Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs in 2025
Hoping to expand your career in public relations, corporate communications, or special events and promotions? A master's degree in public relations may be your next step in reaching those goals. Master's in public relations programs, which may include coursework similar to a Master's in Strategic Communication program, teach students to use the advanced communication skills and tools needed to advocate for a brand, organization, social cause, or candidate. Coursework will include public relations writing, ethical issues, research, data analysis, and how to produce multimedia content and compelling messages, shape brand reputation, and build relationships with clients in various industries. It seems every year, public relations as a business focus continually grows to be a focus.
A master's degree in public relations can lead to careers as:
- Communications Director
- Public Relations Manager
- Social Media Manager
- Publicist / Press Agent
- Corporate Spokesperson
- Promotions & Special Events Manager
- Communications Consultant
For many aspiring public relations experts, working in the industry while studying for your master's degree is critical for gaining hands-on experience and landing the best job after graduation. For busy professionals, an online master's in public relations program may be the best way to earn your degree while continuing to work and/or fulfill family obligations.
2026 Best Online Masters in Public Relations Programs
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - Private 4-year - jhu.edu
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Public and Media Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's online Master of Arts in Communication with a Public and Media Relations concentration offers a dynamic, flexible graduate degree tailored for communication professionals. The program uniquely blends writing, research, and strategic communication technologies, empowering students to develop sophisticated messaging techniques across digital platforms. With convenient online learning and multiple entry terms, students can complete the program in 12-24 months. The curriculum is strategically designed for working professionals, providing comprehensive skills in crafting compelling narratives and navigating complex media landscapes. Optional on-campus options and six concentration areas further enhance learning flexibility.
- Online and on-campus options
- 12-24 months to complete
- 10 course requirement
- Six concentration areas
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Visa eligible program
- Fall, Spring, Summer entry terms
- Washington D.C. location
- Designed for working professionals
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Health Communication - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's online Master of Arts in Communication featuring a Health Communication concentration delivers specialized training for professionals seeking to excel in medical and healthcare communication strategies. The hybrid program enables students to develop advanced communication skills specifically tailored to complex healthcare messaging and audience engagement. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum integrates digital platforms, research methodologies, and strategic communication techniques. Students can complete the program in 12-24 months with flexible evening and weekend classes. The program's comprehensive approach prepares graduates to effectively translate intricate health information into clear, impactful communication across various professional settings.
- Online and on-campus options
- 12-24 months completion time
- 6 concentration areas available
- 10 total course requirement
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Fall, Spring, Summer entry terms
- Washington D.C. location
- Visa eligible program
- Designed for working professionals
- Diverse elective course selection
Master's - MA in Communication
Concentration: Digital Communication - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johns Hopkins University's online Master of Arts in Communication with a Digital Communication concentration provides cutting-edge training for professionals navigating the rapidly evolving digital media landscape. The hybrid program emphasizes advanced digital platform expertise, strategic communication technologies, and audience engagement techniques. Students develop sophisticated skills in writing, research, and digital communication strategy, preparing for leadership roles across diverse industries. With flexible online learning options, multiple entry terms, and a completion time of 12-24 months, the program accommodates working professionals. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring graduates are equipped to thrive in today's dynamic communication environments.
- Online and On-Campus Options
- 6 Concentration Areas Available
- 12-24 Month Completion Time
- 10 Total Course Requirement
- Fall, Spring, Summer Entry
- Flexible Evening/Weekend Classes
- Washington D.C. Location
- Visa Eligible Program
- Professional Network Opportunities
- Experienced Communication Faculty
Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY - Private 4-year - hofstra.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Public Relations
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hofstra University's online Master of Arts in Public Relations offers a comprehensive 30-credit program designed for professionals seeking leadership roles in strategic communication. The hybrid program provides maximum flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework full-time or part-time within three semesters. Students explore critical domains like digital platforms, crisis management, and strategic communication, with opportunities to specialize in reputation management or marketing. The curriculum emphasizes practical experiences through mandatory internships and a capstone project, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for dynamic PR environments. No specific entrance exam is explicitly required, making the program accessible to diverse professional backgrounds.
- 30-credit Master's program
- Full-time or part-time options
- On-campus and online classes
- Reputation and crisis concentration
- Marketing concentration available
- Internship and independent study
- Capstone project required
- Core courses in PR fundamentals
- Digital communication focus
- Strategic writing emphasis
Master's - Master of Arts in Public Relations
Concentration: Reputation and Crisis Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hofstra University's online Master of Arts in Public Relations with a Reputation and Crisis Management concentration delivers an intensive 30-credit program targeting professionals seeking advanced strategic communication skills. The hybrid learning format enables students to balance academic pursuits with professional commitments, completing coursework in as little as three semesters. This specialized track deeply explores crisis communication strategies, reputation management techniques, and international PR dynamics. Students engage with cutting-edge digital platforms and theoretical frameworks, preparing them to navigate complex communication challenges. The program's flexible structure and focus on practical applications make it ideal for emerging PR leaders interested in strategic reputation management.
- 30-credit Master's program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Three semester completion possible
- On-campus and online classes
- Optional concentrations available
- Reputation and crisis management track
- Marketing concentration option
- Capstone project required
- Internship and independent study
- Diverse course offerings
Master's - Master of Arts in Public Relations
Concentration: Marketing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Hofstra University's online Master of Arts in Public Relations with a Marketing concentration provides a comprehensive 30-credit graduate program designed for aspiring communication professionals. The hybrid learning model offers unprecedented flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework full-time or part-time within three semesters. This marketing-focused track emphasizes strategic communication, digital media integration, and comprehensive marketing communication techniques. Students develop advanced skills in crafting compelling narratives, managing digital platforms, and executing sophisticated marketing strategies. The program includes mandatory internships and a capstone project, ensuring graduates are equipped with practical, industry-relevant expertise in marketing-driven public relations.
- 30-credit graduate program
- Flexible full/part-time options
- Multiple course concentrations
- On-campus and online classes
- Completion in three semesters
- Reputation and Crisis Management concentration
- Marketing concentration available
- Capstone project required
- Internship and independent study options
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - georgetown.edu
Master's - Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Georgetown University's Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications delivers a comprehensive program designed for strategic communication professionals. The hybrid format provides maximum flexibility, allowing students to complete 30 credit hours within 2-5 years. Located in Washington D.C., the program emphasizes industry-aligned curriculum with real-world client work and cutting-edge communication strategies. Students benefit from year-round entry options, engaging coursework, and preparation for leadership roles across diverse communication sectors. The program costs approximately $50,550 and offers both full-time and part-time tracks, making it accessible for working professionals seeking advanced communication expertise.
- 30 total credit hours
- Full-time or part-time
- Online and on-campus
- Total tuition $50,550
- 2-5 years to complete
- Multiple entry semesters
- Real-world client work
- Industry-aligned curriculum
- PRNEWS A-List Program
- Washington D.C. location
Master's - Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgetown University's fully online Master's in Public Relations & Corporate Communications is engineered for digital communication professionals seeking advanced skills. The program leverages innovative technologies like AI and automation tools, enabling students to develop predictive communication strategies. With a flexible digital curriculum, students can complete 30 credit hours while maintaining their professional careers. The program allows 6-9 hours of weekly engagement, with fall, spring, and summer entry points. Instruction from industry experts ensures students gain practical portfolio materials and hands-on experience through comprehensive case studies and client-focused projects, preparing graduates for dynamic communication leadership roles.
- 30 total credit hours
- Total tuition $50,550
- Fully online program
- 2-5 years to complete
- Full-time or part-time
- Fall, spring, summer entry
- 6-9 hours work per week
- Industry expert instructors
- Flexible digital curriculum
- Tailored to career goals
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's online Master of Communication and Media with a Public Relations concentration provides a comprehensive professional development pathway. This strategically designed program eliminates GRE requirements, enabling working professionals to seamlessly advance their communication careers. Students benefit from a flexible 36-credit curriculum featuring weeknight classes and a robust 86% graduation rate within 24 months. The program uniquely blends theoretical communication frameworks with practical public relations skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in corporate communications, marketing, and strategic media environments. Internship opportunities and expert faculty further enhance the learning experience, making it an ideal choice for aspiring communication professionals seeking career transformation.
- Fully online Public Relations track
- No GRE required
- 36 total credit program
- Weeknight classes 6-9 PM
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Work while studying
- Internship opportunities available
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Digital Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's online Master of Communication and Media Digital Media concentration offers a cutting-edge pathway for professionals navigating the rapidly evolving digital communication landscape. This innovative 36-credit program provides self-paced learning with multiple course delivery formats, ensuring maximum flexibility for working professionals. Students gain advanced skills in content creation, social media management, and strategic digital communication without traditional GRE admission barriers. With seven specialization options and an impressive 86% graduation rate, the program equips students with comprehensive digital media expertise. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, preparing graduates for dynamic roles in marketing, corporate communications, and emerging digital platforms.
- 36 credit, self-paced program
- No GRE required for admission
- Fully online Digital Media specialization
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Flexible weeknight class schedule
- Multiple course delivery formats
- Seven specialization options
- Transfer up to 6 graduate credits
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Communication and Media Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's online Master of Communication and Media in Communication and Media Studies offers a transformative educational experience for communication professionals. This comprehensive 36-credit program eliminates GRE requirements and provides exceptional flexibility through online, hybrid, and campus formats. Students explore seven specialized concentrations, gaining strategic skills under expert faculty guidance. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical insights with practical applications, preparing graduates for leadership roles across digital media, public relations, and corporate communication sectors. With an outstanding 86% graduation rate and opportunities for part-time or full-time study, the program enables working professionals to advance their careers while maintaining existing professional commitments.
- No GRE required
- 36 credit self-paced program
- Seven specialization options
- Online, hybrid, campus formats
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Expert faculty blend theory/practice
- Internship opportunities available
Duke University
Durham, NC - Private 4-year - duke.edu
Master's - Executive Master of Public Affairs
Concentration: leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Duke University's Executive Master of Public Affairs (MPA) delivers a transformative online and hybrid learning experience specifically targeting leadership development for mid-career professionals. The 15-month program uniquely blends on-campus residencies in Durham and Washington, D.C. with flexible digital coursework, catering to professionals with seven years of work experience. Students gain advanced leadership skills through a cohort-based model, focusing on policy analysis and practical public service knowledge. No full-time campus commitment is required, and the program includes a comprehensive capstone project. Applicants should prepare for the upcoming first cohort in summer 2025, with applications opening in August 2024.
- Hybrid learning format
- 15-month degree program
- Mid-career professionals targeted
- First cohort summer 2025
- Applications open August 2024
- Concentrations in leadership, management
- No full-time campus requirement
- Capstone project integration
- Cohort-based learning model
Master's - Executive Master of Public Affairs
Concentration: management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Duke University's Executive Master of Public Affairs (MPA) management concentration offers a strategic hybrid program designed for seasoned public service professionals. This innovative 15-month degree integrates rigorous academic training with practical management skills, allowing participants to continue working while studying. The program emphasizes management, leadership, and ethics, preparing professionals to address complex societal challenges effectively. With residencies in Durham and Washington, D.C., students experience immersive learning without workforce disruption. Tailored for professionals with minimum seven years of work experience, the program provides a flexible, comprehensive approach to public affairs management education.
- Hybrid executive MPA program
- 15-month flexible completion
- Mid-career professionals targeted
- First cohort summer 2025
- Applications open August 2024
- Minimum 7 years work experience
- Campus and DC residencies
- Leadership and ethics focus
- Online and in-person learning
- No workforce disruption
Choosing an Online Master's in Public Relations Program
Once you've decided to pursue an online master's in public relations, the next step is researching and selecting the right program. But how do you know which school is right for you? Keep these critical factors in mind to simplify your decision-making process.
Accreditation
A master's degree is a significant investment in your career, so make sure your selected program will provide you with a high-quality education. One way to ensure a program's quality is by checking its program accreditation. Accreditation means a third-party accrediting organization has evaluated the program according to rigorous academic standards and has met or exceeded these standards so that you can be assured of that program's high quality. Examples of accrediting organizations for master's in public relations programs include the Public Relations Student Society of America, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, as well as regional accrediting bodies such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Cost
The cost of a master's in public relations program can vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of school, geographic location, a student's residency status, and the program length. When considering the total cost of a program, it's important to include mandatory school fees, books, and other program materials in addition to the tuition price.
Online programs are often more affordable than their traditional on-campus counterparts, but this is not always the case. As an example of online program costs, the University of Florida offers a 33-credit online Masters in Public Relations program that costs $19,330. Textbooks and other course materials are not included in this program’s price.
Program Length
Most students complete a master's in public relations program in around two years of full-time study. In some cases, an accelerated program may allow students to finish their degree in 12-18 months. Factors that may impact a program's length include whether students enroll on a full- or part-time basis if any on-campus classroom time is required, and when. With online programs, students are often accepted on a rolling basis, enabling them to begin studying in the fall, spring, or even summer semesters.
Admissions Requirements
To gain admission to a master's in public relations program, students should keep in mind the following admissions requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree, ideally in communication or a related field
- GPA of 3.0 or above in their undergraduate coursework
- Transcripts from all undergraduate colleges attended
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Scores from applicable graduate school tests, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
In many cases, master's in public relations programs require applicants to have completed two to three years of relevant work experience in public relations, journalism, or communications. In addition to the requirements listed above, these students must submit a resume detailing their relevant work experience and/or professional writing samples.
Classes and Courses
A master's in public relations program often includes courses similar to the following, which are part of Webster University's online Master of Arts in Public Relations program:
- Introduction to Public Relations
- Media and Culture
- Writing for Public Relations
- Media Research
- Strategic Communications Applications
- Media Organization & Regulations
- International Communication
- Crisis Management Communication
In addition to the foundational public relations courses listed above, many master's in PR programs allow students to concentrate on a particular area of public relations, such as public affairs and government relations, crisis management, digital communication, or non-profit or cause communication. Many programs also finish with a capstone project or internship component, encouraging students to practice everything they've learned and gain professional public relations experience.
2026 Affordable Online Master's in Public Relations Program Options
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| Northwest Missouri State University |
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| Liberty University |
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| Eastern New Mexico University |
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| Wayne State College |
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2026 Shortest Master's in Public Relations Program Options
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| Georgetown University |
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| University of Southern California |
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| Duke University |
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| Marquette University |
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Advantages of Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs
For busy professionals or those with family commitments, an online master's in public relations program is a convenient and cost-effective way to earn an advanced degree. Online coursework allows students to complete assignments and attend lectures from home and on their schedules, which is particularly important for students gaining professional experience in PR simultaneously. Often with a lower tuition cost than traditional on-campus programs, online programs also allow students in rural areas to choose from more schools without a lengthy commute. These factors make it easier than ever to pursue a master's degree in public relations.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Public Relations Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Colorado
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University College University of Denver | 2211 South Josephine St. Denver, CO 80208 (303) 871-2291 |
Connecticut
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Quinnipiac University Programs | 275 Mount Carmel Avenue, OF-QUO Hamden, CT 06518 (877) 403-4277 |
Sacred Heart University | 5401 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 (203) 396-6877 |
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Florida | 1885 Stadium Road Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 273-3412 |
Montana
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Montana State University | McMullen Hall First Floor East, 1500 University Drive Billings, MT 59101-0245 (406) 657-2888 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 North River Road Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0681 |
Washington, DC
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
George Washington University | 2130 H Street NW Suite 709G Washington, DC 20052 |
Georgetown University | 640 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20001 (202) 687-8700 |