2026 Most Affordable 91成人 Master's Degrees in Public Relations
Identify the most affordable MS in Public Relations online, backed by verified tuition research and student feedback.
Why Trust Us?
- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
- Manually Researched Tuition
- 200+ Expert Interviews
- 1,800+ 91成人 Colleges
- 30,000+ 91成人 Degrees
Want to master strategic communication, media relations, and crisis response? Don't let your financial situation hold you back. An affordable online master's in public relations gives you the flexibility to build those skills on your own schedule and budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Texas Tech leads at $5,265 annually, but even the 15th-ranked program, Regent, costs just over $11,000.
- With a program length of just 10 months, Arkansas State is an outlier. While it ranks seventh on affordability, it offers the fastest route to graduation.
- Several schools maintain nearly identical prices regardless of residency status, allowing you to study psychology online at the master's level from anywhere.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The 91成人 research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable 91成人 Master's Degrees in Public Relations
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Tech University | $5,265 | $5,265 | 92% | N/A | |
| SUNY at Buffalo State | $7,771 | $9,322 | 89% | N/A | |
| SUNY College at Oswego | $7,771 | $9,322 | 91% | N/A | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $8,160 | $9,885 | 70% | N/A | |
| The University of Tennessee - Martin | $8,236 | $9,042 | 94% | N/A | |
| Campbellsville University | $8,250 | $8,250 | 72% | N/A | |
| Arkansas State University | $9,000 | $9,000 | 90% | N/A | |
| Ball State University | $9,280 | $13,920 | 92% | N/A | |
| University of North Carolina at Wilmington | $9,325 | $37,743 | 93% | N/A | |
| Winona State University | $9,565 | $14,017 | 100% | N/A | |
| University of Missouri | $9,923 | $9,923 | 98% | N/A | |
| University of Mississippi | $9,990 | $20,160 | 89% | N/A | |
| Brenau University | $10,392 | $10,392 | 89% | N/A | |
| Notre Dame of Maryland University | $10,710 | $10,710 | 95% | N/A | |
| Regent University 91成人 | $11,055 | $11,055 | 83% | N/A |
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- TTU stands out immediately for having the cheapest tuition at just $5,265, no matter where you live.
- There's a fair amount of flexibility. Students are not only able to complete coursework at their own pace, but they can also choose from four different entry points throughout the year and determine whether taking one, two, or three courses per semester makes the most sense for their current professional obligations.
- The goal is to prepare students for senior-level communication and PR roles in a global and digital environment.
AI Student Review Summary: At Texas Tech University, students describe a strong sense of belonging, supportive faculty, and solid career or graduate-school preparation. Advising, career services, study resources, and flexible online or hybrid formats are recurring strengths, particularly for working adults. Some also highlight strong alumni networks, industry connections, and real-world learning opportunities that improved employability. The most notable criticism is inconsistency. Several reviewers report uneven teaching quality across courses, disorganized expectations, poor communication in some departments, and the need to be highly self-directed to succeed.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate 91成人: 2,638 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 85%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Applicants who already hold the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential can waive the program's first two courses.
- This master's is aimed at professionals seeking to become strategic advisors and communication leaders. Beyond advanced writing and public relations management courses, students complete research methods coursework, an integrated communication master's project, and an internship.
- Graduates have moved into communications leadership positions across industries, including entertainment, healthcare, higher education, agencies, and public institutions.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of SUNY at Buffalo State are mostly favorable, with students most often praising supportive professors, noting that smaller class sizes in some areas made it easier to get individual help, build confidence, and form meaningful academic relationships. Affordability is another strength that's mentioned often, especially relative to other regional options. The most consistent complaints center on administration and describe poor advising, limited faculty accessibility outside core instructors, and frustrating course scheduling that made required classes hard to secure, sometimes delaying graduation or forcing summer enrollment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate 91成人: 247 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 58%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Graduates are expected to develop the ability to address complex challenges, influence stakeholders, and drive systematic change through communication. The master's is designed for students who want to move beyond execution-focused communication roles and into positions where communication serves as a leadership function.
- SUNY Oswego encourages students to work with advisors to tailor coursework around individual interests and professional goals. One student may be interested in organizational communication, another in public relations, another in digital media strategy, and another in corporate leadership, for example.
AI Student Review Summary: Students portray SUNY College at Oswego as a well-regarded institution with a strong sense of community, approachable professors, and solid value, though not without some operational and career-preparation concerns. Many reviewers described professors as caring, accessible, knowledgeable, and willing to offer individualized support, especially in smaller or more intensive settings. Affordability was another consistent advantage, particularly for in-state tuition. The main criticisms were more about institutional support. Some felt career advising, academic advising, recruiting access, and financial aid guidance were weak.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate 91成人: 743 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 60%
- Retention Rate: 70%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This program is designed to help prepare students for PRSA’s Accreditation in Public Relations and the Global Communication Certification Council’s Strategic Communication Management Professional certification exams.
- As part of this program, online master's students may prepare a CEO speech with anticipated questions and answers, plan publicity and social media around a client event, create a management plan for a new communications organization, build a 12-month campaign budget, or develop a crisis communications plan.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of University of Maryland Global Campus are mixed, but they lean more positive because many reviewers gave strong ratings and said the school works well for disciplined, independent learners with full-time jobs, military obligations, or family responsibilities. Students praise the flexibility of online and hybrid formats, the accelerated terms, transfer-credit friendliness, and the ability to keep progressing from anywhere. Many also say the coursework is demanding, with heavy reading and frequent discussion posts as well as group projects that require strong time management. Group work is a recurring pain point, especially online, where inactive teammates can jeopardize grades.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate 91成人: 10,289 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 55%
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- A distinctive program feature is the choice between a Professional Portfolio Track and a Capstone Applied Research Project Track, with one more practice-facing and one more research-oriented. For a student already working in public relations, the portfolio path may help translate graduate coursework into evidence of professional skill.
- While this master's program is mostly online, students attend a small number of required Saturday or weekend campus meetings across the degree. That creates a middle ground where students can keep working while completing most coursework remotely, but they still have built-in opportunities to meet faculty mentors and classmates in person.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Tennessee - Martin are driven by strong ratings and praise for faculty accessibility, small class sizes, and a supportive atmosphere. Many say professors are always available, willing to answer questions, offer one-on-one help, and provide mentorship that continues beyond graduation. Several also highlight flexibility. The online format worked well for people balancing jobs or family responsibilities, and some faculty were seen as understanding of demanding schedules. Some reviewers wanted more in-person coursework instead of online classes, while others questioned the real-world experience of certain instructors in online courses.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate 91成人: 663 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 77%
While annual tuition is often the headline in affordability rankings (and rightly so), program length can significantly influence a student's overall investment in their graduate education. Among the five cheapest online master's degrees in public relations, annual tuition ranges from $5,265 to $8,236, but total estimated tuition varies more substantially once program duration is considered.
Texas Tech University remains the most affordable option overall, with an estimated total tuition of $10,530 based on a two-year completion timeline. Meanwhile, Tennessee-Martin's relatively modest annual tuition translates into a higher total cost because the program spans 30 months.
These variations in program length may be one of the most important factors students consider when choosing between the truly most affordable public relations master's degrees online. Here are other programs that stray from the standard 2-year timeline:
Arkansas State University: 10 months (~$7,500 total)
University of North Carolina Wilmington: 12 months (~$9,325 total)
Ball State University: 18 months (~$13,920 total)
University of Tennessee - Martin: 30 months (~$20,590 total)
Brenau University: 30 months (~$25,980 total)
Stories Behind the Most Affordable 91成人 Master's in Public Relations Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Lowest Cost by a Wide Margin
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech isn't merely the cheapest program 鈥� it's in its own affordability tier. At $5,265 annually, it's more than $2,500 cheaper than the next-lowest options while still maintaining strong student satisfaction (92% recommendation rate). That's a meaningful gap rather than a statistical rounding error.
Fastest Route to Graduation
Arkansas State University
No other program comes close to Arkansas State's 10-month completion timeline. Most schools require two years, while Arkansas State allows students to earn a master's degree in less than one year. The built-in Hootsuite certification strengthens the practical, career-focused angle.
Student Favorite
Winona State University
At the time of writing, Winona State has a perfect 100% recommendation rate and 4.32/5 review score, which are each are unmatched in the ranking above. Students appear more enthusiastic about this school than any other option, which is especially notable given that it isn't among the very cheapest programs.
Looking Beyond Tuition Alone When Evaluating 91成人 Public Relations Master's Programs
Public Relations Executive and Brand Communications Strategist
What motivated you to pursue a PR master鈥檚 degree online rather than on campus?
"I was working a very demanding job that required a lot of odd hours and travel, and knew I needed a program that fit with my schedule vs. a fixed schedule requiring me to be on campus at a certain time."
How did you manage the workload of a PR master's program?
"It was tough! Looking back (as this was several years ago), I'm not sure how I managed to do it all! But having a regimented program of assignments due on a certain day and forum feedback due 4 days later, which stayed the same schedule throughout the 2-year program, really helped.
As far as strategies that helped me stay on track, I developed my own rhythm and schedule [early] on, and gave myself one consistent evening off a week where I did not do schoolwork. The other 6 days of that week, I came home from work, and then did homework."
What types of support made the biggest difference in your graduate school experience?
"All of [these] things:
-
Faculty interaction
-
Career services
-
Alumni networks
-
Peer collaboration
I think the peer-to-peer relationships I built were the most important because everyone had a 'we're in this together' attitude. And it was so fun to meet them IRL, if one of us was traveling to the city where a peer lived.
And also graduation of course! To put faces to names was really fun. I still keep in contact with some of the peers I met through my online master's, even though I completed mine more than 10 years ago."
Were there any unexpected challenges when earning your PR master's degree online?
"It's a lot harder than you think it will be. I was thinking, no tests, no pop quizzes, how hard can this be?! I was SO wrong. It was really difficult, and you have to be disciplined to work on your own. If you are someone who needs to be prodded to do your work, an online program is probably not a good fit for you."
"If you do well working on your own, but may not have a traditional work schedule, an online PR master's program would be ideal for you."
How do students distinguish a high-quality online master鈥檚 in PR program from one that simply had a lower tuition?
"I think the old adage of 'if it looks too good to be true, it probably is' fits when researching online master's programs.
You have to be willing to sit down and comb through the coursework and make sure it includes courses that will be useful to you now, and also as you think about your career in the future."
Any advice for students pursuing a master's online?
"Take into consideration how you like to study and your current lifestyle. If you do well working on your own, but may not have a traditional work schedule, an online PR master's program would be ideal for you. But if you are someone who needs social interaction with colleagues that you're not getting in another outlet (i.e., your work, your personal life, your hobbies), then you may want to reconsider and look for a traditional, in-person master's program."
FAQs About Affordable 91成人 Public Relations Master's Degrees
What Is the Cheapest 91成人 Master's Degree in Public Relations?
On the ranking list above of the most affordable PR master's programs, Texas Tech University is the least expensive option on this ranking, charging just $5,265 per year for both in-state and out-of-state students. Because PR master's program is designed to be completed in about two years, the estimated total tuition is approximately $10,530, making it one of the most affordable choices in this field overall.
However, students should look beyond annual tuition alone. Program length can significantly affect total cost. For example, Arkansas State University charges $9,000 annually but can be completed in just 10 months, resulting in an estimated total tuition of roughly $7,500. That makes it the #1 cheapest online public relations master's overall if student are able to complete it on such an accelerated timeline. (It also costs the same for in-state and out-of-state students.)
Meanwhile, some programs with modest annual tuition carry higher overall costs because they take longer to complete. The University of Tennessee - Martin, for example, charges $8,236 annually but has a 30-month timeline, bringing estimated total tuition to more than $20,000.
Can You Earn an Affordable 91成人 PR Master's Degree in Less Than Two Years?
Yes, it's possible to complete a master's in public relations online at a more speedy clip. Here are some examples from the list above:
- Arkansas State University's PR master's can be completed in about 10 months.
- The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers a 12-month pathway.
- Ball State University estimates completion in 18 months.
A shorter public relations master's program can reduce both the total cost as well as the amount of time spent balancing graduate school with work and personal responsibilities, which factors into the ROI calculation long-term. For example, PR master's graduates may be able to apply newly acquired skills, pursue promotions, or transition into leadership roles sooner than they would in a traditional two-year program.
The tradeoff, however, is that accelerated programs require a heavier workload over a shorter period of time. As you can see from the expert testimony above, this is not an easy master's degree to finish. Students may need to take courses year-round, manage overlapping deadlines, and move through material at a faster pace. For working professionals especially, the fastest option is not always the best fit.
Some may prefer a longer timeline that allows them to spread out coursework, maintain work-life balance, and absorb complex communication concepts more gradually over time.
Which of the Affordable 91成人 PR Master's Programs Have the Strongest Student Satisfaction?
Student satisfaction and reviews can help paint a picture of what a PR master's program looks like that's otherwise difficult to measure through tuition or curriculum alone. In public relations, where networking, mentorship, feedback, and communication skills are central to career development, positive student experiences may indicate strong faculty support, valuable peer connections, and online classes that translate into strong preparation for professional practice.
Based on verified student feedback collected by the 91成人 research team, Winona State University stands out as the highest-rated on this ranking. It earned a 4.32 out of 5 overall review score and a perfect 100% recommendation rate, meaning every surveyed student said they would recommend the school to their peers.
What's even more notable is that Winona State's strong student sentiment is supported by other indicators of student success. The university reports a 79% retention rate, which is above average among the schools on this list. Its annual tuition of $9,565 also places it comfortably within the affordability-focused ranking, suggesting students feel they are receiving good value for their investment.
That said, students should avoid choosing a program based solely on review scores. Other schools combine strong satisfaction with different strengths. E.g.:
- The University of Missouri posts a 98% recommendation rate alongside the highest retention rate (93%) and graduation rate (75%) among ranked schools.
- The University of Tennessee - Martin also earns a strong 94% recommendation rate while offering a supportive, mentor-focused learning environment according to student reviews.
Looking at reviews alongside metrics such as retention, graduation rates, affordability, and program structure for these PR master's programs can provide a fuller picture of which program may be the best fit.
Student Reviews of 91成人 Public Relations Programs
The University of Oklahoma's online graduate degree program in Strategic Communication and Digital Strategy was appropriately challenging while maintaining enough flexibility for a student to complete it while working full-time. The course list was relevant, and most instructors were engaging, attentive to needs, responsive and creative in their instruction. I would recommend this program for anyone looking to dive into a marketing, communications, or strategic development role.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Oklahoma's online graduate degree program in Strategic Communication and Digital Strategy was appropriately challenging while maintaining enough flexibility for a student to complete it while working full-time. The course list was relevant, and most instructors were engaging, attentive to needs, responsive and creative in their instruction. I would recommend this program for anyone looking to dive into a marketing, communications, or strategic development role.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
University of Denver was a college to me that helped me succeed in what was new to me: digital learning. I felt really good taking classes and just casually replying or writing on my phone for assignments. I think the coursework was challenging and the professors were so kind and understanding. It was a successful experience for me.
Review Date: 12/8/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Studying at Arkansas State University was a great experience. They have a very strong online presence, and the program I graduated in was well articulated; all classes were well-designed and organized. The majority of all work conducted in this program is through written discourse, as there are very few multiple-choice exams. For a public, regionally accredited institution鈥攖he tuition rates are fantastic. I enjoyed this program, and I recommend it to those who are looking to advance their writing... Read More
Review Date: 7/19/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The instructor are professional,understanding,and fair. The approach the program took provided me the tools to advance in my career. Outstanding program. The course load required time management,I worked roughly 50 hours and achieved great results. National University is tops
Review Date: 1/28/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Kent State University's online master's program for public relations is extremely useful for graduate level students currently in the field of PR or hoping to make a transition into said field. The instructors are highly qualified, strong in both content knowledge and delivery, and truly care about providing students with a valuable educational experience. One aspect of the program that has been incredibly beneficial for me is the academic advising. Through to application process, the initial admission... Read More
Review Date: 3/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I finished my education with Northern Arizona University in May of 2017. I attended a completely online Masters program in Human Relations. If you are wanting the opportunity to work both within higher education or in the private sector, with a psychology background, this is the degree for you. You learn to incorporate the psychology of human behavior into the work that you do. Learning how different behaviors control human outcomes, helped me become a better leader in the work that I do within higher... Read More
Review Date: 3/16/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have enjoyed my time at Full Sail University. It has given me the skills to pursue jobs with higher skill-set requirements. Though I have not seen an immediate return on investment, I am confident that it will give me the growth opportunity I am looking for.
Review Date: 3/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Newhouse School of Public Communications' 91成人 MS Degree in Communications is extremely convenient for those who want to pursue a graduate degree but have a full time job. The professors are always available for help and the classes are engaging and fun. Taking classes online took some getting used to and while I would prefer to be in a physical classroom, it is extremely convenient to be able to attend class from my work or home.
Review Date: 10/16/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pros of Full Sail University Public Relations Master's Program, students will have an hands on experience such as video and personal branding projects during the course of the program. This will help students to showcase their techniques, talents, and skills to help them in their career field in Public Relations/Media Communications. The professors are very supportive and their willingness to help students with any questions or problems is over my expectations. The cons of Full Sail University... Read More
Review Date: 2/8/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As I am in an online program, many of the categories above are not applicable to my experience. Overall, Lasell's online program is extremely manageable as a full time worker. Many of my classmates have families and I have yet to learn of any situations where they feel that they can't handle the balance.
Review Date: 9/18/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The West Virginia University Integrated Marketing Communications program is excellent. I've learned a lot about how to effectively integrate a wide variety of communication tools into a campaign. A con to the program is that since it is online, I don't get the face-to-face interaction with other students and professors as I would if I was in a classroom.
Review Date: 6/16/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Full Sail is not for everyone. There are not the traditional breaks (summer, more than a week in the winter...) and the pace is intense. If you have drive and passion, go for it. The problem is the 80/20 rule. 20% push themselves to succeed while 80% just get by. I loved my experience and received my BS in Internet marketing and my MA in Public Relations from Full Sail.
Review Date: 5/21/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a student in Kent State's online Master's in Public Relations program. What I appreciate most about this program is its class schedule. We take one course every seven weeks which, as a working adult, makes my life much easier as I don't have to juggle 2 classes for 14 weeks. The professors, with an exception or two, are knowledgeable in their field and most of them have real world experience in abundance. Because online learning and the program itself are relatively new, there are still a few... Read More
Review Date: 1/17/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I feel that Lasell offers a very competitive program. The professors are all very knowledgeable in their field.
Review Date: 1/27/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pro is that it's convenient for working professionals and that it's a progressive program that keeps up with the ever-changing industry changes. The downside is that I have to pay out-of-state tuition.
Review Date: 6/27/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
There's no doubt in my mind that the IMC program would set me apart from others when entering the industry, preparing me with the knowledge, assurance and skill set necessary to being a productive Public Relations specialist. I believe the IMC program would give me an edge, enhance my strengths, minimize my weaknesses and launch me into the Strategic Communications field with ability and confidence.
Review Date: 5/9/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Full Sail has truly opened my mind and exposed me to real world education. I have created a website and built and established my personal brand and have worked with a real company of my choice to assist with a PR campaign and initiative. I love Full Sail and their career development department is dedicated in making sure graduates are equipped with everything they need to be successful.
Review Date: 8/5/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Rowan University is extremely flexible in accommodating a full-time professional schedule. The college of graduate and continuing education studies is a great place to learn skills needed to build a successful career. The texts assigned are extremely relevant to the major and I have learned many valuable lessons that I can apply in the workplace.
Review Date: 4/27/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My graduate program allows me to take courses from both the communications faculty and the Bolar School of Business. Student participation in seminars forms the core of the program meaning that we learn by doing and engaging in both individual and group projects. There is good interaction between the faculty and the grad students. The programs in communications management/ public relations opens up new horizons in the area of integrated market communications, research, theory and innovative leadership... Read More
Review Date: 6/13/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No