodations you may require.
Prepare for tests and applications
Look out for application deadlines and prepare your materials well ahead of them. Application materials can take some time to request and organize, especially undergraduate transcripts and letters of recommendation. Online graduate programs in public relations don’t often require standardized test scores, so you can typically skip the GRE. Interested international candidates may have additional testing and other obligations for their student visas.
Select your program
Learn as much as you can about the programs. See if you can try a sample course. Attend orientations. Speak with a faculty member. Get a good sense of the online experience and network to help you select the best program for your professional and academic needs. From there, consider which program has the more affordable tuition package.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Don’t settle for the initial sticker price; master’s level students still qualify for financial aid, grants, and scholarships. Fill out the FAFSA and speak with a financial aid counselor to determine any funding opportunities for which you might be eligible. Some schools even offer credit for related work experience.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs
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How We Rank Schools
This list concentrates specifically on graduate-level programs in public relations. The most common graduate degrees in this field are either a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). Many programs award a degree in communications, with a concentration in public relations.
A primary criterion for our list was that programs be delivered entirely or primarily online. This flexibility ensures accessibility for the greatest number of students, regardless of their geographic location or availability.
All of the programs we reviewed are offered by schools with regional accreditation. Some programs also have accreditation through specialized accrediting bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Once we narrowed our list of programs, we evaluated all of them based on reputation, faculty, flexibility, cost, and outcomes. Based on these reviews, we calculated an Intelligent Score for each program on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Public Relations Program?
An online master’s in public relations empowers students to develop strategic responses to modern-day communication challenges. Participants learn how to craft a compelling speech, create a persuasive marketing strategy, and navigate digital media tools. Successful students will then apply that knowledge to a real-world context, whether through a comprehensive capstone project or thesis. Graduates will possess the knowledge and skills needed for advanced positions in the field.
If attending full-time, the online coursework takes two years; part-time students will likely need three-to-five years. While classes are remote, some master’s programs require a brief in-person residency during which students build a valuable peer and faculty network.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online Master’s in Public Relations program
- Digital Communications Strategy. Students learn how digital communications integrate with traditional public relations strategy and ways to apply them to a real-world campaign or brand.
- Media Relations. Participants will learn the ins and outs of the news cycle and its stakeholders. Students study multimedia sources and public opinion, developing a deeper understanding of how to leverage these resources as assets for a company.
- Research Methods for PR. This class prepares students for secondary and primary research and how to use that knowledge to make informed public relations decisions. Participants will practice simulated, real-world examples, including mock focus groups and surveys.
- Ethics in Mass Communications. Participants debate the morality of certain communications issues and critique modern-day media strategies. Students discuss moral and ethical philosophy and how it applies to media.
Online Master’s in Public Relations Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s in public relations degree program?
A typical online master’s in public relations application packet includes the following:
- Undergraduate transcripts (many schools set a minimum bachelor’s GPA to qualify)
- A resume
- Letters of recommendation
- A writing sample
- A personal statement
- A completed graduate school application form
- An application fee
Should you have any questions about the process, speak with an admissions counselor.
How much does an online master’s in public relations degree cost?
The average cost of tuition for an online master’s in public relations degree is $21,000. According to U.S. News & World Report, programs charge between $14,000 and $28,000, though some private, out-of-state programs can cost significantly more. In most cases, in-state applicants, whether in-person or online, will pay less in tuition.
Some online programs charge the same tuition rate, regardless of residency, and many add supplemental fees for remote classes. To reduce your overall financial commitment, speak to an admissions counselor or academic advisor about relevant transfer credits, especially if you have professional public relations experience. To calculate your total cost, consider books, computer equipment, travel costs (for any in-person requirements), and other personal expenses you may make to succeed in the program.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in public relations degree?
Online public relations programs are typically available as full-time or part-time options. Students must complete 30 to 36 credit hours to graduate, including a three-credit comprehensive project. Full-time students can graduate within two years; those working in the field may be able to receive credit for their professional experience and therefore graduate a semester sooner. Part-time students typically graduate between three to five years, depending on their course load.
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