Best Master’s in Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs
Find out how one of the top mass communication graduate programs can prepare you for rewarding traditional and new media careers.
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The mass media continues to play a critical role in distilling and transmitting information to the public. Top mass communication graduate programs typically blend traditional media forms, such as journalism and public relations, with new media technologies.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 3% growth rate for media and communication occupations between 2022 and 2032, about as fast as the average growth rate for all occupations. The median annual salary for these professionals is $66,320 as of May 2023, much higher than the $48,060 average for all occupations.
Explore our ranking of some of the nation’s top on-campus and online master’s in mass communication and media studies programs.
Best Master’s in Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Stanford University
Stanford, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$52,479
$52,479
4%
5%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $12,240
Out of State | $12,240
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Stanford offers a coterminal master's degree in communication program, which allows learners to complete a master's degree and bachelor's degree simultaneously. Students can choose from media studies or journalism tracks. The media studies track includes courses in social research and media processes and effects.
Students must also complete six additional media courses and an original media studies master's project. Admission requirements for prospective students include reference letters from two Stanford professors, plus prerequisites and a statement of purpose.
$52,857
$52,857
99%
17,249
Private
Yes
$52,479
$52,479
Stanford, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$52,479
$52,479
4%
5%
$52,857
$52,857
99%
17,249
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $12,240
Out of State | $12,240
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Stanford offers a coterminal master's degree in communication program, which allows learners to complete a master's degree and bachelor's degree simultaneously. Students can choose from media studies or journalism tracks. The media studies track includes courses in social research and media processes and effects.
Students must also complete six additional media courses and an original media studies master's project. Admission requirements for prospective students include reference letters from two Stanford professors, plus prerequisites and a statement of purpose.
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$47,600
$47,600
5%
6%
On-Campus and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,428
Out of State | $2,428
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Columbia's master of science in strategic communication program provides students with the skills to develop communication strategies. The core courses include communication management, digital media and analytics, and communication research and insights. Students can also complete workshops, a capstone project, and a summer practicum.
Columbia offers full-time and part-time paths, which provide 12-, 16-, 24-, and 36-month completion times. For admission into the full-time track, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, plus 1-2 years of professional experience or significant internship experience.
$57,763
$57,763
99%
31,456
Private
Yes
$47,600
$47,600
New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$47,600
$47,600
5%
6%
$57,763
$57,763
99%
31,456
Private
Yes
On-Campus and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,428
Out of State | $2,428
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Columbia's master of science in strategic communication program provides students with the skills to develop communication strategies. The core courses include communication management, digital media and analytics, and communication research and insights. Students can also complete workshops, a capstone project, and a summer practicum.
Columbia offers full-time and part-time paths, which provide 12-, 16-, 24-, and 36-month completion times. For admission into the full-time track, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, plus 1-2 years of professional experience or significant internship experience.
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$56,067
$56,067
9%
2%
On-Campus and Online | Scheduled and Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
In State | $6,429
Out of State | $6,429
Credits to Graduate
9
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The master of science in communication at Northwestern emphasizes collaborative leadership, embracing complexity, and elegant communication. The school offers an on-campus custom leadership program, with specializations in strategic communication and organizational leadership. Students can also take an online leadership program that features three virtual practicums in strategy or leadership.
Both programs have a three-part capstone project requirement. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, reference letters, and a completed interview.
$56,232
$56,232
98%
22,448
Private
Yes
$56,067
$56,067
Evanston, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$56,067
$56,067
9%
2%
$56,232
$56,232
98%
22,448
Private
Yes
On-Campus and Online | Scheduled and Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
In State | $6,429
Out of State | $6,429
Credits to Graduate
9
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The master of science in communication at Northwestern emphasizes collaborative leadership, embracing complexity, and elegant communication. The school offers an on-campus custom leadership program, with specializations in strategic communication and organizational leadership. Students can also take an online leadership program that features three virtual practicums in strategy or leadership.
Both programs have a three-part capstone project requirement. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, reference letters, and a completed interview.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,278
23%
12%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $8,454
Out of State | $17,110
Credits to Graduate
36 or 39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Carolina's master's in media and communication program features journalism, strategic communication, and visual communication tracks. Each track features core courses in media law and reporting and writing news, plus a final thesis project. Learners planning to pursue a doctorate may take a theory and research track with a specialized curriculum.
Media and communications students also complete a comprehensive exam in their final semester. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
$7,019
$34,198
96%
29,877
Public
Yes
$10,552
$28,278
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,278
23%
12%
$7,019
$34,198
96%
29,877
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $8,454
Out of State | $17,110
Credits to Graduate
36 or 39
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Carolina's master's in media and communication program features journalism, strategic communication, and visual communication tracks. Each track features core courses in media law and reporting and writing news, plus a final thesis project. Learners planning to pursue a doctorate may take a theory and research track with a specialized curriculum.
Media and communications students also complete a comprehensive exam in their final semester. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Brigham Young University-Provo
Provo, UT4 yearCampus
$7,290
$7,290
67%
12%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $467-$934
Out of State | $467-$934
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students in Brigham Young University's master's in mass communications program examine the link between media and society. The program allows learners to create their own concentrations, such as international media and communications, health communications, and social media. Degree-seekers also complete a six-credit thesis project.
The average student spends 2.5 years completing this degree, but some finish in less than two years. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
$5,790
$5,790
90%
34,318
Private
Yes
$7,290
$7,290
Provo, UT4 yearCampus
$7,290
$7,290
67%
12%
$5,790
$5,790
90%
34,318
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $467-$934
Out of State | $467-$934
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students in Brigham Young University's master's in mass communications program examine the link between media and society. The program allows learners to create their own concentrations, such as international media and communications, health communications, and social media. Degree-seekers also complete a six-credit thesis project.
The average student spends 2.5 years completing this degree, but some finish in less than two years. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Boston University
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$54,720
$54,720
19%
10%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050
Credits to Graduate
40-48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Boston University's communication department offers a master of science in mass communications and a master of arts in emerging media studies. The master's in mass communications program features two concentrations: marketing communication research and communication studies. Both specializations include core courses in contemporary mass communication, writing, and communication theory.
The emerging media studies program features a final project and a three-semester research project. The university provides internship opportunities in all communication programs. For admission, prospective students must have a bachelor's degree.
$54,720
$54,720
94%
33,720
Private
Yes
$54,720
$54,720
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$54,720
$54,720
19%
10%
$54,720
$54,720
94%
33,720
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050
Credits to Graduate
40-48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Boston University's communication department offers a master of science in mass communications and a master of arts in emerging media studies. The master's in mass communications program features two concentrations: marketing communication research and communication studies. Both specializations include core courses in contemporary mass communication, writing, and communication theory.
The emerging media studies program features a final project and a three-semester research project. The university provides internship opportunities in all communication programs. For admission, prospective students must have a bachelor's degree.
Villanova University
Villanova, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$20,506
$20,506
28%
23%
On-Campus and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $845
Out of State | $845
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Villanova's master of arts in communication examines leading communication theories and research. The program includes core courses in communication perspectives and quantitative and qualitative research methods. Learners also complete a capstone examination or thesis project.
Degree-seekers fill out their program with electives from three fields: practices, principles, and contexts. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, three recommendation letters, and a goals statement.
$54,550
$54,550
96%
10,848
Private
Yes
$20,506
$20,506
Villanova, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$20,506
$20,506
28%
23%
$54,550
$54,550
96%
10,848
Private
Yes
On-Campus and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $845
Out of State | $845
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Villanova's master of arts in communication examines leading communication theories and research. The program includes core courses in communication perspectives and quantitative and qualitative research methods. Learners also complete a capstone examination or thesis project.
Degree-seekers fill out their program with electives from three fields: practices, principles, and contexts. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, three recommendation letters, and a goals statement.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$18,198
$32,439
52%
8%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $6,019
Out of State | $10,510
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Washington's master of arts in communication emphasizes six areas: cultural communication, social interaction, communication technology, political communication, rhetoric, and international communication. The program also features three tracks that include communities and networks, digital media, and Native voices.
The first two tracks feature research methods and law and ethics requirements, while the Native voices track features a documentary research and final project requirement. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
$10,370
$37,071
95%
47,576
Public
Yes
$18,198
$32,439
Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$18,198
$32,439
52%
8%
$10,370
$37,071
95%
47,576
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $6,019
Out of State | $10,510
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Washington's master of arts in communication emphasizes six areas: cultural communication, social interaction, communication technology, political communication, rhetoric, and international communication. The program also features three tracks that include communities and networks, digital media, and Native voices.
The first two tracks feature research methods and law and ethics requirements, while the Native voices track features a documentary research and final project requirement. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$37,800
$37,800
27%
22%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $20,790
Out of State | $20,790
Credits to Graduate
30-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Miami's master of arts in communication studies program features four concentration options: communication studies, intercultural studies, health studies, and organizational communication. Learners can take a thesis or a non-thesis track with each of these concentrations.
Each track covers core studies in research methods, communication theory, and qualitative research methodologies. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, a goals statement, and GRE scores. To qualify for the thesis track, students need to secure a project supervisor.
$50,400
$50,400
93%
17,811
Private
Yes
$37,800
$37,800
Coral Gables, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$37,800
$37,800
27%
22%
$50,400
$50,400
93%
17,811
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $20,790
Out of State | $20,790
Credits to Graduate
30-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Miami's master of arts in communication studies program features four concentration options: communication studies, intercultural studies, health studies, and organizational communication. Learners can take a thesis or a non-thesis track with each of these concentrations.
Each track covers core studies in research methods, communication theory, and qualitative research methodologies. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree, a goals statement, and GRE scores. To qualify for the thesis track, students need to secure a project supervisor.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$10,728
$24,054
54%
18%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $12,176
Out of State | $25,504
Credits to Graduate
30-41
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Wisconsin Madison's master of arts in communication arts features four tracks: communication science; film; media and cultural studies; and rhetoric, politics, and culture. Depending on their specialization, students may have a comprehensive exam or thesis requirement.
The university provides professional development opportunities via teaching assignments, department colloquia, and the school's media center. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The communication department prefers a minimum 3.25 GPA in relevant courses.
$9,273
$36,333
95%
44,257
Public
Yes
$10,728
$24,054
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$10,728
$24,054
54%
18%
$9,273
$36,333
95%
44,257
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Year
In State | $12,176
Out of State | $25,504
Credits to Graduate
30-41
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The University of Wisconsin Madison's master of arts in communication arts features four tracks: communication science; film; media and cultural studies; and rhetoric, politics, and culture. Depending on their specialization, students may have a comprehensive exam or thesis requirement.
The university provides professional development opportunities via teaching assignments, department colloquia, and the school's media center. For admission, prospective students need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The communication department prefers a minimum 3.25 GPA in relevant courses.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Mass Communication and Media Studies?
Graduates from mass communication programs can pursue well-paying careers such as editors, writers and authors, public relations specialists, and news analysts and reporters.
The BLS reports the annual median salaries for a variety of media and communication occupations as of 2023:
- Editors: $75,020
- Writers and authors: $73,690
- Public relations specialists: $66,750
- Film and video editors and camera operators: $65,070
- News analysts, reporters, and journalists: $57,500
- Technical writers: $80,050
Popular Classes in Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs
Students enrolled in mass communication graduate programs complete 30-36 credits of coursework on campus and/or online. While each school’s curriculum varies, some common themes stand out.
Students usually explore the history of communication and mass media, types of communication media, and their influence on culture and society. Some programs allow students to focus on a specialization such as political communication or public relations.
Theory of Mass Communication
This course explores major theories in mass communication and their application in politics, advertising, and other contexts. Students examine research and case studies that demonstrate the influence of mass media on American culture and society.
Critical Analysis of Mass Media
This course teaches students how to critically analyze content in mass media, such as newspaper articles and broadcast news. Students learn how to deconstruct the messaging, understand the motivation, and evaluate audience impact.
Advanced Public Relations
This course examines the fundamentals of public relations and its role in shaping public perception. Students explore topics such as media relations, strategic communication planning, content development, and crisis communication.
Journalism
This course explores the history of journalism through the 20th and 21st centuries. Students explore topics such as investigative journalism, effective story-telling, data-driven journalism, and emerging media platforms.
Digital and Social Media Fundamentals
This course explores the evolution of digital and social media over the past few decades, including the various technologies and their use to shape political discourse, build brands, and gather information.
Master’s in Mass Communication and Media Studies Admission Requirements
Admission to a mass communication graduate program usually requires a bachelor’s degree, a minimum 2.8-3.0 GPA, college transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Most graduate schools do not require a specific major or prerequisite coursework for admission to this program. However, majors such as English, political science, marketing, and communications make an especially good fit.
Many schools no longer require GRE test scores, though applicants may submit them to bolster the application.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs
Mass communication is the process of examining human communication and how to develop and disseminate messages to the public through mediums such as the media — broadcast news, newspaper journalism, and social media.
Media studies explores the history, content, and effectiveness of these various mediums in getting that messaging across to large audiences.
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