Master’s in Communication in Montana

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Montana is home to one school that offers a master's in communication program. The University of Montana in Missoula offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Communication Studies program that aims to ready students for the doctoral study of communication as well as for professional careers.

Upon graduation, students will be well prepared for doctoral programs in communication, teaching, or a career in one of Montana's major industries such as agriculture, travel and tourism, financial services, state and local government, or healthcare and education. Major employers in Montana that may provide potential career opportunities for communications graduates include Billings Clinic, Glacier Bancorp, Aageson Farm, and Big Sky Resort.

2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Montana

Montana offers exceptional communication graduate programs that prepare students for dynamic careers in media, public relations, and digital communication. At MastersInCommunications.org, we've carefully researched and evaluated the top master's programs across the state, considering factors like faculty expertise, curriculum innovation, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis highlights institutions that provide cutting-edge training and robust networking opportunities for aspiring communication professionals. Students can find programs that balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring they're well-equipped for today's rapidly evolving communication landscape. For a deeper understanding of how we conduct our rankings and assess program quality, please review our https://www.mastersincommunications.org/ranking-methodology/.
#1

The University of Montana

Missoula, MT - Public 4-Year - umt.edu

Master's - Communication Studies M.A.

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Montana's Communication Studies M.A. program offers a comprehensive graduate experience targeting communication professionals seeking advanced research skills. Students can select between thesis and professional paper pathways, enhancing flexibility in academic exploration. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, enabling students to develop critical analytical capabilities. Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in academia, media, organizational communication, and related fields. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and 27-30 credit hours, the program provides in-depth training in communication theories, rhetoric, and advanced research techniques. Advisor-guided course selection ensures personalized academic progression and comprehensive understanding of complex communication dynamics.

  • Master of Arts degree
  • Two pathway options: thesis/professional paper
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Research methods focus
  • 70% of coursework in Communication Studies
  • 27-30 total credit hours
  • Qualitative and quantitative research training
  • Advisor-guided course selection
*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 data system.

2026 Affordable Montana Masters in Communication Degree Options

Montana offers exciting opportunities for students seeking affordable master's degrees in communication across its diverse educational landscape. With options spanning from urban centers like Billings and Missoula to more rural regions, prospective graduate students can find programs designed to meet various professional goals and budget constraints. Understanding the financial challenges many learners face, these schools prioritize creating low-cost educational pathways that provide high-quality training without overwhelming students with excessive debt. By comparing tuition ranges and program highlights, students can discover communication master's programs that balance academic excellence with financial accessibility. The following table showcases carefully selected Montana institutions offering communication graduate degrees that support students' academic and professional development.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Montana State University Billings
  • Fully online program
  • 3-4 semester completion
  • 55% employment within 9 months
  • Average graduate salary $62,000
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Practical advocacy skills
  • Graduate assistantships available
  • Extensive internship opportunities
  • $6,700 - $10,000 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,000 - $28,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
The University of Montana
  • 36 total credit hours required
  • 18 credits in journalism courses
  • 12 credits in natural resource issues
  • Professional project or portfolio option
  • Diverse media storytelling skills
  • Interdisciplinary scientific training
  • Research and investigation opportunities
  • Advisor-guided course selection
  • $7,700 - $11,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $28,300 - $42,400 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Data compiled from: IPEDS 2023 survey, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

See below for details about the master's in communication program at the University of Montana:

UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

The University of Montana in Missoula offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program in a traditional on-campus format.

What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program prepares students for doctoral study as well as non-academic career options. The program culminates in a thesis or additional coursework and a professional paper.

What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees at the University of Montana for the 2018-2019 academic year are $6,504 for Montana residents and $20,948 for non-residents.

Anything Else?: Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials by February 1 for admission to the fall semester. Applications received after this date will be considered on a space available basis, but teaching assistantships are typically awarded to applicants who submit materials by February 1. Materials should be submitted by November 1 for the spring semester.

Montana Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs

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Missoula, MT

The University of Montana

  • Master's - Communication Studies M.A.

    Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Arts degree
    • Two pathway options: thesis/professional paper
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Research methods focus
    • 70% of coursework in Communication Studies
    • 27-30 total credit hours
    • Qualitative and quantitative research training
    • Advisor-guided course selection
*IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.