2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Communications
An affordable online master’s in communications equips professionals to lead in a fast-evolving media landscape. These programs explore strategic messaging, digital communication, audience engagement, and media ethics, all through flexible formats that fit around work and life commitments. Our rankings focus on tuition, but we also highlight schools that excel in graduate success, student support, and online accessibility.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for Budget: Missouri State University has a yearly tuition of just $6,253. (And the top four on our list are all below $7,000.)
- Best for Salary: Washington State tops the list for earnings, with communications graduates reporting a median income of $69,282.
- Best for Student Success: The University of Florida ranks in the top 3% nationally for graduation rate, showing strong commitment to academic completion.
All tuition and enrollment data is verified for accuracy by our team at OnlineU. For more on how we rank programs, check out our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Communications
An In-Depth Analysis of Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Communications
Many communication careers — including roles in media, PR, and nonprofit leadership — are fulfilling but not always high-paying out the gate. Choosing a program that’s affordable ensures your degree doesn’t become a long-term financial burden.
The starting point is often tuition, and the schools on this list don’t disappoint. Every program here comes in well below the national average cost for a master’s degree, but some stand out even further.
Missouri State University (MSU) tops the list at just $6,253, offering one of the lowest tuition rates in the country. That’s a game-changer for students trying to minimize student debt.
Close contenders include the University of Central Missouri ($6,587) and University of Alabama ($6,600), both ranked in the top 2% for affordability in this field.
It’s not just about sticker price, though. Several schools pair low tuition with generous financial aid, which can drastically lower the actual cost of attendance:
Drury University hosts students that boast an average financial aid award of $24,535, ranking in the top 15% for aid amounts.
Stevenson University's student body goes even further with an average award of $28,258, putting it in the top 9% of schools nationally.
Salary Outcomes for Communication Master's Graduates
Unlike law or medical degrees, communication roles don’t always come with massive salaries, at least not right away. So it’s especially important for communication grad students to weigh cost vs. outcomes.
This chart shows the yearly tuition alongside the full 2-year tuition for a graduate degree, paired with median annual earnings for communications graduates. This salary projection is approximately four years after graduation.
If you’re pursuing an online master’s in communication, this kind of cost-vs-earnings analysis is crucial. A smart choice is about aligning affordability, format, and career payoff so you can build momentum in your career without taking on unmanageable debt.
Retention, Graduation, and Support
Communication students often juggle jobs, internships, and family obligations. Schools with strong support systems are better at helping students navigate those challenges and finish strong. High retention and graduation rates tell you how well students are supported and whether they’re completing what they start.
The University of Florida and University of Tennessee - Knoxville are leaders here, with graduation rates of 90% and 73%, respectively. UTK also boasts an outstanding 89% retention rate, suggesting students are satisfied and persisting.
The University of Alabama is another standout, combining a 73% grad rate with an 87% retention rate, both in the top quintile of all schools.
Meanwhile, Missouri State, South Dakota State, and Washington State each maintain retention rates of 76-81%, which is especially notable for such significant numbers of online-only students.
Custom Paths, Real-World Skills, and Career Relevance
Communication professionals often need to upskill quickly to stay competitive in digital media, PR, or leadership. Programs that let you focus on career-relevant areas, move at your own pace, and gain hands-on project experience are invaluable.
Missouri State’s program stands out for its stackable graduate certificate model. Students choose from areas like sport management or environmental monitoring and build a focus area that fits their career goals.
Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, with asynchronous tools like Panopto, allowing you to tailor both the content and format.
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) uses 7-week sessions and emphasizes social media and strategic PR, which fits the fast-moving nature of modern media work.
Arizona State University and Washington State University both offer fully online, asynchronous formats with no required campus visits — perfect for working professionals.
Several programs — like those at Stevenson, Murray State, and Mississippi College — feature accelerated tracks or short terms (e.g., 8-week sessions), so students can graduate in as little as 12–18 months.
Communication roles are evolving fast, with employers demanding data literacy, cross-platform storytelling, and strategic thinking. The programs above embed those skills into their coursework, helping you stand out in a crowded field.
So, what you study — and how closely it connects to real-world communication challenges — is crucial when choosing a graduate program.
The strongest online master’s degrees in communication go beyond theory, integrating strategic, digital, and interpersonal skill development that translates across industries.
For instance, the University of Alabama offers a focused track in Organizational Leadership, blending communication theory with managerial strategy to prepare students for leadership roles in diverse workplaces.
On the more technical side, the University of North Texas delivers a digital communication analytics program that covers cutting-edge tools like natural language processing, data visualization, and social media metrics, essential for careers at the intersection of data and media.
Campbellsville University takes a unique approach with its master’s in customer experience, a program tailored for those aiming to lead in service design and customer strategy across sectors such as healthcare and finance.
Meanwhile, Washington State University’s Murrow College emphasizes applied learning with coursework in crisis communication, persuasion, and media ethics, culminating in a capstone project that builds both expertise and a strong professional portfolio.
If you haven't yet earned a bachelor's degree, consider enrolling in one of the best online communications degrees or one of the most affordable online communications degrees.
Career Advice for Aspiring Communication Grads
Project Manager
1. What are the most valuable skills you gained from your degree that you use in your job?
[Through] my bachelor’s degree in Communications, specifically with a concentration in Television and Film Production… many of the skills I developed have directly translated into project management. Time management and resource coordination were crucial during my film production courses, where I had to oversee multiphase projects with a variety of deliverable requirements. Those are both things I now practice daily in my project management work.
However, I think the most important skills are teamwork and communication. Those were essential for me in school when collaborating with crew members and ensuring everyone was on the same page for a production. The ability to digest information from multiple departments and disseminate updates that are direct, clear, and concise is crucial to ensuring that all aspects of a project come together.
2. How does the online learning format impact a student's learning experience?
I definitely believe that online formats can benefit students. Experience with online collaboration tools and virtual meeting etiquette are essential in today's workforce.
3. What should prospective students look for when choosing a program?
I would suggest prioritizing programs that offer real-world experience, like case studies, internships, or even hands-on project experience. It is really important to understand how theory applies to practical work… especially if you're considering a career in a more niche industry, like content for commerce. Programs that incorporate industry-specific insights- in my case managing creative projects or overseeing media productions- can give students a leg up.
4. What advice would you give to students in your field?
I recommend honing your leadership and communication skills, so that you can motivate people, manage expectations, and be adaptable to change. Additionally, seek out internships or real-world opportunities where you can apply the skills you learn in the classroom to actual projects, especially in industries where you have a personal interest.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit
If your top priority is keeping costs low, schools like MSU, UCM, UA, and Drury are hard to beat. But if you're looking for a balance of affordability plus strong outcomes, Washington State, Arizona State, and University of Florida offer the clearest earning potential — even with slightly higher tuition.
For students seeking flexible delivery, short terms, or industry-specific tracks, options like ENMU, UNT, and Campbellsville provide specialized, skills-driven training in high-demand niches.
No matter where you land, each of these programs represents a financially smart route to a communication master’s — with the flexibility, focus, and support you need to move forward in your career.
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FAQs About an Online Master's in Communications
What Is an Online Communications Master's Degree?
A master's degree in communications dives deep into the principles and practices of effective communication across various mediums and platforms. When you enroll in an online communications master's program, you'll learn the intricacies of crafting messages, strategies, and campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences.
Some online programs allow you to customize your communications studies by choosing an area of concentration, such as public relations and corporate writing, communications consulting, or strategic communications management.
One of the main learning objectives of a communications program is the development of key technical skills, such as digital media production, data analysis, and the use of content management systems. While completing real-world projects, you'll also hone your soft skills, including interpersonal communication and strategic thinking.
An online communications master's program typically requires the completion of 30-33 credit hours. While most programs are meant to be finished in two years of full-time study, some accelerated programs can be completed in about a year. To be accepted into a master's program, you must first earn a bachelor's degree with a fairly high GPA. If you do no have a bachelor's in communications, a public relations degree, or something similar at the undergraduate level, you may be required to take a few prerequisite courses.
What Are Common Courses in a Communications Master's Degree?
The courses in an online communications master's degree program are designed to teach you techniques, tools, and best practices for delivering strategic messages to specific target audiences. Coursework often involves traditional print media, as well as contemporary digital media used in online platforms. Some programs include a capstone project that you can use in your portfolio when you interview for jobs.
Some of the specific core courses often found in an online master's in communications program include:
- Crisis Communication: Students learn how to manage and communicate during emergencies or PR crises. The course emphasizes using proactive strategies and timely responses to maintain or restore public trust.
- Communication Research Methods: This course provides students with an understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods specific to the communication industry, enabling them to make informed decisions based on data.
- Intercultural Communication: By emphasizing global communications, this course teaches students to appreciate the nuances of different cultural contexts and communicate effectively in diverse cultural settings.
How Do You Fund an Online Communications Degree?
A major part of deciding whether to earn a master's degree is cost. Books, supplies, and additional fees all need to be included in your budget, but tuition makes up the majority of expenses. To start estimating the total cost, you can determine your tuition fees by multiplying a school's per-credit tuition rate for master's degrees by the number of credit hours required to complete the program.
You may be able to save money in college by selecting an online program like one of the most affordable online master's in communications degrees listed above. Many schools feature reduced tuition rates for online programs, and distance education also cuts out room and board fees and transportation costs.
Depending on your financial situation, financial aid may be a major source of funding for your master's degree. Even if you decide to earn your degree online, you can still apply for aid as long as you're enrolled in an accredited program. To be considered for most types of financial aid, simply submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid officers will use the information on this form to decide if you qualify for financial assistance.
Some of the most common types of financial aid include grants, fellowships, and scholarships funded by the schools and by the federal and state governments. If you qualify for these types of aid, you won't have to repay them.
If you don't qualify for sufficient grant and fellowship funding to cover the cost of a master's degree, you may be offered a student loan. Be aware, however, that the loan interest can add a sizable amount to the final cost of a degree. Consider using a student loan repayment calculator to determine the price of repaying the loan with interest before you accept the loan. You may also want to compare federal student loans to private student loans, as federal loans often feature better terms.
Other sources of financial assistance are private fellowships and scholarships, which are usually funded by community and civic organizations, corporations, and nonprofits. This aid is often designed to encourage specific types of students to pursue degrees, so the awards may be based on factors like academic merit, level of community service, family background, or career aspirations. These also don't need to be repaid, so it may be worth the time and effort to submit the separate applications required for each opportunity.
What Can You Do With an Online Communications Degree? And How Much Can You Make?
With a master's degree, you'll be equipped to launch your communications career in a variety of industries, including public relations, media, corporate communications, human resources, and more. Depending on your work experience, you may need to start with an entry-level position, such as public relations specialist or marketing specialist. In time, however, your online communications master's degree may help you advance to higher-paying managerial positions.
Two of the most common career paths are public relations managers and fundraising managers. These professionals represent for-profit and nonprofit organizations to the public through all types of communication channels. As of the most recent BLS data, the median annual salary for public relations managers was , and for fundraising managers, $134,760. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects job openings for these occupations to grow by 7% over the next decade.
Marketing is another popular field for graduates with communications degrees. Here again, holding a master's degree may allow you to advance to the level of an advertising, promotions, or marketing manager with a large corporation or a business services firm. Advertising and promotions managers earn a median annual salary of , while marketing managers earn a median annual salary of $157,620. Employment for these professionals is also expected to grow by 8%.
If you want to further enhance your work credentials, you may want to consider earning certification from a professional organization related to your chosen career path. For example, if you're going into public relations, consider earning the (APR) certification from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).
As you've continued your education, research in the field of communications may have become your passion. If so, you may want to consider pursuing a PhD in communications. This degree can pave the way for research roles or academic positions.
How Do I Choose a Master's in Communications?
Deciding which online master's in communications program is best suited to your career goals can be a challenge. As you're reviewing each option, examine the school's tuition rates, student services, and financial aid funding, as well as the program's curriculum and faculty.
Another essential consideration is institutional accreditation, which indicates that a school meets national standards for excellence. All of the schools on our list of the most affordable master's in communications degrees and throughout our site have earned institutional accreditation. Some of the programs may also have earned program-level accreditation from the (ACEJMC).
How Long Is a Master's Degree in Communications?
Typically, an online communications master's degree in communications takes about two years of full-time study to complete. However, some online programs offer accelerated formats that can be completed in as few as 12-18 months.
Student Reviews of Online Communications Programs
ASU online is a joke. I am currently in the MA in Communication program and there is horrible communication . The professors give very little constructive feedback and the TA’s are useless. I was told this is a go at your own pace degree program that is not true. It’s accelerated and we are doing a full semester’s worth of work in 4-7 weeks depending on the class. I work part time and many other students work full time and/or have families. The structure of the program and professors do not take... Read More
Review Date: 7/8/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I love GCU! My master's in Communication and Education was awesome! I learned so much! I loved my teachers and had no issues. Honestly, the only ones in here that gave a bad review are because they didn't pull their end. Let's be real!! I worked full time, have four children and as able to get a 3.96. I am not a genius! It's a great school and you won't be sorry!
Review Date: 2/22/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The decision to go to pursue a graduate degree was daunting, let alone the decision on which graduate school to attend. All I knew upon graduating with my bachelor's degree was that I didn't want to stop there. Diving into the process of researching graduate schools, I knew only two things: 1) I wanted to earn a master's degree online, and 2) I wanted to focus on communications. One Google search later, and I found Southern New Hampshire University. After researching the school's master's degree... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The New School is a diverse and rigorous and progressive university established in 1919 designed for freethinkers. It's flexibility allows It is the #1 school for small classes . It ranks #1 for art and design and has highest percentage of international students. I am enrolled in the Media Studies program, where I plan on expanding media literacy in my state and in the nation. Because the university allows for me to achieve my goals, I can take classes outside of my school and still get credit toward... Read More
Review Date: 6/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The New School is a progressive flexible university with the highest number of international students in the USA. The classes give a thorough look back and forward with a heavy dose of theory and practice. I have been able to tailor my education to my needs and although I am taking the program mainly online, I have access to independent studies and the professors, whom are mostly working in their field. I can't say enough great things about my growth as a student and a professional.
Review Date: 9/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I pursued my masters degree at Purdue University because I believe the curriculum encompasses the fundamentals I want and need to progress in my career. I appreciate real-world application style of learning and the courses that I have taken at Purdue will undoubtedly prepare me in the workforce. Purdue's reputation for innovation and discovery built on a foundation of tradition and history, reflected my position for pursuing this degree. While I want to provide innovative approaches to communications... Read More
Review Date: 2/16/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Purdue program is challenging and finding time as a professional can be a challenge. However, there is a great deal of reward built in that challenge. On-line coursework demands a great deal of personal accountability, which honestly, I was not sure was in my wheelhouse. It turns out it is. Returning fifteen years after I graduated from undergrad, I was nervous about how I would adapt. While you do have to make time for the readings and an effort to get to know your classmates in the online format,... Read More
Review Date: 3/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Due to my status as an Online learner, I didn't get the opportunity to experience some of the more on-site resources. However, the professors I've dealt with have been extremely resourceful, never hesitating to take the extra mile to help you understand something more effectively. The students seem understanding and are respectful of everyone's work. Overall, I really believe my money is well spent here at Liberty - it really is an investment for the future.
Review Date: 7/15/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Georgetown's PR & Corporate Communications program offers a spectrum of courses to prepare students for a career in communication leadership positions. One reason I chose the program over other schools is that of its flexibility in course selection and time. I'm in the online program but have the option of taking in person classes since I live in D.C., which I hope to take advantage of it. The courses required for this program are also flexible: out of 10 classes, there are only 3 required core courses,... Read More
Review Date: 6/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am so grateful to Arizona State University for providing a top-notch education in a unique and inspiring field. Beyond that, I am thankful for the fact that I could complete my courses online, allowing me to continue to work and parent my three young children while staying on track towards my Master's degree. Of course, getting an advanced degree isn't easy, but the responsiveness of professors, even at a distance was a huge asset. Because of my learning style, I would loved to have been in an... Read More
Review Date: 12/4/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The best thing about attending Webster University online is that the classes are eight weeks long. I find this to be a good fit between schools that have four weeks classes and others that have longer sixteen weeks classes. The school actually cares about you even if you are an online student. When I first started, my counselor actually called me to talk about my education plan. The school also has a department dedicated to retaining online students and they are very helpful. They hold online tutorials... Read More
Review Date: 9/18/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Boston University provides a rigorous curriculum taught by faculty who also work in the fields they teach. I earned my undergraduate degree in journalism from BU and was trained by some of the best professionals out there. When it was time to earn a master's degree, BU was my first choice because I know the high quality education that institution provides.
Review Date: 3/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience with Liberty University has been phenomenal. Everyone i have spoken with has been more than helpful and accommodating. I only have experience with the distance education because i'm only taking classes online but so far it has been great. One thing i wish for online classes is that there were more video lectures instead of just reading, writing and testing. But other than that, my experience has been great.
Review Date: 3/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Drexel's online master's program is one of the best experiences a student could ask for. Your professors are always prompt with interesting discussions and challenging assignments. The program helps you network with people in the field to help you get a job and be successful. This program has helped me grow and continues to change my life for the better everyday.
Review Date: 6/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am currently attending Bay Path University and taking online courses towards a Masters Degree in Communications. I have taken four classes so far and still have a ways to go. The faculty is excellent and the program is challenging and very informative. Some students may be wary of online classes but the way we interact with each other online and the way the teachers interact with us as well is almost like we are in a classroom. Professors are generally always available for questions either by phone... Read More
Review Date: 2/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
If you do not have the opportunity to pursue a master's in person and want to study communications and similar fields, The New School's Media Studies MA program is a great option. I took all of my courses online, and almost all of the professors were extremely knowledgeable and easy to contact. The courses were still challenging and prepared me for the field.
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I like how the program has been structured and planned weekly, it enables efficiency. The whole process could be challenging if one is unused to online learning.
Review Date: 5/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I've loved Walden so far -- the professors are incredibly talented and knowledgeable, class sizes are reasonable, the rest of the staff is friendly and competent, and my program structure is sound. However, I have noticed that the online program is geared more towards students who are either older or have never studied the material before. As someone who has studied Communication in undergrad, the masters is almost a repeat of what I just learned.
Review Date: 3/7/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
If you are called to the ministry in any capacity, Regent University Online is a great way for you to get your degree while working in the ministry, a job, or busy raising a family. The classes are interactive and you will be studying with students and professors who live all over the world. It's like having a classroom in your home. They also have an excellent Student Advisor program. You will be assigned an academic advisor that will assist you from entry to graduation.
Review Date: 3/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I greatly enjoy attending the University of Denver Online as it allows me to learn on my own schedule. The classes have always been diverse, I've had class mates in Hong Kong and across the United States which I believe is a huge benifit of the online learning degrees! I greatly enjoy all of my professors and the knowledge and help they were able to provide me along my educational and career paths!
Review Date: 2/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No