Master’s in Communication in Montana

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Montana is home to one school that offers a master's in communication program. The University of Montana in Missoula offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Communication Studies program that aims to ready students for the doctoral study of communication as well as for professional careers.

Upon graduation, students will be well prepared for doctoral programs in communication, teaching, or a career in one of Montana's major industries such as agriculture, travel and tourism, financial services, state and local government, or healthcare and education. Major employers in Montana that may provide potential career opportunities for communications graduates include Billings Clinic, Glacier Bancorp, Aageson Farm, and Big Sky Resort.

2025 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Montana

Looking for the best Masters in Communication programs in Montana? mastersincommunications.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Our list highlights schools offering strong academics, expert faculty, and valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're aiming for a career in media, public relations, or corporate communication, our rankings guide you to programs that excel. Learn more about how we rank these programs by visiting our ranking methodology page.

#1

The University of Montana

Missoula, MT - Public 4-Year - umt.edu

Master's - Communication Studies M.A.

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Montana's Master of Arts in Communication Studies is designed for those eager to delve into the complexities of communication through a rigorous academic lens. Offering both thesis and professional paper pathways, the program caters to diverse academic and professional aspirations. Students benefit from a curriculum rich in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, rhetoric, and communication theories, equipping them with the analytical tools needed for success in various fields. The program's structure encourages personalized learning with advisor-guided course selection, ensuring a tailored educational experience. Graduates emerge prepared for careers in academia, media, and organizational communication, among others.

  • Master of Arts degree
  • Two pathway options: thesis/professional paper
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Research methods focus
  • 70% of coursework in Communication Studies
  • 27-30 total credit hours
  • Qualitative and quantitative research training
  • Advisor-guided course selection
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

2025 Affordable Montana Masters in Communication Degree Options

Finding affordable Master's in Communication programs in Montana is key for students planning their education for 2025. The right program balances quality with low-cost options, making higher education accessible. Montana offers several economical choices, helping students manage expenses while pursuing their degrees. The table below lists schools, their programs, and tuition ranges to help you compare. Whether you're in Billings, Missoula, or elsewhere in the state, these options aim to fit various budgets without sacrificing quality.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
The University of Montana
  • 36 total credit hours required
  • 18 credits in journalism courses
  • 12 credits in natural resource issues
  • Professional project or portfolio option
  • Diverse media storytelling skills
  • Interdisciplinary scientific training
  • Research and investigation opportunities
  • Advisor-guided course selection
  • $7,700 - $11,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $28,300 - $42,400 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Montana State University Billings
  • Fully online program
  • 3-4 semester completion
  • 55% employment within 9 months
  • Average graduate salary $62,000
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Practical advocacy skills
  • Graduate assistantships available
  • Extensive internship opportunities
  • $6,700 - $10,000 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,000 - $28,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

See below for details about the master's in communication program at the University of Montana:

UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

The University of Montana in Missoula offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program in a traditional on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program prepares students for doctoral study as well as non-academic career options. The program culminates in a thesis or additional coursework and a professional paper.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees at the University of Montana for the 2018-2019 academic year are $6,504 for Montana residents and $20,948 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials by February 1 for admission to the fall semester. Applications received after this date will be considered on a space available basis, but teaching assistantships are typically awarded to applicants who submit materials by February 1. Materials should be submitted by November 1 for the spring semester.

Montana Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

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Missoula, MT

The University of Montana

  • Master's - Communication Studies M.A.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts degree
    • Two pathway options: thesis/professional paper
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Research methods focus
    • 70% of coursework in Communication Studies
    • 27-30 total credit hours
    • Qualitative and quantitative research training
    • Advisor-guided course selection
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/