Master’s in Communication in Washington, DC
Washington, DC, our nation’s capital, is home to five universities that offer master’s in communication degrees, including several that offer programs designed for busy working professionals. These programs include on-campus, online, and hybrid course completion options to allow for flexibility and expediency. Many programs provide an opportunity to focus on specific areas of study, such as public relations, communications strategies, marketing, corporate communications, and digital communications and media. Since these programs are located in Washington, DC, the seat of our nation’s government, political communications, and public affairs courses are also commonly offered. Graduates can find several employment opportunities upon earning their degree, including opportunities working for the federal government, including its many departments, and the military.
2026 Best Masters in Communication Programs in Washington, DC
American University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - american.edu
Master's - MA in Media, Technology & Democracy
Campus Based - Visit Website
American University's MA in Media, Technology & Democracy offers a transformative academic journey for communication professionals passionate about understanding digital media's impact on democratic societies. The 30-credit program provides rigorous PhD-level coursework, exploring complex issues like internet surveillance and media manipulation. Designed with working professionals in mind, students can choose full- or part-time enrollment and benefit from a small cohort learning environment. The program emphasizes qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, enabling students to develop strategic insights for careers in policy, government, and media industries. Optional GRE scores can strengthen application, though not explicitly required for admission.
- 30 credit hour master's program
- Designed for working professionals
- Full and part-time options
- PhD-level communication coursework
- Research thesis project
- Washington DC location
- Online summer term
- Qualitative and quantitative research training
- Small cohort learning environment
- Flexible elective selection
Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Visit Website
American University's MA in Strategic Communication delivers a comprehensive curriculum tailored for emerging communication leaders. The flexible one-year program, available online and on-campus, requires 30 credit hours and accommodates part-time students. Applicants must submit a statement of purpose, resume, transcripts, and recommendation letters. The program cultivates practical skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for advanced communication roles. While GRE scores are optional, students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes leadership development, strategic thinking, and adaptable communication techniques. The program's transparent credit-hour tuition model makes advanced education financially accessible.
- Available online and on-campus.
- 1-year program duration.
- 30 credit hours required.
- Part-time study option.
- Late August start date.
- Statement of purpose required.
- Resume submission needed.
- Transcripts from all institutions.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Optional portfolio submission.
Master's - MA in Political Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
American University's MA in Political Communication provides a sophisticated 36-credit program bridging political science and strategic communication. Jointly offered by the School of Public Affairs and School of Communication, the program prepares students for leadership in political advocacy, media consulting, and public affairs. Coursework spans speechwriting, social media strategy, campaign management, and political advertising. Students engage with ethical communication principles and gain hands-on experience through specialized courses. The program offers fall and spring admissions with rolling application review and potential merit aid. GRE submission is recommended but not mandatory, making it accessible for diverse professional backgrounds seeking advanced political communication expertise.
- 36-credit on-campus program.
- Joint degree by SPA and SOC.
- Focus on political science and media.
- Courses in speechwriting and social media.
- Prepares for political advocacy roles.
- Ethical grounding emphasized.
- Hands-on courses available.
- Admission in fall and spring.
- Rolling admissions process.
- Merit aid consideration available.
George Washington University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - gwu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Communication Management
Campus Based - Visit Website
The George Washington University's Master of Arts in Communication Management provides a robust, interdisciplinary approach for communication professionals seeking advanced strategic skills. Located in the heart of Washington, DC, this program uniquely prepares students to develop comprehensive communication strategies across complex organizational environments. With flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks, students gain competitive expertise in message planning, persuasion, and intercultural negotiation. The program distinguishes itself by not requiring a GRE for admission, offering a 30-credit curriculum that emphasizes practical applications and theoretical foundations. Students benefit from diverse elective options and a curriculum designed to enhance leadership communication capabilities in rapidly evolving professional landscapes.
- Only DC metro area communication management program
- 30-credit total program length
- Thesis and non-thesis options available
- No GRE required for admission
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Diverse elective course selection
- Focus on organizational communication
- Fall and spring admission cycles
- Interdisciplinary course offerings
- Unique DC location advantage
Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Media and Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
George Washington University's Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication offers a comprehensive 36-credit program tailored for aspiring media and communication leaders. Situated in Washington, DC, the curriculum provides deep insights into media effects, public opinion, and strategic messaging. Students develop advanced skills in campaign design, data analysis, and persuasive communication strategies, with specialized focus areas including sustainability, public health, and peacebuilding. The program prepares graduates for dynamic roles in public relations, government media relations, and nonprofit management. With a flexible structure combining core courses, skills training, and elective opportunities, students gain a multifaceted understanding of contemporary communication challenges and innovative solutions.
- 36 credit program
- 15 credits in core courses
- 3 credits in skills courses
- 12 credits in electives
- 6 credits in capstone courses
- Flexible curriculum
- Focus on media effects
- Public opinion studies
- Strategic messaging
- Campaign design
Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Global Communication
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Global Communication at George Washington University delivers a transformative 40-credit interdisciplinary program designed for communication professionals targeting international contexts. Jointly offered by the Elliott School and School of Media and Public Affairs, this program equips students with sophisticated skills in global communication across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. With twelve specialization options and a comprehensive capstone course, students develop expertise in international politics, economics, and cutting-edge communication strategies. The program stands out by not requiring GRE/GMAT, offering language proficiency requirements, and providing an optional thesis track that prepares graduates for complex global communication challenges.
- 40 total credit program
- Jointly offered by Elliott School and SMPA
- 12 specialization options available
- Capstone course tests real-world skills
- Language proficiency requirement
- Core courses in communication, politics
- Skills courses in strategic communication
- Optional thesis track available
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Two recommendation letters needed
2026 Affordable Washington, DC Masters in Communication Degree Options
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| American University |
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Keep reading for details on the master's in communication programs available in Washington, DC.
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
American University’s School of Communication offers master’s in communication degrees in several formats, including part-time and online as well as a traditional, on-campus option.
What to Know: American University’s School of Communication offers several degree choices, including Master of Arts in Strategic Communication, Political Communication, Journalism & Public Affairs, and Journalism & Digital Storytelling. For a full listing of master’s degree options, visit this page.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition for the Fall 2021 academic year to date is $1,812 per credit hour, plus additional fees, supplies, or room and board. Each degree offering is 30 to 36 credits.
Anything Else?: The School of Communication has rolling admissions for its Master’s in Communication programs.
GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
George Washington University’s Columbian College of Arts & Sciences offers a Master of Arts in Media & Strategic Communication program through its School of Media & Public Affairs. Courses for the on-campus program are offered in downtown Washington, DC.
What to Know: The Master of Arts in Media & Strategic Communication program is designed to prepare students to become media and political communication specialists, creating and disseminating effective messaging and campaigns for today’s fast-moving media landscape.
What Does It Cost?: Graduate tuition and fees at the George Washington University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $1,825 per credit hour, excluding fees. The program requires 36 credit hours for completion.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for Fall semester is February 1 for applicants considering applying for financial aid, and April 1 for others. Spring enrollment application deadline is October 1. Learn more about the program here.
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
Georgetown University in Washington, DC, offers a few master’s in communication programs. The flexible programs are designed for non-traditional students and include online and on-campus options.
What to Know: Georgetown University offers a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications and a Master of Professional Studies in Integrated Marketing Communications. Both programs focus on real-world communications’ scenarios and are geared towards working professionals.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition rates for the 2021-2022 programs are $44,490 and $48,939, respectively, plus additional fees. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for fall admission is July 15, and December 1 for spring admission. Learn more about the program here.
JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
Johns Hopkins University in Washington, DC, offers a Master of Arts in Communication degree for working professionals, which can be completed online, in-person, or through a combination of both.
What to Know: Johns Hopkins University offers a Master of Arts in Communication through its Advanced Academic Programs school. The pragmatic, on-trend communication program allows students to select areas of concentration, including Corporate and Non-Profit, Digital Communication, Health Communication, and more.
What Does It Cost?: Tuition rates for the 2021-2022 programs are $4,506 per course; the degree program requires the completion of 10 courses.
Anything Else?: Applications for the Advanced Academic Programs school are accepted year-round. Learn more about the program here.
TRINITY WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
Trinity Washington University headquartered in Washington, DC, offers an online-only Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations degree program.
What to Know: Trinity Washington University’s Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations degree is made for professionals looking to advance their careers. The accelerated online program covers strategic communication management, public relations, and public affairs in today’s social justice and equity-focused media environment.
What Does It Cost?: For the 2021-2022 school year, tuition rates are $825 per credit for the 36-credit master’s in communication degree program.
Anything Else?: The application deadline for fall admission is Feb. 1 and November 1 for spring admission. Learn more about the program here.
Washington, DC Colleges That Offer Accredited Master's in Communications Programs
Washington, DC
American University
- Master's - MA in Media, Technology & Democracy
Campus Based - Website
- 30 credit hour master's program
- Designed for working professionals
- Full and part-time options
- PhD-level communication coursework
- Research thesis project
- Washington DC location
- Online summer term
- Qualitative and quantitative research training
- Master's - MA in Political Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 36-credit on-campus program.
- Joint degree by SPA and SOC.
- Focus on political science and media.
- Courses in speechwriting and social media.
- Prepares for political advocacy roles.
- Ethical grounding emphasized.
- Hands-on courses available.
- Admission in fall and spring.
- Master's - MA in Strategic Communication
Online Learning - Website
- Available online and on-campus.
- 1-year program duration.
- 30 credit hours required.
- Part-time study option.
- Late August start date.
- Statement of purpose required.
- Resume submission needed.
- Transcripts from all institutions.
George Washington University
- Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Communication Management
Campus Based - Website
- Only DC metro area communication management program
- 30-credit total program length
- Thesis and non-thesis options available
- No GRE required for admission
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Diverse elective course selection
- Focus on organizational communication
- Fall and spring admission cycles
- Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Global Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 40 total credit program
- Jointly offered by Elliott School and SMPA
- 12 specialization options available
- Capstone course tests real-world skills
- Language proficiency requirement
- Core courses in communication, politics
- Skills courses in strategic communication
- Optional thesis track available
- Master's - Master of Arts in the Field of Media and Strategic Communication
Campus Based - Website
- 36 credit program
- 15 credits in core courses
- 3 credits in skills courses
- 12 credits in electives
- 6 credits in capstone courses
- Flexible curriculum
- Focus on media effects
- Public opinion studies