Master’s in Communication in Ohio
Ohio offers aspiring communications experts a wide range of graduate degree options, including 6 schools offering traditional on-campus master's in communication programs and 4 schools offering fully online programs. Students in the Buckeye State can also choose from a variety of program concentrations, such as organizational communication, public relations, health communication, communication technology, media studies, and many others. Upon graduation, students will be well prepared for doctoral study, academic careers teaching communication at the college level or even to begin or advance their careers in the communication field. Major companies that call Ohio home and may provide employment opportunities for master's program graduates include Bridgestone, Goodyear, Big Lots!, KeyBank, Proctor & Gamble, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, Ohio Health and Cleveland Clinic. For aspiring journalists and corporate communicators, there are a number of newspapers, radio stations, and television stations across the state, including those in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo that may hire program graduates, as well as public relations, marketing, and communications companies in those same cities.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Ohio
University of Akron
Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication delivers a comprehensive online graduate program tailored for communication professionals seeking advanced career development. With no GRE requirement, the program offers exceptional flexibility for working professionals, emphasizing practical communication skills across diverse industries. Students benefit from award-winning faculty instruction, learning strategic communication techniques that prepare them for leadership roles. The fully online format accommodates busy schedules, enabling learners to balance academic pursuits with professional commitments while gaining real-world communication expertise.
- 100% online format
- Master of Arts Degree
- Strategic Communication focus
- Award-winning faculty
- Flexible for busy schedules
- Practical applications emphasized
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Bachelor's degree required
- No GRE required
- Real-world skills development
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Health and Crisis Communication - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focused on Health and Crisis Communication, the University of Akron's Master of Arts program provides specialized strategic communication training for professionals navigating complex communication landscapes. This online graduate degree equips students with targeted skills in managing health communication challenges and crisis response strategies. Taught by award-winning faculty, the curriculum blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing graduates to effectively communicate critical information in high-stakes healthcare and emergency management environments.
- 100% Online Master's Program
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Curriculum
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Industry-relevant Communication Skills
Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication offers a specialized Social Media concentration designed for digital communication professionals. This cutting-edge online program explores advanced social media strategies, digital content creation, and emerging communication technologies. Students develop comprehensive skills in crafting engaging digital narratives, analyzing social media trends, and implementing strategic communication approaches across multiple platforms. Award-winning faculty guide learners through innovative curriculum that prepares them for dynamic roles in contemporary digital communication landscapes.
- 100% Online Master's Degree
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Program
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Accommodates Busy Schedules
Ohio University
Athens, OH - Public 4-Year - ohio.edu
Master's - Communication and Development
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio University's Master's in Communication and Development Studies offers a transformative academic journey centered on leveraging communication for social transformation. The program uniquely blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling students to develop sophisticated strategies for driving meaningful change across global contexts. Tailored for aspiring change-makers, the curriculum encompasses community development, global health communication, and media advocacy. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences, small cohort sizes, and opportunities to engage with diverse international perspectives. Financial support through scholarships and assistantships enhances accessibility, while the program prepares graduates for impactful careers in NGOs, non-profits, government agencies, and academic research.
- Focus on social change.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum.
- Global perspective emphasized.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Customizable study options.
- Financial aid available.
- Competitive admissions process.
- International student support.
- Scholarships and assistantships.
- Preparation for global careers.
Master's - Organizational Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ohio University's online Master of Arts in Organizational Communication provides a cutting-edge professional development pathway for communication professionals seeking strategic career advancement. This comprehensive 30-credit program, delivered entirely online, empowers students to master complex organizational communication dynamics and leadership strategies. With a flexible 18-24 month completion timeline and no GRE requirement, the program offers exceptional accessibility and affordability, with tuition under $17,000. Students explore critical communication theories, enhance interpersonal skills, and develop sophisticated organizational communication competencies. The curriculum is designed to support working professionals, featuring experienced faculty guidance, multiple elective options, and stackable certificate opportunities.
- 100% online program
- 18-24 months completion time
- 30 total credit hours
- Less than $17K tuition
- No GRE required
- Flexible learning format
- Optional stackable certificates
- Experienced faculty guidance
- Career advancement focused
- Multiple elective options
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH - Public 4-Year - bgsu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University offers a comprehensive Master of Arts in Media and Communication designed for professional advancement. The program explores diverse communication landscapes, providing students with robust research methods and theoretical foundations. Unique opportunities include graduate assistantships that offer financial support and practical teaching experience. With multiple specialization tracks and application deadlines throughout the academic year, students can strategically develop their expertise in media dynamics. The curriculum prepares graduates for multifaceted careers in communication, emphasizing global communication strategies and professional development.
- Offers MA in Media and Communication.
- Specializations in Strategic Communication.
- Online and campus options available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- Focus on research and theory.
- Application deadlines in October, January, April.
- Prepares for diverse media careers.
- Includes teaching experience opportunities.
- Emphasizes global communication strategies.
- Requires specific academic criteria for admission.
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: International/Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University's International/Intercultural Communication track within the Master of Arts in Media and Communication program delivers an immersive academic experience. Students engage with world-class research faculty, exploring comprehensive theoretical frameworks and advanced research methodologies. The program distinguishes itself through competitive graduate assistantships, providing financial support for full-time students. Designed for scholars seeking deep intercultural understanding, the curriculum emphasizes diverse perspectives and collaborative learning environments, preparing graduates for complex global communication challenges.
- Multiple MA specialization tracks
- PhD and MA program options
- Research-focused curriculum
- Graduate assistantships available
- Collaborative learning environment
- Located in low-cost living area
- Online strategic communication option
- Emphasis on diverse perspectives
- Professional development programs
Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication and Social Media - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bowling Green State University's Strategic Communication and Social Media online master's program revolutionizes digital communication education. Tailored for working professionals, this innovative 100% online degree enables flexible, part-time learning through seven-week courses. Students develop advanced skills in digital communication, data-driven strategies, and innovative messaging techniques. The curriculum equips professionals with comprehensive expertise in social media analytics, advertising, and strategic communication across organizational contexts. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate complex digital communication landscapes with cutting-edge research methodologies and practical applications.
- 100% online master's degree
- Seven-week flexible courses
- Part-time study option
- Strategic communication focus
- Social media specialization
- Advanced research methodologies
- Digital and non-digital applications
- Diverse career path preparation
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH - Private 4-year - udayton.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Dayton's Master of Arts in Communication equips students with advanced communication expertise through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary curriculum. Spanning diverse areas like mass communication, health communication, public relations, and organizational communication, the program offers robust research training. Students can customize their academic journey, preparing for dynamic careers in education, business, media, and government sectors. The 36-semester-hour program emphasizes core research methods, collaborative learning, and flexible specialization options. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, with thesis and practicum opportunities available to enhance practical and theoretical skills.
- 36 semester hours required
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Core research methods focus
- Mostly on-campus program
- Multiple communication specializations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Research and thesis options
- Collaborative learning environment
Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Interdisciplinary Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Dayton's Interdisciplinary Track in Communication offers a cutting-edge master's program designed for versatile professional development. By integrating communication studies with complementary disciplines like English, political science, psychology, and business administration, students gain holistic analytical skills. The curriculum provides extensive research opportunities across various communication domains, enabling graduates to pursue diverse career paths. With a focus on theoretical foundations and methodological excellence, the program supports students through rolling admissions, flexible research areas, and a comprehensive 36-credit structure that balances academic rigor with practical application.
- 36 semester hours required
- On-campus program with limited online courses
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Research-focused communication studies
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- 4 core communication courses
- Thesis or practicum option
- Rolling admissions process
- Flexible research areas
- Career preparation focus
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Master's - Communication Studies
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University's Communication Studies Master's program delivers a comprehensive academic experience targeting professionals seeking advanced communication insights. The curriculum strategically explores social and behavioral communication theories, empowering students with critical analytical skills applicable across professional domains. Designed for ambitious scholars, the 30-credit program provides flexible completion pathways including thesis, project, and internship options. Students benefit from rigorous academic preparation that positions them for impactful careers in academia, business, and nonprofit sectors. The program requires a minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA and offers opportunities for doctoral study preparation. GRE is recommended but not mandatory for admission.
- Master's degree in Communication Studies
- In-person program at Kent Campus
- 30 total credit hours required
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA
- Thesis, project, or internship options
- Dual degree with MBA available
- Minimum 9 credit hours at 60000 level
- Research methods course required
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Career paths in teaching, research
Master's - Interpersonal Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University's Interpersonal Communication Master's degree offers an innovative 32-credit program focused on advanced communication skill development. Students explore sophisticated verbal and nonverbal communication strategies, learning to interpret complex communication contexts and leverage emerging communication technologies. The concentration provides comprehensive training for professionals seeking to enhance their communication expertise across diverse organizational environments. Graduation options include thesis, coursework, project, and internship tracks, accommodating varied student needs. The program typically spans 2-2.5 years, requiring a 3.0 GPA and three recommendation letters. While the GRE is recommended, it is not mandatory for admission.
- 32-credit Master's degree
- Four graduation options available
- 2-2.5 years program length
- Interpersonal Communication concentration
- GPA requirement: 3.0/4.0
- GRE recommended, not mandatory
- Communication background preferred
- Three recommendation letters required
- Writing sample needed
- International student TOEFL requirements
2026 Affordable Ohio Masters in Communication Degree Options
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University of Akron
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Ohio University
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See below for additional information about each of the master's in communications programs offered in Ohio.
CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Cleveland State University offers a Masters in Communication Disorders program in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Science in Communication Disorders program. The Communication Sciences and Disorders Program at Cleveland State University is situated within the College of Health. The program includes a Master’s level Speech-Language Pathology degree program and a pre-professional undergraduate degree program.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $4,909 per semester for Ohio residents based on a course load of 9 credits per semester, and $9,261 per semester for non-residents.
Anything Else?: Students may enter the program in the fall or spring semesters.
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY
Kent State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication Studies program as an on campus program.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication Studies focuses on the social and behavioral study of communication theory and research designed to prepare students for doctoral study as well as for professional careers. Students have the option to specialize in global, health, interpersonal or mediated/mass communication.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $11,536 per year for Ohio residents, and $21,524 per year for non-residents.
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Ohio State University offers a Master of Arts in Communication program on their campus in Columbus.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is designed for students who plan to enter a doctoral program, begin a research career in the communication field, or whose eventual goals include teaching at the college or university level. The emphases of the program are research methodologies and the skills needed to advance the communication field.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $6,212 per semester for Ohio residents based on a course load of 8 or more credits per semester, and $17,464 per semester for non-residents. The school offers funding packages to nearly all students accepted to the master's in communication program.
Anything Else?: Students begin the program in the fall semester only, and application materials should be submitted no later than December 1 for full consideration for funding opportunities.
UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
The University of Akron offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on-campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that culminates in either a comprehensive exam for students planning to enter a professional career following graduation, or a thesis for students planning to enter doctoral study. The program offers three areas of concentration: Communication Studies, Media Studies, and Public Relations.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $442 per credit hour for Ohio residents and $747 per credit hour for non-residents. Additional mandatory fees apply.
Anything Else?: The program begins in the fall semester. For students seeking a graduate assistantship, the application deadline is March 1. For admission only, the application deadline is May 1.
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
The University of Cincinnati offers a Master of Arts in Communication program with full-time and part-time on campus options.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program allows students to earn their degree on a full-time or part-time (evening courses) basis to accommodate working students. The program offers the following options for specializations: Organizational Communication and Public Relations, Media and Cultural Studies, Health and Environmental Communication, Interpersonal Communication and Leadership, Culture and Globalization, and Rhetorical, Interpretive, Critical and Quantitative Methods. The program culminates in a thesis for students interested in Ph.D. programs, or a "Praxis" project, which consists of an advanced internship and a final paper.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $724 per credit hour for Ohio residents and $1,311 per credit hour for non-residents. Additional mandatory fees apply.
Anything Else?: Full-time students are accepted for the fall semester only, and the application deadline is February 1. The application deadlines for part-time students are February 1 for the fall semester and October 15 for the spring semester.
UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
The University of Dayton offers a Master of Arts in Communication program in an on campus format.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Communication program is a 36-credit hour program that focuses on research, theory, message development and analysis. Students may also choose to complete an interdisciplinary course of study combining communication courses with disciplines such as English, business, psychology or political science.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate level tuition for the 2018-2019 academic year is $925 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: All application materials for students interested in teaching assistantships should be submitted by March 9.
Online Master’s in Communication Programs in Ohio
ASHLAND UNIVERSITY
Ashland University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication program is an 18-month, 30-credit hour program with a strong focus on health and safety, public relations and strategic communication. Students choose from either a health or public relations track for their coursework.
What Does It Cost?: The cost of tuition and fees for the 2018-2019 academic year is $584 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: Applications for the program are reviewed on a rolling basis. It is suggested that all application materials are received by the school no later than one month before the intended start date.
BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
Bowling Green State University offers a fully online Master of Arts in Media and Communications program with a specialization in Strategic Communication.
What to Know: The online Master of Arts in Media and Communications program is designed for media and communications professionals working in non-profit organizations, for-profit companies and the media. Students enroll part-time and complete their degrees in two years, with coursework in organizational communication, social media, advertising and public relations.
What Does It Cost?: The University estimates total tuition for the program at $18,000-$20,000 total as of fall 2018.
Anything Else?: The program offers 7-week online courses and 6 program start dates throughout the year.
FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY
Franklin University in Columbus offers an online Master of Science in Marketing and Communication program.
What to Know: The online Master of Science in Marketing and Communication program is a fully online program designed to be completed in 16 months and does not require the GRE or GMAT to apply. The integrated curriculum focuses on modern-day marketing and communication tactics and trends.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for this program for the 2018-2019 academic year is $670 per credit hour.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission in the fall semester is August 20, and January 7 for the spring semester.
OHIO UNIVERSITY
Ohio University in Athens offers a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication in a fully online format.
What to Know: The online Master of Arts in Organizational Communication program is designed for working professionals to complete on their own schedules in 15 months (assuming two courses per semester) or two years (completing one course per semester). Students complete their coursework in organizational communication via online class discussions and group projects and video conferences with instructors, which allows them to earn their degree from the comfort of home at times that work with their work schedules.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition for online programs is $240 per credit hour as of fall 2018.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for admission in the fall semester is July 1, November 1 for the spring and April 1 for the summer semester.
Ohio Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Akron, OH
University of Akron
- Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- Master of Arts Degree
- Strategic Communication focus
- Award-winning faculty
- Flexible for busy schedules
- Practical applications emphasized
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Bachelor's degree required
- Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Health and Crisis Communication - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Master's Program
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Curriculum
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Industry-relevant Communication Skills
- Master's - Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
Concentration: Social Media - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Master's Degree
- Strategic Communication Focus
- Flexible Graduate Program
- Award-winning Faculty
- Multiple Communication Certificates Available
- Accommodates Busy Schedules
Athens, OH
Ohio University
- Master's - Communication and Development
Campus Based - Website
- Focus on social change.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum.
- Global perspective emphasized.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Customizable study options.
- Financial aid available.
- Competitive admissions process.
- International student support.
- Master's - Organizational Communication
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- 18-24 months completion time
- 30 total credit hours
- Less than $17K tuition
- No GRE required
- Flexible learning format
- Optional stackable certificates
- Experienced faculty guidance
Bowling Green, OH
Bowling Green State University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Campus Based - Website
- Offers MA in Media and Communication.
- Specializations in Strategic Communication.
- Online and campus options available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- Focus on research and theory.
- Application deadlines in October, January, April.
- Prepares for diverse media careers.
- Includes teaching experience opportunities.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: International/Intercultural Communication - Campus Based - Website
- Multiple MA specialization tracks
- PhD and MA program options
- Research-focused curriculum
- Graduate assistantships available
- Collaborative learning environment
- Located in low-cost living area
- Online strategic communication option
- Emphasis on diverse perspectives
- Master's - Master of Arts in Media and Communication
Concentration: Strategic Communication and Social Media - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online master's degree
- Seven-week flexible courses
- Part-time study option
- Strategic communication focus
- Social media specialization
- Advanced research methodologies
- Digital and non-digital applications
- Diverse career path preparation
Cincinnati, OH
University of Cincinnati
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time MA program
- Part-time and 4+1 options available
- Graduate assistantships with $15,776 stipend
- Six diverse focus areas
- Evening courses for working professionals
- Thesis or praxis project completion options
- Preparation for PhD or professional careers
Dayton, OH
University of Dayton
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 36 semester hours required
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Core research methods focus
- Mostly on-campus program
- Multiple communication specializations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Research and thesis options
- Collaborative learning environment
- Master's - Master of Arts in Communication
Concentration: Interdisciplinary Track - Campus Based - Website
- 36 semester hours required
- On-campus program with limited online courses
- Interdisciplinary curriculum options
- Research-focused communication studies
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- 4 core communication courses
- Thesis or practicum option
- Rolling admissions process
Kent, OH
Kent State University
- Master's - Communication Studies
Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree in Communication Studies
- In-person program at Kent Campus
- 30 total credit hours required
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA
- Thesis, project, or internship options
- Dual degree with MBA available
- Minimum 9 credit hours at 60000 level
- Research methods course required
- Master's - Interpersonal Communication
Concentration: Interpersonal Communication - Campus Based - Website
- 32-credit Master's degree
- Four graduation options available
- 2-2.5 years program length
- Interpersonal Communication concentration
- GPA requirement: 3.0/4.0
- GRE recommended, not mandatory
- Communication background preferred
- Three recommendation letters required