Master’s in Communication Online MA Degree Programs

A master's in communication could be a wise choice for someone looking to build leadership skills that can be used across industries. As Dr. Karen Wilkinson, an associate dean at SNHU with over 30 years of marketing, communication and PR experience, put it: "Communication touches every field, workplace and environment throughout contemporary society."

This is especially important in an age where so many communication channels exist – many on digital platforms where massive amounts of content are shared every second.

"Today, more than ever, individuals are inundated with digital technology and online social opportunities," Wilkinson said. "The ability to create and deliver content via the correct context, channel and medium is essential to ensuring that communication efforts are strategic and successful."

The stakes have been raised for timely and ethical communication, too. Gone are the days when a press release was the primary course of action to correct a PR nightmare. Now, professional communicators are expected to speak directly and respectfully to audiences across the globe.

"Digital environments deliver vast opportunity to engage with global audiences. Social media offers an online conversation," Wilkinson pointed out. In addition, these audiences are culturally unique, diverse in both thought and experience, and expect immediacy in the way information is shared.

Earning an advanced degree can help give the tools you need to adapt to these evolving channels – which could also help you stand out to employers. An online master's in communication can strengthen and build upon your prior BA or BS degree by allowing you to develop new and valued workplace skill sets.

The amount you earn upon getting your master's in communication depends on several factors, including your specific role, company, industry and geographical location.

That said, a master's in communication online degree program could help position you for career advancement – and, in turn, higher earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings of workers with bachelor's degrees was $1,493 in 2023.¹ By comparison, those who had a master's degree in the same time period received median weekly earnings of $1,737.¹

In many cases, students can expect to complete their master's degree in 1.5 to 2 years. But at SNHU, you can earn your master's online at whatever pace you'd like – whether it's over the course of a few years, or in as few as 15 months.

We know that no two learners are the same – that we all have unique needs and challenges. What matters to us is helping you achieve the goals you set out to achieve, in whatever way works best for you.

That means, if you're balancing a job, commitments with family or any other host of responsibilities, you can take on the work that fits your schedule. Our advisors can work closely with you to map out a course plan – and if, for whatever reason, your schedule changes, we can adjust accordingly. 

We also accept up to 12 transfer credits, helping you pick up right where you left off (and save tuition along the way).

The bottom line is, we're here to help you reach the finish line, no matter where you start, or what pace you take to get there.

One of the things that makes the master's in communication such a powerful degree is that it can be broadly applicable to a number of different roles and industries across the globe. Whether you're working in financial services, marketing or even for a local nonprofit, your skills could be an invaluable asset to any organization.

For Mihir Pandya '18, a graduate degree in communication from SNHU meant realizing his dream of working in the sports industry. After interning for Major League Soccer (MLS), he was offered a full-time job in their communications department, working as a media monitoring and analysis consultant.

"Learning on the job alongside with the MA program in communication came in very handy," Pandya said. "I was able to apply my real-life experiences to the program and my book knowledge to the internship."

A master's in communication also aims to prepare you for any challenge that might come your way. Upon graduating, you'll be equipped with skills that can help you adapt in fast-paced environments.

“A communicator has his or her fingers in every pot," said Dr. Karen Wilkinson, an associate dean at SNHU. "You are going to need to know how to create a graphic, respond to a crisis, write a blog or create a web page. Communication is tied to technology and technology is ever-evolving.”

A communication degree can help you grow a number of "soft skills," which, according to a National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2024 survey, were high on employers' wish lists for employees.² In fact, 78.9% of the hiring managers who answered the survey valued staff who can collaborate as part of a team.

Even more managers (88.7%) look for employees who have problem-solving skills. Other soft skills managers listed included:

• Written communication: 72.7%
• Strong work ethic: 71.6%
• Flexibility/adaptability: 70.1%
• Verbal communication: 67.5%

All of these skills are central to our online master's in communication program. And if you're looking to stand out even more to employers, we offer concentrations in public relations and new media, too.

Both concentrations find their sweet spot in the intersection of messaging and technology, according to SNHU instructor Robert Krueger.

“As a professor who also works for a large global company, I assure you these are the skills that make communicators succeed out in the field.”

While the names alone do not have specific, across-the-board differences, it's worth noting that, even with the same name, the content of these programs may vary. If you're trying to decide on a program, take a close look at the course curriculum and outcomes to figure out if it's right for you.

Our graduate communication program, for example, mixes theoretical principles and concepts with practical, real-world applications using engaged class discussion, internships and a capstone.

Take a look at our course curriculum to learn more.

The curriculum for our online graduate communication program is designed to prepare you for success in the field. That means, in part, taking a look at the competencies and skills that are most valued by employers across the globe.

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) notes 6 core principles of the communication profession.³ These core principles, which help inform key communication skills, are present throughout our program. They are:

1. Ethics. Communicating cultural values, representing organizations truthfully and enabling mutual understanding and respect.
2. Consistency. Establish a clear and compelling narrative and recognize the diverse perspectives of your audience.
3. Context. Understand internal cultures, external environments and how to advocate for your organization.
4. Analysis. Understand and evaluate communication plans using qualitative and quantitative research.
5. Strategy. Identify opportunities and challenges and execute effective communication strategies.
6. Engagement. Foster and nourish relationships with key stakeholders to align on shared goals.