Is a Master's in Communication Worth It?

A Master’s in Business Communication is a specialized graduate degree designed to prepare professionals to navigate the complex communication challenges in today’s corporate and organizational settings. Often offered as a Master of Arts in Communication (MA Communication) or similar title, this degree emphasizes the strategic use of messaging, leadership, and technology to support business goals.

From public relations and corporate communication to media management, this program equips you with the skills to excel, making you a valued asset in today’s competitive job market. Business or professional communication programs often fit under broader categories like an MA in Communication.

See also, What Is a Master’s in Business Communication?

You’ll benefit from practical and applied learning experiences for assessing complex business communication challenges and implementing ingenious solutions. You’ll benefit as well from other professional communication skills found in Bellevue University’s Master’s in Business & Professional Communication degree core coursework. The business communications graduate degree offers several career and professional advantages, including:

• Competitive edge for mid- to senior-level roles
• Specialized expertise in communication strategy and leadership
• Opportunities in diverse industries such as tech, healthcare, education, government, and media
• Enhanced credibility and professional confidence
• Expanded professional network through faculty, alumni, and classmates
• Career flexibility with several concentration options, including: Business, Computer Information Systems, Human Resource Management, Project Management, Transnational & Cross-cultural Communication, and Interdisciplinary Studies. See the degree program page for full curriculum details.

These benefits can help you decide whether a master’s in business communication is worth it for you—especially if you want to move into management, leadership or consulting roles.

Communication has allowed me to combine and dive deeply into so many of my interests: language, politics, social movements, popular culture, literature, and more. Teaching communication classes has allowed me to share some of my interests, but above all, it has allowed me to work with students on developing skills and habits of mind that are critical to their well-being and success.

– Dr. Kate Joeckel, Faculty and Program Director, Master of Arts in Business & Professional Communication

Graduates of a master’s program in communications focused on business and professional contexts develop advanced, in-demand skills, such as:

• Strategic message planning and storytelling
• Crisis communication and reputation management
• Leadership and team communication
• Data analysis for communication effectiveness
• Public speaking and presentation skills
• Digital media strategy and content

These skills make graduates well-prepared for roles like corporate communications director, brand strategist, or training and development manager.

Related reading: What Can You Do With a Master’s in Communication?

I would not describe myself as a great teacher, but rather as a lucky one. I am fortunate to work with faculty and staff, colleagues whose creativity and wisdom enrich my teaching experience. I am also fortunate to work with so many students who generously share their life experiences and inspire me with their determination to realize the promise of higher education.

– Dr. Kate Joeckel, Faculty and Program Director, Master of Arts in Business & Professional Communication

When considering whether an advanced degree is worth it, you must factor in several things, such as time, cost, education requirements, and personal commitment.

Weigh these costs above with the benefits of a master’s in communication.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) groups social media specialists with other types of public relations specialists. These workers might go by various job titles, including digital engagement specialist, social media strategist, and online community manager. It lists the current median annual salary of these job roles as $69,780 (as of 2024). Public relations managers and similar roles may reach potentially higher earnings. However, earning potential with a master’s degree varies depending on factors such as industry, location, experience, and specific job role, and this data is not intended to be reflective or representative of any particular institution’s graduate earnings.

Costs can vary greatly between schools and are usually measured by cost per credit. It’s important to do some research to guide your decision. Here are some of the facts:

• Cost per credit and other fees are found on the Bellevue University Tuition and Fees page.
• Graduate students are eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
• Military education funding and corporate tuition assistance are other popular ways to fund graduate courses.
• You may be able to transfer in up to 6 graduate credit hours from a previous accredited university. Contact us to learn more about how to have your credits evaluated.

Beyond the financial costs, educational requirements take your time, effort, and personal commitment. Here’s what you can expect.

Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students will take longer).
Here’s how Bellevue University’s Master of Arts in Business and Professional Communication works:

• Bellevue’s online communication master’s program requires 36 graduate credits and is designed for working professionals. It includes a required core of 24 credits and a choice of 12-credit concentrations to complete the degree.
• You can complete it in 6 terms if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to a full-time degree plan.
• Bellevue has 4 terms per year: fall, winter, spring & summer

Ultimately, what jobs can you get with an MA in communication? Communication master’s grads find roles in corporate and strategic communication, digital media, training, public relations, crisis management, entrepreneurship, and beyond.

If your goal is to lead, advise, and shape communication strategies in a professional setting, a master’s in business and professional communication can be a valuable, career-defining step.

I hope I can help students feel that they are part of the Bellevue University community and empower them to take responsibility for their growth and development.

– Dr. Kate Joeckel, Faculty and Program Director, Master of Arts in Business & Professional Communication

Bellevue University offers a flexible, career-focused master’s degree in communication that prepares you to thrive in modern business environments. When you choose an online master’s in business communications degree, you’ll gain practical skills, expert guidance, and the confidence to lead.

Explore the Bellevue University MA in Business & Professional Communication and how it can help you grow in your career today.