Most of the coursework is asynchronous, meaning that there are not specific times that you need to be in the course. However, interaction with your instructor and peers is a major component of our classes. As an online student at Purdue University, you’ll log into a virtual online classroom interface that includes areas for assignments, discussion boards, e-mail, and more. Just like in a traditional classroom, you’ll complete coursework and exams and interact with your instructor and classmates, but it will all be online.

You can access and work on your coursework at any time—you just need to complete your assignments according to the schedule posted by your instructor.

No, a thesis is not required for this program.

Financial aid is available. For more information, please call 765-496-0990 to speak with a member of our recruiting team.

No, the GRE is not required for this program.

Purdue University offers worldwide access to online programs to veterans, uniformed personnel and their families. Our 100% online communication graduate programs are accessible anywhere, anytime making it possible to complete them even while deployed. Purdue University’s Dorothy Stratton Veteran and Military Success Center provides guidance on military-related education benefits, including the GI Bill and military tuition assistance. For more details, visit purdue.edu/veterans.

The online MS in Communication at Purdue University requires a total of 30 credit hours, including eighteen credit hours of required courses and twelve credit hours or electives.

Plan on devoting 15–20 hours a week to coursework, depending on the course requirements that week and your study habits.

No. Purdue University does not require an on-site residency. That means you can earn the MS in Communication degree from anywhere in the United States or around the world without temporarily relocating to complete a residency program.

This program facilitates opportunities for professionals working in areas related to public relations, marketing, advertising and other related areas of corporate, non-profit and government sectors. Students interested in pursuing a PhD are encouraged to apply to our campus-based program.

As an online student, you will have access to a multitude of support resources when you need help or guidance, starting with new student orientation to familiarize yourself with the online learning environment. Other services include a help desk for technical issues, a student services coordinator, financial aid advisers and more.

Purdue University’s online courses are just as rigorous and challenging as their on-campus counterparts. The main difference is the online format, which allows you greater convenience as to when and where you learn.

Purdue University offers three starts per year for this program, Spring (January), Summer (April/May), and Fall (August).

The degree earned is considered a Master of Science since it focuses on the science of communication.

Yes. Students are always encouraged to visit campus and experience all that Purdue has to offer. For visitor information, visit www.purdue.edu/visit.

The APR represents a significant accomplishment and demonstration of expertise in Public Relations. If you hold an APR, or earn it concurrently while in our program, you will receive the equivalent of six (6) transfer credits toward the MS degree requirements in our online program that will be applied toward your plan of study in lieu of two of our courses that overlap significantly with APR requirements (COM 60211: Strategic Public Relations and COM 60311: Crisis Communication or Purdue approved alternatives).  This saves you significant time and cost associated with achieving your MS degree at Purdue (20%). If you are unfamiliar with the APR, learn more. If you have more questions about how this credential is applied to your degree or how to apply to our program, talk with an admission counselor today.

Your transcript will state: Communication – MS

Your diploma will state: Master of Science