Online Master’s in Social Media Marketing & Management Programs in 2025
If you’re passionate about social media, digital marketing, or building online communities, an online master’s degree in social media could be the next step toward an exciting career. In today’s digital age, social media is central to culture and communication. Master’s in social media programs, often emphasized within broader programs like strategic communication or business administration, teach students how to develop and manage social media platforms, employ digital marketing techniques, and oversee online communities. Coursework often covers social media storytelling, branding strategies, metrics, and digital communication research methods.
Career opportunities for online Master’s in Social Media graduates include roles such as:
- Social Media Manager
- Digital Marketing Manager
- Brand Advocate
- Public Relations Executive
Many professionals pursue their master’s while working in the industry, making online programs convenient for those balancing work and family commitments.
Master's in social media programs, which also may be found as an emphasis within a broader master's in strategic communication or master's in business administration program, teach students the development and management of social media platforms, digital media marketing techniques, apps, and web development and management of online communities.
2026 Best Online Master's in Social Media Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's Master of Science in Social Media Management delivers a comprehensive online program designed for digital communication professionals. Embracing a Christian worldview, this 100% virtual degree prepares students to navigate complex social media landscapes through strategic planning and market analysis. The 33-credit curriculum emphasizes innovative digital communication techniques, enabling graduates to develop powerful media strategies across corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial sectors. With flexible 8-week courses, military-friendly policies, and no mandatory login times, the program accommodates working professionals seeking advanced social media leadership skills. SACSCOC accredited and offering multiple annual start dates, students can complete their degree in approximately 1-2 years.
- 100% Online Degree Program
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- 8-Week Course Format
- SACSCOC Accredited
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Christian Worldview Perspective
- No Tuition Increase 9 Years
- Military-Friendly Program
- Multiple Start Dates
- Graduate in Approximately 1-2 Years
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's online Master of Science in Social Media Management provides a strategic pathway for digital communication professionals. This 33-credit program focuses on crafting compelling digital narratives, analyzing emerging trends, and executing innovative marketing campaigns across multiple platforms. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum offers flexibility with 8-week courses and no mandatory login times. With competitive tuition at $565 per credit hour and potential military discounts, the program ensures accessibility. Notably, the program requires no standardized testing for admission, requiring only a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA. Students develop hands-on portfolios while experiencing a faith-based learning environment.
- 100% Online Degree
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- 8-Week Course Format
- $565 Per Credit Hour
- No Standardized Testing
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Multiple Start Dates
- Faith-Based Curriculum
- Hands-On Portfolio Development
- Career-Focused Learning
Master's - Master of Science in Marketing – Social Media Management
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's Master of Science in Marketing with a Social Media Management concentration offers a rigorous 36-credit online program targeting digital marketing professionals. This comprehensive curriculum equips students with advanced skills in social media strategy, brand management, and ethical business communication. Designed for career advancement, the program enables students to develop sophisticated marketing campaigns and leverage social platforms strategically. With flexible 8-week courses, SACSCOC accreditation, and a tuition rate unchanged for nine years, the program provides an affordable and accessible educational experience. Military tuition discounts and multiple annual start dates further enhance the program's versatility.
- 100% Online Program
- 36 Credit Hours Total
- Less Than 2 Years Completion
- SACSCOC Accredited
- Transfer Up to 50% Credits
- Military Tuition Discounts
- 8-Week Course Format
- Multiple Start Dates Annually
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL - Private 4-year - saintleo.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Social Media Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Leo University's innovative online MBA in Social Media Marketing transforms digital marketing professionals through a comprehensive 36-credit hour program. Designed for aspiring strategists, the curriculum emphasizes advanced analytical skills, web analytics techniques, and multichannel campaign optimization. Students develop expertise in creating targeted marketing campaigns and leveraging social media channels strategically. The program offers flexible online learning, potential scholarship opportunities up to 45%, and personalized 1:1 faculty support. With ACBSP Business Accreditation, graduates are equipped to navigate complex digital marketing landscapes and drive data-driven marketing decisions across diverse industries.
- 100% online degree program
- 36 credit hours total
- Specialization in Social Media Marketing
- Up to 45% scholarship available
- No entry period restrictions
- Accredited U.S. business program
- 1:1 faculty support
- Advanced marketing data analysis
- Multichannel campaign optimization
- Web analytics techniques
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Social Media Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Advancing digital marketing careers, Saint Leo University's online MBA in Social Media Marketing provides a cutting-edge educational experience for professionals. The 36-credit program integrates advanced marketing analytics, social media strategy, and comprehensive digital techniques. Students learn to manage multichannel campaigns, utilize web analytics, and make strategic data-driven decisions. With flexible online learning and potential scholarship opportunities, the curriculum prepares graduates for high-demand roles in digital marketing. Featuring ACBSP Business Accreditation and guided faculty support, the program emphasizes practical skills and industry-relevant insights for emerging digital marketing leaders.
- 100% online program
- 36 credit hours total
- Up to 45% scholarship
- ACBSP Business Accreditation
- Guided 1:1 faculty support
- Potential transfer credits
- Focuses on digital marketing
- Career paths in digital strategy
- Experienced faculty support
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Leo University's Online MBA with Marketing Research and Social Media Analytics concentration delivers a specialized, data-driven approach to modern marketing challenges. Students gain advanced skills in analyzing complex social media data, developing strategic marketing insights, and leveraging cutting-edge analytical tools. The program focuses on web analytics, data mining techniques, and emerging marketing technologies, preparing professionals for leadership roles in dynamic business environments. With an emphasis on comprehensive marketing strategies and industry-driven curriculum, graduates are positioned to excel in roles requiring sophisticated digital marketing and research capabilities.
- Online MBA concentration
- Marketing research focus
- Social media analytics emphasis
- Data mining techniques
- Web analytics training
- Gamification course available
- 40% job market growth
- Comprehensive marketing strategies
- Industry-driven curriculum
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Mass Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Florida's 100% online Master of Arts in Mass Communication with Social Media concentration provides a dynamic digital communication curriculum. Spanning 36 credit hours and completable in 16 months, the program focuses intensively on strategic social media marketing. Students explore comprehensive skills including content creation, audience engagement techniques, and advanced metrics analysis. The program uniquely prepares professionals for digital communication roles across nonprofit and corporate sectors, with courses taught by industry experts and featuring platform-specific best practices. Flexible online learning accommodates working professionals, emphasizing practical assignments and creative storytelling approaches.
- 100% Online Degree Program
- 36 Credit Hours Total
- Complete in 16 Months
- $815.75 Per Credit Hour
- Total Degree Cost: $29,367
- Taught by Industry Professionals
- Advisory Council Guided Curriculum
- Networking with Peers/Alumni
- Courses Taught Globally
- Hands-on Practical Assignments
Master's - Master of Arts in Mass Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
UF's online Master of Arts in Mass Communication, specializing in Social Media, offers a cutting-edge digital marketing education. The 36-credit program equips students with advanced strategies for leveraging digital platforms and developing sophisticated communication skills. Designed for career-driven professionals, the curriculum covers comprehensive social media techniques including ROI measurement, audience engagement, and creative content development. Students benefit from expert faculty guidance, networking opportunities, and a capstone course that prepares them for high-demand digital marketing roles. The program can be completed in as few as 16 months, providing a flexible and intensive learning experience.
- 100% Online Program
- $815.75 per Credit Hour
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 16-Month Completion Possible
- Taught by Industry Professionals
- Top-10 Public University
- Comprehensive Social Media Curriculum
- Networking Opportunities
- Personalized Faculty Attention
- Capstone Course Included
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO - Private 4-year - lindenwood.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Social Media Marketing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lindenwood University's online Master of Science in Social Media Marketing provides a comprehensive digital marketing education designed for professionals seeking advanced skills in modern communication strategies. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling students to develop sophisticated content creation and audience targeting techniques. With flexible coursework spanning 12-24 months, students can complete 30 credit hours at an affordable $551 per credit, with opportunities to transfer up to nine credits. The curriculum prepares graduates for high-demand roles in advertising and digital communications, potentially positioning them for lucrative career paths with median salaries reaching $133,380. No specific entrance exam is required, though a 3.0 undergraduate GPA is mandatory for admission. Notably, the program offers thesis and applied project options, ensuring comprehensive professional development.
- 100% Online Degree
- $551 per Credit Hour
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- 12-24 Month Completion
- Up to 9 Transfer Credits
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Thesis and Applied Project Options
- Expert Faculty with Industry Experience
- Career-Focused Curriculum
- Preparation for Digital Marketing Certifications
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Strategic Communications
Concentration: Social Media Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Strategic Communications with a Social Media Management concentration provides a dynamic digital communication pathway for professionals. The program uniquely blends strategic communication principles with advanced social media techniques, enabling students to master comprehensive digital engagement strategies. Students can complete the 30-credit curriculum in just 10 months, with attractive features like HootSuite certification and a focus on consumer analysis. The flexible 7-week course format accommodates working professionals, requiring a 2.5 GPA for admission. Graduates emerge equipped with sophisticated skills in tracking engagement metrics, developing targeted communication approaches, and leveraging cutting-edge social media tools across diverse organizational contexts.
- 100% Online Degree
- 30 Credit Hours
- 10-Month Completion
- $10,200 Total Tuition
- HootSuite Certification
- 2.5 GPA Admission Requirement
- Career-Ready Social Media Skills
- Flexible 7-Week Courses
- Consumer Analysis Focus
- Strategic Communication Emphasis
Choosing an Online Master's in Social Media Marketing & Management Program
Once you've decided to pursue an online master's in social media, 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 when deciding between master's programs.
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. Legitimate program accreditation signifies that a third-party accrediting organization has evaluated the program according to rigorous academic standards and has met or exceeded these standards. Examples of accrediting organizations for master's in social media programs include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and 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 New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Cost
The cost for a master's in social media program can vary based 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. For example, USC Annenberg's 32-unit Master of Science in Digital Social Media runs roughly $1,995 per unit in addition to mandatory fees. Meanwhile, Liberty University's online, 33-credit-hour Master's in Social Media Management degree program costs approximately $565 per credit for full-time students and online program fees.
Program Length
Most master's in social media programs are designed to be completed in 1-2 years of full-time study. 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 social media program, students should keep in mind the following admissions requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree, ideally in communication, web design, marketing, 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)
- Resume detailing relevant work experience if applicable
Classes and Courses
A master's in social media program often includes courses similar to the following, which are part of University of Florida's online Master's in Social Media program:
- Introduction to Social Media
- Introduction to Multimedia (Video Storytelling)
- Branding Using Social and Mobile Media
- Advertising and Social Media
- Mass Communication Theory
- Research Methods in Digital Communication
- Social Media Metrics and Evaluation
- Personal Branding and Professional Development
- Social Media and Emerging Technology
In addition to digital and social media courses like those listed below, programs may include foundational communication, web development, and/or business courses. Many programs also finish with a capstone project or internship component, which encourages students to put everything they've learned into practice.
2026 Affordable Online Master's in Social Media Marketing Program Options
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| Lindenwood University |
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2026 Shortest Master's in Social Media Marketing Program Options
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| Rutgers University |
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| Liberty University |
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| University of Arizona |
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| Virginia Commonwealth University |
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Advantages of Online Master’s in Social Media Programs
For busy professionals or those with family commitments, an online master's in social media program is a convenient and potentially 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 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 social media.
Colleges That Offer Accredited Online Master’s in Social Media Programs in 2025
Select Your State:
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
University of Florida | 1885 Stadium Road Gainseville, FL 32611 (135) 227-3341 x2 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 N River Rd. Manchester, NH 03106 (888) 387-0681 |
Virginia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Liberty University | 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 (800) 424-9595 |