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Online Masters in Communications
Online master’s programs in communications are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced training in strategy, leadership, or a specialized practice area. Programs may emphasize corporate communication, public relations, media management, or applied research, depending on the school.
This page explains how master’s programs are typically structured, what coursework often includes, and what to compare across schools.
Quick answers
What is an online master’s in communications?
It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced communication knowledge and strategic skills through online coursework.
What degree titles are common?
Common options include an MA or MS in Communication, depending on the institution and focus, as well as specialized titles such as a Master’s in Strategic Communication or Public Relations.
What types of master’s-level communications programs are common?
Common options include general communication master’s programs, specialized tracks such as corporate or strategic communication, and programs with elective concentrations.
What is typically included in the curriculum?
Most programs include a shared core in communication theory and research methods before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.
What do admissions requirements usually include?
Most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and a personal or professional statement; some programs also request writing samples.
What online formats and pacing options are common?
Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads.
At a Glance
- Degree type: Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Communication
- Typical duration: 1.5-3 years, depending on pace
- Credits: approximately 30-36 semester hours (varies by school)
- Accreditation: verify institutional accreditation; some programs may hold specialized accreditation for journalism or mass communication tracks
- Common concentrations: strategic communication, public relations, media management, organizational communication
Schools to compare
No school data available.
Typical topics in a master’s program
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Advanced Communication Theory | Deeper models of message construction, audience effects, and media influence |
| Research Methods | Quantitative and qualitative approaches to studying communication |
| Strategic Communication Planning | Developing campaigns and messaging strategy for organizations |
| Crisis and Reputation Management | Handling organizational communication during high-stakes situations |
| Leadership in Communication | Managing teams and communication functions within organizations |
| Capstone or Thesis | Applied project or comprehensive research paper |
Skills and outcomes to compare
Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:
- Depth of specialization or practice area coverage
- Applied project, internship, or practicum requirements
- Research expectations or thesis options
- Leadership or management focus
For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: How Online Communications Degrees Work
How to compare online master’s programs
- Identify the program type (general, specialized, or concentration-based).
- Review core curriculum and capstone or thesis requirements.
- Check concentrations and electives that fit your interests.
- Confirm admissions expectations and prerequisites.
- Compare online format and pacing options.
- Verify institutional accreditation before applying.
Admissions requirements
Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and a personal or professional statement. Some programs request writing samples or professional experience in a communications-related field.
Master’s vs other communications degree levels
| Level | Typical Focus | Common Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Associate | Foundational writing and media coursework | Entry-level media or office support roles |
| Bachelor’s | Broad communications theory plus a concentration | PR assistant, media coordinator, marketing coordinator |
| Master’s | Advanced strategy, research, or leadership | Communications manager, PR director, corporate strategist |
Roles and pathways vary by employer and region; individual outcomes are not guaranteed.
Compare degree options:
For a value and fit discussion, see: Is a Communications Degree Worth It
Data verified: July 30, 2026. Salary, employment, and tuition figures on this page are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS May 2025; Employment Projections 2024–2034) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2023 cohort). The source agency and data year are cited inline with every statistic.
Back to Online Communications Degrees Guide: Levels and Career Paths