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.

best_online_communications_journalism_degree_programs

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.

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

  • NCES - primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education. Provides consistent, reliable, complete, and accurate indicators of education status and trends.
  • IPEDS - 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

ufl_best_online_communications_degree_programs

SCORE

100

Net Price: $6,302
Retention Rate: 97%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Salary After Attending: $79,037

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication Media & Society
  • Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Sciences And Disorders
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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 masters 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

washington_university_st_louis_university_best_online_communications_degree_program
 

SCORE

94

Net Price: $26,869
Retention Rate: 97%
Graduation Rate: 93%
Salary After Attending: $697,000

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - Communication Arts
  • Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
MASTERS DEGREES
  • Master of Arts in Communication
  • Master of Arts in Public Relations

Washington University in St. Louis is a popular college in the nation and was recently ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as the 14th best college in the United States 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'S DEGREES
  • 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
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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 grown into 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • Master of Professional Studies in Translation

Established in 1856 the University of Maryland at College Park set its sights on revolutionizing the Maryland area by introducing higher education opportunities. Today, it has blossomed into a global academic haven where students worldwide find a second 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

best_online_communication_degree_program_UCF
 

SCORE

91

Net Price: $10,274
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Salary After Attending: $63,817

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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 Bachelors Program in the nation by U.S. 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, bachelors degrees and graduate degrees are also offered fully online. UCF is known for being very affordable college in Florida.

 

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#6

Northeastern University

College of Arts, Media, and Design

northeastern_university_online_top_online_communications_degrees_programs

SCORE

90.5

Net Price: $31,093
Retention Rate: 98%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Salary After Attending: $89,564

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication
  • BS in Technical Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • MS in Technical Communication
  • Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication

Northeastern University provides completely online programs for a Bachelors and Masters degree in Technical Communication, along with two other distinctive communication degrees-a Bachelors and a Masters in Corporate and Organizational Communication. Full time students can complete the bachelors courses within four years while part time learners can finish within seven. These programs aim to equip students with the necessary skills to pioneer and shape the future of the communications field.

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#7

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ

ASU_online_top_online_communications_degrees
 

SCORE

90.3

Net Price: $11,706
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $77,618

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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
MASTERS DEGREES
  • Master of Arts in Mass Communication And Media Studies

Arizona State University is a renowned and esteemed higher education establishment. 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. Learners acquire essential competencies across diverse platforms such as multimedia and information technology, in addition to honing their communication, writing, and editing skills. 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Humanities
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication and Humanities
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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 possesses its distinctive characteristics, yet the instructors across all disciplines share a common objective: to aid you in realizing your maximum potential, both professionally and in your 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication
GRADUATE DEGREES
  • 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. While the University may not provide as extensive a range of communication degrees compared to other institutions listed here, it does not diminish the value and importance of the degrees they do offer. 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, theres 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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'S DEGREES
  • 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
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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

mississippi_state_college_best_online_communications_program
 

SCORE

85.3

Net Price: $17,186
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Salary After Attending: $216,000

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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 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

Appalachian_state__university_best_online_communications_program

SCORE

84.8

Net Price: $13,920
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Salary After Attending: $33,077

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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'S DEGREES
  • 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication-Interpersonal/Organizational Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • Master of Arts in Communication
  • Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders

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

king_university_top_online_communcations_degree_program

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

DePaul_university_best_online_communications_program

SCORE

82.5

Net Price: $30,090
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $79,284

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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

UMSL_best_online_communications_program

SCORE

82.3

Net Price: $9,435
Retention Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Salary After Attending: $72,714

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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

university_of_denver_best_online_communications_degree_program

SCORE

82.3

Net Price: $32,361
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Salary After Attending: $74,576

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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. US News & World Report positioned the University of Denver as the 67th Best Online Bachelor's Program. Their communication degree can be pursued via a blended learning approach, combining both on-campus and remote classes. This flexibility enables students to tailor their degree completion according to their individual requirements.

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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'S DEGREES
  • 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. Alumni of the program have successfully found positions in major corporations such as NBC, ABC, ESPN, CBS and FOX. The competencies you gain will pave the way to a myriad of prospects, starting with an internship designed to provide you with practical, hands-on experience.

#21 Columbus State University

 

SCORE

81.5

Net Price: $12,058
Retention Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 37%
Salary After Attending: $192,000

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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. Being part of the program enables you to opt for a concentration that best suits your passion and inclinations. The concentrations to choose from include, communication studies, film production, integrated media, and public relations. Upon completion of this degree, you'll grasp the profound influence of communication and learn how to wield it to improve the surrounding communities.

#22

University of Louisville

College of Arts & Sciences

top_online_communication_degree_program_U_of_louisville
SCORE
81.5

Net Price: $16,867
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Salary After Attending: $77,715

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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.

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#23

Valley City State University

Communications Arts Department

best_online_communication_degree_program_valley_state_university
 

SCORE

81.3

Net Price: $11,981
Retention Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Salary After Attending: $104,000

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication

The University of Texas at the Permian Basin offers premium education, reaching out to students nationwide and around the world. 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.

#25

University of North Dakota

 

SCORE

80.8

Net Price: $15,738
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $76,460

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders
GRADUATE DEGREES
  • 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.

#26

Drexel University

Department of Communication

drexel_online_top_online_communications_degrees
 

SCORE

80.8

Net Price: $34,914
Retention Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $75,330

 
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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.

 

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#27

Granite State University

 

SCORE

80.8

Net Price: $12,507
Retention Rate: 44%
Graduation Rate: 49%
Salary After Attending: $342,000

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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

best_online_communication_degree_program_University_of_nebraska_lincoln
 

SCORE

80.5

Net Price: $17,208
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $40,532

MASTERS DEGREES
  • Journalism & Mass Communications M.A.

The University of Nebraska at Lincoln offers a masters 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.  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.

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#29

California Baptist University

 

SCORE

80.5

Net Price: $24,707
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Attending: $84,201

BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication
MASTERS DEGREES
  • 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

university_of_memphis_best_online_communications_program
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication
  • Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
MASTERS DEGREES
  • Masters in Communication
  • Masters in Journalism
PhD DEGREES
  • PhD in Communication

The University of Memphis is a public institution that offers over 50 majors and 50 master's subjects. UoM is classified as a Research University due to its high research activity. UoM 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. Learners have the option to extend their academic journey up to a Master's degree. In addition to other programs the University of Memphis offers a Masters degree in journalism online.

Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1

Oral Roberts University

ORU Online

oral_roberts__university_best_online_communications_program
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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

University of Nebraska at Kearney

eCampus, Department of Communication

best_online_communication_degree_program_University_of_nebraska_kearney
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Organizational & Relational Communication Comprehensive

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an online degree in communications at the bachelors 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

Siena Heights University

Communications Studies

best_online_communication_degree_programs_siena_heights_university
BACHELOR'S DEGREES
  • 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 curriculum provides an all-encompassing educational experience in diverse areas such as promotions, sales strategy, website creation, visual artistry, cinematography, news reporting, marketing, and media 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

Regis University

College of Contemporary Liberal Studies

best_online_communication_degree_program_regis_university


BACHELOR'S DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Regis University extends its Bachelor of Arts in Communication through both online and on-campus modes. This curriculum is tailored specifically for working individuals and adults aspiring to build careers in sectors such as promotional activities, community outreach, public relations, journalism, media broadcasting, and diverse roles within the communication industry. 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

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.

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