Top 10 Best Online Master’s of Public Relations Ranked 2023

BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN PUBLIC RELATIONS
By James Barham
Published:

We rank the best master’s in public relations online degree programs.

Key Takeaways

  • An online master of public relations program can provide students and professionals with the knowledge and expertise to strive for public relations careers with higher incomes.
  • Some of the best schools offer master’s of public relations online programs, and many employers worldwide now recognize the quality and merits of an online education.
  • A master’s in public relations online encompasses subjects such as branding, content creation, market research, social media, organizational behavior, interpersonal transactions, problem solving, and strategic communications.

Best Online Master's in Public Relations Degree Programs

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  1. University of Southern California
  2. Purdue University
  3. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  4. George Washington University
  5. Texas Tech University
  6. Ball State University
  7. Sam Houston State University
  8. Webster University
  9. Marist College
  10. University of Louisiana at Monroe
  1. Sam Houston State University 97%
  2. University of Louisiana at Monroe 70%
  3. Purdue University 69%
  4. Texas Tech University 68%
  5. Ball State University 68%
  6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 60%
  7. Marist College 60%
  8. Webster University 59%
  9. George Washington University 50%
  10. University of Southern California 13%
  1. Sam Houston State University 21 to 1
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 20 to 1
  3. Texas Tech University 19 to 1
  4. University of Louisiana at Monroe 18 to 1
  5. Marist College 16 to 1
  6. Ball State University 14 to 1
  7. Purdue University 13 to 1
  8. George Washington University 13 to 1
  9. Webster University 12 to 1
  10. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  1. University of Southern California $61,503
  2. George Washington University $59,870
  3. Marist College $43,410
  4. Webster University $28,700
  5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,446
  6. Purdue University $9,718
  7. Ball State University $9,628
  8. Texas Tech University $8,935
  9. Sam Houston State University $5,856
  10. University of Louisiana at Monroe $5,788
  1. University of Southern California $60,446
  2. George Washington University $32,850
  3. Marist College $15,660
  4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,635
  5. Webster University $13,500
  6. Purdue University $9,718
  7. Ball State University $9,482
  8. Texas Tech University $6,956
  9. University of Louisiana at Monroe $6,490
  10. Sam Houston State University $5,765
  1. University of Louisiana at Monroe
  2. Marist College
  3. Webster University
  4. Sam Houston State University
  5. Ball State University
  6. Texas Tech University
  7. George Washington University
  8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  9. Purdue University
  10. University of Southern California
  1. University of Southern California 13%
  2. George Washington University 50%
  3. Webster University 59%
  4. Marist College 60%
  5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 60%
  6. Ball State University 68%
  7. Texas Tech University 68%
  8. Purdue University 69%
  9. University of Louisiana at Monroe 70%
  10. Sam Houston State University 97%
  1. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  2. Webster University 12 to 1
  3. Purdue University 13 to 1
  4. George Washington University 13 to 1
  5. Ball State University 14 to 1
  6. Marist College 16 to 1
  7. University of Louisiana at Monroe 18 to 1
  8. Texas Tech University 19 to 1
  9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 20 to 1
  10. Sam Houston State University 21 to 1
  1. University of Louisiana at Monroe $5,788
  2. Sam Houston State University $5,856
  3. Texas Tech University $8,935
  4. Ball State University $9,628
  5. Purdue University $9,718
  6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,446
  7. Webster University $28,700
  8. Marist College $43,410
  9. George Washington University $59,870
  10. University of Southern California $61,503
  1. Sam Houston State University $5,765
  2. University of Louisiana at Monroe $6,490
  3. Texas Tech University $6,956
  4. Ball State University $9,482
  5. Purdue University $9,718
  6. Webster University $13,500
  7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,635
  8. Marist College $15,660
  9. George Washington University $32,850
  10. University of Southern California $60,446

Public relations professionals are key in shaping information communication in our highly connected world. A master’s in public relations online will help you keep up with the most in-demand skills in this constantly evolving field.

A master’s in public relations online can help job seekers to rise above the competition in a highly competitive field and get noticed by employers.

Most industries need public relations managers to help craft their marketing message and company vision, strategize branding tactics, and analyze customer responses. The job market for public relations is stable, high paying, and in demand, but it is also highly varied and flexible.

Even if you begin your career in the corporate world, managing customers and company demands, you can apply that experience to nonprofit organizations, healthcare administrations, and education. The possibilities for PR managers are limitless indeed.

In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an 8 percent growth is projected in the demand for PR professionals all over the US.

Two businesspeople shaking hands

Featured Programs

What Graduates Can Expect from a Master’s in Public Relations Online Degree

The online master’s in PR degree prepares students to cultivate and maintain professional relationships through managing information. In a nutshell, public relations is the flow of information, including not only the method of accessing it and how it is written, but also how it is presented.

A great public relations manager can make the difference between a successful campaign or brand and one that falls flat.

Here is what prospective students can expect in an online master’s in public relations degree:

Affordability

The price of a master’s in public relations degree online is generally lower than that of other degrees, especially when compared with its in-person counterpart. An online master’s program may offer in-state tuition rates for all students. There may also be cost savings for housing, and miscellaneous fees like parking and printed textbooks.

Even better, financial aid and student loans can make the cost of education more affordable for master’s in public relations students. For more information about financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Length

An online master’s in public relations typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. However, many underlying factors can influence the length of the program. For instance, every school may come with different program requirements.

Career Paths

Whether you’re seeking a career in business, the academia sector, government, or other industries, a career in public relations can take you nearly anywhere. There are many well known career paths in this field, including advertising and marketing, account management, public relations or public information for businesses, agencies, or organizations.

Man with glasses smiling on a video call
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Courses in an Online Master’s in Public Relations Degree

The ability to perform work efficiently, analyze information, and take on leadership roles is essential for public relations specialists. But primarily, public relations professionals must be good communicators. Excellent interpersonal skills should accompany the ability to write and speak in public.

Here are the courses that you can expect to find in the best online master’s in public relations degree:

Public Relations Writing or Content Creation

This course aims to highlight the creation of the most effective PR written content. Through this course, prospective public relations students will polish their content creation skills. This course also includes trial and error of different PR content strategies.

Media Communications and Technology

Every aspiring PR professional should enroll in this subject. This course aims to engage audiences through technology and media tools. By the end of this course, students become savvier with diverse communication tools and platforms.

Consumer and Audience Analytics

To improve messaging and collect consumer data, this course examines the major tools and techniques available.

Public Relations Ethics

Students will learn how to communicate ethically in public. Integrity, respect, honesty, loyalty to clients and to the industry are important ethical values in public relations.

Despite challenges, PR professionals should uphold these values and strive to impact society positively. Incorporating social responsibility is given in this subject matter for PR master’s students.

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Admission Requirements for Master’s Online Public Relations Degree

The admissions requirements for an online master’s in public relations program is typically the same as the on-campus counterparts. For instance, you must fill out the application form, submit your transcripts, present your test scores, prepare a CV, and write your personal statement.

Read all the requirements in detail below:

Application

Online applications are required for nearly all programs. You must fill out a typical application form and provide supporting documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and test scores.

Letters of Recommendation

It is common for graduate programs to ask for at least two letters of recommendation. You can seek advisors, professors, or employers who are familiar with your academic or professional work. Someone who you’ve worked closely with will be able to share more details about your skills and abilities.

Test Scores

You may have to submit GRE or GMAT scores for a master’s in public relations program online. These tests can assess your ability to think critically, use a wide vocabulary, and make quantitative conclusions.

Some schools set specific ranges for the test scores that they require. The best way to attain the required score is to prepare carefully for the test.

Official Transcripts

Transcripts from your undergraduate studies are required for graduate programs. These transcripts are also required if you have completed graduate coursework elsewhere or another graduate degree.

Many online master’s in public relations programs allow you to make use of your past credits. Check with each school you are considering to determine if any credits are transferrable.

Resume and Work Experience

A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) can help you get admitted to your desired online master’s in public relations program. It is possible to get into a graduate program without working in the public relations field, but you may be required to have some professional experience.

Personal Essay

A written personal essay is almost universally required when applying for a graduate program. This can be in the form of a personal statement.

The essay will give you the opportunity to present yourself in a more personal way than test scores and resume can. This is your best chance to position yourself in a good light, other than acing the personal interview.

Bottom Line: Some online master’s in public relations programs may also require an interview, either in-person or remotely.

Businesspeople standing and talking with briefcases
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What Graduates with an Online Master’s in Public Relations Degree Can Do

Here are some possible job occupations that you may land after graduation:

PR Manager

A PR manager is an essential role among many corporations and large businesses. PR managers usually work at the upper levels of organizations, overseeing strategies for engaging with audiences and potential donors. A Public Relations manager is often responsible for directing an organization’s overall image and identity.

Market Research Analyst

A market research analyst analyzes the market to find out the best way to sell products or services. They analyze market conditions to forecast trends. Market research analysts also conduct and gather data which is helpful in deciding and structuring marketing strategies.

PR Advisor

Public relations specialists help clients create favorable public images. Many brands and marketing agencies hire PR advisors. Media and various other communication channels are used to communicate their message and influence people.

PR advisors determine whether public relations strategies are effective at communicating vision to audiences and clients.

Communications Director

The communications director designs and coordinates media relations campaigns for a client/employer. They handle the public and press, and oversee messaging and branding efforts on behalf of the client/employer.

Public Affairs Director

This PR professional oversees the public relations efforts and strategies of a company/organization. They coordinate with various public relations and marketing campaigns and assess the relative effectiveness of efforts to protect and promote the public profile of the company/organization.

Bottom Line: An online master’s degree in public relations will yield many career opportunities and public relations related careers.

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Important Skills in a Master’s in Public Relations Degree Program

A successful public relations professional must possess various skills, including problem solving, organization, and leadership. Above all, candidates need to be excellent communicators.

It is important to have strong interpersonal skills as well as public speaking and writing abilities. Candidates who have these qualities are more likely to excel in online master’s in public relations programs.

During public relations courses, students examine how clients can enhance their reputation, navigate through crises, or improve the public’s perception of them through various communication channels. PR professionals often use marketing and advertising to promote their clients.

Even though you will be attending classes online, several universities hold commencement at several locations. It will all depend on the requirements and program inclusions of the school that you will enroll in.

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Best Public Relations Online Masters Programs

  1. #1

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2023 #16 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2023 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    38K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1435/32

    What is University of Southern California known for?

    University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Studies toward the Master of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising would require foundational courses. Nine remaining units may be taken as PR and advertising specializations.

    Their faculty members will provide you with a unique opportunity to shape your career path while exploring opportunities in advertising, business, entertainment, marketing, and technology.

    They will help you create integrated public relations campaigns. You will learn to create multiplatform content combining storytelling with data intelligence.

    The ability to build influencer relationships and advance brand activations will become second nature to you. After graduating from this online master’s program, you’ll be equipped as an all-encompassing PR professional.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $350
    • Out of State: $231

    Credits to Graduate: 36

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $57,440
    • Out of State: $57,440
    Compare school
    2. Female public relations student holding a cup of coffee next to laptop
  2. #2

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #13 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023 #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1330/30

    What is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign known for?

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign runs a variety of programs featuring communication research. You can enroll in their online Master of Arts in Communication. Students develop customized communication programs with their advisors, focusing on different communication courses. A part-time teaching assistantship is usually offered, along with fellowships and research assistantships.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $525
    • Out of State: $680

    Credits to Graduate: 36

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $18,131
    • Out of State: $32,416
    Compare school
  3. #3

    George Washington University

    Washington , DC
    #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1360/31

    What is George Washington University known for?

    George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    GWU offers a Master’s in Strategic Public Relations. With an award-winning program that reflects the changing landscape of public relations, you’ll learn a comprehensive strategic approach to the field.

    The program prepares students for a career as leading PR professionals by developing a professional portfolio and mastering the skills they need to succeed. The GSPM offers flexible learning options, including on-campus, online, and hybrid classes.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $1,625
    • Out of State: $1,625

    Credits to Graduate: 30

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $59,870
    • Out of State: $33,984
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Texas Tech University

    Lubbock , TX
    #4 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2023 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2023 #7 Best Research Universities in Texas 2023 #7 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/24

    What is Texas Tech University known for?

    Texas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    TTU’s 30-hour Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Innovation program is designed to prepare students to work in today’s global and digital environment as strategic communicators. Most of the program’s students are communication professionals.

    The graduate program is asynchronous, meaning that the content is available to students whenever and wherever they want to study.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $348
    • Out of State: $757

    Credits to Graduate: 48

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $9,518
    • Out of State: $24,122
    Compare school
    6. Man in suit talking to reporters
  6. #5

    Ball State University

    Muncie , IN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2023 #3 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2023 #4 Best Research Universities in Indiana 2023 #4 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    19K

    What is Ball State University known for?

    Ball State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Take your understanding of public relations to the next level with a Master’s Degree in Public Relations at Ball State University. This was the first graduate-level public relations program to be certified by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

    Ball State University also offers a master’s degree in public relations with a concentration in leadership. The school is one of the few universities in the nation to do so.

    The master’s in PR program does not require the GRE, making it an ideal on-ramp for midcareer professionals. Each semester, you’ll receive one-on-one advising sessions to ensure you’re on track. Their curriculum helps you recognize bias and remain grounded in ethics throughout your career by incorporating empathy and self-awareness.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $495
    • Out of State: $1256

    Credits to Graduate: 33

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $10,440
    • Out of State: $27,924
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Webster University

    Saint Louis , MO
    #16 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2023 #3 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2023 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    59%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1169/23

    What is Webster University known for?

    Webster University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Students in Webster’s program gain valuable experience through working directly with public relations clients. The school’s MA in Public Relations degree program can help to advance your career.

    Students will learn to identify problems with messaging to target audiences and follow up with implementing real-world solutions in real time. Participants in the master’s program also understand how public relations intersects with small business, and large enterprise, and how globalization influences public relations today and in the future.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $730
    • Out of State: $730

    Credits to Graduate: 36

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $12,800
    • Out of State: $12,800
    Compare school
  9. #7

    Sam Houston State University

    Huntsville , TX
    #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2023 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice #3 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/20

    What is Sam Houston State University known for?

    Sam Houston State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The online Master of Arts in Communication Studies tackles advanced courses in the communication field, such as interpersonal communication, family communication, conflict resolution, persuasion, and computer-mediated communication.

    In the Department of Communication Studies, an online master’s program emphasizing communication research combines these topics. This online master’s program is fit for experienced professionals who wish to advance their careers. It also makes a good option for graduate students in diverse studies who want to add a complementary minor to their degree program.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $320
    • Out of State: $728

    Credits to Graduate: 36

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $8,666
    • Out of State: $16,010
    Compare school
    10. Female student smiling in class
  10. #8

    Marist College

    Poughkeepsie , NY
    #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #8 Best Online MBA Programs in New York #9 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    6K

    What is Marist College known for?

    Marist College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The online MA in Integrated Marketing Communication program at Marist College is designed for higher education students and working professionals. You can expect to gain hands-on experience and create a comprehensive portfolio. This degree will empower your career opportunities through the study of the latest digital interactive marketing techniques. Working professionals can take their courses online in an asynchronous format.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $890
    • Out of State: N/A

    Credits to Graduate: 30

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $16,120
    • Out of State: N/A
    Compare school
  11. #9

    University of Louisiana at Monroe

    Monroe , LA
    #7 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2023 #8 Best Public Colleges in Louisiana 2023 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Louisiana 2023 #10 Best Grad Schools in Louisiana 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/22

    What is University of Louisiana at Monroe known for?

    University of Louisiana at Monroe’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    It’s a great choice to enroll in an online MA of Communication at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Their small program allows them to provide you with individual attention.

    They offer courses in the field of communication that come from multiple fields. The coursework in this higher education encompasses a variety of topics from contemporary criticism to research methods. Besides comprehensive exams, students must also complete a thesis in order to graduate from this online master’s degree.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $387
    • Out of State: $726

    Credits to Graduate: 36

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $9,319
    • Out of State: $21,419
    Compare school
  13. #10

    Purdue University

    West Lafayette , IN
    #10 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #11 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #13 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1295/29

    What is Purdue University known for?

    Purdue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Purdue University’s Master of Science in Communication online program offers industry expert instruction for working professionals. There is a wide range of topics covered in courses including public relations, business, politics, marketing, and organizational communication.

    Set yourself apart from competitors by mastering skills that employers care about and learning the tools that will help you reach out to the audience better.

    In this course, you will learn alongside experienced faculty who are well-versed with effective communication strategies that will be helpful in real life situations. This online master’s in communication programs provide students with the skills to excel in the realms of strategic communication and public relations.

    Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $520
    • Out of State: $820

    Credits to Graduate: 30

    Average Tuition

    • In State: $15,600
    • Out of State: $24,600
    Compare school

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do online master’s in public relations graduates make?

The median salary for master’s in public relations graduates is $58,020. Most employers hire professionals with degrees in public relations or related fields for positions such as fundraising managers, project coordinators, social media specialists, and public relations specialists.

PR jobs are predicted to grow by 6 percent, adding at least 15,000 new positions. Indeed, you won’t run out of options if you pursue a career in the PR field.

Do I have to get a master’s in public relations to work in the public relations field?

While it may be possible to land a job in public relations with a degree in business, marketing, communications, journalism, or English, a master’s degree in public relations is the best choice. The field is highly competitive, so targeting your education is wise.

Which states offer the best-paying jobs in public relations?

Generally speaking, states with larger metropolitan cities offer the highest number and highest-paying public relations jobs. However, the cost of living in these areas also tends to be higher than smaller cities. According to U.S. News & World Report, the best-paying states are the District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, and California.

What are the tech requirements for an online master’s in public relations?

In order to succeed with an online program, you must be equipped with the right tools. An online master’s program will require you to make use of a sturdy laptop and a reliably fast internet connection.

What more do you need to know about the public relations degree online programs?

The purpose of public relations is to communicate with audiences using different media mediums. A PR specialist’s and manager’s ability to write, speak, interconnect, and organize is imperative, as is their ability to make sound decisions under pressure.

Many employers value work experience in public relations. Public relations students must look for graduate programs that offer experiential learning components, such as internships, if you are entering the field from another profession.

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