Master’s in Communication in Arizona

Arizona is home to three schools that offer master's in communications programs, which are scattered around the state in Flagstaff, Tucson, and Glendale. With both online and on-campus programs to choose from, students in Arizona are prepared for communications careers in the state's major industries of electronics and technology, bioscience and healthcare, tourism and aerospace and defense. Major companies that call Arizona home and provide potential career opportunities for communications experts include Avenet, Inc., Republic Services, Magellan Health, Pinnacle West Capital and Sprouts Farmers Market.

2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Arizona

Arizona offers exceptional master's programs in communication that prepare students for dynamic careers in media, public relations, and digital communication. At MastersInCommunications.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top communication graduate programs across the state, considering factors like faculty expertise, curriculum innovation, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis highlights universities that provide cutting-edge learning experiences and strong professional networks. Whether you're interested in strategic communication, journalism, or organizational communication, Arizona's programs deliver robust educational opportunities that can transform your professional trajectory. These graduate programs equip students with advanced skills in research, critical thinking, and contemporary communication technologies. Our detailed ranking methodology ensures a transparent and comprehensive assessment of each program's strengths and unique offerings.

#1

Arizona State University Online

Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Communication

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Digital Immersion Master of Arts in Communication program offers a comprehensive online learning experience tailored for career-driven professionals. Strategically designed to develop advanced communication skills, the curriculum emphasizes conflict resolution, cross-cultural communication, and strategic thinking. Students engage in a dynamic 30-credit hour program with 7.5-week accelerated classes, allowing seamless integration with professional schedules. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles across diverse sectors including marketing, public relations, and organizational communication. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.00 GPA, personal statement, and professional resume. By blending theoretical foundations with practical applications, this program equips students with sophisticated communication techniques essential for navigating complex professional environments.

• Online Master of Arts in Communication.
• 30 total credit hours required.
• Classes last 7.5 weeks each.
• Focus on conflict resolution.
• Enhances cross-cultural communication skills.
• Develops strategic thinking abilities.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Teaches persuasive techniques.
• Covers global communication strategies.
• Admission requires bachelor's degree.

#2

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - MA Communication Studies

Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Campus Immersion MA in Communication Studies offers a rigorous academic journey designed for aspiring communication professionals. Students explore advanced communication theories through a comprehensive 36-credit curriculum that allows customization via optional thesis or applied project pathways. The program distinguishes itself through personalized faculty advising, providing opportunities for targeted research and professional development. Key strengths include conference travel funding, scholarships, and internship connections that bridge academic learning with real-world communication practices. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and demonstrate commitment to graduate-level scholarship. Entrance exam requirements likely include the GRE, though specific details should be confirmed directly with admissions. Graduates emerge prepared for leadership roles across communication-related fields, equipped with sophisticated theoretical frameworks and practical skills.

• 36 credit hours required.
• Comprehensive exam mandatory.
• Optional thesis or project.
• Individualized instruction available.
• Faculty advising provided.
• Scholarships for new students.
• Travel funds for conferences.
• Internship opportunities offered.
• Campus immersion program.
• Focus on communication theories.

*Credit: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023.

See below for details about master's in communications programs available in Arizona:

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

Arizona State University in Glendale offers students several options for masters-level communications studies, including online programs and traditional on-campus programs.

What to Know: The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers three master's level programs, the on-campus Master of Mass Communication program and the on-campus Master of Arts in Sports Journalism program. Arizona State University also offers an online Master of Arts in Communication program, and an online Master of Science in Technical Communication and an on-campus accelerated Master of Arts in Communication Studies.

What Does It Cost?: Tuition costs vary depending on the program chosen. Tuition per credit hour for the online programs is $586 per credit hour. Tuition for the on-campus programs also varies depending on the program selected and can be calculated online here.

Anything Else?: The online programs offer multiple start dates per academic year and accept applications on a rolling basis. Graduate applications for on-campus programs open September 1. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications received before December 1 are given priority for both admission and funding. The final application deadline is July 1.

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY

Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff offers both an on-campus Master of Arts in Communication program and a fully online Master of Arts in Communication program.

What to Know: The on-campus Master of Arts in Communication program prepares students for careers in higher education, government, business, and community service as well as mass media. In addition to a general communication focus, students can also choose to focus on Documentary Studies as part of the 36-credit on-campus program.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the on-campus program is $9,240 per year for Arizona residents and $21,588 for non-residents. Tuition for the online program is $550 per credit hour.

Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester is July 1 and October 1 for admission to the spring semester.

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

University of Arizona in Tucson offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in a traditional on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 34-credit program in which students may choose from three concentrations and is designed to be completed in two years.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the program is $820 per unit for Arizona residents and $1,746 per unit for non-residents.

Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is January 5, and the final application deadline is March 1 entry the following August. The program does not accept an application for entry in the spring semester.

Arizona Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs