An affordable online public relations degree builds expertise in strategic communication, media relations, and digital marketing. We also include communications majors that specifically mention public relations, as these fields are often closely connected. Coursework covers media ethics, campaign planning, and brand management, preparing you to craft compelling narratives and shape public perception. Graduates pursue careers in PR agencies, corporate communications, and nonprofits.
Key Takeaways:
- Arkansas State University has the #1 most affordable degree with yearly tuition at $7,260.
- The University of Florida achieves a graduation rate of 90% that places it in the top 3% of schools nationally.
- Based on student surveys we collect, the University of Arizona has a noteworthy recommendation rate of 97%.
We verify tuition rates by hand to highlight the most budget-friendly online degrees. Each school listed holds institutional accreditation and offers fully online programs with upfront pricing. For detailed information, refer to the full methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Public Relations Degrees
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $7,260 | |
| SUNY College at Oswego | Oswego (NY) | $8,480 | |
| Avila University | Kansas City (MO) | $8,700 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $9,480 | |
| Waldorf University | Forest City (IA) | $9,900 | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | Manchester (NH) | $9,900 | |
| Northwest Missouri State University | Maryville (MO) | $10,020 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $11,130 | |
| Lynn University | Boca Raton (FL) | $11,250 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $11,700 | |
| Midway University | Midway (KY) | $11,850 | |
| Wilmington University | New Castle (DE) | $12,570 | |
| Tiffin University | Tiffin (OH) | $12,720 | |
| Washington State University | Pullman (WA) | $13,021 | |
| Campbell University | Buies Creek (NC) | $13,950 | |
| Loyola University New Orleans | New Orleans (LA) | $14,040 | |
| Mid-America Christian University | Oklahoma City (OK) | $14,970 | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi (MD) | $14,970 | |
| University of Florida | Gainesville (FL) | $15,000 | |
| University of Arizona | Tucson (AZ) (and 1 other) | $15,750 | |
| Maryville University | St. Louis (MO) | $16,200 | |
| Point Park University | Pittsburgh (PA) | $16,620 | |
| University of Memphis | Memphis (TN) | $16,890 | |
| Florida International University | Miami (FL) | $16,997 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $17,220 | |
| Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo (MI) | $18,908 | |
| Montana State University - Billings | Billings (MT) | $22,847 |
Student Reviews of Online Public Relations Programs
Wow, these negative comments will really discourage someone who wants to further their education here. My time so far has been awesome! The teachers, admission reps. And everything have been great! I havent shared any of these bad experiences as others claim they had, but so far so good. Now it is alot of work so you have to be determined in order to be successful because it is not easy. Oh yea, and O. G. (admissions rep)is thee best!!!!
Review Date: 7/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Beautiful campus and a fun inclusive environment. Some professors are very involved in ensuring success. A few frustrations were struggles to get into needed classes and lack of parking.
Review Date: 10/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love my college. Not only is there so much opportunity to learn. It is an awesome school that helps all students stay involved. The campus is huge but doesn't feel it. Everyone does a good job of coming together as a student body. The location in Orlando Florida which is great. It not only is a college town but you have all the theme parks, downtown Orlando and Winter Park. Which are three totally different areas to explore. I wouldn't change the school I picked. The University of Central Florida... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hofstra University is an amazing school with amazing opportunities. Upon finishing my sophomore year, I already had internship experience and many professionals within my personal network. Professors are always willing to make time for students, even outside of class. The campus is filled with beautiful plant-life. In addition, Hofstra is really close to NYC, which is perfect for students looking for internship and job experience!
Review Date: 7/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school is just amazing. The faculty care-beyond the classroom. They are there every step of the way for you and are never too busy to talk to you. The campus is beautiful. Some buildings are old, but they have new building plans ready and are constructing new buildings currently. The community is not something you'll find everywhere. The Martin community endorses UT Martin like no other. There are so many opportunities, from affordable travel studies to internships with TOP companies in your... Read More
Review Date: 5/29/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Loras College is a small, Catholic, liberal arts college in the Midwest of the United States. It offers four dispositions in its mission to give students the opportunity to develop active learning, ethical decision-making, reflective thinking, and responsible contributors to society. Loras College has given me the opportunity to succeed by volunteering at multiple non-profits in my communities as well as working as a coach from one of the school's triathlon club. My degree has offered me the opportunity... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent at Virginia Tech as a Public Relations major. Although not as challenging as other majors Virginia Tech is famous for, I believe I learned valuable communication skills that will help me pursue my dream career in the field of government. The professors I had at Virginia Tech were excellent. The COMM department is filled with successful, talented professors who genuinely care about their students. My academic advisor from the COMM department was always willing to... Read More
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Attending Florida A&M University was one of the best decisions I have ever made. If you value learning about your heritage and culture, FAMU is the right place for you. I also enjoyed the fact that compared to other institutions and universities the classes were smaller in size which granted a closer relationship with professors. I am satisfied with the faculty and staff. Whenever I had a problem or concern I was always answered promptly. I am also satisfied with the quality of my degree.
Review Date: 9/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Iowa State University offered me opportunities to grow, chances to succeed, and the proper challenges that needed to be faced in order to develop further as person. The environment that is created on Iowa State's is truly one of community. The people that you surround yourself by want you to succeed. My connections with professors in the classroom were beneficial to me and introduced me to networking and professional opportunities. For me, the experiences outside of the classroom provided me with... Read More
Review Date: 5/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of South Carolina offers you an education in a picturesque surrounding. I found that the school was lacking in support for new graduates and would recommend some sort of upgrade to their job placement/networking structure. Having alumni help students find jobs in the field is something that should be more of priority.
Review Date: 6/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
WVU will be one of the places that I remember fondly for the rest of my life. I have and will continue to visit Morgantown forever. It is not only an incredible university with incredible faculty and staff, but it is one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever seen. You will never regret becoming a Mountaineer. Montani Semper Liberi!
Review Date: 10/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school is an amazing place but you have to get involved. The courses aren't especially difficult, however if you just go to class and back to your room you will not get the most of the experience. San Jose State will not reach out to you, so you will have to reach out to it and only that way will you have the network needed to excel in the silicon valley. Join clubs, greek life and work on campus; if you don't you'll end your college career with just a piece of paper.
Review Date: 2/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I loved the campus. It wasn't huge and sprawling like some college campuses. It was a beautiful, condensed campus. Overall, my experience was great. I had great professors who really cared and taught well. I loved my major and the professors within my major. Statesboro gets kind of old, but that doesn't take away from the educational experience at Southern.
Review Date: 7/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Gonzaga: this was a wonderful school and the people there are the absolute best. The faculty is extremely supportive and I have made lifelong friends through my time at Gonzaga and I would not have changed it for any other college experience. Public Relations: you get a very standard public relations education and you learn the ins and outs of the industry. One thing I would like to have happened would be if the job placement was a little more hands on and extensive.
Review Date: 12/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Absolutely loved it. A great school for academics and for culture.
Review Date: 9/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The College of Journalism at the University of Florida was a fantastic place to successfully complete an undergraduate degree. Although the University itself is quite large, the college and faculty truly make you feel cared for. They are experts in their respective fields and have had hands on experiences that transfer to each course you take. I would definitely recommend it to any student interested in a career in media, communications and public relations.
Review Date: 4/5/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The school is way too obsessed with Greek life and if you're not in a Greek house, your social life is, without a doubt SCREWED. It's very very segregated. Personally I don't think the degree was worth the price. Campus is nice and there are good professors but still, too overpriced. The food is horrible. There is a fake fa̤cade that students are supportive of the basketball team - this is not the case. I'm thankful for the opportunity to have been able to go to school in Indianapolis, but I wish... Read More
Review Date: 5/29/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
I liked the people, the professors and the spiritual disciplines it taught me. It is a university that believes in its students and wants them all to succeed.
Review Date: 11/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Good size, about 6,000 undergrad. Strong population of Greek Life. No football team, so not a lot of school functions to attend on the weekends. Homecoming is a nonevent. All the parties are held by fraternities, and if you're not in a fraternity as a male student, you most likely will not be allowed to attend. There are house parties for different clubs, speech/debate, and sports houses for soccer and baseball, but yet again, not part of the club you probably won't get invited. Girls can pretty... Read More
Review Date: 11/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It was small enough to feel comfortable but not too small to feel like a community college. The campus is beautiful and the professors are attentive. There's not much to do in Statesboro, but it's a nice, small town.
Review Date: 10/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes