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Online Master’s Degree in Communications – The Top 10

Online Master's Degree in Communications

An online master’s degree in communications can kickstart your career or upgrade it to the heights of success! Whether you are a writer in public relations, marketing, or HR, this degree is a perfect fit.

If you are a good speaker and writer, you are already on the path to a glittering career in communications. However, finding the right communication master’s program can be challenging because of the various specializations available. What is the best fit for you? Choosing a communication graduate program that targets topics like organizational leadership, technology, and digital media strategies is ideal.

If you already work in communications, you may find it impossible to squeeze in the time for an advanced degree. However, you can complete an online master’s degree right from the convenience and comfort of your home.

Still unsure about whether you should pursue an advanced degree or not? This article offers all the information you need to make this degree choice, such as:

  • The best schools for masters in communication
  • Communication degree jobs
  • Salary
  • Job outlook, and much more!

What is a Master’s Degree in Communications?

A master’s degree in communication proffers students strategies for transferring information from one body to another. Students delve into oral and written communication in this domain and study digital communication.

Communications master’s programs cover specific coursework topics such as crisis management, mass communication, and social media. Some other specialized topics may include law and the strategies that can help influence and persuade others. In addition, students can choose from various electives from communications, including politics, healthcare, advertising, and community development. But who is a master’s degree in communication beneficial for? Generally, professionals work in public relations departments, represent non-profit organizations, or work on political campaigns. Graduates with a master’s degree can also choose to become marketing executives, technical writers, or consumer researchers.

Specializations/Concentrations

An online master’s in communication generally offers concentrations, primarily because of the wide scope of this domain. Suppose no concentrations are available for the program you want. In that case, you may still be able to tailor your courses according to your interests. Irrespective of concentrations, all master’s in communication degrees offer a comprehensive education focusing on the full range of fundamental subjects.

Following are the most common examples of the concentrations most online graduate programs in communication offer:

Advertising

Prepare for a career in this industry by strategizing, devising, and managing advertising campaigns through an advertising specialization. Common topics of this concentration include research design, strategic advertising, and marketing principles, practices, etc. Graduates with this specialization are eligible for employment with the following:

  • Corporation marketing and advertising departments
  • Advertising agencies
  • Strategic marketing companies
  • Non-profit organizations

Digital Communication

The communication domain works side by side with technology and the IT industry. Specifically, this concentration prepares students for the challenges of the digital world by:

  • Gaining crucial skills and knowledge for using various digital platforms
  • Monitoring performance data to determine the effectiveness of new media messaging
  • Devising and implementing strategies for effective digital content

Leadership

A master’s in communication online with a concentration in leadership is suitable for professionals upgrading their status to supervisory positions. Generally, these leadership roles are within a broader communication agency or department. The concentration teaches students to identify, analyze, and implement applicable principles of leadership and theories. In addition, it examines how to develop an empowering workplace environment by facilitating seamless communication between management and employees.

Public Relations

An advanced communication degree with a PR concentration focuses on research methods, theory, and implementation skills. Specifically, these skills are associated with developing effective public messaging for non-profit organizations and private companies. The knowledge this specialization imparts includes various crossovers in the advertising field. The primary difference between advertising and public relations is that PR safeguards and promotes an organization’s public image.

Strategic Communication

A strategic communication concentration is suitable for professionals devising practices and policies to enhance organizational information flow and communication. It imparts how to develop and implement communication plans and strategies. Furthermore, students learn to improve and facilitate communications and measure the effectiveness of organizational procedures and policies.

Overview – Online Master’s Degree in Communications

What To Expect

If you want to learn all the skills for success in any organizational setting, earn an online master’s degree in communication! Graduates with an advanced degree in communications can launch and excel in successful careers, irrespective of their chosen industry. Some typical domains graduates can look into include the following:

  • Data interpretation, communication research, and audience analysis
  • Effective message dissemination and creation
  • Internal organizational communications and human resources
  • Conflict resolution and problem-solving
  • Management and leadership
  • External messaging (public relations, advertising, and marketing)

Although most master’s degree programs require a culminating thesis, an online master’s degree in communication is generally non-thesis, and the studies culminate in a capstone project.

Communications Courses

Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations

This specialized course focuses on organizational marketing and advertising product campaigns. It also covers the promotion and protection of an organization’s public image. Some online masters in communication programs offer distinct specializations or courses for these three subjects.

Communication and Gender

Bias and gender are generally deciding factors of positive or negative communication messaging. This course covers the relationship between gender and communication. For example, it focuses on perceptions of gender differences and their consequences in different cultural and social contexts.

Communication Research

This introductory course delves into the methods and theories used to conduct and create research in professional communications. It teaches students how to analyze, apply, and present data and information from their research endeavors. In other words, this course covers common topics such as:

  • Interviewing techniques
  • Questionnaire construction
  • Sampling techniques
  • Ethical considerations necessary to keep in mind during survey research

Digital and Social Media Communications

Digital and social media courses examine the use, implications, and effects of present and emerging trends in media. It covers topics such as:

  • Platforms and their use in professional communication contexts
  • The relationship between technologies and culture in social media
  • The design and marketing of innovative media campaigns

Laws and Ethics In Communication Practice

Law and ethics courses are introduced in an online graduate degree in communication. They cover the practical and philosophical queries in professional communications practices. For instance, students learn about applicable regulations and laws to determine potential legal challenges in communication. They may also examine the relationship of law with issues of obscenity, censorship, intellectual property, libel, and property rights.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for an online master’s degree in communication vary depending on schools and programs. However, most of them may pose any of the following general requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Official college transcripts
  • A minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Standardized test scores, generally from a GRE examination
  • A personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Academic writing samples
  • Resume or CV
  • A minimum TOEFL score (for non-native English speakers)

Since different programs vary these admission requirements, think about your application holistically. Look into the conditions of programs beforehand to best prepare for them.

However, applicants who do not satisfy the minimum admission requirements may be granted admission on a conditional basis. In that case, students must maintain a particular GPA in their graduate program to earn full admission.

Note: Contact the program directors to apply to a specific program when you do not satisfy the requirements. They will help you determine any available options if you are determined to apply.

Acquired Skills

An advanced communication degree does not limit students to a particular field; thus, the knowledge applies to various settings. Graduates of an online master’s degree in communication may develop the following skills:

  • Sharp time management
  • Ability to build a social media following
  • Established verbal, oral, and written communication ability
  • Knowledge of communication theory
  • Ability to tailor messages for a specific audience, may it be global or local
  • Effective promotion of a brand image
  • Exceptional digital collaboration skills
  • A sense of autonomy
  • Hardcore research skills
  • Strategic planning
  • Goal-particular proactiveness

Timeline

A full-time master’s in communication typically takes two years to complete. Low credit hour requirements, accelerated curricula, or transferring credits may cut that time to one year of study. Part-time enrollment, in contrast, may take considerably longer, depending on the program format.

Paying for Your Online Master’s Degree in Communications

Consider federal financial aid! A college education is costly, but that should not stop you from earning an advanced degree in communication. For example, you can apply for federal financial help by filling out and submitting the FAFSA form. FAFSA is a free application that can help you learn what federal assistance you qualify for. These aids may include loans, grants, and federal work-study.

Other organizations, such as a state’s financial aid programs or an employer’s aid program, may also build on FAFSA data. Some additional financial aid scholarships include fellowships and scholarships, which can be both merit-based and need-based. They can also come from your particular school or a private organization. Pursuing an online master’s degree in communication is relatively less expensive than choosing an on-campus program. Consider student loans, fellowships, employer tuition assistance, college-sponsored and private scholarships, and work-study programs to help pay for your degree.

How To Choose The Right Program

When choosing an online master’s degree in communication, make sure that you take your time to research. Being informed and selective prevents considerable trouble in the future. Accredited online communication master’s programs can satisfy your financial and professional requirements with some research. Make sure to keep the following points in mind when choosing the right program for you:

Program Cost

Cost is generally the top consideration for college students. Online programs cost relatively less than their in-person counterparts, allowing you to save money. Several colleges also offer local discounts to in-state students. However, looking at only the tuition cost when choosing a program is not suitable. Low cost may translate to lower academic or program quality. Therefore, make sure you compare tuition costs and academic standards to make an informed decision.

Transfer Policies

It is essential to look into the university’s transfer policies. You never know when you may decide to transfer to another institution or choose a supplemental program somewhere else.

School Type and Size

The primary difference between a public and a private school is the expenditure. Public institutions tend to charge less and offer broader financial aid options. Private schools, in contrast, charge more but provide more one-on-one student professor time due to fewer enrolled students.

Program Length

It is imperative to decide whether you wish to study full-time or part-time before choosing a communication master’s degree program. Most schools have maximum or minimum credit hours requirements. Thus, you must ensure your chosen degree matches your professional and personal requirements.

On-Campus Requirements

Double and triple-check a program’s online format, no matter how rigorously it is advertised as 100% online. Some online communication programs have in-person requirements, such as seminars, presentations, supervised tests, projects, etc. These may be a problem if you choose an online program out-of-state.

Fellowship, Thesis, and Work

Most online masters in communication programs have academic requirements and the required coursework. These educational requirements may include a fellowship, thesis, capstone project, work requirement, or internship. Students can generally satisfy these requirements locally, but working professionals may face difficulty juggling their academic and work life.

Program Format

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous

All public and private universities typically require 60 credits for an online master’s degree in communication. Even if a program is entirely online, check whether it uses a synchronous or asynchronous format. Synchronous formats have particular time requirements, such as lectures, discussions, and live presentations. Asynchronous programs, in contrast, offer higher flexibility and allow students to manage the workload at their own pace.

Full-time vs. Part-time

Students who earn nine or more credits each semester are known as full-time students. A full-time online master in communication program culminates fairly quickly, whereas a part-time option may take more time. However, part-time programs offer higher flexibility regarding coursework, assignments, and thesis requirements.

Location

Irrespective of the online format of a graduate communication program, it is crucial to consider your and the school’s location before making a decision. As discussed, many online master’s programs in communications have in-person requirements, which may prove a hassle for students living out of state. In addition, some institutes charge more for out-of-state students than in-state ones.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the most critical aspect of choosing an online master’s degree program in communications. Accrediting bodies review a school’s academic standards and offer accreditation to those that meet the set standards. In addition, they survey student support services. Choosing a school with regional accreditation is vital because unaccredited degrees do not hold much value in the professional world. Additionally, you can only qualify for financial aid and transfer credits if you attend a regionally accredited institution.

Programs may also hold industry-specific accreditation, which shows that it meets the highest academic standards in the field. Master’s in communications degrees accredited by the American Communication Association are particularly suitable.

Best Schools for a Master’s in Communication

1. East Carolina University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Program: Master of Arts in Communication

East Carolina University began in 1907 and gradually became one of the leading public research institutes in North Carolina. Its academic reach falls into almost all states and seventy-three countries worldwide. It offers programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in both online and in-person formats. This institute provides majors in education, business, health, technology, and more.

Students can tailor their graduate studies between Strategic and Health Communication concentrations. The Health Communication specialization emphasizes organizational, interpersonal, and media communication dynamics. In contrast, the Strategic Communication concentration focuses on the present landscape of communication professionals with a particular interest in the following domains:

  • Social media and digital communication
  • Public relations principles and practices
  • Organizational communication and leadership

The program does not require students to have an undergraduate degree in communication for admission. As one of the best schools for a master’s degree in communication, East Carolina University has the following admission requirements:

  • An undergraduate degree in any field
  • A completed ECU graduate school application form
  • Statement of purpose
  • CV or resume
  • One letter of recommendation from a professional or academic source
  • Official transcripts
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) results
View More About This Program

2. Fort Hays State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Liberal Studies / Corporate Communication
Duration: 31 credit hours

This master’s degree focuses on social, intellectual, and moral growth. Specifically, corporate communication is suitable for professionals experienced in the business sector or working in leadership positions. Subsequently, graduates can lead in non-profit organizations, businesses, and governmental organizations.

The corporate communication concentration also focuses on critical thinking, analytics, research, problem-solving, and writing. These crucial skills help students develop and implement effective communication strategies to meet organizational objectives. The program curriculum requires ten core credit hours and includes the following courses:

  • Comparative perspective
  • Information literacy
  • Managerial communication
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Professional development
  • Managerial presentations and reports

In total, students must complete 31 credit hours to graduate. The concentration core requires 12 credit hours, and students can choose from several options, some of which are as follows:

  • Managing conflict
  • Crisis management
  • Corporate communication

Admission requirements for this program include the following:

  • A GPA of 2.75 or more on the last 60 undergraduate degree credit hours
  • Professional resume/CV
  • Personal statement that discusses: Your interest in and prior exposure to the communication field; How this degree satisfies your personal and professional goals
View More About This Program

3. Eastern New Mexico University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Arts in Communication

This Master of Arts in Communication is a hands-on and practical advanced study approach to the field. Pursue your advanced degrees in an area of your choice, including media literacy, public relations, criticism, and journalism. Graduates of this online master’s degree in communication have practical experience for career advancement in areas such as the following:

  • Journalism
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Broadcast journalism
  • Public relations
  • Publishing
  • Political consulting
  • Human resources
  • Marketing

It prepares students to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation or pursue doctorate programs. Although this online master’s communication program is entirely online, ENMU offers most classes through a hybrid format. However, students of both formats must complete group and individual presentations, assignments, group and individual projects, readings, and evaluations. Online or hybrid students can take up to six hours of their graduate courses outside the department. ENMU online supports educational and career opportunities upon approval from a graduate advisory committee.

The program offers two formats: a thesis and a non-thesis track. Non-thesis means 30 semester hours of coursework. It must also include a communication capstone project. Thesis credits might not be applicable to fulfill coursework requirements. The thesis option includes 24 hours of core coursework and a 6-hour thesis program. Students must complete their thesis and pass its oral defense.

View More About This Program

4. Arkansas State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Science in Media Management
Duration: One year

This all-encompassing program offers a foundation in media communication with the skills particular to career objectives.

The degree covers social media management, interactive advertising, and the use of social media in strategic communications, etc. Students explore and apply social media integration to the news, public relations industries, communications, and advertising. Furthermore, this advanced communication degree emphasizes group and interpersonal communication in online and mass media environments. Apart from focusing on skills in communication and emerging media, this program prepares students for management. Graduates of this online master’s program can pursue management roles in:

  • Non-profit organization
  • Journalism
  • News and broadcast
  • Broadcasting
  • Sales
  • Advertising
  • Public Relations

This communication program requires 30 credit hours of coursework and is completable in 12 months. The Digital Management tract necessitates six core courses (18 credit hours) and four courses particular to Digital Management. Students with a 3.0 GPA from the College of Liberal Arts and Communications can graduate. Core courses in the program’s curriculum include the following:

  • Theory of mass communication
  • Quantitative research
  • Audience market analysis
  • Broadcast management
  • Communication regulation and policy
  • Media management applications or Capstone project

Admission requirements to this online communications masters program include the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of a minimum of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Complete an online application and submit a $30 nonrefundable admission fee
  • Official transcripts from the registrar of the university or college registrar. The institution’s office must seal all official transcripts before sending them.
  • Students who wish to gain unconditional admission must have a 3.0 GPA for previous graduate programs or courses.
  • A 500-word written state of purpose that includes the applicant’s interest in this communication degree
  • A letter of recommendation
View More About This Program

5. Arkansas State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Science in Strategic Communications
Duration: 30 credit hours

Arkansas State University offers an online MS in Strategic Communications. This all-encompassing program augments your ability to strategically expand and influence an organization’s mission through communication. Specifically, it is a writing-intensive program that enhances analysis and practical skills. In particular, students will expand their critical thinking skills and ability to effectively devise and implement solutions to drive results. It requires 30 credits and is completable in about ten months.

The program coursework offers a comprehensive knowledge of media management, quantitative research, and interactive digital strategy. Students connect theoretical principles with practice through a capstone project in which they develop strategies and solutions for a real-world communication problem.

Students must undertake the following five core courses to graduate:

  • Quantitative research
  • Strategic communication management
  • Audience market analysis
  • Seminar In strategic communications
  • Advertising account management

Graduates of this program are eligible for lucrative leadership roles in various careers, such as:

  • Director of marketing
  • Marketing communications director
  • Senior account director
  • Director content management
View More About This Program

6. Montana State University-Billings

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Program: Master of Science in Public Relations

Montana State University provides students with the fundamental theoretical and practical tools to advance their public communication and PR careers. Graduates of this online graduate program attain an advanced understanding of the negotiation and facilitation processes between communities, groups, and individuals. The curriculum includes the following core courses, with three credits each:

  • Communication law and ethics
  • Issues in organizational communication
  • Research methods
  • Communication theory
  • Media criticism
  • Campaign planning

Admission requirements to this online master’s degree in communication include the following:

  • All official graduate and undergraduate transcripts
  • Standardized exam test cores
  • Letter of Interest/ Admission essay
  • Resume/ CV
  • Three letters of recommendation
View More About This Program

7. Fort Hays State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Business Administration / Corporate Communication
Duration: 33 credit hours

This renowned and flexible MBA program develops fundamental and functional business management expertise. These skills help drive an organization’s objectives in the global environment and elevate marketability with employers.

This online graduate program in communication is especially for communication professionals. It requires 33 credit hours of core MBA coursework with your choice of specialization. Students take all core courses in an eight-week session that allows greater convenience. Furthermore, the program does not require foundation courses and welcomes students from all academic and professional backgrounds.

Generally, a maximum of nine credit hours are transferable to this program. Credits already used for another graduate degree course do not apply to this MBA.

Students must complete nine hours in concentration areas including but not limited to the following:

  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Digital marketing
  • Corporate communication
  • Agribusiness
  • Management information systems
View More About This Program

8. Fitchburg State University

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Program: Master of Science in Applied Communication / Social Media
Duration: 36 credit hours

This accelerated degree program meets the rigorous career and educational training goals of communications, media studies, and other related disciplines.

Subsequently, graduates of this online master’s program in communication are eligible for the following career opportunities:

  • Public relations
  • Social media management
  • Brand management
  • Marketing director
  • Director of media relations

Social Media and Applied Communication concentration students are also well versed in:

  • Devising, planning, evaluating, managing, and monitoring social media campaigns and content
  • Critically conceptualizing social media in social and historical contexts
  • Collecting and evaluating research data to contextualize research conclusions
  • Identifying and analyzing the ethical implications of social media in the present age

The program requires 36 credit hours and is completable in as few as five months due to its accelerated nature. However, the five months duration can be quite demanding. Thus students have a flexible time frame of six years to complete the program. Admission requirements to this advanced program in communication include the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Official transcripts of prior education
  • Professional resume
  • Three recommendation letters
  • Graduate application and fee
  • Official graduate-level transcripts of completed coursework from a regionally accredited institution
View More About This Program

9. Missouri State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Master of Arts in Communication
Duration: 33 credit hours

This online Master of Arts in Communication has unique specialization options, such as organizational communication, conflict, and public relations. In addition, it balances research and theoretical principles with internship opportunities and service learning. Moreover, the distinguished faculty members of this program are published experts in their fields. In that vein, students attain research opportunities, individualized attention, and working partnerships with faculty. Students also have flexibility in choosing their area of specialization, which may include communication and culture, conflict, or organizational communication.

Students in the traditional master’s degree format have to undertake 33 hours of coursework in two years of full-time study. The graduate coursework requires students to opt for one of the following two options to satisfy the program’s research requisites:

Thesis Track

The thesis option requires online students to complete a written thesis and publicly present the research for graduation. Generally, a thesis reports conclusions of inquiry, original analysis, or theory-guided approaches related to communication.

Non-thesis Track

The non-thesis track requires students to complete a professional project plus a public presentation or completion of a seminar paper to graduate. The seminar paper is typically shorter than a written thesis. It may present a case study, small research or study results, or synthesized literature. The professional project entails developing, evaluating, and enacting an applied communication project, which may be a campaign, training, or workshop.

Irrespective of their choice of the above two options, students must also pass a comprehensive examination through their work presentation.

The program admits new graduate students every fall semester. It offers online and in-person courses for added flexibility for working professionals. Admission requirements for this online graduate program in communication include the following:

  • An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with an academic major in communication or a related degree
  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.00 scale for the last 60 credit hours
  • A 500-700 word application letter
  • Two letters of recommendation
View More About This Program

10. Ball State University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission and the Public Relations Society of America
Program: Master of Arts in Public Relations
Duration: 30 credit hours

Ball State University offers a 100% online MA in Public Relations in three to four semesters. It prepares students for career advancement, a professional media environment, or a path toward a related doctorate. The program does not mandate students to submit standardized GRE test scores, paving the way for opportunities for mid-career professionals.

The program curriculum is especially for experienced and new professionals diversifying their business and communication experience. It fosters the skills necessary for employment and in the workforce, such as:

  • Evaluation techniques
  • Social media analytics
  • Reputation management
  • Entrepreneurship

This online graduate program in communication is also suitable for students interested in the following:

  • Public relations professor or director roles
  • Public affairs or media relations management,
  • Media or market research analytics
  • Communication or event coordination
  • Business leadership

Ball State University’s award-winning faculty drives the program through entrepreneurial learning and innovation. It offers individual attention, focused one-on-one advising sessions, and training to students to ensure they meet their academic goals.

It also trains students in the significance of ethics in their careers, preparing them for digital proficiency, critical thinking, collaboration, and agile communication.

View More About This Program

Certifications and Licenses

There are no individual licenses or communications certifications, primarily because of the industry’s broad scope. Communication professionals can work in diverse settings, from freelance web design and technical writing to military communications. Because of the broad horizon, one credential cannot possibly cover all occupations. However, certifications specific to professional career interests and objectives are beneficial.

Here are a few renowned organizations and the certification options they offer for communication professionals:

Global Communication Certification Council

The GCCC collaborates with the International Association of Business Communicators to offer two types of certification in business communication:

  1. Strategic Communication Management Professional certification
  2. Communication Management Professional certification

Public Relations Society of America

The Public Relations Society of America is for communication professionals who focus on public relations and offers three types of certifications:

  1. Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) – for experienced public relations professionals
  2. Certificate in Principles of Public Relations – for recent graduates of university-level communication programs and seniors in the field.
  3. Accreditation in Public Relations + Military Communication – for military communication professionals interested in military or civilian positions.

The Society for Technical Communication

The Society for Technical Communication offers three certification levels for communication professionals:

  1. Foundation Certification – communication professionals can earn this certification by passing a test about the most suitable practices in the field.
  2. Practitioner Certification – individuals who wish to become a Certified Professional Technical Communicator must submit a product for evaluation and pass a written test
  3. Professional Technical Communicator Expert Certification – To become a Certified Professional Technical Communicator Expert, one must undergo evaluations of various work products and expert interviews.

What Can I Do With a Master’s in Communication?

According to the BLS, employment across media and communications may grow 6% between 2021 and 2031, about as fast as the average. This development may add about 68,600 new jobs over the decade. Apart from this anticipated job growth, more communication jobs may arise because of temporary workers leave their positions. On average, about 115,800 openings yearly may crop up from replacement and growth requirements.

Jobs and Salaries

Virtually all industries rely on communication in one way or another; thus, communication graduates have plenty of employment options. For instance, you can choose public relations, politics, advertising, marketing, corporate communications, and mass media. Earning an online master’s degree in communication paves the way for numerous positions. More of these include:

Again, according to the BLS, communication salaries may vary depending on your academic standing, professional experience, region, job, and employer. Here are some job titles, descriptions, and salary ranges for the top five professions for communication master’s graduates:

1. Marketing Managers

Marketing managers devise and monitor marketing programs, policies, and strategies for a business’s services and products. Particular job responsibilities for these professionals may include:

  • Collaborating with organization management to calculate the demand for a company’s services or products
  • Supervising activities of marketing staff
  • Developing promotion, advertising, and marketing campaigns
  • Companies and firms directly employ marketing managers. They may also work for advertising or marketing agencies by devising and supervising their business clients’ marketing endeavors.

Wages:

  • Median Annual Pay: $153,440
  • Median Hourly Wage: $73.77
  • 10% Percentile: $ 77,680
  • 25% Percentile: $ 100,010
  • 50% Percentile: $ 135,030
  • 75% Percentile: $ 192,520

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021

2. Human Resources Managers

HR managers manage an organization’s workforce and collaborate with management to devise and implement procedures and policies. They are responsible for employee retention and hiring, workplace safety, salaries, benefits, scheduling, and more. They also ensure organizational compliance with applicable employment-related state, federal, and local laws and regulations.

Wages:

  • Median Annual Pay: $ 136,590
  • Median Hourly Wage: $ 65.67
  • 10% Percentile: $ 75,000
  • 25% Percentile: $ 95,310
  • 50% Percentile (Median): $ 126,230
  • 75% Percentile: $ 163,360

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021

3. Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

PR managers generally work for non-profit organizations and private companies and monitor their public image. It is a suitable career choice for graduates with an online master’s degree in communications. Their typical job responsibilities may include the following:

  • Planning and applying public relations strategies
  • Scheduling and planning special public/organization-related events
  • Devising and releasing PR statements and publications to the press
  • Supervising the work of PR staff in larger organizations
  • Representing a positive image of their organization through online means, including blogs and podcasts

Individuals with a master’s degree in communication can also become fundraising managers and supervise campaigns and events meant to collect and solicit donations.

  • Median Annual Pay: $ 135,580
  • Median Hourly Wage: $ 65.18
  • 10% Percentile: $ 66,740
  • 25% Percentile: $ 86,440
  • 50% Percentile (Median): $ 118,430
  • 75% Percentile: $ 165,340

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021

4. Public Relations Specialists

Public relations specialists are generally a part of the PR group in larger organizations and companies. Their primary job responsibilities are comparable to those of PR managers, executing marketing and advertising campaigns and strategies. Graduates with a master’s degree in communication can launch careers in a large organization with higher professional advancement potential.

  • Median Annual Pay: $ 73,250
  • Median Hourly Wage: $ 35.22
  • 10% Percentile: $ 37,020
  • 25% Percentile: $ 48,670
  • 50% Percentile (Median): $ 62,800
  • 75% Percentile: $ 81,960

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021

5. Technical Writers

Becoming a technical writer is an unconventional career, generally not the first choice of many communication master’s graduates. Technical writers are professionals who prepare, compose, write, edit and publish technical professional journal articles, instruction manuals, etc. This career suits communication master’s degree graduates with added experience in STEM-related fields.

Wages:

  • Median Annual Wage: $ 81,470
  • Median Hourly Wage: $ 39.17
  • 10% Percentile: $ 48,890
  • 25% Percentile: $ 61,830
  • 50% Percentile (Median): $ 78,060
  • 75% Percentile: $ 98,840

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021

Here are some other career options for graduates with an online master’s degree in communication:

Advertising Manager 
Advertising managers are responsible for building market products, brand recognition, and services.

  • Median Annual Salary: $133,460
  • Job Growth: 6% increase

Public Relations Manager
Public relations managers are professionals who conceptualize and augment the public image of businesses or clients.

  • Median Annual Salary: $118,430
  • Job Growth: 9% increase

Technical Communicator
Technical communicators devise instruction manuals and relevant supporting documents to transmit technical information seamlessly and effectively.

  • Median Annual Salary: $74,650
  • Job Growth: 7% increase

Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts examine the market state of potential sales of a service or product and present it to the management

  • Median Annual Salary: $65,810
  • Job Growth: 18% increase

Communications Specialist
Communication specialists function as the face of an organization and are responsible for crisis management and positive promotions.

  • Median Annual Salary: $62,810
  • Job Growth: 7% increase

Professional Organizations

Students of online communication degree programs can join professional organizations while in school. Organization members can generally access job boards, newsletters, and scholarship opportunities. Following are the top professional organizations for communication graduates:

National Communication Association

The National Communication Association advances communication as a discipline. This includes all forms, media, modes, and consequences of communication through aesthetic, social-scientific, and humanistic inquiry.

Association for Women in Communications

The Association for Women in Communications is a specialized professional organization that promotes the advancement of women across all communication domains. It fosters leadership, recognizes merit and excellence, and positions members at the frontline of the communication industry.

International Communication Association

The International Communication Association advances and promotes the scholarly study of communication. For example, ICA facilitates and encourages excellence in academic research across the globe.

FAQs

Here are some helpful FAQs about online master’s degree in communications programs!

Is a master’s in communications worth it?

An online master’s degree in communication can pave the way for several lucrative career choices. It can also bring in higher salaries than the average across all occupations. According to Payscale, the median annual wage for a master’s degree in communication graduates is above $65,000.

Is it good to do a master’s in mass communication?

A master’s degree in communication is a great choice, with opportunities in industries including administration, marketing, advertising, PR, and more.

Is getting a master’s online a good idea?

Yes! An online communication master’s degree offers working adults the utmost flexibility and convenience. They are also considerably cheaper and are thus a suitable option for students on a limited budget.

How long does it take to get a master’s degree in mass communication?

An online master’s degree in communication generally takes about two years of full-time study. However, students in accelerated or part-time formats may require more or less completion time respectively.

Can I get into a master’s program with an online degree?

Yes, you can get into a master’s program in communication with an online degree. Most programs do not require students to hold an in-person undergraduate degree for admission: online undergraduate degrees are also acceptable.

Find a Program Today!

Almost all professions in all industries function because of effective communication. Thus, an online master’s degree in communication is a beneficial one-way ticket to a lucrative career. Whether you work in public relations, politics, marketing, human resources, or advertising, a graduate degree in communication prepares you for the best leadership positions.

Now that you know all about online master’s degrees in communication, it is time to make an informed decision about your future or upgrade your career! You can also look into other career choices at GetEducated.com.

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