Master’s in Communication in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to seven schools that offer master's-level communication programs, including several fully online or hybrid online/on-campus programs that make getting a master's degree more convenient for working students. Programs across the state prepare communication students for Ph.D. programs, teaching jobs in academia, and careers in various communication fields, such as public relations, healthcare communication, marketing, advertising, journalism, and online and social media. With its proximity to Philadelphia and New York City, the nation's media capital, there are tremendous communication career opportunities for graduates of these programs. In addition, the Garden State offers potential employment in any of its major industries, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, information technology, financial services, and transportation and logistics. A densely populated state, New Jersey is also home to many local and regional media outlets, including newspapers, radio, and television stations that may provide job opportunities for aspiring journalists.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in New Jersey
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ - Public 4-Year - newbrunswick.rutgers.edu
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University's Master of Communication and Media offers a comprehensive professional development program strategically positioned near major media markets. Spanning 36 credits, the hybrid program provides exceptional flexibility with on-campus, online, and mixed learning formats. Designed for ambitious communication professionals, the curriculum encompasses seven specialized tracks exploring digital media, strategic communication, and public relations. With an impressive 86% graduation rate within 24 months and no GRE requirement, the program empowers working professionals to advance their careers through innovative, adaptable coursework. Weeknight classes and diverse elective options ensure students can seamlessly integrate advanced learning with professional responsibilities.
- No GRE required
- 36 credit, self-paced program
- Flexible on-campus, online options
- 7 specialized concentration tracks
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Working professionals welcome
- Internship opportunities available
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University's Public Relations concentration within the Master of Communication and Media program provides a targeted 36-credit curriculum designed for strategic communication professionals. Emphasizing media relations, crisis communication, and reputation management, the program prepares students for the evolving PR landscape. Graduates can complete the degree in as little as 15 months through flexible learning formats, positioning themselves competitively in an industry projected to generate 14,900 new specialist roles by 2024. The blended theoretical and practical approach, coupled with potential GRE waivers and multiple course delivery options, makes this program ideal for ambitious communication professionals seeking accelerated career advancement.
- 15-month accelerated degree
- 36 total credit program
- Flexible course formats
- GRE waiver available
- Competitive tuition
- Blended theory and practice
- Multiple course delivery options
- Weekend course availability
- Career-focused curriculum
- Experienced practitioner faculty
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Digital Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers University's fully online Digital Media concentration in the Master of Communication and Media program equips professionals with cutting-edge skills in modern communication technologies. The 36-credit curriculum emphasizes storytelling, content creation, and strategic digital communication, preparing students for emerging roles in media industries. With no GRE requirement and an impressive 86% graduation rate within 24 months, the program offers unprecedented flexibility for working professionals. Expert faculty blend theoretical insights with practical knowledge, enabling students to develop sophisticated digital media analysis and content curation capabilities across multiple industry career paths.
- Fully online Digital Media track
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE required
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Multiple industry career paths
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media delivers a comprehensive 36-credit program designed for professionals seeking career advancement in dynamic communication landscapes. The innovative hybrid format enables students to balance academic pursuits with professional responsibilities, featuring seven specialized tracks that blend theoretical knowledge and practical skills. With no GRE requirement and an impressive 86% graduation rate within 24 months, the program strategically prepares graduates for leadership roles in content curation, corporate communications, marketing, and digital media sectors. Flexible weeknight evening classes and optional internship opportunities enhance students' professional development.
- 36-credit flexible program
- No GRE required
- 7 unique specializations
- Hybrid learning options
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight evening classes
- Optional internship opportunities
- Full/part-time student friendly
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Public Relations Specialization within Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media provides targeted training for professionals seeking expertise in media relations, crisis communication, and strategic messaging. This 36-credit program can be completed in as little as 15 months, offering competitive tuition and a GRE waiver. Students receive intensive training in PR analytics, strategy, and ethics through flexible hybrid learning formats. Over 60% of students work full-time, making the program ideal for working professionals seeking career transformation in the evolving media landscape. Weekend course options and career-ready skills distinguish this comprehensive communication program.
- 15-month degree completion
- Hybrid learning options
- GRE waiver available
- 36 total credit hours
- Flexible course scheduling
- Career-ready PR skills
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Weekend course options
- Over 60% students work full-time
- Competitive tuition rates
Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Communication and Media Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's Master of Communication and Media in Communication and Media Studies offers a cutting-edge online pathway for professionals seeking advanced knowledge in information-driven fields. The 36-credit self-paced program provides fully online learning options with no GRE requirement, enabling students to access expert faculty blending theoretical and practical insights. With seven specialization options, an 86% graduation rate within 24 months, and a strategic location near major media markets, the program facilitates career transformation across multiple industries. The curriculum includes five core courses, eight electives, and leverages an extensive 1,800-member alumni network.
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE scores required
- Seven specialization options
- Fully online options available
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Internship opportunities
- Expert faculty blend theory/practice
- Over 1,800 alumni network
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - Private 4-year - shu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media Studies - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Digital Media Studies concentration within the Master of Arts in Communication offers a cutting-edge 36-credit program that prepares students for the rapidly evolving digital communication landscape. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, students develop advanced skills in digital content creation, strategic messaging, and interactive media technologies. The program uniquely integrates a Communication Portfolio course, enabling seamless transition from academic learning to professional environments. With a focus on creative thinking and practical application, students explore digital interaction frameworks, leadership strategies, and emerging media platforms. Ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their digital communication expertise in an increasingly technology-driven world.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Focus on theory and practical application
- Communication Portfolio course
- Enhances creative thinking skills
- Uses state-of-the-art technology
- Digital Media Studies track
- Communication in Organizations track
- Public Relations track
- Interactive learning environment
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Communication in Organizations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Communication in Organizations concentration in the Master of Arts in Communication provides a comprehensive 36-credit program designed to elevate organizational communication strategies. Students develop critical skills in strategic relationship building, decision-making processes, and workplace communication dynamics. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, creative problem-solving, and technological integration within professional settings. A distinctive Communication Portfolio course prepares students for complex organizational communication challenges, bridging academic knowledge with real-world implementation. With a focus on advanced communication theories and interactive learning environments, graduates are equipped to excel in diverse professional roles, from corporate communication to organizational leadership.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- Prepares for employment or further study
- Emphasizes creative thinking
- Technology use in communication
- Real-world application focus
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's Public Relations concentration in the Master of Arts in Communication offers a robust 36-credit program that cultivates advanced strategic communication skills. Students engage in comprehensive training focused on developing sophisticated messaging techniques, global communication frameworks, and ethical communication practices. The curriculum emphasizes real-world scenario preparation, utilizing cutting-edge technology to simulate professional environments. Through intensive coursework in Communication Research Methods and Communication Ethics, students build comprehensive competencies in crafting mutually beneficial relationships, managing complex communication challenges, and developing strategic communication campaigns. The program prepares professionals to navigate the intricate landscape of contemporary public relations.
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- State-of-the-art technology used
- Real-world scenario preparation
- Enhances critical communication skills
- Theory and practical application
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - njit.edu
Master's - M.S. Professional and Technical Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
NJIT's Master's in Professional and Technical Communication offers a transformative 30-credit program designed for ambitious professionals seeking advanced communication capabilities. Students immerse themselves in strategic communication techniques, cutting-edge visual design methodologies, and innovative problem-solving approaches tailored for technology-driven environments. The curriculum uniquely integrates communication theory with practical media tools, preparing graduates to navigate complex communication challenges across diverse industries. Emphasizing leadership skills and technological proficiency, the program equips students with sophisticated communication strategies that bridge theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Military-friendly and focused on developing comprehensive communication expertise, NJIT's program stands out for its holistic approach to professional communication development.
- 30 total required credits
- Advanced professional communication skills
- Leadership and management focus
- Technology and communication integration
- Visual design and information design
- Communication theory expertise
- Multiple media tool proficiency
- Problem-solving communication approach
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - Public 4-Year - rowan.edu
Master's - M.A. in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rowan University's Strategic Communication Master's program offers a dynamic hybrid learning experience tailored for communication professionals seeking advanced career opportunities. Through a comprehensive 33-credit curriculum, students gain strategic insights into public relations, advertising, and integrated marketing communications. The program uniquely balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, emphasizing professional development and industry-relevant skills. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree, maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, and submit GRE scores. Notably, the program prepares students for the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) exam and provides extensive networking opportunities across diverse communication sectors, positioning graduates for leadership roles in rapidly evolving media landscapes.
- 33 graduate semester hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Flexible full-time or part-time
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Comprehensive exam required
- Prepares for APR exam
- Focus on professional interests
- Access to professional network
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum 2.5 GPA for admission
2026 Affordable New Jersey Masters in Communication Degree Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Rutgers University-Newark |
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| Rutgers University |
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| The College of New Jersey |
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See the listing below for more details about the master's in communication programs offered in New Jersey:
FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY
Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Madison.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program combines the study of communication theory and practice and culminates in a capstone project in which students apply concepts they have learned during the program toward the creation and completion of a communication-based project.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $1,272 per credit hour. This does not include additional mandatory university and course fees, or the cost of books and supplies.
Anything Else?: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. To learn more about FDU’s program, click here.
KEANE UNIVERSITY
Keane University in Union offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies program has a concentration in organizational communication, in which students can take a traditional approach to study theory and research or a more applied approach. The program culminates in either a thesis or a comprehensive examination.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $8,566 per semester for full-time students who are residents of New Jersey and $10,998 per semester for full-time students who are non-residents.
Anything Else?: Students can begin the program in either the fall or spring semester. The application deadline for the fall is June 30, and December for the spring. To learn more about Keane’s program, click here.
MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY
Montclair State University's School of Communication and Media offers an on-campus Master of Arts in Public and Organizational Relations program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Public and Organizational Relations program focuses on developing four areas of expertise: strategic thinking, communication skills, media-savvy, and leadership mindset. The 33-credit hour program typically meets once per week in the evening, and can be completed full-time over 4 semesters, or part-time in 5-6 semesters.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year are $713 per credit hour for New Jersey residents and $1,029 per credit hour for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Applications to the program are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. To learn more about Montclair’s program, click here.
RIDER UNIVERSITY
Rider University offers a Master of Arts in Business Communication program on their campus in Lawrenceville, as well as an online Master of Arts in Business Communication - Health Communication Concentration program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Business Communication program is offered weekday evenings on the Lawrenceville campus and is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study (including summer classes).
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year for the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is $870 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is August 1, December 1 for spring entry, and May 1 for summer entry. TO learn more about Rider’s program, click here.
RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
Rutgers University offers a Master of Communication and Media program that is available in a number of formats: on-campus in New Brunswick, online or hybrid of online/on-campus learning.
What to Know: The Master of Communication and Media program is a professionally-focused program that prepares students for various careers in communication, including public relations, marketing, and media. The degree can be completed in as little as 18 months, and courses are offered on campus, online, and in a hybrid format.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for 2018 are $18,984 for New Jersey residents and $30,792 for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Admission is offered on a rolling basis for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. To learn more about Rutgers’ program, click here.
SETON HALL UNIVERSITY
Seton Hall University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on its campus in South Orange.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit on-campus program that offers three different focus areas: Digital Communications and Communication Technologies, Communication in Organizations, and Public Relations. Enrolled students take courses in Strategic Planning, Internet and Communications, Global Perspectives, and much more.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate-level tuition through Spring 2022 is $1,350 per credit hour for the Communication and Arts programs. This does not include mandatory university fees.
Anything Else?: Admission is offered on a rolling basis for the fall and spring semesters and is completed online. The priority application deadline for the fall semester is May 1, and the priority application deadline for the spring is November 1. To learn more about SHU's program, click here.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in New Jersey
NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
The New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark offers an online Master of Science in Professional & Technical Communication program.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Professional & Technical Communication program is designed for working professionals and offers the flexibility of completing coursework whenever it is convenient. Five core courses are taken by all students, and then students can customize their coursework by taking electives in their preferred areas of technical communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 academic year was $22,690 for New Jersey residents, and $1,248 per credit hour for non-residents (online graduate programs only).
Anything Else?: The application deadline for the fall semester is August 1, and November 15 for the spring semester. To learn more about NJIT’s online program, click here.
RIDER UNIVERSITY
Rider University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Business Communication - Health Communication Concentration program that teaches students how to advance public health policy, influence the health and lifestyle behaviors of individuals and groups and improve overall health outcomes in their future healthcare careers. To learn more about Rider University's online program, click here.
RUTGERS UNIVERSITY
Rutgers University offers its Master of Communication and Media program in an online format in addition to a traditional on-campus or hybrid format. The program has seven options for concentrating studies to prepare students for various careers in communication, including public relations, digital media, and health communication. For more information about Rutgers University's online program, click here.
New Jersey Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Glassboro, NJ
Rowan University
- Master's - M.A. in Strategic Communication
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 33 graduate semester hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Flexible full-time or part-time
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Comprehensive exam required
- Prepares for APR exam
- Focus on professional interests
- Access to professional network
Madison, NJ
Fairleigh Dickinson University
- Master's - MA in Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 30 credits required.
- Seven required courses.
- Three elective courses.
- Focus on critical thinking.
- Leadership and ethics emphasized.
- Cultural intelligence development.
- Professional writing and editing.
- Presentation skills enhancement.
New Brunswick, NJ
Rutgers University
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Website
- No GRE required
- 36 credit, self-paced program
- Flexible on-campus, online options
- 7 specialized concentration tracks
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Working professionals welcome
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 15-month accelerated degree
- 36 total credit program
- Flexible course formats
- GRE waiver available
- Competitive tuition
- Blended theory and practice
- Multiple course delivery options
- Weekend course availability
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Digital Media - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online Digital Media track
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE required
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Multiple industry career paths
Newark, NJ
New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Master's - M.S. Professional and Technical Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 30 total required credits
- Advanced professional communication skills
- Leadership and management focus
- Technology and communication integration
- Visual design and information design
- Communication theory expertise
- Multiple media tool proficiency
- Problem-solving communication approach
Rutgers University-Newark
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 36-credit flexible program
- No GRE required
- 7 unique specializations
- Hybrid learning options
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight evening classes
- Optional internship opportunities
- Full/part-time student friendly
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Public Relations - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 15-month degree completion
- Hybrid learning options
- GRE waiver available
- 36 total credit hours
- Flexible course scheduling
- Career-ready PR skills
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Weekend course options
- Master's - Master of Communication and Media
Concentration: Communication and Media Studies - Online Learning - Website
- 36 credit self-paced program
- No GRE scores required
- Seven specialization options
- Fully online options available
- 86% graduate in 24 months
- Weeknight classes 6-9 pm
- 5 core courses, 8 electives
- Internship opportunities
South Orange, NJ
Seton Hall University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Communication in Organizations - Campus Based - Website
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- Prepares for employment or further study
- Emphasizes creative thinking
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Digital Media Studies - Campus Based - Website
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Focus on theory and practical application
- Communication Portfolio course
- Enhances creative thinking skills
- Uses state-of-the-art technology
- Digital Media Studies track
- Communication in Organizations track
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Public Relations - Campus Based - Website
- 36-credit on-campus program
- Three specialized tracks available
- Digital Media Studies focus
- Communication in Organizations focus
- Public Relations focus
- Communication Portfolio course
- State-of-the-art technology used
- Real-world scenario preparation
Union, NJ
Kean University
- Master's - Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree in Communication Studies
- Theoretical and practical approaches
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Research methods exploration
- Optional thesis or comprehensive exam
- Three additional certificate programs
- State-certified mediation course
- Organizational communication focus
Wayne, NJ
William Paterson University of New Jersey
- Master's - Integrated Marketing Communication, MA
Campus Based - Website
- 30-credit program
- Focus on digital content
- Social media communication
- Crisis management training
- Strategic communication research
- Global strategic communication
- Corporate social responsibility
- Content writing and branding