Master’s in Communication in South Carolina

South Carolina offers two schools with master's-level communication degrees. The College of Charleston and the University of South Carolina provide on-campus master's programs. The College of Charleston offers a program with evening classes that prepares students for professional communication careers and careers in teaching or academia. The University of South Carolina offers an accelerated bachelor's/master's program, a professionally-focused mass media program and a joint master's in media and law degree program. Upon graduation, students may seek employment at a local media outlet, advertising or public relations agency, government entity, or non-profit organization across the state. Significant industries in South Carolina that may provide employment opportunities include aerospace, automotive, agribusiness, life sciences and healthcare, as well as education and technology.

2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in South Carolina

South Carolina offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring communication professionals seeking advanced degrees. Our team at Masters in Communications has carefully evaluated and ranked the top communication graduate programs across the state, considering factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student outcomes. Whether you're interested in strategic communication, digital media, journalism, or public relations, these programs provide rigorous training to help you excel in today's dynamic communication landscape. Students can choose from highly respected institutions that blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various communication sectors. For a comprehensive breakdown of our ranking process, visit our https://www.mastersincommunications.org/ranking-methodology/.

#1

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC - Public 4-Year - cofc.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Online Learning - Visit Website

The College of Charleston's Master of Arts in Communication program delivers a comprehensive educational experience designed to transform students into strategic communication professionals. With a curriculum emphasizing advanced writing, research methodologies, and media analysis, students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills essential for modern communication roles. The online program offers flexible learning opportunities, targeting professionals seeking to enhance their communication expertise. Graduates gain proficiency in decoding complex messaging, collaborating across diverse teams, and implementing ethical communication strategies. Military-friendly and featuring dedicated faculty, the program prepares students for leadership positions in various communication-driven industries. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, providing an accessible pathway for passionate communication scholars.

• Advanced writing skills
• Research and analytics focus
• Public speaking development
• Critical thinking enhancement
• Diverse team collaboration
• Media understanding
• Ethical communication emphasis
• Leadership preparation
• Renowned faculty
• Practical training

#2

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC - Private 4-year - bju.edu

Master's - Communication Studies, MA

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bob Jones University's Master of Arts in Communication Studies delivers a comprehensive program designed to cultivate advanced communication proficiencies across professional domains. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, students engage in consulting projects, develop sophisticated research methodologies, and customize their academic journey. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview while preparing graduates for dynamic roles in corporate communication, academic settings, and non-profit sectors. Faculty members, holding doctoral credentials, guide students through quantitative and qualitative research techniques, ensuring comprehensive skill development. Unique program features include professional conference opportunities, potential teaching assistant roles, and an interview-based admission process that prioritizes individual potential and communication excellence.

• Master of Arts in Communication
• Practical communication consulting project
• Research skills development
• Customizable course options
• Career preparation across sectors
• Optional graduate thesis track
• Interview-based admission process
• Professional conference opportunities
• Christian worldview integration
• Quantitative and qualitative research

*IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

Keep reading for details on the master's in communication programs offered in South Carolina.

COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

The College of Charleston offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 33-credit hour program that offers courses in the evenings and is designed to be completed in 21-24 months of study. The program teaches communication theory, basic and applied research and the critical skills needed for a professional communicator, teacher, or scholar. The program culminates in either a field internship opportunity or a master's thesis.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $569 per credit hour for South Carolina residents and $1,448 per credit hour for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The program is designed to be started in the fall semester. The priority application deadline is March 1.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

The University of South Carolina offers three master's in communication programs on their campus in Columbia.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Mass Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that includes a required practicum with a newspaper, magazine, television or radio station, advertising or public relations agency, or government or non-profit entity to gain professional experience prior to graduation. Coursework includes research methods, strategic communication, multimedia journalism and media law. Students have the choice of focusing on either multimedia journalism or strategic communication management. The accelerated Master's in Mass Communication program allow students to complete their bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. The dual Master's in Communication and Law program allows students to earn a master's in communication degree alongside a law degree and finish in four years.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year is $25,993 per year for South Carolina residents taking 6 or more credits per semester, and $33,777 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is May 15 and October 1 for the spring semester.

South Carolina Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs