Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs in 2025
If you are passionate about telling unique stories through videography, advertising, production, media writing, public relations, and more, a master's degree in media communications may be for you. This advanced degree can propel you to new heights in the communications field, leading to rewarding opportunities and higher salaries. If you are ready to take the next step in your communications career, enrolling in an online master's of media communications program should be a top priority.
The following exciting careers can be achieved with a master's in media communications degree:
- Documentary film director
- Broadcast journalist
- Market researcher
- Social media specialist
- Magazine journalist
- News producer
- Public relations/advertising executive
Those interested in a graduate-level media communications degree will be happy to find that online options are readily available to fit the needs of busy working professionals.
2026 Best Online Masters in Media Communication Programs
Pace University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - pace.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's online Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media offers a transformative 36-credit program designed for media professionals seeking comprehensive digital communication skills. Students explore two dynamic concentrations without mandatory GRE/GMAT requirements, emphasizing flexible learning through real-world projects and industry-connected assignments. The program uniquely provides opportunities for hands-on experience via internships and a student-run PR agency, preparing graduates to navigate complex media landscapes. Military-friendly and supporting small class sizes, this online degree ensures professionals develop advanced strategic communication techniques adaptable across multiple industries.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Real-world client assignments
- Internship or thesis track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 3.0 GPA preferred
- Four-year undergraduate degree
- Portfolio submission option
- Small class sizes
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Concentration: Digital Filmmaking and Media Production - Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's online Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media with Digital Filmmaking and Media Production concentration delivers an innovative 36-credit program tailored for aspiring media creators. This concentration focuses on practical filmmaking skills, integrating technical expertise with storytelling techniques. Students engage in hands-on projects, client assignments, and choose between thesis or internship tracks. With no GRE/GMAT requirements and a preferred 3.0 GPA, the program attracts professionals seeking comprehensive digital media training. The curriculum emphasizes networking, real-world media experiences, and industry-aligned learning strategies.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Thesis or internship track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Networking with industry leaders
- Real-world media projects
- Small class sizes
- Career services support
- Experienced industry faculty
Master's - Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media
Concentration: Social Media and Public Relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Pace University's online Master of Arts in Communications and Digital Media's Social Media and Public Relations concentration provides a cutting-edge 36-credit program targeting digital communication professionals. This specialized track equips students with advanced social media strategies, public relations techniques, and comprehensive digital communication skills. The program offers flexible learning without GRE/GMAT requirements, featuring real-world client projects and industry-experienced faculty. Graduates gain competitive advantages through an extensive alumni network including media powerhouses like HBO and NBC, preparing them for dynamic roles in contemporary media and communication landscapes.
- 100% online coursework
- 36-credit graduate program
- Two optional concentrations
- Real-world client projects
- Internship or thesis track
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Alumni network includes HBO/NBC
- Small class sizes
- Faculty with industry experience
- Career services support
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Global Media
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona's online Master of Arts in Global Media provides a comprehensive exploration of international media dynamics, offering students an innovative pathway to understanding complex global communication challenges. Designed for media professionals seeking advanced skills, the program delves into critical issues like climate change, inequality, and political discourse. With a strategic curriculum spanning 31 credits at $650 per credit, students develop sophisticated analytical and comparative media skills. The program emphasizes digital research methodologies, global media systems analysis, and prepares graduates for high-impact careers in nonprofits, international agencies, and media organizations. Military-friendly and featuring distinguished faculty, this online degree equips professionals to navigate and influence contemporary media landscapes.
- 31 total credits required
- Cost per credit: $650
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Global media challenges focus
- Capstone project option
- Esteemed faculty worldwide
- Comparative media systems study
- Digital and research skills development
- Online program format
- Analytical skills emphasis
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, IL - Public 4-Year - siue.edu
Master's - Media Studies
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's online Master of Science in Media Studies delivers a cutting-edge graduate program tailored for communication professionals seeking comprehensive skill enhancement. The hybrid program uniquely blends traditional and online learning formats, offering students unparalleled flexibility. With specialized tracks in professional media practice and media studies, learners develop advanced expertise in message design, critical analysis, and research methodologies. The curriculum prepares graduates for diverse communication roles in journalism, advertising, and public relations while providing a robust academic foundation for potential doctoral or law school pursuits. Small class sizes ensure personalized learning experiences and individualized program advising.
- Master of Science degree
- Flexible course formats
- Small class sizes
- Traditional and online courses
- Professional media concentrations
- Research methods training
- Career-focused curriculum
- Evening and weekend classes
- Personalized program advising
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MN - Public 4-Year - stcloudstate.edu
Master's - Strategic Media Communications
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Cloud State University's online Master of Science in Strategic Media Communications offers a cutting-edge pathway for professionals seeking advanced digital communication skills. This innovative five-semester program allows students to complete two courses per semester, providing maximum flexibility for working professionals. Emphasizing digital content strategy and marketing communications, the curriculum prepares graduates to excel in diverse media environments. Students develop strategic leadership capabilities through a comprehensive approach that includes a capstone applied communications plan and leverages faculty with extensive industry experience. The program uniquely offers stackable certificate options and remote media contribution opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-positioned for career advancement in contemporary media landscapes.
- Fully online master's degree
- Complete in 5 semesters
- Two courses per semester
- Stackable certificate options
- Faculty with industry experience
- Career advancement focused
- Strategic communication skills
- Digital content strategy emphasis
- Capstone applied communications plan
- Remote media contribution opportunities
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - Public 4-Year - sfasu.edu
Master's - MA in Mass Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Stephen F. Austin State University's online Master's in Mass Communication delivers a comprehensive, flexible program tailored for media professionals seeking advanced expertise. The fully online curriculum accommodates diverse learning paths through thesis, non-thesis, and media project tracks, allowing students to customize their academic journey. With 30-36 credit hours, the generalist degree provides robust media communication insights, enabling working professionals to enhance their skills without career interruption. The program strategically prepares graduates to navigate complex media landscapes, offering adaptable coursework schedules that support varied career trajectories in communication fields. No specific entrance exam requirements are prominently noted, making the program accessible to motivated professionals.
- Fully online graduate program
- Three degree completion options
- Generalist mass communication degree
- Flexible coursework schedule
- Thesis, non-thesis, media project tracks
- 30-36 total credit hours
- Supports diverse career trajectories
Choosing an Online Master's in Media Communication Program
While an online master's in media communication is a convenient choice, prospective students should diligently find a program that works for them. Choosing a high-quality, widely respected online program will take you far in your career, so no stone should be left unturned. To find the right online master's in media communications program, consider the following:
Accreditation
Finding an accredited school is a great way to ensure you choose a legitimate online graduate program. Various accrediting bodies exist, but regional organizations such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or the Higher Learning Commission are some of the most common. In addition to this, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications also endorses media communications programs.
Program Cost
The total cost of an online master's in media communication will depend on several factors, such as state/location, type of school, and more. Generally, students will be responsible for covering tuition costs, mandatory fees, and course materials such as textbooks. Online programs can eliminate transportation-related expenses such as gas, parking, and public transportation costs.
For example, full-time students can expect to pay roughly $965 per credit for the online MS in Interactive Media and Communications through Quinnipiac University. This does not include additional technology fees or miscellaneous fees such as books and supplies.
Program Length
Most online master's in media communications programs can be completed within two years, though this may fluctuate due to part-time or full-time attendance. Around 30 credits are needed to be eligible to graduate with the degree. Some programs allow students to continue to work while they earn their degree, while others recommend full-time devotion to the program. It's a good idea to check with your school of choice to see the available scheduling options.
Admissions Requirements
While each school will have its own set of admissions requirements, they commonly include:
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate work
- Professional resume or CV
- Written statement of purpose outlining career goals/professional interests
- Three or more writing samples of professional or scholarly writing
- Three letters of recommendation
Classes and Courses
Online master's in media communications programs focus on a mix of high-level core communications courses and elective courses. Remember that some schools have developed a "hybrid" course delivery method, where many courses are taken online. Still, some in-person or teleconference-based courses and meetings may be required.
As an example, course titles for the Master of Communications and Media Management program at Colorado State University include:
- Digital Media Writing and Production
- Technologies of Public Communication
- Organizational Media Production
- Digital Media Research & Evaluation Methods
- Managing Communication Systems
Advantages of Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs
Many students find that earning their master's degree in media communications online has many advantages and benefits. For those building upon an already existing career, continuing to work while earning a graduate degree is immensely helpful, and online programs make this a snap. For students who live in more rural areas, without the option of attending a program at a nearby university, the online master's in media communications is invaluable. For those trying to keep costs down, the generally lower cost of online programs, combined with the transportation savings, make this option the most affordable. No matter who you are or what your individual needs dictate, an online master's in media communications can take you where you need to go.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Media Communication Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Colorado
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Colorado State University | 475 17th Street, Suite 300 Denver, CO 80202 (970) 491-1814 |
Connecticut
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Sacred Heart University | 5401 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 (203) 396-6877 |
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Lynn University | 3601 N. Military Trail Boca Raton, FL 33431 (561) 237-7000 |
Georgia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Brenau University | 500 Washington St. SE Gainseville, GA 30501 (135) 227-3341 x2 |
University of Georgia | 120 Hooper Street Athens, GA 30602 (706) 542-1704 |
Nebraska
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Nebraska - Lincoln | 313 N 13th St Lincoln, NE 68588 (402) 472-2875 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 North River Road Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0861 |
Tennessee
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Austin Peay State University | 601 College Avenue Clarksville, TN 37044 (931) 221-7378 |
University of Tennessee at Knoxville | 2441 Dunford Hall, 915 Volunteer Blvd. Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-3031 |
Virginia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Regent University | 1000 Regent University Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (800) 373-5504 |
Virginia Commonwealth University | 901 West Main Street, Room 2216 Richmond, VA 23284 (804) 828-2660 |
Washington
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Washington Programs | 102 Communications, Box 353740 Seattle , WA 98195 (206) 543-6745 |