Best Master's in Communication Programs in North Dakota

North Dakota offers exactly two traditional communication master's programs: NDSU's on-campus M.A. in Communication and UND's fully online M.A. in Communication. With so few options, the head-to-head comparison between these two programs carries more weight than it would in states with a dozen choices. Both require 30 credits and offer thesis or non-thesis tracks, but they serve fundamentally different student populations.

UND's asynchronous online format fits working professionals statewide who cannot relocate to Grand Forks, while NDSU's residential model in Fargo attracts recent graduates seeking faculty mentorship and in-person research collaboration. Each school charges per-credit tuition, and total program costs land between $12,000 and $20,000 depending on residency status and format. If you are also weighing options in neighboring states, our guide to best master's in communication programs in minnesota offers a useful comparison point.

The data here also surfaces speech-language pathology programs at Minot State and the University of Mary, both of which are clinically focused graduate tracks rather than general communication studies degrees. Those programs prepare students for licensure as speech-language pathologists, a distinct career path with higher median earnings but a narrower professional scope than corporate communications, public relations, or media production roles.

Best Master's in Communication Programs in North Dakota

North Dakota's graduate communication landscape splits into two distinct paths: a traditional Master of Arts in Communication at NDSU and several Speech-Language Pathology programs that fall under the broader communication sciences umbrella. Because NDSU is the only institution in the state offering a general MA in Communication, working professionals who want to study organizational messaging, media, or leadership communication will find a focused but high-quality option in Fargo. The SLP programs at Minot State, UND, and the University of Mary round out the field for students drawn to clinical communication practice. Below, we rank all four schools using a methodology that rewards affordability, institutional completion rates, and overall return on investment.

UND vs NDSU: Head-to-Head Communication Master's Comparison

Choosing between UND and NDSU often comes down to lifestyle fit. UND's fully online M.A. in Communication is built for working professionals who need asynchronous flexibility, while NDSU's on-campus Communication M.A. is ideal for students who thrive with face-to-face faculty mentorship and want access to graduate assistantships. The table below puts the key decision factors side by side so you can weigh what matters most.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Online vs On-Campus Communication Master's Programs in North Dakota

Choosing between an online and on-campus format is one of the most consequential decisions you will make as a graduate student. Both UND's fully online M.A. in Communication and NDSU's on-campus M.A. in Communication offer strong credentials, but they serve different lifestyles and career goals. Here is a clear look at the trade-offs.

Tuition, Total Cost, and Financial Aid for ND Communication Programs

Total credit-hour requirements for communication master's programs in North Dakota range from 30 to 36 credits, with tuition charged per credit at rates set annually.

Calculating Total Tuition Cost

To estimate your total investment, multiply the number of credits required by the current per-credit rate. Both the University of North Dakota (UND) and North Dakota State University (NDSU) publish their graduate tuition and fees on their websites, typically under a "Tuition and Fees" or "Graduate School" section. Rates can differ for residents, non-residents, and online learners. Online programs often have a flat per-credit rate regardless of location, while on-campus non-resident rates may be higher. Check program handbooks or graduate bulletins for any additional differential charges or special rates applied to communication courses.

Graduate Assistantships and Tuition Waivers

NDSU's communication department frequently offers graduate assistantships that provide a stipend along with a full or partial tuition waiver. Stipend amounts vary by assignment and are outlined in the offer letter; they typically help offset living expenses. Assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties and require a separate application or indication of interest during the admission process. At UND, similar opportunities may exist through the graduate school or departmental funding; contact the communication program coordinator to learn about availability and deadlines.

Scholarships for Communication Graduate Students

Both universities maintain scholarship portals that match students with internal and external funding opportunities. UND's Scholarship Universe and NDSU's Scholarship Connection allow you to filter by graduate level and program of study. Named scholarships, sometimes funded by alumni or professional organizations, may be available specifically for communication students. These awards often consider academic merit, financial need, or specific research interests. Priority deadlines can be as early as February for the following academic year, so begin searching well before you apply. If you are also exploring options in neighboring states, you can compare the cost of master's in communication Maine or programs in the Upper Midwest for additional perspective.

Weighing Cost Against Career Earnings

While tuition is an upfront expense, evaluating potential return on investment is critical. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes median annual wages for communication-related occupations, such as public relations specialists, technical writers, and market research analysts. These national figures, together with regional employment data, can help you gauge long-term earning potential. Professional associations like the National Communication Association (NCA) may also list grants, fellowships, or cost-comparison tools. Use each school's net price calculator to get a personalized estimate after factoring in assistantships, scholarships, and other aid.

What a Communication Master's Costs vs What It Pays

How do upfront costs stack up against long-term earning power? The chart below pairs each ranked North Dakota program's average net price with median earnings reported ten years after enrollment. Program-level post-completion earnings at one and four years are not yet available for these schools, so institution-wide median earnings serve as the best current proxy.

Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations for Communication Graduates in North Dakota

North Dakota's communication job market is tightly tied to the state's three dominant industries: healthcare, energy, and government. These sectors not only anchor the economy but also shape what communication graduates earn and where they land after graduation.

What North Dakota Communication Graduates Actually Earn

Program-level earnings data for the ranked communication master's programs in North Dakota are not yet available in federal College Scorecard reporting. This means we cannot report median earnings one, two, or four years after graduation for NDSU's MA in Communication or similar programs. When these data become available, they will provide the clearest view of what communication master's holders earn in the state.

National and State Salary Benchmarks

Nationally, public relations specialists earned a median annual wage of $69,780 in 2024.¹ Entry-level practitioners at the 25th percentile earned around $50,280, while experienced professionals at the 75th percentile brought in $92,290.² North Dakota-specific wage data for public relations specialists and media and communication workers are not published separately by BLS, so graduates should expect earnings to vary based on sector and location within the state. Fargo and Bismarck, where corporate and government communication roles cluster, typically offer higher compensation than rural markets. For a broader look at careers with a masters in communication, salary ranges vary significantly by specialization and geography.

Where North Dakota Communication Professionals Work

Major employers hiring communication graduates include Sanford Health and Essentia Health, two of the state's largest healthcare systems with extensive marketing, public affairs, and patient education teams. Energy companies such as Hess Corporation and Continental Resources maintain corporate communication and community relations staff in the Bakken oil region. State government agencies, tribal nations, and North Dakota's public universities also hire communication professionals for policy communication, public information, and institutional marketing roles.

Job Growth and Demand Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5 percent job growth for public relations specialists nationwide from 2024 to 2034, roughly in line with the average for all occupations.¹ This translates to approximately 15,800 new openings annually when accounting for both growth and replacement needs across the national workforce of 315,900 professionals.³ In North Dakota, demand is closely linked to population trends and business cycles in healthcare and energy. Graduates with digital content creation, crisis communication, and data analytics skills remain best positioned for competitive roles, particularly in Fargo's growing tech and healthcare sectors.

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Curriculum, Specializations, and Thesis vs Non-Thesis Tracks

Choosing between a research-focused thesis and a career-ready professional project shapes not just your graduation timeline but your post-degree options. Both UND and NDSU require 30 credits, yet how you spend those credits differs substantially based on your academic goals and career ambitions.¹²

Core Curriculum Foundations

North Dakota's communication master's programs share common intellectual ground. At NDSU, students begin with COMM 700 (Graduate Study in Communication) and COMM 711 (Theory in Communication Research), establishing the theoretical frameworks that underpin advanced study.² The program also requires two research tools courses selected from options including quantitative methods, qualitative approaches, and statistical analysis.

UND's online professional track centers on three core courses: COMM 516, 517, and 518.¹ These emphasize applied communication skills over research methodology, reflecting the program's professional orientation. With 21 elective credits available, UND students have considerable flexibility to tailor coursework toward specific career interests.

Thesis vs Non-Thesis: Matching Your Path to Your Goals

NDSU offers both options, making it the better fit if you're still weighing academic versus industry careers. The thesis track dedicates 6 credits to original research culminating in a defended thesis, leaving 12 credits for specialization coursework.² This path demonstrates research competence that doctoral programs expect from applicants. The non-thesis alternative replaces the thesis with 3 additional credits of coursework and a comprehensive examination with defense, totaling 15 elective credits. Students typically complete the non-thesis option faster while still demonstrating mastery through the comprehensive exam.

UND's program offers only the professional project route through COMM 518, with no thesis option available.¹ This design works well for working professionals seeking immediate career advancement rather than doctoral preparation.

Specializations That Shape Your Expertise

NDSU concentrates its offerings in two areas: Organizational Communication and Media, Technology, and Society. These tracks prepare graduates for corporate communication roles or positions examining digital media's societal impact.

UND provides three distinct specialization paths: social data analytics, science communication, and intercultural communication.³ The science communication option stands out as particularly relevant for professionals in healthcare, environmental agencies, or research institutions seeking to translate complex findings for public audiences.

Capstone Requirements

Neither program requires a practicum, but both demand culminating work. NDSU students complete either a thesis defense or comprehensive examination depending on their track.² UND students finish with the COMM 518 Professional Project, applying program concepts to a real-world communication challenge.³ For professionals already employed in communication roles, this project often addresses an actual workplace need.

Admissions Requirements and Deadlines for ND Communication Programs

Rolling admission versus priority deadlines: each pathway shapes how you prepare your application materials and how competitive your candidacy appears to graduate committees. Understanding these distinctions helps you time your submission for maximum advantage at either North Dakota institution.

Minimum Academic Requirements

Both UND and NDSU set their baseline GPA requirements at the graduate school level. UND requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 for graduate admission, applying this standard across its Communication M.A. tracks.¹ NDSU similarly expects competitive undergraduate records, though specific GPA thresholds may vary by department. Neither program currently requires GRE scores for Communication M.A. applicants, removing a significant barrier for working professionals who have been out of school for several years.² If you are exploring other programs that share this policy, our guide to online masters in communication no GRE covers a wide range of options nationwide.

For context on institutional selectivity, UND admits approximately 77% of undergraduate applicants, while NDSU accepts roughly 95% at the undergraduate level. Graduate admission tends to be more selective within specific departments, but these figures suggest both institutions maintain accessible pathways for qualified candidates.

Application Materials

Both programs expect a standard graduate application package:

• Statement of purpose: Articulate your research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing graduate study in communication
• Letters of recommendation: Typically two to three academic or professional references who can speak to your scholarly potential
• Writing sample: Demonstrates your analytical and communication abilities, often a paper from undergraduate coursework or professional writing
• Official transcripts: From all previously attended institutions

UND's online professional track shares these requirements while accommodating applicants who bring substantial workplace experience in lieu of recent academic credentials.

Background Requirements and Bridge Coursework

UND's Communication M.A. lists a bachelor's degree in Communication or a related field as the expected background.² However, students from other disciplines are not automatically excluded. Those without communication coursework may need to complete foundational classes before advancing to graduate seminars. The accelerated online option requires completion of the Senior Capstone course (COMM 410) with a grade of C or better, a prerequisite designed for students transitioning directly from UND's undergraduate program.²

NDSU similarly welcomes applicants from adjacent fields but may recommend or require prerequisite study depending on your academic history. Contact the department directly to discuss how your background aligns with program expectations.

Application Deadlines for 2026-2027

NDSU's Communication M.A. lists a priority deadline of February 15, 2026, for fall admission. Applying by this date positions you for full consideration for assistantships and funding. Applications received after the priority deadline may be reviewed on a space-available basis.

UND's graduate programs typically follow similar timelines, with priority consideration for fall admission closing in late winter or early spring. Spring admission deadlines, when available, generally fall in October or November of the preceding year. Check directly with UND's Graduate School for the most current dates, as deadlines can shift annually.

Frequently Asked Questions About Communication Master's Programs in North Dakota

Prospective graduate students often have overlapping questions about cost, format, and career value when weighing North Dakota's communication master's options. Below are concise answers to the questions we hear most often.

How do UND and NDSU communication master's programs compare?

UND's M.A. in Communication leans toward strategic communication, media studies, and offers robust online delivery. NDSU's M.A. in Communication emphasizes rhetoric, public discourse, and health or science communication. Both are strong regional programs, so the best fit depends on whether your career goals align more with media and strategic practice (UND) or rhetorical inquiry and applied research (NDSU).

Can you get a master's in communication online in North Dakota?

Yes. The University of North Dakota offers its M.A. in Communication in a fully online format, making it accessible to working professionals across the state and beyond. NDSU's program is primarily campus based, though some courses may be available in hybrid or distance formats depending on the semester. UND is the most established online option in the state.

How much does a master's in communication cost in North Dakota?

Tuition varies by residency. At UND, in-state graduate tuition runs roughly $350 to $400 per credit hour; NDSU is comparable. A typical 30 to 36 credit program totals approximately $10,500 to $14,400 before fees and living expenses. Online students at UND pay a unified distance rate that is competitive with in-state pricing. Always confirm current rates through each university's bursar office.

What can you do with a master's in communication from North Dakota?

Graduates move into roles such as public relations manager, corporate communications director, marketing strategist, media relations specialist, and higher education administrator. Some pursue doctoral study. The degree is also valued in healthcare communication, government affairs, and nonprofit leadership. North Dakota employers in energy, agriculture, and healthcare regularly seek professionals with advanced communication expertise.

Does UND require the GRE for their communication master's program?

As of the most recent admissions cycle, UND does not require GRE scores for admission to its M.A. in Communication. Applicants are evaluated on undergraduate GPA, a statement of purpose, writing samples, and letters of recommendation. Because policies can change, check directly with UND's Graduate School for the latest requirements before you apply.

What is the difference between thesis and non-thesis tracks in communication graduate programs?

The thesis track requires an original research project defended before a faculty committee, making it ideal for students considering doctoral work or research careers. The non-thesis (comprehensive exam or capstone) track replaces the thesis with additional coursework or a professional project, suiting practitioners who want applied skills without the extended research timeline. Both tracks typically require the same total credit hours.

Are there graduate assistantships available for communication students in North Dakota?

Both UND and NDSU offer a limited number of graduate assistantships that typically include a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend. Duties may involve teaching introductory courses, supporting faculty research, or assisting in campus communication offices. Assistantships are competitive, so applying early and highlighting relevant experience strengthens your candidacy. Contact each department directly for current availability and deadlines.