Master’s in Communication in New York
Aspiring communications experts in New York have a wealth of options available to them, from online courses to on campus programs. Several programs are available in the nation's media capital, New York City, while others are found around the Empire State.
New York's major industries, particularly mass media, financial services, tourism, healthcare and retail corporations offer many exciting career opportunities for students graduating from master's in communication programs.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in New York
St Bonaventure University
Saint Bonaventure, NY - Private 4-year - sbu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marketing Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
St. Bonaventure University's Master of Arts in Marketing Communication offers a comprehensive online program designed for strategic communication professionals. Through an innovative curriculum emphasizing design thinking, students develop advanced skills in crafting compelling digital and traditional media content. The ACEJMC-accredited program prepares graduates for leadership roles in marketing by focusing on conceptual thinking, strategic planning, and ethical communication practices. Applicants need a 2.8 undergraduate GPA, must submit recommendations and an essay, and benefit from flexible admission criteria accommodating diverse academic backgrounds. The program uniquely integrates industry-aligned learning with customizable elective options to enhance professional competencies.
- Fully online flexible program
- ACEJMC-accredited communication school
- Design thinking skills development
- Customizable elective options
- 2.8 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Two recommendation letters required
- $1,000 Graduate Scholarship available
- Focus on strategic communication
- Prepares for marketing leadership roles
- Industry-aligned curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Digital Journalism
Online Learning - Visit Website
St. Bonaventure University's Master of Arts in Digital Journalism provides an immersive online experience for aspiring digital storytellers seeking to revolutionize contemporary media landscapes. This dynamic 30-credit program cultivates advanced reporting techniques, digital storytelling skills, and technological competencies across multiple communication platforms. Students learn to craft compelling narratives while maintaining rigorous journalistic standards, with an emphasis on ethical reporting and innovative communication strategies. The curriculum blends foundational journalism principles with cutting-edge digital tools, preparing professionals to excel in diverse news organizations. Admission requires a 2.5 undergraduate GPA and a writing sample, ensuring students possess strong foundational communication abilities.
- 30-credit master's program
- Digital journalism focus
- Undergraduate GPA 2.5+ required
- Writing sample needed
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for graduation
- Digital project presentation required
- Ethical journalism emphasis
- Diverse digital storytelling skills
- Advanced reporting techniques
- Social media storytelling course
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - Private 4-year - columbia.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's on-campus Strategic Communication Master's program provides an intensive 16-month immersive experience designed to transform communication professionals. Students can complete the program in an accelerated 12-month track, focusing on developing sophisticated strategic communication competencies. The curriculum integrates analytical frameworks, organizational communication strategies, and practical skill development through a comprehensive Capstone Project involving real organizations. Admission emphasizes strong academic performance and analytical writing capabilities. Unique program features include networking opportunities with industry executives, access to Columbia's expansive global alumni network, and individualized professional guidance. The program particularly appeals to professionals with 1-2 years of work experience seeking advanced communication expertise.
- 16-month full-time program
- Accelerated 12-month option
- On-campus classes
- Capstone Project with real organizations
- Elective classes across Columbia
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia's global alumni network
- Optional graduate-level internship
- Small class sizes
- Individualized feedback
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University offers a flexible hybrid Strategic Communication Master's program tailored for working professionals seeking advanced communication skills. This innovative degree allows part-time completion within 24-36 months, featuring synchronous online coursework and occasional residencies. Designed for early and mid-career communication professionals, the program develops sophisticated digital strategies, stakeholder assessment techniques, and advanced analytical capabilities. Participants benefit from small class sizes, real-world capstone projects, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. The curriculum provides exceptional flexibility for full-time professionals, enabling seamless integration of academic learning with professional responsibilities while maintaining academic rigor and practical relevance.
- Part-time online with residencies
- Flexible 24-36 month completion
- Two professional experience cohorts
- Synchronous online coursework
- Real-world capstone project
- Small class sizes
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia resources
- Suitable for full-time professionals
- Academically rigorous curriculum
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY - Public 4-Year - buffalo.edu
Master's - Communication MA
Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Master's in Communication provides a comprehensive academic journey for professionals seeking advanced skills in communication theory and research. The program spans 36 credit hours, enabling full-time students to complete their degree within two years. Designed for aspiring academics, business professionals, and government communicators, the curriculum emphasizes scholarly research methodologies and practical applications. Students benefit from an immersive in-person learning environment that prepares them for diverse career paths across multiple communication sectors. The program requires a $75 application fee and offers a terminal master's degree with opportunities for personalized academic exploration.
- 36 credit hours required
- 2 years to complete
- Full-time study option
- In-person instruction
- $75 application fee
- Focus on communication theory
- Research methodologies emphasis
- Prepares for academia, business, government
- Terminal master's degree offered
- Scholarly study of communication process
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Misinformation and society - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Master's in Communication specializing in Misinformation and Society offers a groundbreaking approach to understanding contemporary communication challenges. The program provides a research-driven curriculum that explores complex digital media landscapes, political discourse, and emerging societal communication dynamics. Students engage with innovative methodologies, examining misinformation's impact across various contexts. The flexible academic structure allows personalized research trajectories aligned with faculty expertise, empowering graduates to become critical scholars and professionals adept at analyzing and addressing complex communication phenomena in digital environments.
- No traditional communication tracks
- Flexible research-driven curriculum
- Broad communication theory focus
- Innovative research methodologies
- Multiple research concentration areas
- Supports individual academic goals
- Practical communication theory application
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Digital and social media - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Master's in Communication with a Digital and Social Media concentration delivers a cutting-edge educational experience for digital communication professionals. The program integrates advanced theoretical frameworks with practical research methodologies, enabling students to navigate complex digital communication ecosystems. Participants explore emerging digital platforms, social media strategies, and communication technologies through a comprehensive, research-focused curriculum. The flexible program structure supports individual academic goals, providing students with opportunities to develop specialized skills in digital communication analysis, strategy development, and innovative media research approaches.
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Six primary research focus areas
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Supports individual academic goals
- Research methodology training
- Practical communication theory application
Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Health communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Buffalo's Master's in Communication focusing on Health Communication provides a sophisticated academic pathway for professionals seeking to understand complex healthcare communication dynamics. The program offers comprehensive training in communication theories, research methodologies, and practical applications specific to healthcare contexts. Students explore critical intersections between communication science and health disciplines, developing advanced skills in analyzing, interpreting, and addressing communication challenges within medical and public health environments. The research-driven curriculum supports individual academic goals while preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare communication, research, and policy development.
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Research methodology training
- Diverse research focus areas
- Individual academic support
- Supports career development goals
University at Albany
Albany, NY - Public 4-Year - albany.edu
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University at Albany's MA in Communication with Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication concentration offers a strategic pathway for communication professionals seeking advanced skills. This program uniquely focuses on understanding complex human interactions across diverse cultural contexts, leveraging theoretical frameworks and practical methodologies. Students develop sophisticated research capabilities through comprehensive coursework exploring communication dynamics, intercultural nuances, and relational communication strategies. With no GRE requirement and rolling admissions, the program provides flexible entry for aspiring communication leaders. Graduates gain expertise in analyzing interpersonal communication patterns, understanding cross-cultural communication challenges, and developing innovative messaging approaches applicable in global professional environments.
- Master of Arts in Communication.
- Concentrations in four areas.
- Research project or practicum option.
- Rolling admissions for Fall, Spring, Summer.
- Transcripts required for application.
- Three letters of recommendation needed.
- Statement of goals required.
- Writing sample submission.
- No GRE scores required.
- TOEFL/IELTS for international students.
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Albany's MA in Communication, specializing in Organizational Communication, prepares professionals to navigate complex communication landscapes within corporate and institutional settings. This concentration emphasizes strategic messaging, leadership communication, and organizational behavior analysis. Students develop advanced skills in understanding internal communication dynamics, communication management, and strategic planning techniques. The program's curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling graduates to design effective communication strategies across diverse organizational contexts. With no GRE requirement and opportunities for internships, students gain comprehensive insights into organizational communication processes, preparing them for executive and consulting roles in various industries.
- Four concentration areas available
- Internship and research opportunities
- No GRE scores required
- Rolling admissions for Fall/Spring/Summer
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Capstone research or practicum
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Mentorship from active faculty
- Develop advanced communication skills
- Prepares for doctoral study
Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University at Albany's MA in Communication with Political Communication concentration equips students with sophisticated analytical and strategic communication skills tailored for political environments. This program explores the intricate relationships between communication, media, public opinion, and political discourse. Students develop advanced research methodologies to understand political messaging, campaign strategies, and communication effectiveness in governmental and political landscapes. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing graduates for roles in political consulting, policy analysis, and strategic communication. With rolling admissions and no GRE requirement, the program offers accessible pathways for professionals seeking to understand and influence political communication dynamics.
- Four concentration areas available
- No GRE scores required
- Internship opportunities offered
- Research or practicum capstone
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Rolling admissions
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- International students welcome
- Career-focused curriculum
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
New York, NY - Public 4-Year - baruch.cuny.edu
Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's MA in Strategic Communication offers a comprehensive 36-credit program designed for aspiring communication professionals seeking advanced leadership skills. Students can pursue full-time or part-time options, completing the degree in approximately two years with flexible evening classes. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, featuring five mandatory courses and seven elective options. Participants develop expertise across diverse economic sectors, including for-profit, non-profit, and government organizations. A distinctive thesis or capstone project allows students to demonstrate advanced strategic communication competencies. The program limits class sizes to 28, ensuring personalized learning experiences and fostering meaningful interactions among working professionals seeking career advancement.
- 36 Credits
- Evening classes
- Full-time or part-time
- 5 Required Courses
- 7 Elective Courses
- Thesis or Capstone
- 70-75 students
- Classes limited to 28
- 2 years full time
- 6:05-9:00 pm EST
2026 Affordable New York Masters in Communication Degree Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| CUNY Hunter College |
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| State University of New York at Oswego |
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Pace University
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See below for details about master's in communications programs available in New York.
ITHACA COLLEGE
Ithaca College offers a Master of Science in Communication Innovation program as an online course of study.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication Innovation is a 24-month online master's degree with 7 to 10 hours of work per week that can be completed when it is convenient for working professional students.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the MS degree in Communication Innovation is $56,000, not including travel expenses for destination intensive courses. Students are permitted to divide tuition costs into four payments (one per semester) of $14,000.
Anything Else?: Students choose five long-weekend destination intensive courses to supplement online learning, offered in various sites over the program's two years.
RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
Rennsselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy offers a traditional on campus Ph.D. in Communication and Rhetoric program.
What to Know: The Ph.D. program in Communication and Rhetoric offers a multidisciplinary curriculum in communication, culture, design and media.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition is $51,000 per year for full-time students.
SUNY - UNIVERSITY OF ALBANY
SUNY in Albany offers a Master of Arts in Communication program that is accessible to both full-time students and working professionals with evening, online and hybrid courses.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program prepares students for careers in communication professions within a variety of contexts: political, organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, technology and health. The program allows students to choose from one of the following concentrations: health communication, interpersonal and intercultural communication, organizational communication or political communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $453 per credit for New York residents, and $925 per credit for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The deadline for applications is July 15 for a fall semester program start, and November 1 for a spring semester start.
SUNY - OSWEGO
SUNY College in Oswego offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program online and in an on campus classroom format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to select one of three tracks in the 34-credit program: Integrated Media & Social Networks, Health Communication and Organizational Communication.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit hour is $453 for New York residents, and $925 for non-residents.
Anything Else?: SUNY - Oswego reviews applications on a rolling basis.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY - NEWHOUSE SCHOOL
Syracuse University's Newhouse School offers a variety of master's level communications degrees.
What to Know: Among the many master's level communications programs at the Newhouse School, students can choose from degree programs in advertising, arts journalism, broadcast & digital journalism, communications management, media and education, media studies, public diplomacy, public relations and television, radio & film.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition and fees vary depending on the program selected. For more information about the current costs of each program, please visit the tuition and financial aid page.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the on campus master's level programs is January 15. For more information about these deadlines, please visit the admissions requirements page.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY - COLLEGE OF VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS
Syracuse University's College of Visual & Performing Arts offers a Master of Arts in Communication & Rhetorical Studies program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication & Rhetorical Studies program offers a strong academic research focus and is aimed at students who plan to pursue a doctoral-level education.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $1,559 per credit hour for graduate students at the College of Visual & Performing Arts.
Anything Else?: The application deadline is February 1 for admission in the fall.
Buffalo Master’s in Communication Programs
SUNY - UNIVERSITY OF BUFFALO
SUNY in Buffalo offers a Master of Arts in Comunication program that is offered in a traditional, on campus format.
What to Know: The 36-credit program focuses on the scholarly study of the communication process, with coursework focusing on communication theory and research methodologies. It is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees for New York residents is $13,383 per year, and $24,723.50 per year for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for students requesting financial aid is January 15. For all other students, applications will be processed until classes start in the fall.
New York City Master’s in Communication Programs
BARUCH COLLEGE
Baruch College in New York City offers a Master of Arts in Corporate Communication program in a traditional classroom format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Corporate Communication program is designed for working professionals, with classes offered in the evenings and can be completed in three semesters.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit for New York residents is $425, and $780 per credit for non-residents and international students. There is also an academic excellence fee of $500 per semester.
Anything Else?: The MA in Corporate Communication is a 36-credit hour program that consists of six required courses and six elective courses, with classes taking place from 6:05 - 9:00 p.m.
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
Columbia University in New York City offers an Executive Master of Science of Strategic Communication hybrid program that combines online study with on campus classroom work.
What to Know: The Executive Master of Science of Strategic Communication program is designed for experienced communication professionals and those in leadership positions in a wide range of industries who wish to become experts in communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the Executive Master of Science program is $2,018 per point, which does not include fees, texts and course materials. A full summary of fees can be found here.
Anything Else?: Each semester features a combination of multi-day intensive study, weekend classes and online activities and engagement. When not at Columbia, students access resources, submit assignments and communication via an online learning platform.
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY – STEINHART
New York University's Steinhardt in New York City offers a Master of Arts in Media, Culture and Communication in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Media, Culture and Communication program focuses on the study of global media and culture, digital media and new technologies, media history and theory, political communication and more. The 36-credit hour program can be taken full- or part-time.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition is $1,660 per credit hour for graduate studies at NYU Steinhardt.
Anything Else?: The deadline for applications is February 1 for a fall semester program start.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in New York
FORDHAM UNIVERSITY
Fordham offers a graduate level Strategic Marketing Communications program that is delivered in an online format.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Strategic Marketing Communications program is designed to be completed in four consecutive terms. The curriculum includes courses on media strategy, crisis communications, consumer behavior, market research analysis, and more.
What Does It Cost?: MS program tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 school year are $1,511 per credit for continuing students (started prior to Fall 2017), and $1,555 per credit for new students (started Fall 2017 or later).
Anything Else?: While the coursework is delivered online, all students are required to come to New York twice during their program for residencies at leading advertising, PR, and marketing firms.
MARIST COLLEGE
Marist College in Poughkeepsie offers students two options for online master's-level communication degrees.
What to Know: The online Integrated Marketing Communication Master's program focuses on digital interactive marketing and strategic communication tactics, with courses offered in public relations, social media, marketing research, branding, strategy and global marketing insights.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for both online programs is $800 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications for fall enrollment are due by August 1.
ST. BONAVENTURE UNIVERSITY
St. Bonaventure University offers a Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) that is 100% online.
What to Know: The Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications program can be completed in as little as one year - two seven-week courses per semester. The curriculum addresses topics such as creative message strategy, new media, and marketing communications research.
What Does It Cost?: The cost to attend St. Bonaventure's IMC program is $24,915 total, or $755 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Students are able to customize their IMC program curriculum with two electives.
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
Syracuse’s Newhouse School portfolio of programs includes a fully online Master of Science in Communication program; choose from three specializations: Public Relations, Advertising and Journalism Innovation.
Anything Else?: The online program offers four start dates per year with differing application deadlines. For more information about these deadlines, please visit the admissions requirements page.
New York Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Albany, NY
University at Albany
- Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Communication.
- Concentrations in four areas.
- Research project or practicum option.
- Rolling admissions for Fall, Spring, Summer.
- Transcripts required for application.
- Three letters of recommendation needed.
- Statement of goals required.
- Writing sample submission.
- Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Four concentration areas available
- Internship and research opportunities
- No GRE scores required
- Rolling admissions for Fall/Spring/Summer
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Capstone research or practicum
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Mentorship from active faculty
- Master's - MA Communication
Concentration: Political Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Four concentration areas available
- No GRE scores required
- Internship opportunities offered
- Research or practicum capstone
- Accelerated BA/MA option
- Rolling admissions
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
Buffalo, NY
University at Buffalo
- Master's - Communication MA
Campus Based - Website
- 36 credit hours required
- 2 years to complete
- Full-time study option
- In-person instruction
- $75 application fee
- Focus on communication theory
- Research methodologies emphasis
- Prepares for academia, business, government
- Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Digital and social media - Campus Based - Website
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Six primary research focus areas
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Supports individual academic goals
- Research methodology training
- Practical communication theory application
- Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Health communication - Campus Based - Website
- Flexible research-focused program
- No traditional communication tracks
- Emphasizes theoretical understanding
- Research methodology training
- Diverse research focus areas
- Individual academic support
- Supports career development goals
- Master's - Communication MA
Concentration: Misinformation and society - Campus Based - Website
- No traditional communication tracks
- Flexible research-driven curriculum
- Broad communication theory focus
- Innovative research methodologies
- Multiple research concentration areas
- Supports individual academic goals
- Practical communication theory application
Cortland, NY
State University of New York at Cortland
- Master's - Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Campus Based - Website
- 58 credit hours required.
- Includes clinical experience.
- Prepares for ASHA certification.
- Leads to NY State Licensure.
- Teacher certification available.
- Accredited by CAA.
- High completion rate.
- 100% employment rate.
New Paltz, NY
State University of New York at New Paltz
- Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 33 total program credits
- Completed within 2 years
- Fully online degree
- Full-time or part-time options
- Thesis or applied research capstone
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Professional recommendation needed
- Admission essay required
New York, NY
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
- Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 36 Credits
- Evening classes
- Full-time or part-time
- 5 Required Courses
- 7 Elective Courses
- Thesis or Capstone
- 70-75 students
- Classes limited to 28
Columbia University in the City of New York
- Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month full-time program
- Accelerated 12-month option
- On-campus classes
- Capstone Project with real organizations
- Elective classes across Columbia
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia's global alumni network
- Optional graduate-level internship
- Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time online with residencies
- Flexible 24-36 month completion
- Two professional experience cohorts
- Synchronous online coursework
- Real-world capstone project
- Small class sizes
- Networking with industry executives
- Access to Columbia resources
New York University
- Master's - MA in Media, Culture, and Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts in Media, Communication
- 36 total program credits
- Full-time or part-time options
- No GRE required
- Global media focus
- Study abroad opportunities
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Statement of purpose required
- Master's - Master of Arts in Media, Culture, and Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- 36 total credits required
- Full-time or part-time format
- No GRE required
- Two letters of recommendation
- 800-1000 word statement of purpose
- Academic and career goals statement
- International applicants welcome
Rochester, NY
Rochester Institute of Technology
- Master's - Communication MS
Campus Based - Website
- Future-focused communication curriculum
- 5 key research areas
- Optional cooperative education
- STEM-adjacent program
- 30 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- No entrance exam required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended