Master’s in Communication in Oregon

Oregon is home to three schools that offer master's-level communication programs. All three schools provide on-campus programs in the Portland area, and offer several options to focus on various places, including strategic communication, journalism, organizational communication, and rhetorical studies. For working professionals, the University of Oregon's program offers evening and weekend classes to better accommodate a busy work schedule. Following graduation, students are prepared for doctoral study, advanced communication careers or employment in Oregon's major industries such as food and beverage, outdoor gear and apparel, forestry and wood products, high technology, and advanced manufacturing. Major companies headquartered in Oregon that may provide employment opportunities include Nike, Lithia Motors, Columbia Sportswear, OshKosh B'gosh, and Precision Castparts, Corp.

2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Oregon

Oregon offers exceptional master's programs in communication that prepare students for dynamic careers in media, public relations, and digital communication. Our team at Masters in Communications has carefully evaluated and ranked the top communication graduate programs across the state, considering factors like faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student outcomes. These programs provide rigorous academic training and practical skills that equip graduates to excel in today's rapidly evolving communication landscape. Whether you're interested in corporate communication, journalism, or strategic media, Oregon's universities deliver comprehensive and innovative graduate education. For a detailed breakdown of our comprehensive ranking process, visit our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR - Public 4-Year - uoregon.edu

Master's - Communication and Media Studies, MS

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Oregon's Master's in Communication and Media Studies propels students into advanced research and analytical roles across media landscapes. This comprehensive program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, preparing graduates for diverse career trajectories in academia, media research, government, and nonprofit sectors. Uniquely positioned as an R1 Research Institution, the program requires a bachelor's degree and demands robust application materials including recommendations, personal statements, and writing samples. While not mandating specific entrance exams, the program values scholarly potential and innovative research perspectives on media's complex societal dynamics.

  • Interdisciplinary Master's Program
  • Accredited Journalism School
  • R1 Research Institution
  • Bachelor's Degree Required
  • Aligned with PhD Program
  • Research-Focused Curriculum
  • Application Requires Recommendations
  • Personal Statement Needed
  • Writing Sample Required
  • Resume/CV Submission

Master's - Strategic Communication, MS

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Strategic Communication Master's at University of Oregon represents a transformative professional development pathway for mid-career communicators. Tailored for ambitious professionals, this program bridges theoretical knowledge with pragmatic skills in marketing, campaign planning, and leadership strategies. With an optional GRE submission and a curriculum focused on contemporary communication challenges, students cultivate critical thinking abilities essential for public relations, advertising, and corporate communication roles. The program's Portland campus location and award-winning design ensure graduates are equipped to drive meaningful organizational innovation and strategic communication excellence.

  • Strategic Communication MS
  • Mid-career professional focus
  • Optional GRE submission
  • Portland campus location
  • Creativity and leadership skills
  • Marketing and ethics curriculum
  • Professional communication emphasis
  • Award-winning program design
  • Contemporary communication issues
  • Application requires portfolio
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu

Master's - MA/MS in Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon State University's Master's in Communication program provides a rigorous academic journey exploring advanced communication theories and research methodologies. Located in Corvallis, students can pursue either MA or MS tracks with comprehensive training in theoretical perspectives and scholarly communication skills. The 45-credit curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, offering multiple theory concentrations and robust research methods training. Students engage in scholarly ethics development and have opportunities for internships, culminating in either a traditional thesis or creative project. The flexible program design allows deep specialization in relational, rhetorical, and media communication domains, preparing graduates for advanced academic and professional communication roles.

  • Master's degrees: MA and MS
  • Located in Corvallis, Oregon
  • Total program credits: 45
  • Theoretical and research-focused curriculum
  • Multiple theory concentration options
  • Research methods training
  • Thesis or creative work required
  • Scholarly ethics emphasis
  • Interdisciplinary communication approach
  • Elective credits include internships
#3

Portland State University

Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - pdx.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Communication

Campus Based - Visit Website

Portland State University's Master of Science in Communication delivers a comprehensive academic experience situated in the heart of downtown Portland. The program cultivates advanced communication competencies across media, technology, politics, health, and strategic domains. Graduate students benefit from unique opportunities like competitive Teaching Assistantships, which provide tuition coverage and professional development. The curriculum emphasizes practical research methodologies and community engagement, preparing graduates to navigate complex communication landscapes. With rolling admissions, a flexible 4+1 accelerated track, and faculty expertise spanning multiple communication disciplines, students receive robust training to excel in diverse professional environments.

  • Master of Science in Communication
  • Downtown Portland campus location
  • Graduate Teaching Assistantships available
  • 4+1 Accelerated graduate program
  • Rolling admissions process
  • Diverse communication focus areas
  • Faculty experts in multiple domains
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

2026 Affordable Oregon Masters in Communication Degree Options

Finding an affordable master's degree in communication can be a game-changer for professionals looking to advance their careers in Oregon. Students across Portland, Eugene, and other major metropolitan areas have exciting opportunities to pursue advanced education without breaking the bank. Low-cost programs provide critical pathways for individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills and expand professional networks. With carefully selected programs that balance quality education and financial accessibility, prospective students can find valuable master's degrees that fit their budget and career goals. The following table highlights several communication master's programs across Oregon, showcasing program highlights, tuition ranges, and unique opportunities for students ready to invest in their future.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of Oregon
  • Fully online or in-person options
  • Located in SOJC Portland
  • Five immersive media electives
  • Core strategic communication classes
  • Courses in VR, AR, XR technologies
  • Hands-on experience creating immersive content
  • Emerging career preparation
  • Research and internship opportunities
  • $15,400 - $23,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $26,200 - $39,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Portland State University
  • Master of Science in Communication
  • Downtown Portland campus location
  • Graduate Teaching Assistantships available
  • 4+1 Accelerated graduate program
  • Rolling admissions process
  • Diverse communication focus areas
  • Faculty experts in multiple domains
  • $13,800 - $20,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,800 - $29,600 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Oregon State University
  • Master's degrees: MA and MS
  • Located in Corvallis, Oregon
  • Total program credits: 45
  • Theoretical and research-focused curriculum
  • Multiple theory concentration options
  • Research methods training
  • Thesis or creative work required
  • Scholarly ethics emphasis
  • $12,600 - $19,000 (Graduate In-State)
  • $25,400 - $38,000 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Data reference: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

Keep reading for details on each of the master's in communication programs available in Oregon.

PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

Portland State University offers a Master of Science in Communication degree in an on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program is a 46-credit hour program that offers two tracks: a research track which culminates in a thesis and is designed for students interested in Ph.D. programs in communication, and a professional track which culminates in an exam and final project and is designed for students interested in professional careers in communication.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $12,993 for three academic terms (fall, winter and spring) for Oregon residents, and $18,825 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: Portland State University offers courses in 10-week quarters in fall, winter, spring and summer. The M.S. in Communication program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.

UNIVERSITY OF OREGON

University of Oregon offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program on its Portland campus.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program is designed for professionals working in public relations, advertising, marketing and corporate communication and courses are offered evenings and weekends. Most students complete the program in two academic years of six 10-week terms.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition as of fall 2018 is approximately $35,460 for Oregon residents and $52,308 for non-residents and international students.

Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is November 15 for enrollment the following fall. The second round application deadline is February 15, and the third round application deadline is April 15.

UNIVERSITY OF PORTLAND

The University of Portland offers a Master of Arts in Communication program and a Master of Science in Management Communication, both in on-campus formats.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program prepares students for professional communication careers as well as doctoral study, and offers students the choice of these concentrations: journalism, organizational communication and rhetorical studies. The Master of Science in Management Communication is offered in conjunction with the Dr. Robert B. Pamplin, Jr. School of Business and focuses on the role of communication in organizing and developing personnel in organizations.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the graduate communication programs is $1,273 per credit hour for the 2018-2019 academic year.

Anything Else?: Applications for both programs are reviewed on a rolling basis, until the following deadlines: July 19 for the fall semester, December 7 for the spring semester and April 12 for the summer semester.

Oregon Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

Jump to City:

Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University

  • Master's - MA/MS in Communication

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master's degrees: MA and MS
    • Located in Corvallis, Oregon
    • Total program credits: 45
    • Theoretical and research-focused curriculum
    • Multiple theory concentration options
    • Research methods training
    • Thesis or creative work required
    • Scholarly ethics emphasis

Eugene, OR

University of Oregon

  • Master's - Communication and Media Studies, MS

    Campus Based - Website

    • Interdisciplinary Master's Program
    • Accredited Journalism School
    • R1 Research Institution
    • Bachelor's Degree Required
    • Aligned with PhD Program
    • Research-Focused Curriculum
    • Application Requires Recommendations
    • Personal Statement Needed
  • Master's - Strategic Communication, MS

    Campus Based - Website

    • Strategic Communication MS
    • Mid-career professional focus
    • Optional GRE submission
    • Portland campus location
    • Creativity and leadership skills
    • Marketing and ethics curriculum
    • Professional communication emphasis
    • Award-winning program design

Portland, OR

Portland State University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Communication

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Science in Communication
    • Downtown Portland campus location
    • Graduate Teaching Assistantships available
    • 4+1 Accelerated graduate program
    • Rolling admissions process
    • Diverse communication focus areas
    • Faculty experts in multiple domains
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2023 survey.