Master’s in Communication in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers nine schools across the state with master's in communications programs, including many fully online or hybrid online/on-campus programs that make getting a master's degree convenient for working professionals. Students can also select a program that allows them to concentrate their studies in several different areas of communication, including sports communication, health communication, non-profit communication, journalism, advertising, integrated marketing communication, public relations and many others. With many advertising, marketing, and public relations companies based in Boston, graduates with master's degrees in communication programs will have a wide range of potential employers to explore. Unlike traditional communications organizations, Massachusetts has several major industries that may hire communications experts, including financial services, healthcare, information technology, renewable energy, and agricultural products.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Massachusetts
Emerson College
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - emerson.edu
Master's - MA in Digital Communication Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Emerson College's Digital Communication Leadership Master's program is an innovative online degree tailored for seasoned communication professionals. Designed for professionals with five or more years of experience, this program offers unparalleled flexibility with asynchronous coursework and no GRE requirements. Students can customize their learning journey, exploring critical areas like digital marketing, public relations, and leadership strategies. The program emphasizes practical skills in team management, project coordination, and conflict resolution, preparing graduates to excel in dynamic communication roles. With executive format options and diverse digital content modules, professionals can advance their careers without disrupting their current work commitments.
- 100% online graduate program
- 32 total credit hours
- Asynchronous coursework
- No GRE required
- Focuses on leadership skills
- Customizable curriculum
- Designed for working professionals
- Flexible semester start times
- Executive format available
- Courses in conflict resolution
Master's - MA in Political Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's Master of Arts in Political Communication provides a comprehensive exploration of strategic communication in the political landscape. This program equips students with advanced skills in digital analytics, political messaging, and leadership development. Through a flexible curriculum, students can tailor their learning to specific career objectives, focusing on digital transformation and executive-level communication strategies. The program emphasizes practical, real-world applications, preparing graduates to navigate complex communication challenges in political environments. With competitive admissions and a diverse learning approach, students gain comprehensive insights into modern political communication technologies and methodologies.
- Online MA program.
- Focus on digital leadership.
- Core courses in management.
- Electives in strategic communication.
- Skills in digital analytics.
- User experience design included.
- Prepares for executive roles.
- Flexible learning options.
- Competitive admissions requirements.
- Diverse student body.
Master's - MA in Public Relations
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's Master of Arts in Public Relations offers a dynamic on-campus experience designed for aspiring communication professionals. The program integrates cutting-edge digital media strategies with strategic messaging techniques, preparing students for leadership roles across various communication sectors. Students benefit from personalized learning tracks that incorporate real-world work experiences, focusing on digital analytics, user experience design, and sophisticated communication technologies. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications, enabling graduates to excel in rapidly evolving communication landscapes. With a comprehensive approach to public relations, students develop advanced skills in strategic communication, digital media management, and executive-level communication strategies.
- On-campus master's programs.
- Specializations in key areas.
- Tailored learning tracks.
- Integration of work experience.
- Focus on digital media.
- Strategic messaging skills.
- Real-world application focus.
- Leadership and management courses.
- Digital analytics and UX design.
- Preparation for executive roles.
Master's - MA in Sports Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Emerson College's 4+1 Master's in Sports Communication represents an accelerated pathway for ambitious communication professionals specializing in sports media. This innovative program allows undergraduate students to complete their master's degree in just one additional year, offering significant time and financial advantages. With a rigorous 32-credit curriculum, students explore advanced sports communication strategies, digital technologies, and research methodologies. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and is exclusively available to current Emerson undergraduates. Students engage in comprehensive coursework, including technology integration, research techniques, and professional development, preparing them for dynamic careers in sports communication and media management.
- Accelerated one-year master's track
- Undergraduate seniors take graduate courses
- Requires 32 total graduate credits
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Eligible for current Emerson undergrads
- Undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses
- Capstone or thesis required
- Technology and research course requirements
- Letter of recommendation needed
- Professional resume required
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA - Private 4-year - merrimack.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Master of Arts in Communication strategically prepares professionals for dynamic digital communication landscapes. This comprehensive 12-month program offers unparalleled flexibility through hybrid learning formats, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. Students benefit from six unique concentrations, enabling personalized career pathway development. With no GRE requirement and competitive tuition at $1,100 per credit, the program provides accessible advanced education. Full and half-tuition fellowships further enhance affordability. Graduates gain robust skills in media production, content creation, and strategic communication, positioning themselves for leadership roles across diverse communication sectors.
- 12-month full-time program
- Six career-focused concentrations
- On-campus and hybrid options
- 32 total graduate credits
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- Evening classes available
- No GRE required
- Tuition: $1,100 per credit
- Multiple start terms annually
- NECHE accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Business Analytics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Business Analytics concentration within the Master of Arts in Communication equips professionals with advanced data interpretation and strategic communication skills. This specialized 12-month program empowers students to leverage analytics for comprehensive communication solutions. Featuring hybrid learning options and no GRE requirement, the program offers unprecedented accessibility. Students develop sophisticated capabilities in interpreting complex business data, crafting compelling narratives, and driving organizational communication strategies. Competitive $1,100 per credit tuition and generous fellowship opportunities make this program an exceptional investment for communication professionals seeking analytical expertise.
- 12-month full-time completion
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- On-campus and hybrid options
- Six concentration pathways
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total program credits
- Evening classes available
- Multiple start terms
- NECHE accredited
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Content Creation - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Digital Media and Content Creation concentration transforms communication professionals into innovative digital storytellers. This intensive 12-month program cultivates advanced skills in multimedia production, content strategy, and digital platform management. Students explore cutting-edge techniques for creating engaging digital narratives across various media channels. With no GRE requirement and flexible hybrid learning formats, the program provides comprehensive training in contemporary content creation methodologies. Competitively priced at $1,100 per credit and offering generous fellowships, this concentration prepares graduates to excel in rapidly evolving digital communication landscapes.
- 12-month full-time program
- On-campus and hybrid options
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- Six career-focused concentrations
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total credit hours
- Multiple start terms available
- Evening classes offered
- NECHE accredited
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - Public 4-Year - fitchburgstate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University's Master of Science in Applied Communication with a Social Media concentration delivers a transformative digital communication experience. The 36-credit online program strategically prepares professionals to navigate complex social media landscapes through advanced content creation, strategic analytics, and ethical communication practices. Students develop expertise in emerging media trends, leveraging quantitative research methods and intercultural communication training. Uniquely designed for working professionals, the flexible curriculum allows completion in two years, emphasizing practical skills that directly translate to career advancement in digital communication sectors.
- 100% Online Delivery
- 36-Credit Master's Program
- Complete in 2-6 Years
- No GRE/MAT Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Capstone Project Included
- Flexible Course Schedule
- Professional Career Focus
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Intercultural Communication Training
2026 Affordable Massachusetts Masters in Communication Degree Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Bridgewater State University |
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| Lasell University |
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| Merrimack College |
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See below for more information about master's in communication programs offered in Massachusetts:
LASELL COLLEGE
Lasell College offers a Master of Science in Communication degree as a fully online program in Newton that is web-facilitated on-campus.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program allows students to choose from the following concentrations: Health Communication, Integrated Marketing Communication, and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition is $600 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The program is generally completed in 12-24 months, and all classes are capped at 23 students.
REGIS COLLEGE
Regis College offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program on their campus in Weston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program is a 30-credit hour program that includes coursework in intercultural communication, organizational communication, communication data analytics and research methods and public relations. Students may choose an optional concentration of sports communication or non-profit communication.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $720 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with on the spot admission decisions provided during 30-minute interviews following submission of the application.
Boston Master’s in Communication Programs
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Boston University's College of Communication offers many options for master's in communication programs offered on their campus, as well as one online program option.
What to Know: Boston University's College of Communication offers many options for master's in communication programs, including a Master of Science in Journalism, Master of Science in Advertising, Master of Science in Mass Communication: Marketing Communication Research, Master of Arts in Emerging Media Studies, Master of Science in Public Relations and many others. For a full listing of master's degree options, visit this page.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $52,816, which does not include additional mandatory fees, supplies, or room and board.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for all master's programs is February 1, and the final deadline is May 1.
EMERSON COLLEGE
Emerson College offers a Master of Arts in Public Relations on their campus in Boston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Public Relations program allows students to choose from the following concentrations: political communication, sports communication and strategic public relations as well as the opportunity to count previous work experience toward the master's degree.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $1,251 per credit hour, which does not include additional fees, books or supplies.
Anything Else?: The priority application deadline for admission in the fall is March 1, and November 1 for admission in the spring.
NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Northeastern University offers a Master of Science in Corporate & Organizational Communication as an on campus or online program, as well as a fully online Master of Science in Technical Communication degree.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Corporate & Organizational Communication program is offered in an online or on-campus format, and allows students to choose from 8 concentrations: Social Media and Online Communities, Public Relations, Human Resource Management, Usability/User Experience, Project Management, Leadership, Cross-Cultural Communication and Leading Communication Strategy and Development.
What Does It Cost?: The estimated cost of the program in 2018 is $31,410.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of September 7 for admission to the fall semester.
SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY
Suffolk University offers a Master of Arts in Communication degree with either a concentration in Public Relations & Advertising or Integrated Marketing Communication on their campus in Boston.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication programs are both 36-credit programs offered on a full- or part-time schedule. The Integrated Marketing Communication program offers both business courses in marketing, consumer behavior and international communication as well as communication courses in advertising, public relations and social media. The Public Relations and Advertising program offers courses on strategic marketing, public relations, intercultural communication, advertising and more.
What Does It Cost?: Full-time tuition for both programs for the 2018-2019 academic year is $14,760 per semester, or $1,230 per credit hour for part-time students.
Anything Else?: Priority application deadline for the fall semester is March 15, October 15 for the spring and April 1 for the summer. Following these priority deadlines, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Massachusetts
BAY PATH UNIVERSITY
Bay Path University in Longmeadow offers two fully online master's-level communication programs.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication program is a 36-credit hour, 12 course program that focuses on new and emerging media, including social media and multimedia communication campaigns. The Master of Science in Communication & Information Management is a 36-credit, 12 course program that teaches students how to use tools, techniques and technology to evaluate and interpret information.
What Does It Cost?: The tuition cost for both the Master of Science in Communication and the Master of Science in Communication & Information Management in 2018 is $830 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Most students complete these programs in 12 to 24 months while continuing to work full-time.
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
In addition to their traditional on campus master's in communication programs, Boston University also offers a fully online Master of Science in Health Communication program that prepares students for careers as communicators in various segments of the healthcare industry. For more information on Boston University's online program, click here.
LASELL COLLEGE
In addition to their on campus master's in communication program, Lasell College offers their Master of Science in Communication degree as a fully online program as well. The program allows students to concentrate in Health Communication, Public Relations or Integrated Marketing Communication. For more information on Lasell College's online program, click here.
Massachusetts Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Boston, MA
Emerson College
- Master's - MA in Digital Communication Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online graduate program
- 32 total credit hours
- Asynchronous coursework
- No GRE required
- Focuses on leadership skills
- Customizable curriculum
- Designed for working professionals
- Flexible semester start times
- Master's - MA in Political Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Online MA program.
- Focus on digital leadership.
- Core courses in management.
- Electives in strategic communication.
- Skills in digital analytics.
- User experience design included.
- Prepares for executive roles.
- Flexible learning options.
- Master's - MA in Public Relations
Campus Based - Website
- On-campus master's programs.
- Specializations in key areas.
- Tailored learning tracks.
- Integration of work experience.
- Focus on digital media.
- Strategic messaging skills.
- Real-world application focus.
- Leadership and management courses.
- Master's - MA in Sports Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Accelerated one-year master's track
- Undergraduate seniors take graduate courses
- Requires 32 total graduate credits
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Eligible for current Emerson undergrads
- Undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses
- Capstone or thesis required
- Technology and research course requirements
Fitchburg, MA
Fitchburg State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Delivery
- 36-Credit Master's Program
- Complete in 2-6 Years
- No GRE/MAT Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Capstone Project Included
- Flexible Course Schedule
- Professional Career Focus
North Andover, MA
Merrimack College
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month full-time program
- Six career-focused concentrations
- On-campus and hybrid options
- 32 total graduate credits
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- Evening classes available
- No GRE required
- Tuition: $1,100 per credit
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Business Analytics - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month full-time completion
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- On-campus and hybrid options
- Six concentration pathways
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total program credits
- Evening classes available
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media and Content Creation - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month full-time program
- On-campus and hybrid options
- $1,100 per credit tuition
- Six career-focused concentrations
- Full and half-tuition fellowships
- No GRE requirement
- 32 total credit hours
- Multiple start terms available