In Brief
- Kansas communication master's programs range from roughly 30 to 42 credit hours, taking most students one to three years.
- Tuition and net price vary widely across Kansas schools, making side-by-side cost comparison essential before you apply.
- Both fully online and on-campus formats are available, letting working professionals choose the flexibility they need.
- Specializations span organizational leadership, health communication, journalism, and more across a small but diverse program landscape.
What does it really cost to earn a master's in communication in Kansas, and which programs offer the format and specialization you need to advance your career? Kansas hosts a compact but notably diverse set of graduate communication pathways: fully online degrees in communication and leadership, campus-based clinical programs in speech-language pathology, and interdisciplinary tracks blending strategic communication with organizational theory. Net prices range from roughly $12,600 to $18,000 per year, and delivery formats span eight-week online modules to full-time, on-campus cohorts.
All four ranked programs in Kansas are housed at public universities, which keeps baseline tuition relatively affordable, but the cost spread is wider than you might expect. Fort Hays State University and Wichita State University both report net prices below $13,200, while Washburn University and the University of Kansas sit above $15,000. Format matters, too: Washburn's fully online M.A. in Communication and Leadership rotates courses every eight weeks, letting working professionals build skills without pausing a paycheck, while the three clinical speech-pathology programs require full-time, campus-based study over five to six semesters.
Kansas employers value communication credentials that directly address workforce gaps in healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and organizational change management. Speech-language pathology programs prepare you for ASHA certification and Kansas state licensure, while the online leadership track at Washburn attracts mid-career professionals aiming for director and senior management roles in corporate, government, and nonprofit settings. If you are also exploring national options, the best online master's in communication programs can help you compare Kansas offerings against top-ranked programs elsewhere.
Best Master's in Communication Programs in Kansas
Kansas offers a focused but versatile set of graduate communication programs, ranging from fully online leadership degrees to campus-based clinical pathways and specialized journalism tracks. Whether you want to sharpen organizational communication skills while keeping your day job or pursue a research-intensive degree at a flagship university, the programs below represent the strongest options in the state. Net prices, graduation rates, and program structures vary widely, so read on to find the fit that matches your career goals and budget.
- Graduate earnings and ROI
- Net price and affordability
- Institutional graduation rate
- Program delivery flexibility
- Curriculum depth and specialization
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Independent program research
- Internal program database
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
Washburn University
#1Topeka, KS · $15,000/yr
Best for: Working professionals seeking online flexibility
Washburn University in Topeka stands out as the only Kansas school on this list with a fully online master's degree built specifically around communication and leadership. The M.A. in Communication and Leadership is a 30-credit, interdisciplinary program delivered in eight-week course blocks, making it realistic for working professionals to finish in about two years. With no application fee and no GRE requirement, Washburn lowers the barrier to entry for career changers from any undergraduate background.
- Fully online, 30-credit interdisciplinary curriculum
- Eight-week course rotations fit around work schedules
- No application fee and no GRE required
- All undergraduate degree backgrounds welcome
- Covers leadership ethics, conflict resolution, org communication
- Faculty bring hands-on administrative experience
- Graduates prepared for corporate, nonprofit, or government roles
- Bright Outlook career forecast for graduates
Fort Hays State University
#2Hays, KS · ~$13,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Budget-minded students wanting campus study
Fort Hays State University in Hays pairs one of the lowest net prices in the state ($12,569) with a campus-based M.S. in Communication Studies that requires just 30 credit hours. Students choose between a thesis track and a research report option, and leveling courses are available for those transitioning from a different undergraduate field. FHSU also houses a 54-credit M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology accredited by ASHA, giving the university depth across the broader communication sciences landscape.
- 30 total credit hours for degree completion
- Choose thesis or research report capstone track
- Comprehensive examination required for all candidates
- Leveling courses available for non-communication majors
- On-campus delivery in Hays, Kansas
- In-state tuition under $5,000 per year
- ASHA-accredited, prepares for Kansas licensure
- 54 credit hours across research, academics, and clinicals
- 20 clinical practicum credit hours included
- Healthcare, educational, and medical externships offered
- Curriculum follows 2020 ASHA certification standards
- Aural rehabilitation clinical experience included
University of Kansas
#3Lawrence, KS · $12,000 – $30,000/yr
Best for: Ambitious grads exploring diverse specializations
The University of Kansas in Lawrence offers the broadest communication portfolio in the state, spanning organizational communication, journalism, digital marketing, and speech-language pathology. KU's institution-wide graduation rate of 68.8% is the highest among ranked schools here, and its median earnings ten years after enrollment reach $61,945. Programs range from a 30-credit online M.A. in Organizational Communication to a joint MSJ/JD degree for students interested in media law.
- Fully online with synchronous and asynchronous options
- 30 credit hours, full-time or part-time pacing
- Capstone project required for completion
- Focus on trust building and conflict prevention
- Only one letter of recommendation needed
- Designed for mid-career professionals
- 30 credit hours covering ethics, law, and emerging tech
- Application deadline February 1 for summer start
- Media seminar project required
- Leadership and management coursework included
- Up to six elective credits outside the journalism school
- Harding Fellowship coordination available
- Online delivery with synchronous and asynchronous options
- Part-time scheduling designed for working professionals
- Recognized on Forbes Best Online Marketing Master's list
- Curriculum covers branding, digital marketing, and research
- Managerial perspective in strategic communications
- Emphasizes integration of marketing research methods
- 51 credit hours completed over five full-time semesters
- Meets ASHA certification standards
- Portfolio assessment at program midpoint
- Summative exam or thesis option for completion
- Clinical field study and research practicum included
- Multicultural considerations woven into coursework
- Five-year combined bachelor's and master's pathway
- 12 graduate credits count toward both degrees
- Admission in spring of third undergraduate year
- Requires 3.0 cumulative GPA for entry
- Formative assessment in third semester
- Meets ASHA certification standards
- 108 total credit hours across MSJ and JD
- Full-time completion in approximately 3.5 years
- 81 law credits plus 28 journalism credits
- Thesis or project required for journalism component
- Prepares graduates for media law practice
- Campus-based study at KU Law and Journalism schools
Wichita State University
#4Wichita, KS · $13,000/yr
Wichita State University delivers a campus-based M.A. in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a Speech-Language Pathology concentration. The 57-credit program spans five to six semesters and includes clinical experience at WSU's on-campus speech clinic as well as off-campus externships. No GRE is required, and the program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA), preparing graduates for both ASHA certification and Kansas state licensure.
- 57 credit hours over five to six semesters
- CAA-accredited, prepares for ASHA certification
- No GRE required for admission
- On-campus speech clinic and off-campus externships
- Thesis or capstone project option available
- Class size limited to approximately 30 students
- Interprofessional learning opportunities included
- Annual HIPAA training required for clinical work
Tuition and Cost Comparison for Kansas Communication Master's Programs
Tuition varies significantly across Kansas institutions, so comparing costs side by side can help you budget more effectively. The net price figures shown below are approximate institutional averages (reflecting typical financial aid packages) and your actual cost will depend on your individual aid offer, residency status, and course load. Program-level median debt and monthly repayment figures are not yet available for these specific programs, but institution-wide median debt at graduation ranges from roughly $18,100 to $21,000, which translates to manageable monthly payments on a standard ten-year repayment plan, often in the $190 to $220 range. Keeping total borrowing within that range can help ensure your degree pays for itself relatively quickly.
| School | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Out-of-State Tuition (Annual) | Approx. Avg. Net Price | Institutional Median Graduate Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Hays State University | $4,949 | $12,745 | $12,569 | $21,000 |
| Wichita State University | $7,986 | $16,873 | $13,194 | $20,500 |
| Washburn University | $10,787 | $20,467 | $15,280 | $18,127 |
| University of Kansas | $11,971 | $27,146 | $18,059 | $21,000 |
Questions to Ask Yourself
Online vs. On-Campus Communication Master's Programs in Kansas
Choosing between an online and on-campus format is one of the most consequential decisions you will make as a graduate student. Kansas institutions offer both options, so your ideal fit depends on how you balance flexibility, networking, and hands-on learning. Washburn University, for example, delivers its Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership entirely online with convenient eight-week course rotations, while programs at the University of Kansas, Fort Hays State University, and Wichita State University are structured for on-campus attendance. Understanding the trade-offs can help you invest your time and tuition wisely.
Pros
- Online programs let working professionals study from anywhere in Kansas without relocating to Hays, Lawrence, Topeka, or Wichita.
- Flexible scheduling, such as Washburn's rotating eight-week courses, makes it easier to balance a full-time job with graduate studies.
- Eliminating commuting, housing, and campus fees can lower the total cost of earning your degree.
- On-campus programs offer direct faculty mentorship and real-time collaboration that deepen critical thinking and communication skills.
- Campus-based students gain access to media labs, speech clinics, and practicum pipelines that strengthen applied learning.
- In-person cohorts often build stronger professional networks through events, guest speakers, and peer study groups.
Cons
- Online students may have limited access to specialized facilities like media production labs or on-campus speech clinics.
- Building professional relationships remotely requires more intentional effort, and spontaneous networking opportunities are fewer.
- On-campus programs demand a geographic commitment, which can be challenging if you live far from Lawrence, Wichita, or Hays.
- Rigid class schedules at campus-based programs can conflict with full-time work obligations and family responsibilities.
- Some hybrid or blended options exist in Kansas, but availability varies by program, so confirm the exact format before you apply.
Related Articles
Career Outcomes and Salary Potential for Kansas Communication Graduates
Understanding the financial return on a graduate degree is essential for prospective students. While comprehensive program-level earnings data for Kansas communication master's graduates are not yet available in federal College Scorecard reports, broader occupational wage data and local labor-market signals provide a clear picture of the earning power and career trajectories awaiting degree holders in the state.
Median Wages for Communication Professionals in Kansas
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that communication-adjacent occupations in Kansas offer competitive wages that reward advanced education and specialized skills. Nationally, media and communication workers earn a median annual wage of $70,300 as of 2024, providing a benchmark for graduates entering the field.1 Kansas-specific data for public relations specialists, media and communication workers, and marketing managers reflect a robust labor market for communication professionals who can navigate strategic messaging, digital platforms, and stakeholder engagement.
Public relations specialists in Kansas, one of the most common landing spots for communication master's holders, typically earn median annual wages in the mid-to-upper $50,000 range, with experienced professionals and those in corporate or agency leadership roles reaching $70,000 or more. Marketing managers, who often hold graduate degrees and oversee integrated communication campaigns, command significantly higher salaries, frequently exceeding $100,000 annually in larger metropolitan areas such as Wichita and the Kansas City metro.
Employment Outlook and Job Growth
Kansas employers across healthcare, education, manufacturing, and professional services continue to expand their communication and marketing teams, driven by the need for digital content strategy, crisis communication, and brand management. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections indicate steady growth for public relations specialists and media-related occupations over the next decade, with demand particularly strong for candidates who combine strategic thinking, data literacy, and multimedia production skills.1
State labor department data underscore that Kansas communication graduates enjoy employment stability, with many securing positions before or shortly after graduation. The state's diverse economy, anchored by aviation, agribusiness, healthcare systems, and higher education, creates demand for communication professionals who can translate complex ideas into compelling narratives for varied audiences.
Job Titles and Salary Ranges
Kansas communication master's graduates pursue a range of roles that leverage their advanced training in research, persuasion, and digital media. For a broader look at careers with a masters in communication, the earning potential varies considerably by role and industry. Common job titles include:
- Public Relations Director: Overseeing media relations, community engagement, and reputation management for corporations, nonprofits, or government agencies, with salaries ranging from $65,000 to $95,000 depending on organization size and location.
- Corporate Communications Manager: Developing internal and external messaging, executive communications, and crisis response strategies, typically earning $60,000 to $85,000 annually in Kansas markets.
- Media Strategist: Designing integrated campaigns across traditional and digital platforms, analyzing audience data, and optimizing content performance, with salaries ranging from $55,000 to $80,000 for mid-career professionals.
Students interested in leadership-focused roles may also explore online masters in organizational communication programs to complement their Kansas-based training. These roles reward graduate-level expertise in communication theory, ethical practice, and applied research, positioning Kansas master's holders for leadership and strategic influence across industries.
Kansas Communication Graduate Earnings at a Glance
How do institutional median earnings stack up against median graduate debt at Kansas schools offering communication-related master's programs? The snapshot below pairs each school's median earnings ten years after enrollment with its median graduate debt, giving you a quick sense of return on investment.
Admissions Requirements and Deadlines for Kansas Communication Programs
Getting into a communication master's program in Kansas starts with assembling a focused application package, and the specifics vary more than you might expect from one school to the next. Here is what each program asks for, when you need to apply, and where the GRE fits in.
GRE Requirements: Mostly Off the Table
Good news for busy professionals: none of the major Kansas communication master's programs currently require GRE scores as a condition of admission. The University of Kansas M.A. in Communication Studies and M.S. in Journalism and Mass Communications both offer GRE waivers for fall 2026.12 Kansas State University's online Master's in Mass Communications likewise does not require the GRE, and Fort Hays State University's Master of Professional Studies in Applied Communication has waived the exam as well.3 Washburn University's M.A. in Communication and Leadership similarly does not list a GRE requirement. If you have strong scores from a recent sitting, submitting them is rarely discouraged, but no Kansas program will hold it against you for skipping the test. This trend mirrors the broader shift happening across the field; you can explore online masters in communication no GRE options nationally if you want to cast a wider net.
GPA Thresholds and Application Materials
Most programs set a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. KU's Communication Studies M.A. and K-State's online mass communications degree both hold to that benchmark.14 If your GPA falls slightly below, some programs will still review your file holistically, weighing professional experience and other credentials.
Typical application materials include:
- Statement of purpose: A focused essay explaining your research interests or professional goals.
- Letters of recommendation: Usually two or three, with at least one from a faculty member familiar with your academic work.
- Writing sample: KU's M.A. in Communication Studies, in particular, asks for an example of scholarly or professional writing.
- Official transcripts: From every institution where you earned college credit.
- Resume or CV: Highlighting relevant professional and academic experience.
Washburn's Communication and Leadership program is notably streamlined: it welcomes applicants from any undergraduate major and charges no application fee.
Deadlines You Need to Know
Timelines differ significantly across Kansas programs:
- University of Kansas M.A. in Communication Studies: Priority deadline of January 6, 2026 for fall entry. Late applications may be considered if spots remain.1
- University of Kansas M.S. in Journalism and Mass Communications: Operates on a rolling admissions basis, so you can apply year-round, though earlier is always better for funding consideration.2
- Fort Hays State University MPS in Applied Communication: Final deadline of July 15 for fall enrollment, giving you more breathing room.
- Kansas State University Master's in Mass Communications (Online): The online format supports multiple start dates throughout the year, making it one of the most flexible options in the state.3
- Washburn University M.A. in Communication and Leadership: Offers rolling admissions with eight-week course rotations, so you can begin in several terms.
A Quick Note on Institutional Selectivity
Federal data shows institution-wide admission rates for several Kansas schools. Fort Hays State admits roughly 90% of applicants at the undergraduate level, Wichita State about 94%, and KU around 93%. Keep in mind these figures reflect university-wide acceptance and not the specific competitiveness of their graduate communication programs, which may be more selective depending on cohort size and funding availability. Graduate admissions committees weigh your statement, writing sample, and letters far more heavily than any single metric.
If you are balancing a full-time job, programs with rolling admissions or multiple start dates (KU's journalism degree, K-State's online option, Washburn's eight-week rotations) give you the most flexibility to apply when you are truly ready rather than racing a fixed deadline.
How Long Does a Master's in Communication Take in Kansas?
Full-time enrollment versus a part-time pace is the single biggest factor that determines how quickly you finish a communication master's in Kansas, but credit requirements and capstone format also play a role. Here is what to expect as you map out your timeline.
Credit-Hour Requirements Across Kansas Programs
Most Kansas communication master's programs fall in the 30 to 36 credit-hour range. The University of Kansas M.A. in Communication Studies and Kansas State University's M.S. in Mass Communications each require 30 credits, while KU's M.S. in Journalism comes in at 36 credits.123 Fort Hays State University's M.S. in Communication Studies sits at 30 credits for the thesis track and 32 for the research-report track.4 That relatively narrow band means your schedule flexibility, not your school choice, is the primary driver of completion time.
Full-Time vs. Part-Time Timelines
Full-time students typically finish in about two years. Kansas State's on-campus M.S. in Mass Communications is designed for a 24-month completion, and KU's journalism master's lists an expected timeline of roughly 30 months for students who carry a standard course load.23 Part-time students, including many working professionals balancing jobs and coursework, should plan on three to four years depending on how many credits they take each semester.
Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Tracks
Choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis (or coursework-only) path can shift your timeline by a semester or more. A thesis requires original research, committee meetings, and a defense, all of which add scheduling variables. Fort Hays State, for example, offers both a thesis track and a research-report track; the latter carries two additional credit hours but typically offers a more predictable completion window.4 Kansas State's online M.S. in Mass Communications follows a non-thesis format, which keeps the program on a straightforward 24-month schedule.5
Online and Year-Round Enrollment Options
Online programs often build in rolling or year-round enrollment periods that let you take summer courses and avoid the idle months that stretch on-campus timelines. K-State's fully online mass communications master's, for instance, maintains the same 30-credit, two-year structure as its campus counterpart while giving students the flexibility to study from anywhere in the state.5 If you can commit to summer terms, you may shave a semester off a part-time plan.
Kansas does not currently publicize a formal combined BA/MA pathway in communication at any of its public universities, so most students enter a master's program after completing their bachelor's in communication. If accelerated options become available, they would typically allow seniors to double-count a few graduate credits, trimming the master's portion to roughly 12 to 18 months of additional study. Keep an eye on program updates at KU, K-State, and Fort Hays State for any new accelerated formats.
Specializations and Concentrations Available in Kansas
Which concentration should you choose to reach your career goals? Kansas graduate programs in communication offer a range of specializations designed to prepare you for distinct career paths, from leading organizational change to managing public health campaigns. Understanding the available concentrations and their industry applications will help you make a strategic decision rather than defaulting to the most popular track.
Strategic and Organizational Communication
Washburn University's Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership integrates communication theory with leadership principles, preparing graduates for management and executive roles across industries. This interdisciplinary concentration appeals to working professionals seeking advancement into director-level positions, human resources leadership, or corporate training roles. Graduates report moving into senior communication management, organizational development, and change-management consulting. If you prefer the flexibility of remote learning, explore online masters in communication management options as well.
Speech-Language Pathology
Multiple Kansas institutions offer specialized master's degrees in speech-language pathology, including Fort Hays State University, Wichita State University, and the University of Kansas. These programs require 51 to 57 credit hours and prepare students for ASHA certification and Kansas state licensure. Clinical practicum experiences span healthcare settings, educational environments, and private practice, opening doors to employment in hospital systems, school districts, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics. Speech-language pathology concentrations lead to a well-defined career trajectory with strong demand in both rural and urban Kansas communities.
Journalism and Mass Communication
Kansas maintains a strong tradition in journalism education. Both the University of Kansas William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications and Kansas State University's A.Q. Miller School of Media & Communication hold ACEJMC accreditation, a quality signal recognized by employers nationwide.1 The University of Kansas earned its initial accreditation in 1948 and was reaccredited in 2024.2 Kansas State also maintains current ACEJMC standing as of 2024.1 These accredited programs offer pathways into broadcast journalism, digital media, strategic communication, and public relations roles.
Matching Concentration to Career Goals
Your concentration choice directly shapes your professional trajectory. Health communication specializations prepare you for roles in hospital systems, public health agencies, and nonprofit health organizations. Strategic communication tracks lead to corporate affairs, internal communications, and brand management positions. Leadership-focused programs appeal to mid-career professionals targeting C-suite or senior management roles. Journalism concentrations prepare you for newsrooms, media organizations, and content strategy positions. Review each program's curriculum, faculty expertise, and practicum partnerships to ensure alignment with your target industry and role.
Frequently Asked Questions About Communication Master's Programs in Kansas
Choosing a graduate program raises plenty of practical questions, from cost and format to career payoff. Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about earning a master's in communication in Kansas.
- How much does a master's in communication cost in Kansas?
- Tuition varies widely depending on the institution, residency status, and delivery format. Public universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University generally offer lower in-state rates, while online programs sometimes use a flat per-credit rate regardless of residency. Across the state's roughly 10 communication master's programs, you can expect total costs to range from roughly $15,000 to over $40,000, so comparing program-specific tuition pages is essential.
- Which Kansas universities offer online master's in communication programs?
- Several Kansas schools provide fully online options. The University of Kansas offers a Digital and Integrated Marketing Communications program online. Kansas State University delivers its Mass Communication master's online as well, and Washburn University runs an online Communication and Leadership degree. These programs make it possible for working professionals statewide, or beyond, to earn their degree without relocating.
- Are master's in communication programs in Kansas accredited?
- Kansas public universities hold regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission, which is the standard recognized by employers and doctoral programs. Some programs carry additional specialized accreditation, such as ACEJMC for journalism and mass communication sequences. Always confirm a program's accreditation status directly with the institution before applying.
- What can you do with a master's in communication degree in Kansas?
- Graduates move into roles such as corporate communications manager, public relations director, HR specialist, change management consultant, and employee engagement specialist. Major Kansas employers, including Koch Industries, T-Mobile, Garmin, state government agencies, and regional health systems, regularly hire professionals with advanced communication expertise. Sectors like corporate, government, higher education, and small business are all common landing spots.
- Do Kansas communication master's programs require the GRE?
- GRE requirements differ by institution and sometimes by program. A growing number of Kansas programs have moved to GRE-optional or test-free admissions, placing greater weight on professional experience, writing samples, and undergraduate GPA. Check each program's current admissions page for the most up-to-date policy, as requirements can shift from one admission cycle to the next.
- What is the salary potential after earning a communication master's in Kansas?
- Salary outcomes depend on your specialization, industry, and experience level. Nationally, communication-related roles such as public relations management and marketing management tend to offer strong earning potential, and a master's degree often provides a measurable salary advantage over a bachelor's alone. Kansas-specific salary data for these roles can fluctuate, so reviewing occupation-level figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for your target job title is a smart step.
