Master’s in Communication in Indiana
The Hoosier State offers several options for students looking for a master's in communication program. With on campus and online programs to choose from, students can also tailor their degree to their own career aspirations with concentrations available in health communication, journalism and media studies, corporate communication, public relations and many others. Upon graduation, communication experts will be well prepared to advance their careers in one of Indiana's top industries, including life sciences and healthcare, automotive and motor sports, cybersecurity and information technology and advanced manufacturing.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Indiana
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdue.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication/ Public Relations - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's online Master of Science in Communication for Strategic Communication and Public Relations provides professionals with a transformative educational experience. The program uniquely prepares students to navigate complex communication environments, focusing on strategic messaging, digital platforms, and comprehensive communication techniques. Students can complete the 30-credit curriculum in just 20 months, with a competitive in-state tuition of $520 per credit hour. The program distinguishes itself by offering no prior communication experience requirements, making it accessible to diverse professionals seeking advanced communication skills. Students benefit from instruction by industry experts and have opportunities to earn graduate certificates alongside their degree.
- Online Master's in Communication
- 20 months completion time
- 30 total credits required
- $520 in-state per credit
- Five concentration options
- No prior communication experience needed
- Graduate certificates available
- Flexible online coursework
- Taught by industry experts
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Branding and Marketing - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's online Master of Science in Communication specializing in Branding and Marketing offers a comprehensive 20-month program designed for professionals seeking advanced communication expertise. The curriculum emphasizes developing critical skills in marketing strategies, brand development, and strategic communication technologies. With a flexible online format and competitive $520 per-credit tuition for in-state residents, students can customize their learning experience across five concentration options. The program provides a career-focused approach, enabling students to enhance professional capabilities without requiring prior communication experience, and is taught by industry practitioners who bring real-world insights into the classroom.
- Fully online Master's program
- Five concentration options
- $520 per credit in-state
- No prior communication experience needed
- 30 total credits required
- Completion possible in 20 months
- Graduate certificates available
- Taught by industry practitioners
- Career-focused curriculum
Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Communication Technologies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University's online Master of Science in Communication focusing on Digital Media and Communication Technologies equips professionals with cutting-edge skills for the evolving media landscape. This 20-month program offers a deep dive into communication technologies, digital messaging strategies, and innovative media platforms. Students can complete the 30-credit curriculum at a competitive in-state rate of $520 per credit, with no prior communication experience necessary. The program stands out by providing comprehensive training in digital communication, enabling graduates to amplify their career potential across diverse industries. Instruction from industry experts and opportunities for graduate certificates further enhance the program's value proposition.
- Online Master's program
- 5 concentration options
- $520 in-state per credit
- 30 total credits required
- 20 months completion time
- No prior communication experience needed
- Career-focused curriculum
- Graduate certificates available
- Learn from industry experts
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - Public 4-Year - indianapolis.iu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: corporate communication, health communication, media criticism, public communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis offers a transformative Master of Arts in Applied Communication targeting professionals passionate about corporate and public communication. This comprehensive program cultivates advanced communication strategies through rigorous research methodologies and critical analytical approaches. Students explore diverse concentrations including corporate communication, health communication, and media criticism, enabling tailored learning experiences. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, offering thesis and applied project options. With no mandatory GRE requirement and a focus on interdisciplinary learning, graduates develop sophisticated communication skills applicable across organizational, social, and strategic domains. The program welcomes candidates with strong analytical backgrounds and communication interests, preparing them for impactful professional trajectories.
- M.A. in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- 3.3 GPA minimum requirement
- Interdisciplinary electives allowed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Research methods background preferred
- Communication analysis experience
- Academic writing skills needed
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: health communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis' Master of Arts in Applied Communication with a specialized health communication concentration provides a strategic pathway for professionals seeking to address complex communication challenges. This 30-credit program uniquely blends theoretical foundations with practical interventions, empowering students to develop sophisticated communication strategies in healthcare settings. Without mandatory GRE scores, the program offers flexible admission pathways, welcoming candidates with diverse academic backgrounds. Students benefit from interdisciplinary electives, personalized learning options, and opportunities to explore applied communication research. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, research methods, and innovative approaches to understanding human interaction, preparing graduates to drive meaningful change in health communication landscapes.
- 30 credit hours total.
- 15 core credit hours.
- 15 elective credit hours.
- Thesis or project option.
- B+ average required.
- No GRE required.
- TOEFL for international students.
- 3 letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement needed.
- Official transcripts required.
Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: media criticism - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University-Indianapolis' Master of Arts in Applied Communication with a media criticism concentration offers an intellectually rigorous exploration of contemporary communication paradigms. This 30-credit program equips students with advanced analytical skills to deconstruct and critically examine media narratives and social communication dynamics. Without mandatory GRE requirements, the program provides accessible pathways for passionate communication scholars. Students engage in comprehensive research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications, developing sophisticated capabilities to interrogate media representations. The curriculum supports both thesis and applied project options, allowing personalized academic experiences. Graduates emerge prepared to challenge existing communication narratives, conduct nuanced media analysis, and contribute meaningfully to critical communication scholarship.
- Master's in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- Minimum 3.3 GPA required
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite
- Research methods background needed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Provisional admission possible
- Analytical skills emphasized
- Interdisciplinary electives available
Purdue University Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, IN - Public 4-Year - pfw.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication with a concentration in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication provides a comprehensive exploration of communication dynamics. Students delve into complex communication theories, developing advanced skills in analyzing human interactions within organizational contexts. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research methodologies, and practical applications of interpersonal communication strategies. Graduates gain expertise in navigating workplace communication challenges, understanding group dynamics, and implementing effective communication frameworks. The curriculum is strategically designed to prepare professionals for leadership roles in various sectors, combining theoretical knowledge with practical communication competencies.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research abilities
- Improves writing and argumentation
- Supportive Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Emphasis on new technologies
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication with a Media Studies concentration offers an immersive exploration of contemporary media landscapes. Students critically examine media technologies, communication platforms, and digital communication trends. The program equips learners with advanced analytical skills to understand media's societal impacts, production processes, and evolving communication paradigms. Coursework integrates theoretical frameworks with practical media analysis, preparing graduates for dynamic roles in digital media, content strategy, and communication research. With a focus on emerging technologies and critical perspectives, students develop comprehensive skills to navigate and shape modern media environments.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Enhances problem-solving skills
- Develops research abilities
- Improves analytical skills
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Scholarships available
- Bachelor's degree required
Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Critical/Cultural Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Master of Arts in Professional Communication featuring Critical/Cultural Studies provides a transformative academic experience. This concentration explores communication through critical lenses, examining power structures, cultural dynamics, and societal narratives. Students engage with complex theoretical frameworks, analyzing communication's role in shaping social identities and cultural experiences. The program develops advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, and nuanced understanding of communication's broader social contexts. Graduates are prepared to challenge existing communication paradigms, contribute to scholarly discourse, and apply critical perspectives across professional and academic environments.
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored program of study
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research and analysis
- Improves argumentation and writing
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Scholarship opportunities available
- Prepares for diverse communication roles
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN - Public 4-Year - usi.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Southern Indiana's Master of Arts in Communication delivers a dynamic online program designed for professionals seeking transformative communication skills. Uniquely structured to accommodate working adults, the curriculum blends critical analysis with practical applications across communication domains. Students benefit from small, interactive virtual classrooms that foster personalized learning experiences. Notably, the program offers unconditional and conditional admission pathways, requiring a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Learners can complete the comprehensive 30-credit hour curriculum in approximately one year, with multiple annual start dates providing exceptional flexibility for career-driven individuals seeking advanced communication expertise.
- 100% Online Program
- Complete in 2 Years
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- Undergraduate GPA 3.0 Required
- Unconditional/Conditional Admission Options
- Flexible Asynchronous Classes
- Small Class Interactions
- Career Advancement Focused
- Comprehensive Final Exam
- Multiple Start Dates Annually
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN - Public 4-Year - indstate.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana State University's Master of Arts in Communication with a Public Relations concentration offers a transformative academic journey for aspiring communication professionals. Through an accelerated 4+1 program structure, students can seamlessly transition from undergraduate to graduate studies while specializing in public relations. The curriculum emphasizes advanced research methods, cross-cultural communication strategies, and emerging media technologies. With a rigorous academic framework requiring a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, students develop comprehensive skills in strategic communication, media planning, and professional messaging. The program's flexible culminating experience and professional media skills training prepare graduates to excel in dynamic public relations roles across diverse organizational contexts.
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's program
- Two concentration options
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Provisional graduate admission
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0
- Research methods focus
- Flexible culminating experience
- Professional media skills
- Cross-cultural communication emphasis
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana State University's Master of Arts in Communication featuring a Media Studies concentration provides an innovative pathway for students seeking advanced communication expertise. The accelerated 4+1 program enables students to dive deep into contemporary media landscapes, exploring complex communication theories and practical applications. With a strong emphasis on research methodologies and cross-cultural communication, students gain sophisticated analytical skills relevant to modern media environments. The curriculum integrates communication core courses, flexible elective options, and multiple culminating experience paths. Designed for ambitious professionals, this program equips graduates with comprehensive media analysis capabilities, technological proficiencies, and strategic communication competencies essential for success in evolving media industries.
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's Program
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Provisional graduate admission available
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0+
- Communication core courses
- Research methods focus
- Flexible elective options
- Multiple culminating experience paths
2026 Affordable Indiana Masters in Communication Degree Options
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Purdue University |
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Purdue University Fort Wayne
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Indiana State University |
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See below for more details about the master's in communications programs available in Indiana.
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
Ball State University in Muncie offers two options for masters-level communication degrees, both offered as traditional on campus programs.
What to Know: The Master's Degree in Communication Liberal Arts & Sciences includes 12 credits of general communication core courses, 15 credits specific to your master's in communication liberal arts and sciences and nine credits of electives, including the opportunity for a paid professional internship. The Master's Degree in Organizational and Professional Communication and Development is aimed at helping students advance their professional careers in public relations, human resources, sales and marketing and many other communication-related fields.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for Indiana residents is $9,456 per academic year, and $21,954 for non-residents per academic year.
Anything Else?: Both programs culminate in either a thesis / research paper or a written and oral comprehensive examination.
INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY
Indiana State University in Terre Haute offers a Master of Arts in Communication degree in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 33-credit program that includes study of many areas of communication including political communication, international communication, rhetorical studies, journalism, health communication, interpersonal communication and more.
What Does It Cost?: The cost per credit hour for Indiana residents is $404, and $793 per credit hour for non-residents. These fees do not include additional university or course fees.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the program is March 10.
INDIANA UNIVERSITY - PURDUE UNIVERSITY - INDIANAPOLIS
Indiana University - Purdue University in Indianapolis offers a Master of Arts in Applied Communication.
What to Know: The on campus Master of Arts in Applied Communication program offers optional concentrations in Corporate Communication, Health Communication, Media Criticism and Public Communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for Indiana residents is $3,665 per semester, and $9,200 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline is January 15 for consideration for the fall semester. The regular admission deadline is May 15 for the fall semester.
IPFW – INDIANA UNIVERSITY - PURDUE UNIVERSITY - FORT WAYNE
Indiana University - Purdue University in Fort Wayne offers a Master of Arts and Master of Science in Professional Communication as an on campus program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts or Master of Science in Professional Communication offers three specialties for students to choose from: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication Theory, Media Studies or Critical/Cultural Studies.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for Indiana residents is $342 per credit hour, and $775 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The recommended application deadline is February 15 for the fall semester. The final application deadline for domestic students is April 15. The recommended application deadline for the spring semester is September 15 and the final deadline is November 15.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
Purdue University in West Lafayette offers an online Master of Science in Communication program, as well as traditional on campus Master of Arts or Master of Science in Communication programs.
What to Know: The online Master of Science in Communication program can be completed in as little as 20 months and offers two professional concentrations: Strategic Communication/Public Relations and Integrated Communication and Advertising. The on campus Masters in Communication program is customizable, allowing students to choose majors and minors that appeal to their career aspirations, including Health Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Media, Technology & Society, Organizational Communication and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: The total program cost for the online program is $13,500 for Indiana residents, and $22,500 for non-residents. Graduate level tuition at Purdue University for on campus programs is $4,996 per semester for Indiana residents and $14,397 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester for the on campus program is December 1. The online program reviews applications on a rolling basis for the fall, spring and summer semesters.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTWEST – HAMMOND
Purdue University Northwest offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Hammond.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program offers courses in the evening hours to accommodate working professionals, and is designed to be completed in two years.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for Indiana residents is $288 per credit hour, and $636 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission to the fall semester is April 15 for domestic students, November 15 for the spring semester and April 15 for admission in the summer.
Indiana Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Bloomington, IN
Indiana University-Bloomington
- Master's - M.S. in Media
Concentration: Strategic Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Two-year strategic communication concentration
- Multi-disciplinary communication approach
- Hands-on research and campaign experience
- Institute for Communication Research facilities
- Faculty with industry and academic expertise
- Elective course customization
- Career preparation across industries
Evansville, IN
University of Southern Indiana
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Complete in 2 Years
- 30 Total Credit Hours
- Undergraduate GPA 3.0 Required
- Unconditional/Conditional Admission Options
- Flexible Asynchronous Classes
- Small Class Interactions
- Career Advancement Focused
Fort Wayne, IN
Purdue University Fort Wayne
- Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Critical/Cultural Studies - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored program of study
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research and analysis
- Improves argumentation and writing
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Enhances research abilities
- Improves writing and argumentation
- Supportive Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
- Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on human communication
- Tailored study options
- Enhances problem-solving skills
- Develops research abilities
- Improves analytical skills
- Support from Mastodon community
- Prestigious Purdue degree
Indianapolis, IN
Indiana University-Indianapolis
- Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: corporate communication, health communication, media criticism, public communication - Campus Based - Website
- M.A. in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- 3.3 GPA minimum requirement
- Interdisciplinary electives allowed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Research methods background preferred
- Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: health communication - Campus Based - Website
- 30 credit hours total.
- 15 core credit hours.
- 15 elective credit hours.
- Thesis or project option.
- B+ average required.
- No GRE required.
- TOEFL for international students.
- 3 letters of recommendation.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Applied Communication
Concentration: media criticism - Campus Based - Website
- Master's in Applied Communication
- 30 total credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- Minimum 3.3 GPA required
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite
- Research methods background needed
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Provisional admission possible
Terre Haute, IN
Indiana State University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Media Studies - Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's Program
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Provisional graduate admission available
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0+
- Communication core courses
- Research methods focus
- Flexible elective options
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated 4+1 Master's program
- Two concentration options
- 33-36 total credit hours
- Provisional graduate admission
- Undergraduate GPA requirement 3.0
- Research methods focus
- Flexible culminating experience
- Professional media skills
West Lafayette, IN
Purdue University
- Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Branding and Marketing - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online Master's program
- Five concentration options
- $520 per credit in-state
- No prior communication experience needed
- 30 total credits required
- Completion possible in 20 months
- Ranked #1 online communication program
- Graduate certificates available
- Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Communication Technologies - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's program
- 5 concentration options
- $520 in-state per credit
- 30 total credits required
- 20 months completion time
- No prior communication experience needed
- Top-ranked communication program
- Career-focused curriculum
- Master's - Master of Science in Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication/ Public Relations - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's in Communication
- 20 months completion time
- 30 total credits required
- $520 in-state per credit
- Five concentration options
- No prior communication experience needed
- Graduate certificates available
- Ranked #1 online communication program