Best Online Master’s in Public Relations for Minnesota (2026)
Updated July 26, 202625+ min read

Best Master's in Public Relations for Minnesota Students

Top-ranked online PR programs available to Minnesota professionals, compared by cost, outcomes, and curriculum.

What you’ll learn in this article…

  • Minnesota employs nearly 7,000 PR specialists earning a median $67,180 annually.
  • No Minnesota university offers a fully online PR master's degree.
  • Top nationally available online programs start under $15,000 in total tuition.

Minnesota's public relations sector is anchored by Fortune 500 in-house teams at Target, 3M, Best Buy, UnitedHealth Group, and General Mills, plus a dense agency network across Minneapolis and St. Paul. Yet no Minnesota university currently offers a dedicated master's degree in public relations, leaving working professionals to choose between adjacent strategic communication programs at in-state schools or nationally available online PR degrees.

That gap is why this ranking focuses on accredited online programs from institutions like USC Annenberg, Georgetown, DePaul, and Washington State, all of which enroll Minnesota residents and can be completed remotely. Tuition across these programs ranges from roughly $8,000 to over $70,000 total, a spread that reflects real differences in brand, faculty access, and alumni networks rather than just curriculum depth.

Top Online Master's in Public Relations Programs for Minnesota Students

Because no Minnesota-based university currently offers a fully online master's degree focused specifically on public relations, professionals in the Twin Cities and beyond can look to nationally available online programs. The programs below were selected using a quality composite that blends institutional graduation rates, net price, alumni earnings, and online delivery accessibility, then drawn from federal data published by the U.S. Department of Education. Every program on this list accepts students from Minnesota and can be completed remotely, giving you the flexibility to advance your career without relocating.

Factors considered
  • Online delivery accessibility
  • Institutional graduation rate
  • Net price and affordability
  • Graduate alumni earnings
  • Program relevance and depth
Data sources

University of Southern California

#1

Los Angeles, CA · $33,000/yr

Best for: Ambitious PR strategists seeking elite credentials

USC is a top-tier private research university in Los Angeles with an institution-wide graduation rate of approximately 92%. The university's Annenberg School has a long track record in communication education, and alumni across all programs report median earnings of roughly $92,500 ten years after enrollment. For Minnesota professionals, the fully online MS format means access to Annenberg-caliber instruction and a global alumni network without leaving the state.

  • Fully online program completable in 12 months or on a two-year track
  • Curriculum blends critical thinking, ethics, and data-driven PR decision-making
  • Covers business fundamentals including finance and economics
  • Emphasizes multiplatform content creation and influencer relations
  • Networking events connect students with industry leaders
  • Taught by USC Annenberg faculty with global-brand experience
  • Focus on persuasive storytelling and strategic campaign management

Georgetown University

#2

Washington, DC · $40,000 – $45,000/yr

Best for: Policy-savvy communicators wanting D.C. connections

Georgetown University, located in Washington, D.C., boasts an institution-wide graduation rate near 95% and median alumni earnings of about $103,500 a decade after enrollment. Its School of Continuing Studies offers two paths to a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Corporate Communications: a fully online track and a hybrid option. Minnesota students benefit from the same curriculum and D.C.-connected faculty regardless of format, including coursework on AI-driven communication tools and hands-on client projects.

  • 30-credit fully online program with fall, spring, and summer entry
  • Total tuition of $52,560 with full-time or part-time pacing
  • Completion in two to five years depending on course load
  • Coursework covers digital communications, media relations, and AI tools
  • Hands-on client projects and experiential learning components
  • Designed for working professionals balancing career and study
  • Bachelor's degree required for admission
  • Same 30-credit, $52,560 curriculum available in hybrid format
  • Combines on-campus sessions in D.C. with online coursework
  • Focuses on strategic writing, planning, research, and ethics
  • Full-time or part-time enrollment options available
  • Multiple annual start terms for scheduling flexibility
  • Industry-aligned curriculum updated to reflect current trends

Washington State University

#3

Pullman, WA · $15,000/yr

Best for: Career changers seeking affordable public university tuition

Washington State University delivers its MA in Strategic Communication entirely online through its Global Campus, making the 30-credit program accessible to students nationwide. Schools offering this program have an institution-wide graduation rate of about 60%, and median alumni earnings reach roughly $68,900 ten years after enrollment. With spring, summer, and fall start dates, Minnesota professionals can begin on a timeline that fits their schedule and pay a single tuition rate regardless of residency.

  • 30-credit fully online program with no GRE requirement
  • Cohort-based structure with weekly online office hours
  • Courses cover multimedia content creation, crisis communication, and ethics
  • Capstone project produces portfolio-quality work samples
  • Hands-on training with current industry tools
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA and statement of purpose required for admission
  • Multiple annual start dates in spring, summer, and fall

Lipscomb University

#4

Nashville, TN · $25,000/yr

Lipscomb University in Nashville offers a 36-credit Master of Arts in Public Relations through a hybrid model that blends online coursework with periodic on-campus sessions. The institution's graduation rate is approximately 72%, and its net price of about $24,739 positions it in the mid-range for private universities. The program can be completed in as little as one year, making it a strong fit for Minnesota professionals who can accommodate occasional travel to Tennessee.

  • 36-credit hybrid program completable in one year
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Curriculum covers campaign management, communication theory, and social media
  • Optional thesis track and applied research specializations
  • Experiential learning embedded throughout the coursework
  • 15-credit standalone certificate option also available
  • Faculty include seasoned PR and communication professionals

Northwest Missouri State University

#5

Maryville, MO · $15,000 – $20,000/yr

Northwest Missouri State University stands out for sheer affordability: total tuition for its 30-credit online MA in Strategic Communication is listed at $12,210, with a flat per-credit rate that applies to all students regardless of state of residence. The institution-wide graduation rate is about 54%, and accelerated seven-week course terms allow completion in as few as 12 months. For budget-conscious Minnesota professionals, this is one of the most cost-effective online PR master's pathways available.

  • 30-credit, 100% online program with seven-week course terms
  • Total tuition of $12,210 at $407 per credit hour
  • Same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students
  • Covers communication campaigns, brand management, and data analysis
  • Capstone project required for graduation
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA and statement of purpose needed to apply
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year
  • Higher Learning Commission accredited

DePaul University

#6

Chicago, IL · ~$31,000/yr (est.)

DePaul University's College of Communication in Chicago offers a Master of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising that merges PR strategy with advertising and integrated marketing. The institution-wide graduation rate is roughly 68%, and its net price of about $30,902 reflects available tuition awards and graduate assistantships. While primarily hybrid with evening classes on the Loop Campus, some courses are offered online, and the Chicago agency ecosystem provides internship and networking opportunities that extend virtually to Minnesota students.

  • Hybrid program with weekday evening classes and some online courses
  • Approximately two years to complete
  • Curriculum spans digital, social, and traditional media strategies
  • Portfolio projects with real agency and corporate clients
  • Internship opportunities within the Chicago market
  • Tuition awards, scholarships, and graduate assistantships available
  • Admission requires transcripts, writing sample, and recommendations

Liberty University

#7

Lynchburg, VA · $29,000/yr

Liberty University offers two fully online master's degrees in public relations through its School of Communication and Arts: a 33-credit MA in Strategic Communication with a Public Relations concentration and a 30-credit MA in Public Relations. Both use eight-week course terms with multiple annual start dates, and students can transfer up to 50% of their graduate credits. With a net price near $29,357 and military tuition discounts, the programs are designed for accessibility across diverse professional backgrounds.

  • 33-credit, 100% online program with eight-week terms
  • $580 per credit hour with military discounts available
  • Covers PR writing, strategic planning, and organizational change
  • No standardized testing required for admission
  • Transfer up to 50% of graduate credits
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required for admission
  • 30-credit, fully online program with eight-week terms
  • Coursework in crisis communication and analytics
  • Same $580 per credit rate with military pricing options
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year
  • No standardized testing required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required for admission

Columbus State University

#8

Columbus, GA · ~$13,000/yr (est.)

Columbus State University in Georgia delivers its 30-credit Master of Arts in Communication with a Strategic Communication Management concentration entirely online. With a net price of approximately $13,115, it is among the most affordable options on this list. Schools offering this program have an institution-wide graduation rate of about 42%, and graduate assistantships that include tuition waivers and stipends can further reduce costs for qualifying students.

  • 30-credit, 100% online program with flexible pacing
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Graduate assistantships offer 50% tuition waivers and stipends
  • Covers strategic messaging, campaign management, and digital media
  • Full-time or part-time enrollment with evening and weekend options
  • Transfer up to six credits from another institution
  • Seven-year completion window accommodates working professionals

Marist College

#9

Poughkeepsie, NY · $42,000/yr

Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York, offers a fully online Master's in Marketing Communication with a dedicated Public Relations concentration. The institution-wide graduation rate is approximately 80%, and the curriculum uses an immersive case-study approach that covers social media analytics, branding, and digital storytelling. Minnesota students can choose between a full-time or a two-year part-time track, and additional concentrations in digital marketing and health communication allow further specialization.

  • Fully online program with full-time or part-time pacing
  • Six core courses plus four elective courses
  • Public Relations is one of three available concentrations
  • Immersive case-study and digital storytelling approach
  • Covers social media analytics, branding, and global consumer insights
  • Faculty bring active industry backgrounds to the classroom
  • Stackable certificate options align with each concentration

Trinity Washington University

#10

Washington, DC · $9,000/yr (net price)

Trinity Washington University offers an online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations designed for working professionals who need evening and weekend scheduling. Its net price of roughly $9,302 makes it the most affordable private-university option on this list. The institution-wide graduation rate is about 49%, and courses are taught by D.C.-area industry practitioners who bring real-world campaign and organizational communication expertise to the virtual classroom.

  • Fully online program with evening and weekend class options
  • Professionally oriented curriculum taught by industry practitioners
  • Housed within the School of Professional and Graduate Studies
  • Flexible weekly and alternative-weekly course formats
  • Concentrated study in strategic messaging and PR leadership
  • Bachelor's degree required for admission

Why Minnesota Professionals Are Earning a PR Master's Online

Minnesota's PR Landscape Calls for Advanced Skills, Not a Local Degree

If you are searching for a dedicated master's in public relations at a Minnesota university, you will not find one. The state's closest options are the University of Minnesota's Professional MA in Strategic Communication and Minnesota State Mankato's MS in Communication Studies with a Public Relations track. Both are strong programs, but they approach the field through strategic communication or general communication studies rather than delivering a curriculum built entirely around public relations theory, digital PR, and campaign management. For professionals who want a degree with "public relations" in the title and fully online flexibility, looking beyond state borders is the norm.

The Twin Cities' Corporate Demand Makes It Worthwhile

Minnesota does not lack PR opportunity. The Twin Cities metro is home to Fortune 500 headquarters like Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, General Mills, and Medtronic, all of which maintain large in-house corporate communications and public affairs teams. Top-tier agencies including Padilla, Carmichael Lynch Relate, and Weber Shandwick's Minneapolis office anchor a vibrant agency scene.2 This concentration of employers means there is steady demand for advanced practitioners who can lead integrated campaigns, manage crisis communication, and use data to shape messaging. A master's degree signals that level of readiness, even if the program is earned online from a provider outside Minnesota.

Online Programs Welcome Minnesota Students with Fair Pricing

Every online master's in public relations program featured on this site accepts applicants from Minnesota. Many institutions have moved to flat-rate online tuition, eliminating the old out-of-state penalty. That means a working parent in St. Paul can enroll in a nationally ranked program for the same per-credit cost as a student living next to the campus. Cohort-based models, like UMN's Professional MA, offer synchronous evening classes that fit a full-time work schedule, while asynchronous options let you engage with coursework whenever your day allows. The key point: you do not have to relocate or settle for a program that only partially aligns with your PR goals. A dedicated online PR master's is fully accessible from anywhere in Minnesota.

What Minnesota PR Professionals Earn: Salary Snapshot

Minnesota employs nearly 7,000 public relations specialists statewide, with the majority concentrated in the Twin Cities metro. The figures below offer an at-a-glance look at current compensation and workforce size. Keep in mind that professionals holding a graduate degree typically earn above these medians, a topic explored in the career outcomes section ahead.

Median PR specialist salaries of $65,000 statewide and $68,200 in Minneapolis-St. Paul compared with the $69,780 national median, plus employment totals and top-earner wages

What You'll Study in an Online PR Master's Program

Online master's programs in public relations have evolved to reflect how the profession itself has changed, blending foundational communication theory with emerging digital competencies that today's employers expect. For Minnesota professionals, understanding what a typical curriculum covers helps you evaluate whether a program aligns with both your career goals and industry standards, and exploring best master's in communication programs in Minnesota can broaden your search.

Core Coursework Foundations

Most online PR master's programs organize their curricula around a common set of core courses that mirror the competencies outlined by professional organizations like the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). You can expect required coursework in areas such as strategic communication planning, media relations, crisis communication, research methods, and writing for public relations. Many programs also include courses on digital and social media strategy, reputation management, and ethics in communication.

To verify what a specific program requires, visit the school's official website and look for sections labeled "Curriculum," "Degree Requirements," or "Academic Programs." These pages typically list core courses, elective tracks, and whether the program concludes with a capstone project, thesis, or comprehensive exam.

Elective Tracks and Specializations

Beyond core requirements, many programs offer elective tracks that let you tailor your studies to a particular industry or skill set. Common specializations include corporate communication, nonprofit advocacy, political communication, health communication, and integrated marketing , understanding the difference between public relations and marketing master’s degrees can help you choose the right focus. Some programs allow you to design a custom concentration by selecting electives across multiple areas.

When comparing programs, pay attention to how many elective credits are available and whether the specializations offered match your professional interests. Contacting the admissions or academic advising office directly can help clarify which electives are offered each semester and whether certain tracks require additional prerequisites.

Alignment with Professional Standards

If you plan to pursue the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential after graduation, review how a program's coursework maps to the APR exam content areas: research, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The PRSA website publishes a Body of Knowledge and an APR exam content outline that you can compare against course descriptions from schools you are considering. Strong programs typically cover all four areas across their required courses.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics outlines skills and knowledge areas employers expect from public relations specialists. Cross-referencing these expectations with a program's credit-hour requirements and course topics can help you confirm that the degree meets current professional standards.

Capstone and Thesis Options

Most online PR master's programs require between 30 and 36 credit hours and culminate in either a capstone project or a thesis. A capstone typically involves creating a comprehensive communication campaign or strategic plan for a real or simulated client, allowing you to demonstrate applied skills. A thesis, by contrast, involves original research and is often preferred by students interested in teaching or doctoral study.

Ask each program's advising office for sample syllabi or detailed course plans for required courses. This gives you insight into assignment types, readings, and how theory is connected to practice, helping you choose a program whose academic approach fits your learning style and career trajectory.

Tuition and Cost Comparison for Online PR Master's Programs

Tuition is one of the biggest factors Minnesota professionals weigh when choosing an online PR master's program. The table below draws on graduate tuition figures and institution-wide average net price data reported to the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS, 2023). Keep in mind that the average net price reflects an institution-wide estimate across all students and aid types, so your actual cost will vary based on enrollment status, financial aid, and employer tuition assistance. Several of these schools charge the same tuition rate regardless of where you live, which is a real advantage for Minnesota students enrolling from out of state.

SchoolStateGraduate Tuition (In-State)Graduate Tuition (Out-of-State)Avg. Net Price (Institution-Wide)Median Graduate Debt
Eastern New Mexico UniversityNM$5,706$7,480$4,904$16,500
Middle Georgia State UniversityGA$4,534$13,984$12,361$19,000
Wayne State CollegeNE$5,784$10,194$15,360$19,000
Northeastern State UniversityOK$5,771$11,981$12,710$17,367
Columbus State UniversityGA$8,268$10,140$13,115$26,000
Trinity Washington UniversityDC$15,660$15,660$9,302$28,250
Wilmington UniversityDE$9,726$9,726$15,644$20,000
SUNY Buffalo State UniversityNY$12,208$24,688$11,346$21,028
Radford UniversityVA$13,762$23,525$14,578$24,000
Washington State UniversityWA$14,845$30,467$14,971$19,500

Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations for PR Graduates

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, public relations specialists in Minnesota earn a median annual wage of $67,180, but professionals with a master's degree typically command salaries well above this benchmark. Program-level earnings data for the online PR master's programs featured in this guide aren't yet available from federal reporting agencies, but occupation-wide trends and industry patterns offer a clear picture of what Minnesota graduates can expect.

What You Can Do With a Master's in Public Relations

A graduate credential opens doors to leadership positions that candidates with only a bachelor's degree rarely access. Common career paths for PR master's holders include:

  • PR Director: Oversees all public relations strategy, manages teams, and serves as the organization's primary spokesperson.
  • Communications Manager: Coordinates internal and external messaging, often bridging marketing and executive leadership.
  • Crisis Communications Specialist: Develops rapid-response protocols and manages reputational threats during high-stakes situations.
  • Media Relations Director: Cultivates journalist relationships, pitches stories, and secures earned media placements.
  • Corporate Affairs Vice President: Shapes stakeholder engagement at the C-suite level, often reporting directly to the CEO.
  • Digital Strategy Lead: Directs social media, content marketing, and online reputation management initiatives.

These roles require the advanced strategic thinking, research competencies, and ethical frameworks that graduate programs emphasize.

Minnesota-Specific Opportunities

The Twin Cities region offers a particularly strong job market for PR professionals. Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Minnesota, including Target, UnitedHealth Group, Best Buy, and 3M, maintain robust in-house communications teams. Agency work is also plentiful, with firms like Padilla, Carmichael Lynch Relate, and Weber Shandwick's Minneapolis office serving regional and national clients. Healthcare and nonprofit sectors present additional demand, given the concentration of major health systems like Mayo Clinic and Allina Health, along with philanthropic organizations such as the McKnight Foundation.

Addressing the ROI Question

Graduate students often weigh tuition costs against potential earnings gains. Among the programs in this guide, total tuition ranges from approximately $12,700 at Notre Dame of Maryland University to $71,515 at USC. Median graduate debt for students at these institutions generally falls between $10,000 and $25,000. When you consider that PR managers and directors routinely earn $85,000 to $120,000 annually in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, the investment can pay for itself within a few years of graduation. Even entry-level roles for master's holders tend to start above the occupation median, positioning graduates to recoup their educational costs relatively quickly while building toward senior leadership positions.

Online Vs. On-Campus: Choosing the Right PR Master's Format

Deciding between an online and on-campus PR master's program is one of the most consequential choices you will make, and there is no single right answer. Your ideal format depends on your career stage, learning style, and personal obligations. Several of the top ranked programs also offer hybrid formats with optional immersive residencies, giving you a middle path worth exploring.

Pros

  • Online programs offer exceptional flexibility, letting working Minnesota professionals complete coursework around full-time schedules and family commitments.
  • You can access top nationally ranked PR and strategic communication programs without relocating from Minnesota.
  • Many online programs charge flat rate or in-state equivalent tuition, which can significantly reduce your total cost of attendance.
  • On-campus programs provide an immersive learning environment with face-to-face faculty mentoring and deeper peer collaboration.
  • Campus-based students gain direct access to PR labs, agency partnerships, and on-site recruiting events that can accelerate job placement.
  • Hybrid formats with optional residencies let you blend online convenience with short, intensive in-person experiences for networking and hands-on skill building.

Cons

  • Online students may have fewer organic networking opportunities and limited access to campus-based recruiting events or career fairs.
  • Completing a degree online requires strong self-discipline, time management, and comfort with asynchronous communication tools.
  • Minnesota does not currently have a dedicated on-campus PR master's program, meaning campus-based study typically requires relocation to another state.
  • On-campus attendance generally carries a higher total cost when you factor in relocation, commuting, and reduced work hours.
  • Campus-based programs offer far less schedule flexibility, making it difficult to maintain full-time employment while earning your degree.

Admissions Requirements and How to Apply

Applying to an online PR master's program looks different from applying to a traditional graduate program in one important way: most top programs have moved away from standardized testing and toward evaluating your professional voice, writing samples, and career trajectory. Understanding what admissions committees actually want will help you build a stronger application.

Core Academic Requirements

Nearly every online PR master's program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, but the good news for career changers is that your undergraduate major usually doesn't matter. Whether you studied English, business, biology, or political science, you can apply. Programs typically expect a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, though a lower GPA can often be offset by strong professional experience or a compelling application narrative.

Professional experience is preferred but not universally required. Some programs, like USC's online Master of Science in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy & Management, welcome both early-career professionals and mid-career communicators looking to level up.

The GRE Trend: Testing Is Largely Optional

The trend toward online masters no gre is evident: USC's online MSPRISM program does not require the GRE1, and its on-campus MA in Public Relations & Advertising doesn't require or consider it either. This shift reflects a broader recognition that writing samples and portfolios reveal more about PR aptitude than standardized test scores.

Application Components to Prepare

Expect to submit most or all of the following:

  • Statement of purpose: A focused essay explaining your goals, why PR, and why this specific program.
  • Writing samples: Required by programs like USC's MSPRISM1, these demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly under real-world conditions.
  • Letters of recommendation: Typically two, ideally from supervisors or professors who can speak to your professional potential.
  • Resume or CV: Highlighting communication-adjacent experience, leadership, and measurable results.
  • Application fee: Often around $901, though some programs waive it during promotional windows.
  • English proficiency scores: International applicants to USC's MSPRISM need a TOEFL of 114 or IELTS of 8.02.

Some programs also require a short video interview so admissions can evaluate presence and communication style firsthand.

How Long Will It Take?

Most online PR master's degrees run 24 to 36 credits. Part-time students, which describes the majority of working professionals in Minnesota, typically finish in 18 to 24 months. Accelerated full-time tracks can wrap up in 12 to 15 months. USC's MSPRISM, for example, is a 24-credit program that full-time students complete in about 12 months, while part-time students finish in 18 to 24 months1. That flexibility is precisely why the online format works so well for professionals balancing a career and a graduate degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right PR master's program raises plenty of practical questions, from cost and duration to career payoff. Below, we answer the questions Minnesota professionals ask most often when exploring their options.

Are there any master's in public relations programs in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not currently offer a dedicated master's in public relations at its in-state universities. However, several Minnesota institutions offer closely related master's degrees in strategic communication or mass communication that cover PR coursework extensively. Many Minnesota professionals also enroll in accredited online PR master's programs from nationally recognized universities, giving them full access to specialized curricula without relocating.
What is the difference between a master's in public relations and a master's in communications?
A master's in public relations focuses specifically on media relations, crisis communication, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement. A master's in communications is broader, spanning areas like journalism, digital media, interpersonal communication, and organizational communication. If your career goal centers on managing brand narratives and public perception, the PR-specific degree offers more targeted preparation.
Is a master's degree in public relations worth it?
For most working professionals, the answer is yes. A PR master's degree deepens strategic thinking, strengthens writing and research skills, and often leads to higher-level roles such as communications director or VP of public affairs. Graduates frequently report faster advancement and stronger earning potential compared to peers with only a bachelor's degree, making it a worthwhile investment for those committed to the field.
How much does an online master's in public relations cost?
Tuition for online PR master's programs typically ranges from roughly $20,000 to $55,000 for the full degree, depending on the institution. Additional costs may include technology fees, textbooks, and application fees. Many programs offer payment plans, employer tuition reimbursement partnerships, or financial aid to help manage costs. Comparing total program prices, not just per-credit rates, gives the clearest picture.
How long does it take to complete an online PR master's program?
Most online PR master's programs require 30 to 36 credit hours and can be completed in 12 to 24 months. Part-time students who balance coursework with full-time employment generally finish in about two years. Accelerated tracks and programs with multiple start dates each year can shorten the timeline, sometimes allowing completion in as few as 12 months.
Do I need PR work experience to apply to a master's in public relations program?
Requirements vary by program. Some schools welcome applicants straight from undergraduate programs, while others prefer candidates with one to three years of professional experience in communications, marketing, or a related field. Programs that emphasize applied learning often value work experience heavily during admissions review, so check each school's specific prerequisites before applying.
Will an online PR master's degree be respected by Minnesota employers?
Yes, provided the degree comes from a regionally accredited institution. Minnesota employers increasingly recognize online credentials as equivalent to on-campus degrees, especially as remote and hybrid work models have normalized digital learning. What matters most to hiring managers is the quality of the accrediting body, the rigor of the curriculum, and the practical skills you bring to the role.

More Online PR Master's Programs to Consider

For Minnesota students who want to explore additional options beyond our top 10, the following online and hybrid programs offer flexible paths to a public relations master's degree. Each program is accessible remotely, allowing you to study from anywhere while building skills for advanced PR careers.

Hofstra University
Hofstra's Master of Arts in Public Relations offers a hybrid format with on-campus and online options. The 30-credit program covers PR fundamentals, digital communication, and crisis strategies, with concentrations in Reputation and Crisis Management or Marketing.
University of Southern Mississippi
The Master of Science in Public Relations is a 30-hour fully online program focusing on PR theory and campaigns. It prepares graduates for doctoral studies or career advancement with a curriculum that includes a comprehensive exam.
SUNY Buffalo State University
This online Master of Science in Public Relations requires 33 credits and emphasizes strategic communication planning, research methods, and ethical standards. It is designed for part-time study with rolling admissions.
Montana State University Billings
The Master of Science in Public Relations (MSPR) is available 100% online and can be completed in 3-4 semesters. The program provides practical advocacy-related skills for career advancement in PR and communication.
Middle Georgia State University
This fully online Master of Arts in Public Relations is a one-year program focusing on PR writing, strategy, multimedia content, ethics, and social media. It includes career-based electives to build job-ready skills.
Notre Dame of Maryland University
The Master of Arts in Contemporary Communication with a Public Relations concentration offers flexible online, hybrid, or face-to-face evening classes. Small class sizes and data-driven communication strategies prepare students for PR careers.
Wilmington University
The M.S. in Digital Communication with a Public Relations specialization is a 33-credit STEM-designated program available 100% online. Communication writing, crisis management, and analytics are core focuses, with a capstone or field experience option.
Lasell University
Lasell's Master of Science in Communication with a Public Relations concentration costs $709 per credit and can be completed in 12-24 months. The hybrid or online format includes courses like Writing for Public Relations and Crisis Communication.
Point Park University
The Master of Arts in Public Relations, Advertising & Social Media is a 36-credit online program with concentrations in PR/Advertising or Social Media. It offers hands-on assignments for portfolio building and 8-week asynchronous courses.
Johns Hopkins University
The MA in Communication with a Public and Media Relations concentration requires 10 courses and can be completed online or on campus in Washington, D.C. in 12-24 months. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA.
Full Sail University
This online Public Relations Master of Arts program covers traditional and digital PR strategies, media relations, and reputation management. It is accelerated and includes all costs in tuition, with monthly start dates.
Rutgers University-Newark
The Master of Communication and Media with a Public Relations specialization blends core communication theory with PR-focused electives. Offered online, on-campus, or hybrid with evening classes, it requires 36 credits and no GRE.
Franklin University
The online M.S. in Communications with a Strategic Communication specialization is a 33-credit program that can be completed in 16 months. It emphasizes crisis communication, social media, and AI tools, with no GMAT/GRE required.
Eastern New Mexico University
The Master of Arts in Communication with a Public Relations concentration is available 100% online. It offers thesis and non-thesis tracks, affordable tuition at $310.50 per credit hour, and preparation for PR and media careers.
Wayne State College
The Master of Science in Organizational Management with a Public Relations Management focus is fully online with no campus visits. Costing $412 per credit hour, the 36-credit program covers social media management and leadership strategies.

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