College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Communication Studies

Designed for working professionals and educators, this online M.A. in Communication Studies explores how effective communication drives relationships, leadership, and organizational success.

Related programs

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Degree

Master of Arts

Location

Online

Type of Instruction

Online

Length

30 Credit Hours

Expand your knowledge of human communication

Whether students want to advance their career or make a change, the online master’s in communication studies from SHSU is designed to help students understand how effective communication shapes leadership, strengthens relationships, and enhances collaboration across organizational and interpersonal settings.

The 30-hour online program consists of five required courses and five elective courses. Students can select from a range of elective coursework to meet their professional goals. The master’s program requires students to complete a capstone project in their final semester to synthesize and apply their knowledge to produce a substantial original project demonstrating mastery of communication theory, research methods, and applied practices.

What is Communication Studies?

Communication studies explores how people connect, share meaning, and build relationships through both verbal and nonverbal messages. This field examines how communication shapes our personal, professional, and public lives. By studying communication, you gain insight into the processes that drive connection, influence, and inspire action.

When and how can I apply?

Students are admitted on a rolling basis for Fall, Spring, and Summer entry. Courses run in accelerated formats: two 7.5-week sessions in Fall and Spring, and 10-week sessions in Summer. The deadlines to apply for each semester are as follows:

Fall 7a session applications due August 1st
Fall 7b session applications due October 1st
Spring 7a session applications due December 1st
Spring 7b session applications due February 20th
Summer session applications due May 15th
Click here for more information on how to apply

Enter Alt Text — Sam Houston State University's online master of arts degree in communication studies is your path forward to building and strengthening your communications skills needed for your career.

level up

The graduate program in communication studies covers advanced topics like conflict resolution, health communication, advanced interpersonal communication, computer-mediated communication, persuasion and social influence, risk communication, pedagogy of public speaking, and organizational communication. It is intended for professionals looking to enhance their careers and for those pursuing a doctorate in communication.

Accelerated program

Earn your master’s degree faster with our accelerated and flexible format designed for working professionals. Complete your degree in as few as 12 months—balancing your studies with your personal and professional goals.
Automatic admit

Applicants with a 3.25 GPA or higher (regardless of major), and those with a 3.0–3.24 GPA with a degree in communication or related are automatically admitted into the master's program. Applicants below a 3.0 GPA should explain their goals and readiness in a letter of intent. No GRE scores required, no recommendation letters required. Start your graduate journey sooner with a streamlined, stress-free application process.
Top 8 online master’s program

Ranked among the nation’s Top 8 Online Master’s in Communication, our program combines academic excellence with real-world relevance. Learn from expert faculty, engage with peers, and elevate your career from anywhere.

Discover Your Future

Our graduate program provides students with the credentials to teach dual credit or college-level courses, and to advance their professional careers in leadership, management, corporate training, consulting, human resources, and nonprofit fields.

Communication Studies faculty pose for group photo.

Learn From Our Outstanding Faculty

Our nationally recognized and award-winning professors bring extensive educational and research experience, demonstrating their commitment to excellence in teaching.

Meet Our Faculty

Become a Bearkat

Ready to learn how SHSU can help you or to start your application today? Our Admissions team is here to help. Call 936-339-0148