Online Master of Science in Communication
Open doors by unlocking your potential.
Designed to allow you to master the message, the Master of Science in Communication will give you the tools you need to practice communication at the intersection of diversity, technology and social influence. This hands-on degree program uses work-life scenarios and case studies to give you immediate impact on the job. Suitable for those who wish to advance their professional communication skills in such areas as new media management, social advocacy, effective message-generation, assessment or campaign creation for diverse applications including healthcare, public relations, advertising, advocacy, grass roots organizing, political campaigning, or training and development. Master the message. Earn the degree and the respect.
Register for an Online Information Session
Why UW-Whitewater Online?
- Flexible and convenient for your schedule
- 100% Online and taught by nationally recognized faculty
Communication Skills top the list of employer demands.
Forbes.com
Earn more than three times the median U.S. Income.
2018 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Online Master of Science in Communication
Curriculum
The MS in Communication is a 30-credit program. This program can be started in the spring, summer or fall terms, and at a pace that works best for you. Full-time students can finish in as little as a year and a half.
You’ll become an expert in your field as you prove yourself by mastering strategy, messaging, channel selection, research and more. The curriculum is designed to set you apart from your competition and open your future to a world of new opportunities.
More information on the program structure and courses can be viewed in the Graduate Catalog.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission to the MS Communication program students must meet application deadlines, and meet graduate admission criteria.
If you do not meet the graduate admission criteria, please email us to determine if you could be admitted on a conditional basis.
International students must meet additional criteria and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for information and assistance.
Additional requirements for admission to the MS in Communication program:
- Upload a personal statement: 2-3 page written statement of goals detailing their motivations for choosing this field of study.
- Provide contact information (name, organization, position/title, relationship, telephone and email address) for two (2) individuals who can speak to your potential for graduate-level learning. We highly encourage recommendations from former instructors or individuals who can assess your academic capabilities effectively.
- The Communication program is comprised of stackable certificates. If you know which certificates you plan to earn with your degree, please select them in the application.
All requirements can be submitted during the application process.
Note: All application materials must be received prior to the application deadline, only then will processing begin on your application.
Online Tuition
This graduate program at UW-Whitewater are a superior value at $595 USD per credit for the 2024-25 academic year — whether you are a Wisconsin resident, an out-of-state student, or an international student within the major. Additional fees and non-resident tuition may apply to other courses.
If you compare our graduate tuition to others, you will find that this per-credit price is quite reasonable. Visit the Tuition and Fees webpage for complete information.
Course materials
Graduate students can purchase textbooks and other instructional materials through the University Bookstore or elsewhere online. Students should verify what materials are needed with their instructor.
Financial aid
Students enrolled in a graduate certificate program only are not eligible for federal aid.
Students completing a certificate with a degree program may be eligible for financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, or employment. All of these make up a “Financial Aid Package” and may be offered singly or in various combinations. Since funds are limited, priority for aid is based on financial need and how promptly applications are filed. To find out, or if you have other financial aid questions, contact the financial aid staff person assigned to you or try uwwfao@uww.edu or 262-472-1130.
Master of Science in Communication - Online Graduate Certificates
Graduate Certificates Overview
Designed to put you in control of your educational path, graduate certificates in communication from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater get you into the virtual classroom quickly and on your schedule. Begin courses spring, summer or fall. Complete your certificate in as little as one semester.
Take one certificate to feel an immediate boost to your profession. Take two to customize your expertise. Or combine three and add a capstone course to earn a complete Master of Science in Communication.
Each certificate is nine credits and contains two required courses. Electives allow you to customize your experience to suit your passion and desired pathway.
Health Advocacy Communication - Online Graduate Certificate
Explore advocacy, policy, and research to become a specialized health communication professional.
Organizational Communication - Online Graduate Certificate
Master written communication, research competency and more as you hone your expertise in managing relationships with internal constituencies and explore the nuances of organizational structure.
Strategic Communication - Online Graduate Certificate
Strategy, influence, research and messaging become your domain in contexts such as advertising, public relations, and crisis communication as you elevate your career to become a global communication practitioner.
Social and New Media - Online Graduate Certificate
Master messaging, technology and strategy to influence your audience.