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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.
It is a graduate-level program that builds advanced communication knowledge and strategic skills through online coursework.
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.
Common options include general communication master’s programs, specialized tracks such as corporate or strategic communication, and programs with elective concentrations.
Most programs include a shared core in communication theory and research methods before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.
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.
Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads.
Every school list on this site is ordered by the BOC Score, computed from the most recent school-level data published by the U.S. Department of Education (College Scorecard and IPEDS). To qualify, a school must be currently operating and accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Each eligible school is then scored on five measures, percentile-ranked against schools at the same credential level:
Schools without enough outcome data appear after ranked schools, without a score. Advertising never affects these rankings. Read the full methodology.
Source:IPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:IPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:Accreditor: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University CommissionIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:IPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:IPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:IPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:Accreditor: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University CommissionIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:Accreditor: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University CommissionIPEDSCollege Scorecard
| 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 |
Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:
For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: How Online Communications Degrees Work
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.
| 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
