With good communication skills you can spread information, influence people, and drive change. Earning a master's in communication degree can be a big step toward a career where your voice matters. This degree appeals to people with a variety of professional goals. If you are pursuing or advancing a career in media or public relations, you might want to look into getting a master's in marketing, or a similar field and read on to see how it can help you accomplish your goals.
Most students can graduate with their master's in two years from an online or on-campus program. Accelerated and part-time options are also available. Use this guide to learn what to expect from a communication program, explore careers you can pursue, and discover top online schools offering a master's in communication degree.
Best Online Master's in Communication Programs
Master's in Communication Specializations
The curriculum of a communication degree is broad and can be applied to many industries. Choosing a concentration for an MA or MS in communication allows you to graduate as an expert in your field. Some programs are more academic, focusing on theories and preparing you for further study. Alternatively, some pathways take a more applied approach and feature practical, hands-on experiences.
The concentration you choose is dependent on your personal career goals. For example, if you hope to work in business, consider an advertising or leadership concentration. Different concentrations can help prepare graduates for careers in business, advertising, healthcare, and even professional writing.
Specializations
Strategic Communication and Public Relations
Integrated Communication and Advertising
Communication and Leadership
Health Communication
Advocacy and Social Impact
Media and Arts Management and Promotion
Political Communication
Technical Communication
Communication Degree Curriculum
Communication programs cover a variety of topics, including writing, media studies, public imaging, and pop culture. Depending on your chosen program, you may or may not be required to complete a thesis project in your final term.
A successful thesis project shows that you can apply what you've learned in the classroom by conducting new research and producing scholarly materials.
Courses
Persuasion and Social Influence
Mass Communication Effects
Political Communication
Communication Research Methods
Advanced Media Writing
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for a master's in communication program are similar to many other graduate programs. Common requirements include:
A bachelor's degree in a related field earned with a minimum GPA
GRE scores (programs do not always require standardized test scores)
An application essay and student resume
Letters of recommendation from past professors, school counselors, mentors, or volunteer supervisors
What Can I Do With a Communication Degree?
This degree can open several doors for you, including advanced positions with higher pay and expanded job responsibilities. While it is possible to work up to many senior-level roles with a bachelor's degree and ample experience, an advanced qualification signals your seriousness about career development to potential employers.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (2023) |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $156,580 |
| Writer | $73,690 |
| Technical Writer | $80,050 |
| Editor | $75,020 |
| Public Relations Manager | $130,480 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Communication Programs
The amount of time it takes to complete a master's in communication degree depends on the school and the program. Students who enroll on a part-time basis should expect to take longer to finish, while those enrolled in accelerated or degree-completion programs can finish their studies more quickly.
Many master's degree programs feature 30-40 credits and take 18-24 months to complete. USC's master of communication management program can be completed in as little as 16 months.