Top 20 Online Communications Degree Programs
The online communication degree has long been a popular program delivered via distance learning. According to U.S. News and World Report, Communication is among the 10 most popular majors in the United States.
Communications degrees are generally associated with journalism, reporting, broadcasting, and other media outlets. Careers for communications majors span a wide variety of industries including marketing, advertising, and public relations. Communications graduates also face a lower unemployment rate than most other majors.
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Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Ranking Factors
General Criteria
- Offer a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Is a public or private not-for-profit college
- Offer at least one fully online bachelor’s communications degree program
Scoring Metrics
- Net Price
- Retention rate
- 6-year graduation rate
- Salary After Attending
Sources
- NCESÂ –Â primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education. Provides consistent, reliable, complete, and accurate indicators of education status and trends.
- IPEDSÂ – primary federal source for data on colleges, universities, and technical and vocational postsecondary schools in the U.S.
TOP 20 ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS DEGREE PROGRAMS
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#1
University of Florida
College of Journalism and Communications
SCORE
100
Net Price: $6,302
Retention Rate: 97%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Salary After Attending: $79,037
- Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication Media & Society
- Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Sciences And Disorders
- Master of Arts in Mass Communication – Web Design And Online Communication
- Master Arts in Mass Communication – Social Media
- Master of Science in Electrical And Computer Engineering – Communications
- Master of Arts in Mass Communication – Global Strategic Communications
- Master of Science in Agricultural Education And Communication
- Master of Science in Industrial And Systems Engineering – Communication Systems Engineering
The University of Florida offers the best online communications master’s degree program in the nation. This school holds multiple rankings in the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best” rankings including the #3 spot for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. UFL’s B.S. in Telecommunication Media & Society is one of the school’s most prominent communications degrees, wherein students study both traditional and digital media and their effect on society. The University of Florida’s communications programs is recognized by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications.
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#2
Washington University in St Louis
Arts & Sciences
SCORE
94
Net Price: $26,869
Retention Rate: 97%
Graduation Rate: 93%
Salary After Attending: $697,000
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – Communication Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Master of Arts in Public Relations
Overall, Washington University in St. Louis is one of the best colleges in the nation and was recently ranked in the US News & World Report as the #14 Best College in the U.S. and #33 Best Global University. Washington University in St. Louis offers online communications programs available in integrated marketing communications or public affairs. This school offers a nationally ranked Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication that is designed to prepare students in a way that energizes and advances their careers. a communications minor is also available.
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# 3
University of Wisconsin- Madison
SCORE
93.3
Net Price: $17,708
Retention Rate: 95%
Graduation Rate: 86%
Salary After Attending: $81,997
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Master of Arts in Communication Arts
- Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
The University of Wisconsin-Madison was founded in 1948 and has since grown into a respectable research institution. The U.S. News and World Report ranked UWM #42 in National Universities and #14 in Top Public Schools. The university offers a multitude of communications degrees. One of their most popular communication degrees is their BA or MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders. In this degree, you’ll be educated in speech-language pathology, audiology, and different aspects of speech and hearing. As a communications major you’ll be skilled in communication theory, history, criticism, and research. No matter which major is chosen you’ll find that the professors give detailed attention to their students and give valuable knowledge based on their years of experience in the communication field.
#4
University of Maryland- College Park
SCORE
93
Net Price: $19,045
Retention Rate: 95%
Graduation Rate: 83%
Salary After Attending: $84,653
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Master of Professional Studies in Translation
The University of Maryland at College Park was founded in 1856 with a goal to bring higher education to the Maryland area, they’ve since grown into a university that students across the globe call home. For individuals looking for a university with an electric atmosphere, UMCP has over 800 student clubs and a multitude of sports to participate in. When choosing a communications major you can feel confident you’re getting the best support for professors with years of experience. Those going into their Bachelor of Arts in Communication can look forward to participating in the university’s strong internship program. As a graduate study, you’ll be studying more advanced aspects of communication within the translation and interpreting area. Both programs are some of the most popular programs chosen and have high success rates.
#5
University of Central Florida
Nicholson School of Communication
SCORE
91
Net Price: $10,274
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Salary After Attending: $63,817
- English Technical Communication B.A.
- Communication and Conflict B.A.
- Human Communication B.A.
The University of Central Florida offers multiple options for students seeking online college degrees. All three online communications degrees are designed to help students earn their communications degrees in a manner conducive to individual lifestyles and time constraints. UCF was recently named #14 Best Online Bachelor’s Program in the nation by US News & World Report. Students who enroll in online classes have access to many programs and innovative learning technologies that facilitate communications in the digital age. Certificates, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate degrees are also offered fully online. UCF is known for being one of the most affordable colleges in Florida.
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#6
Northeastern University
College of Arts, Media, and Design
SCORE
90.5
Net Price: $31,093
Retention Rate: 98%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Salary After Attending: $89,564
- Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication
- BS in Technical Communication
- MS in Technical Communication
- Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication
Northeastern University offers a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in Technical Communication as well as two other communication degree programs entirely online including a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication. The bachelor’s programs can be completed in four years of full-time study and seven of part-time study. Students learn the skills they need to innovate and drive the future of communications.
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#7
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
SCORE
90.3
Net Price: $11,706
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $77,618
- Bachelor of Arts in Film And Media Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Business (Communication)
- Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
- Master of Arts in Mass Communication And Media Studies
Arizona State University is an established and respected institution of higher education. Currently ranked #1 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs, U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Arizona State University in its top tier of U.S. universities. Forbes consistently ranks ASU among America’s best colleges. ASU’s online and traditional programs are designed and taught by current, on-campus faculty. Students gain valuable skills in a variety of communication mediums including multimedia, communication, writing, editing, and information technology. These skills prepare them for careers as technical writers, editors, publication managers, information designers, instructional and training developers, and other career fields.
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#8
Old Dominion University
SCORE
88.5
Net Price: $16,493
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Salary After Attending: $374,000
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Humanities
- Bachelor of Science in Communication and Humanities
- Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics
- Master of Arts in Communication and Humanities
Old Dominion University is home to over 24,000 students with many students being a part of our military. U.S. News and World Report ranked Old Dominion University #86 in Best Online Bachelors Programs and #52 in Best Online Bachelors Programs for Veterans. Old Dominion University has many different communication degrees whether you’re looking to earn your undergraduate or a graduate-level degree. Depending on what program is chosen you’ll be taking courses in communication between the sexes, public relations writing, social change, lifespan communication research, and reporting news for television. Each program is unique in its own way but the faculty within each one has one goal in mind: to help you reach your fullest potential for your career and community.
#9
University of Massachusettes- Amherst
SCORE
88.5
Net Price: $22,501
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 77%
Salary After Attending: $78,232
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Doctor of Philosophy in Communication
The University of Massachusettes in Amherst is a historic and well-respected institution. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Massachusetts in Amherst #68 in National Universities, #21 in Best Online Bachelors Programs, and #26 in Top Public Schools. The University doesn’t offer as many communication degrees as some of the other schools on this list but that doesn’t make these degrees any less valuable. UMass Amherst has created a communication program that is student-centered and tailored to the needs of each student. This degree ensures individuals understand how to apply critical thinking and analysis skills to the study of communication so they’re better understanding society and the people within those communities. Graduates have gone into fields in print, digital media, politics, advertising, and the news, there’s no limit to what you can become professionals with a degree in communications.
#10
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
SCORE
88
Net Price: $18,668
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Salary After Attending: $81,333
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Master of Communications and Media Management
Colorado State University in Fort Collins is located in one of the most beautiful cities and was ranked #3 for best college town to live in forever by college ranker. This institution is known for having high success rates with 86% of graduates going into careers related to their profession of choice. U.S. News and World Report ranked CSU-Fort Collins #31 in Best Online Bachelors Programs. Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers two communication degrees, both of these degrees can be customized to the area of study you’re most interested in going into. Depending on the program chosen you’ll be taking courses in persuasion, public speaking, political communication, evaluating contemporary television, public relations, digital video editing, writing for specialized magazines, and advanced information graphics.
#11
Florida International University
SCORE
86.8
Net Price: $7,296
Retention Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Salary After Attending: $35,372
- Bachelor of Science in Communication-Broadcast Media
- Bachelor of Science in Communication-Journalism
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts-Art and Performing
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts-Design Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts-Organizational Communication Studies
- Master of Science in Mass Communication-Global Strategic Communications
- Master of Science in Mass Communication-Spanish Language Journalism
Florida International University is a highly recognized institution and Miami’s only public research university. FIU has many rankings from the U.S. News and World Report including being #5 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, #53 in Best Online Bachelors Programs, and #37 in Best Online Bachelors Programs for Veterans. As you can see from above, Florida International University offers a broad array of communication degrees. With so many to choose from, you’ll be sure you’re pursuing the specialization you’re most interested in. You’ll be taught by some of the best professionals in the communications field. You’ll be learning advanced methods in each area to ensure that upon graduation you can stand out amongst other candidates.
#12
Mississippi College
Communication Department
SCORE
85.3
Net Price: $17,186
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Salary After Attending: $216,000
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
- Master of Science in Communication: Professional Communication in Health Services Administration
- Master of Science in Communication: Professional Communication in Sports
Mississippi College offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in a Communication degree program with online and evening classes. Students can either follow the standard 16-week semester schedule or take two eight-week course courses, up to 12 credit hours per semester. Students in this online communication degree program will develop writing, speaking, and public presentation skills. For non-transfer students, core classes include science, English, math, technology, history, fine arts, and social sciences. Required courses for the major include public speaking, journalism, communication research, and mass media.
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#13
Appalachian State University
Department of Communication
SCORE
84.8
Net Price: $13,920
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Salary After Attending: $33,077
- Communication – Advertising
- Communication Studies
Appalachian State University offers online and hybrid bachelor’s degrees in communication. The blended format requires 57 hours of upper-division coursework through on-campus and online instruction. Online students work in tandem with a group of peers who have completed program requisites, typically through a college transfer program. The communications degree with an emphasis in advertising explores publishing and production, media graphics, and media/advertising law. Appalachian encourages interested individuals to inquire about program and course availability.
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#14
National Louis University
SCORE
83.8
Net Price: $14,957
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 56%
Salary After Attending: $410,000
- Bachelor of Arts in Communications
National Louis University was built upon values of innovation, access, excellence, and equity. The university has a mission statement in, “providing educational opportunities that inspire and empower all learners as they prepare for and advance in meaningful lives and productive careers.” National Louis University has only one communications degree and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. This degree can be specialized to your interests by choosing courses in digital, video, verbal, and written communication. The program is offered 100% online and has flexible-accelerated options, instead of 12-week terms students finished their courses in 6-weeks. You’ll be studying in areas like digital communication, social media, organizational communication, society and culture, and an optional area of marketing.
#15
East Carolina University
SCORE
83.3
Net Price: $15,844
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $66,653
- Bachelor of Science in Communication-Interpersonal/Organizational Communication
- Master of Arts in Communication
- Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders
East Carolina University is located in beautiful Greenville, North Carolina. The U.S. News and World Report ranked East Carolina University #55 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and the Princeton Review has been named “Best Southeastern College” multiple years in a row. East Carolina University offers one online communication bachelor’s degree and two online master’s degrees. Each program is unique and taught by professionally trained faculty members with years of experience. No matter which degree path you’re on, East Carolina University promises to give you the highest-quality education and one-on-one time needed to succeed. As you advance further into your program you’ll find yourself practicing the knowledge you’ve gained by working on research projects and getting hands-on experience in an internship. If you’re ready for an education that’s student-centered and fits your needs, consider choosing East Carolina University.
#16
King University
Online
SCORE
82.5
Net Price: $22,652
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Salary After Attending: $177,00
BACHELOR’S DEGREES
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
King University, formerly King College, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Communication degree completion program. This program is designed to help working professionals earn their degrees without sacrificing their careers. The 124 semester hours allow students to complete their degree in less than two years. 48 of the semester hours must be completed at King University. Transfer credits are accepted up to 76 semester hours maximum. Topics covered include professional communication, visual rhetoric, rhetoric and persuasion, public relations, media, advanced speech, interpersonal and professional communication, and more.
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#17
DePaul University
College of Communication
SCORE
82.5
Net Price: $30,090
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $79,284
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication And Media
The Communication and Media Online Degree Completion Program is for transfer-only students. Students must have 45 quarter hours or 30 semester hours of college credit and be in good academic standing at their previous school of attendance before admittance into the program. Most of all of their communication courses must be completed at DePaul. Some requirements can be bypassed via testing. The on-campus faculty teaches the online classes. For the communications degree, online graduation requirements are the same as on-campus. Internship opportunities and a senior capstone project are included in the online program.
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#18
University of Missouri – St Louis
Department of Communication & Media
SCORE
82.3
Net Price: $9,435
Retention Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Salary After Attending: $72,714
- Bachelor of Liberal Studies – Media Studies
- Bachelor of Liberal Studies – Communication
The University of Missouri – St. Louis offers a Bachelor of Liberal Studies degree completion program with online options. They provide concentrations in communication, film studies, and media studies. Several program courses are delivered as blended courses, meaning that most of the instruction is done online, with some on-campus attendance required. The University of Missouri – St. Louis offers more than 150 online courses, many of which can be taken to satisfy general education requirements.
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#19
University of Denver
College of Professional and Continuing Studies
SCORE
82.3
Net Price: $32,361
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Salary After Attending: $74,576
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
The University of Denver offers a BA degree in Communication that develops knowledge and skills required for fields such as business, education, advertising and PR, healthcare, international relations, and more. Online courses are taught by on-campus communications professors. The University of Denver was ranked the #67 Best Online Bachelor’s Program by US News & World Report. The online communication degree can also be taken as a hybrid program with a mix of on-campus and distance courses, allowing the student to complete the degree according to their specific needs.
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#20
New Mexico State University
SCORE
81.8
Net Price: $8,659
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $73,635
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies
New Mexico State University was founded upon the values of leadership, excellence, access, diversity, inclusion, and keeping a student-centered atmosphere. Student success at the university is contributed to their student engagement including research involvement, creativity, and community outreach. New Mexico State University offers one communication degree centered on journalism and media studies. A few of the top classes in this program include media/society, news writing for print & internet, introduction to multimedia, and mass communications law. Graduates from the program have been employed by large companies like NBC, ABC, ESPN, CBS, and FOX. The skills you’ll learn will open the doors to many opportunities beginning with an internship that will give you real-world experience.
#21 Columbus State University
SCORE
81.5
Net Price: $12,058
Retention Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 37%
Salary After Attending: $192,000
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
At Columbus State University student success is the top priority, this is proven with their low student-to-faculty of 15-1. U.S. News and World Report are ranked #35 in Top Public Schools, #46 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #74 in Regional Universities South. Columbus State University has one strong communication degree that can be completed online from the comfort of your home. As a student in the program, you’ll get to choose a concentration that best fits your interests. The concentrations to choose from include, communication studies, film production, integrated media, and public relations. Graduating with this degree will teach you the power of communication and how to use it to better the communities around you.
#22
University of Louisville
College of Arts & Sciences
81.5
Net Price: $16,867
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Salary After Attending: $77,715
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
The major requirements for these degrees can be completed in as little as two years. The programs are based on research and coursework and emphasize multiple facets of contexts and perspectives within the field of communication. This school also has a strong on-campus communications Masters’ degree program. The University of Louisville is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
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#23
Valley City State University
Communications Arts Department
SCORE
81.3
Net Price: $11,981
Retention Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Salary After Attending: $104,000
- Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication – Corporate
- Bachelor of Science in Professional Communication – Corporate
Valley City State University offers both a B.A. and a B.S. in Professional Communication-Corporate entirely online. The curriculum focuses on marketing training and development and is designed to serve as a platform to further education in theology, law, counseling, and college administration. Most recently, VCSU was rated #189 Best Online Bachelor’s Program in the nation and #44 Best Regional College in the Midwest by US News & World Report. Valley City State was one of the first online colleges offering a free laptop computer to full-time students. VCSU continues to use innovative technology with its major and master’s degrees online.
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#24
University of Texas of the Permian Basin
SCORE
81
Net Price: $10,092
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $87,532
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin provides top-tier education to students across the nation and the globe. U.S. News and World Report ranked the university #30 in Top Public Schools, #55 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #64 in Regional Universities West. The bachelor of arts in communication degree from the UTPB is one of the school’s most popular undergraduate degree programs. Some of the top-rated courses you’ll be taking include modern media in society, media writing, political communication, advertising strategies, intercultural communication, public relations, and interpersonal communication. As a graduate with a communication degree, you’ll have the opportunity to go into a career as a journalist, broadcaster, media specialist, publication editor, marketing manager, corporate communications manager, social media manager, and public relations professional.
#25
University of North Dakota
SCORE
80.8
Net Price: $15,738
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $76,460
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Doctor of Philosophy in Communication
- Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
The University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota a community surrounded by waterfronts, parks, beautiful trails. U.S. News and World Report ranked the university #93 in Best Online Bachelors Programs and #57 in Best Online Bachelors Programs for Veterans. The University of North Dakota has four communication degrees, two undergraduate and two graduate-level degrees. Each program is flexible and can be customized to fit your interests within the communications field. A profession in communications is always rapidly growing and gives the opportunity for lots of advancement. The average salary for an individual graduating with one of these degrees ranges anywhere from $80,000-$140,000.
#26
Drexel University
Department of Communication
SCORE
80.8
Net Price: $34,914
Retention Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $75,330
- Bachelor of Science in Communication
- Master of Science in Communication
Drexel University is a private research university and many of its online programs are nationally recognized as “Best” online programs by US News & World Report. Drexel’s online bachelor’s degree is ranked as the #93 Best Online Bachelor’s Program and overall Drexel is ranked the #103 Best National University. Drexel’s online communication programs are designed to prepare students for a variety of senior-level, corporate positions. Online programs focus on communication theory and methods which look at PR, journalism, mass media and society, and more. this degree requires a minimum of 120 credits for graduation. Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fdrexel.edu%2Fcoas%2Facademics%2Fdepartments-centers%2Fcommunication%2F||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
#27
Granite State University
SCORE
80.8
Net Price: $12,507
Retention Rate: 44%
Graduation Rate: 49%
Salary After Attending: $342,000
- Bachelor of Science in Professional Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Digital Communication Design
Granite State University is located in Concord, New Hamshire, and keeps a mission statement, ” to expand access to public higher education to adults of all ages throughout the state of New Hampshire and beyond.” The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. GSU has two bachelor’s degrees in communication, professional communication, and digital communication design. If you choose a bachelor’s in professional communication you’ll get to choose a concentration like business strategy, interpersonal/organizational communication, or visual/social media communication. A bachelor in digital communication design has two concentrations in graphic design and writing for visual media. Both degrees will help you expand your creativity, interpersonal, analytical, research, and organizational skills.
#28
The University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Online & Distance Education
SCORE
80.5
Net Price: $17,208
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $40,532
- Journalism & Mass Communications M.A.
The University of Nebraska at Lincoln offers a master’s in communications degree online. This degree program has three specialization areas offered fully online: Integrated Media Communications, Media Studies, and Professional Journalism. The Integrated Media Communications (IMC) specialization is offered via the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications. This program is designed for early-career professionals to enhance their advertising and public relations skills. Â The Media Studies specialization is geared towards students looking to prepare for an academic career. The Professional Journalism specialization is for working journalists looking to enhance their digital media skills.
[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fonline.unl.edu%2Fprograms-and-courses%2Fgraduate-doctorate-programs%2Fjournalism-mass-communications.aspx||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
#29
California Baptist University
SCORE
80.5
Net Price: $24,707
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Attending: $84,201
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication
- Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
California Baptist University is a prestigious-highly ranked university with a total enrollment of over 11,000 students. The U.S. News and World Report gave the university multiple rankings including, #3 in Most Innovative Schools, #27 in Best Value Schools, #34 in Regional Universities West, and #29 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. California Baptist University offers both undergraduate and graduate-level degrees in communication. All three programs have advanced student-centered models of teaching with an emphasis on Christian learning. These programs have multiple rankings, including ranking in the top for online programs. Depending on which degree is chosen you’ll be taking courses in argumentation, debate, public relations, rhetoric/persuasion, communication ethics, advanced communication theory, digital trends in strategic communication, and media effects on communication behavior.
Top 50 Colleges that offer Online Communication Degrees or Online Journalism Degrees
| 1. University of Florida |
| 2. Washington University in St Louis |
| 3. University of Wisconsin – Madison |
| 4. University of Maryland-college park |
| 5. University of Central Florida |
| 6. Northeastern University |
| 7. Arizona State University-Tempe |
| 8. Old Dominion University |
| 9. University of Massachusetts Amherst |
| 10. Colorado State University-Fort Collins |
| 11. Florida International University |
| 12. Mississippi College |
| 13. Appalachian State University |
| 14. National Louis University |
| 15. East Carolina University |
| 16. King University |
| 17. DePaul University |
| 18. University of Missouri-St Louis |
| 19. University of Denver |
| 20. New Mexico State University-Main Campus |
| 21. Columbus State University |
| 22. University of Louisville |
| 23. Valley City State University |
| 24. The University of Texas of the Permian Basin |
| 25. University of North Dakota |
| 26. Drexel University |
| 27. Granite State College |
| 28. University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
| 29. California Baptist University |
| 30. University of Phoenix-California |
| 31. Bellevue University |
| 32. Penn State World Campus |
| 33. University of Nebraska at Kearney |
| 34. University of Minnesota Crookston |
| 35. Regis University |
| 36. Upper Iowa University |
| 37. University of Memphis |
| 38. Siena Heights University |
| 39. Dominican College |
| 40. Plymouth State University |
| 41. Wilmington University |
| 42. Indiana University East |
| 43. Oral Roberts University |
| 44. Regent University |
| 45. Bluefield College |
| 46. Dallas Baptist University |
| 47. Liberty University |
| 48. Roosevelt University |
| 49. Franklin University |
| 50. Walden University |
Honorable Mentions for 2020
University of Memphis
Department of Journalism and Strategic Media
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
- Masters in Communication
- Masters in Journalism
- PhD in Communication
The University of Memphis is a public institution that offers over 50 majors and 50 master’s subjects. U o M is classified as a Research University due to its high research activity. U o M offers degrees in communication at various levels. Courses focus on interpersonal, public, and mediated communication practices, preparing students for a range of careers and for further graduate study. Students can choose to continue their education all the way up to the Master’s level. U o M also offers a Master’s degree in journalism online. US News & World Report recently ranked the University of Memphis as one of the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in the U.S.
Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.memphis.edu%2Fcommunication%2F||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
Oral Roberts University
ORU Online
- Communication
Oral Roberts University offers undergraduates an online Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication. this program focuses on personal and professional development via courses in leadership, consulting, public speaking, seminar development, argumentation, persuasion, and interviewing skills. ORU also offers a minor in communication. For those looking to further their education beyond the bachelor’s, ORU offers an intensive online MBA program for working professionals. ORU requires a 3-credit Communications internship with the end goal of preparing students to enter the field with real-world experience prior to employment.
Student-Teacher Ratio: 16:1[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.oru.edu%2Facademics%2Fonline_campus%2Faccredited_bachelor_degrees%2F||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
University of Nebraska at Kearney
eCampus, Department of Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Organizational & Relational Communication Comprehensive
The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an online degree in communications at the bachelor’s level. This degree focuses on aspects of organizational theory with mass communication. The B.S. in Organizational & Relational Communication is a 45 credit hour degree completion program for students who may have already earned an associate’s or have completed the majority of their general study requirements. Courses include leadership communication, organizational communication, persuasion and propaganda, communication inquiry, rhetorical theory, and more.
Student-Teacher Ratio: 15:1[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unk.edu%2Facademics%2Fecampus%2Fdegrees-programs%2Forganizational-communication.php||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
Siena Heights University
Communications Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication
Siena Heights University offers a bachelor’s in professional communication for individuals who are interested in studying or working in a communications-related field. This program offers a comprehensive education in topics such as advertising, marketing, web design, graphic art, film, journalism, marketing, and broadcasting. The degree can be earned fully online, with programs offered in flexible 8-week formats, and access to 24/7 academic advising, course materials, tools and resources, and library database. Graduates are taught ethical communication skills that apply to a variety of business situations.
Student-Teacher Ratio: 11:1[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sienaheights.edu%2FLocations%2FOnlineLearningPrograms.aspx||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″][vc_separator]
Regis University
College of Contemporary Liberal Studies
BACHELOR’S DEGREES
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Regis University’s Bachelor of Arts in Communication is offered both online and on-campus. This program is designed for professionals and adults looking to work in marketing and advertising, community and public relations, journalism, broadcasting, and a variety of jobs in the communications field. Students can choose a concentration in either Leadership or Conflict Management, both of which allow flexible customization according to personal interests and goals. students learn to lead, think critically, collaborate with teams, resolve conflicts, and manage.
Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1
[ult_buttons btn_title=”Visit School” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sienaheights.edu%2FLocations%2FOnlineLearningPrograms.aspx||target:%20_blank” btn_align=”ubtn-center” btn_size=”ubtn-large” btn_title_color=”#ffffff” btn_bg_color=”#2180b1″ icon=”Defaults-share-square-o” icon_size=”20″ icon_color=”#f5f5f5″ btn_icon_pos=”ubtn-sep-icon-at-left” btn_font_size=”18″]
Congratulations on making the 2017-2018 Best Online Communication Degree Programs list. Feel free to share the badge on your school’s website. If you have any questions about the selections and rankings, please reach out to Tyson, [email protected].
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Recommended Reading
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