Is a master’s in communication worth It?
Explore what you can do with a master's in communication, from high-paying roles to transferable skills. Decide if a degree in communication is worth it.
Are you seeking a graduate degree that's highly transferrable? A master's in communication can equip you with in-demand skills to access roles in diverse industries.
Benefits of a master's degree in communication
Communication is part science, part craft. Understanding its core mechanisms lets you analyze, articulate, and shape narratives that move people, products, and institutions forward.
A master's in communication may offer:
- Job-ready skills in strategic messaging, data analysis, artificial intelligence (AI) driven strategies, digital transformation, and global communication.
- Access to leadership roles in public relations, corporate communication, digital strategy, and content development.
- Career versatility, with opportunities to work in sectors like tech, media, healthcare, and education.
- A global network of instructors and alumni, plus exposure to culturally diverse perspectives and international communication practices.
What can you do with a master's in communication?
Earning a master's in communication may prepare you to take on roles where strategic thinking, leadership, and advanced messaging skills are indispensable.
Consider these common career paths for communication master's graduates:
- Digital marketing manager: Oversee multichannel digital media campaigns that drive engagement and conversion for brand growth.
- Public relations manager: Build media relationships, shape public image, manage crises, and build trust with stakeholders and audiences.
- Communications director: Lead internal and external messaging strategy across departments or organizations.
- Media strategist or consultant: Use data and audience insights to guide content strategy.
- Technical writer: Break down complex information into accessible materials for users and clients.
Communication vs. public relations: Is a master's in PR worth it?
A master's in public relations (PR) may be a better fit for you than a master's in communication if you want to specialize in media relations and brand reputation management.
Some communication master's degree programs may offer courses or topics in PR, but they generally approach the discipline more broadly, covering strategy, storytelling, digital innovation, and leadership.
Salary outlook: Highest-paying fields for master's in communication graduates
According to May 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), communication professionals can earn competitive salaries, especially in management and strategic roles:
| Communications occupation | Median annual salary (May 2024) |
| Marketing manager | $161,030 |
| Public relations managers | $138,520 |
| Technical writers | $91,670 |
| Market research analysts | $76,950 |
| Public relations specialists | $69,780 |
Note that salaries vary widely by your location, the sector you're working in, and your experience level.
Most of these roles typically require only a bachelor's degree. Still, the BLS reports that in 2024, workers with a master's degree earned more overall than those with lesser educational attainment.
In communication, graduate-level professionals can move into C-suite roles such as chief marketing officer, chief communications officer, or chief brand officer. The Bureau reports that chief executives earned a median annual salary of $206,420 in 2024, while top executives in general made $105,350. Note, however, that earnings vary by industry and location.
Are graduates of a master's degree in communication in demand?
Communication roles aren't growing as rapidly as professions in tech or healthcare, but they remain essential across industries.
The BLS projects that roles in advertising, marketing, and public relations will grow steadily through 2033, above the national average of 4% for all occupations.
The Bureau projects jobs for marketing managers and market research analysts to see 8% growth. Roles for public relations managers are projected to grow by 7% and for public relations specialists by 6%.
That steady growth reflects a consistent need: Organizations will always seek skilled communicators to replace those retiring, shifting roles, or moving into leadership.
Professionals who bring expertise in digital transformation, data-informed strategy, and cross-cultural messaging may stand out most in today's job market.
Master's degree in communication program overview
A master's in communication usually takes about two years of full-time study to complete, though part-time students may take more time. These programs combine rigorous, graduate-level academic coursework with real-world applications, helping learners build strategic, research, analytical, and creative abilities.
As a communications major, you might study topics such as:
- Media and communication theory
- Public relations and reputation management
- Data storytelling and media analytics
- AI and new communication technologies
- Cross-cultural and global communication
- Digital strategy and gamification
Common admission requirements include:
- Academic transcripts
- Résumé or CV
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
Some programs may also require a writing sample or GRE scores. Always check with the institution for the most up-to-date program and admissions information.
Deciding if a master's in communication is right for you
Is a master’s in communication worth it? An MA grad weighs in.
Glorimar Velázquez
- Journalist, editor, and professor for over 13 years
- Currently subeditor at El Vocero and communication faculty at the University of Puerto Rico
"It depends. If you have to make a huge financial investment, I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. But if you're like me and can access work-study opportunities, scholarships, or grants, or if you can budget responsibly and use the experience to gain valuable skills, then it's absolutely worth it. My master's degree in communication opened many doors. It allowed me to teach at the university level. Graduate studies helped me improve my writing as a journalist and build valuable academic connections. And even if you don't land a job in your field right away, teaching can always be a great option."
Before applying to a master's degree program, assess whether it fits your current schedule and long-term vision.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide if it’s worth it:
- Do your career goals require or benefit from advanced communication skills or credentials?
- Can you commit the time — typically two years full time or longer part time — to complete the program?
- Have you considered the financial investment, including tuition, fees, and living costs?
- Will the degree improve your earning potential or help you transition into new roles or industries?
- Are there teaching or leadership opportunities you’d like to access that require or favor a master’s?
- Are you excited about topics like media theory, PR, digital strategy, or cross-cultural communication?
If you answered “yes" to most of the above, consider exploring online master's in communication programs offered by top universities worldwide on edX.