3 Most Affordable Online Communications Degrees in Ohio 2025

Communication degree programs prepare students for exciting careers with newspapers, radio and TV stations, marketing firms, and social media brands. If you want to study this field without attending on-campus classes or paying too much for your program, several affordable online communications degrees are available. In Ohio, cost-friendly online programs in communication are available at Ohio University and the University of Toledo.

Below, we'll explore low-cost online colleges in Ohio offering reputable communication degrees. Our frequently asked questions share what you can expect when enrolled in one of these programs.

Affordable Online Communications Degree Programs in Ohio

You can make the search for affordable communication programs easier by looking at online universities that accept transfer credits, as well as financial aid, and offer lower tuition rates. Explore the following list of schools to find budget-friendly programs in Ohio.

1. Ohio University

Ohio University, with campuses near Columbus, offers an online Bachelor of Science in communication studies. This program teaches mass media, organizational communication, and more for learners looking to start careers in digital media, event planning, and public relations.

Ohio residents pay $319 per credit hour for this eCampus program. Scholarships and grants like the $2,000 Second Chance Grant can help reduce costs.

2. University of Toledo

The Bachelor of Arts in communication at the University of Toledo is an online bachelor's degree program with coursework exploring communication theory, social media communication strategies, and more. This top-ranked degree offers a concentration in interpersonal communications.

The university charges full-time in-state students $5,296.68 per semester and guarantees that the rate won't change for the first four years of enrollment. Learners can use merit scholarships and financial aid to lower costs.

3. The University of Akron

The University of Akron's 100% online BA in communication studies program prepares students for careers in human resources, higher education, and nonprofit work. Courses explore interpersonal relationships, law, advocacy, and more.

Students pay $447.32 in tuition to complete this bachelor's program. Communication majors can make the degree more affordable by applying for financial aid and various scholarships.

Other Affordable Online Communications Programs

Are you looking for more degrees in online communication? Explore the following list of affordable programs from schools outside of Ohio.

1. Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University offers an online BA in professional writing and communication that students can complete in as little as two years. Online courses help build enrollees' communication skills by exploring new media, business communications, and more.

All enrollees pay the in-state tuition rate of $305 per credit and can apply for financial aid and scholarships to reduce school costs.

2. University of North Dakota

The BA in communication at the University of North Dakota teaches strategic communication, advertising, and digital analytics and offers an international communication specialization. The program delivers asynchronous courses for students seeking online learning flexibility.

All online students pay $384.88 per credit hour, regardless of residency. Freshman and transfer enrollees can receive scholarships up to $14,000 and $2,000, respectively.

3. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers an online BA in journalism with specializations in journalism and mass communications, advertising, news-editorial, photojournalism, and sports media. This program builds students' knowledge of editing, writing, branding, photography, and more.

The university charges undergraduate online students $9,638 annually; however, it cuts costs by awarding journalism majors as much as $160,000 in scholarships each year.

4. Colorado State University

Colorado State University's online BA in communication studies teaches media and visual culture, relational and organizational studies, and rhetoric and civic engagement. This program is designed for high school graduates with a 2.7 GPA or college transfers with a 2.5 GPA.

All enrollees pay the in-state tuition rate of $476 per credit hour. Financial aid and programs like the John C. and Alex S. Snider Endowed Scholarship are great options for lowering school costs.

5. Lamar University

Lamar University in Beaumont, TX offers an online BS in communication for students interested in sales, advertising, or corporate communications careers. Courses explore mass communication, media studies, and more.

Enrollees can earn this degree at a tuition rate of $314 per credit hour and save with grants and other financial aid. A generous transfer credit policy of up to 90 credits helps students with an associate degree or some college credits avoid the cost of retaking courses.

6. San Diego State University

San Diego State University in California is home to an online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in communication teaching persuasion, ethnography, and public speaking. To enroll, learners must have 60 transferable credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.

SDSU charges $23,124 for this degree (fees included) and offers the option to pursue aid like the Middle Class Scholarship and federal grants to boost savings.

7. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri offers an online BS in communication studies and an online public relations degree completion program for undergraduate learners. Graduate students can pursue an online Master of Arts in communication with an applied communication specialization.

The university charges $285 and $425 per credit hour for online bachelor's and master's degree students, respectively. Scholarships, grants, and other aid can help cover school costs.

Our Selection Criteria

Our team selected the schools in the rank list above using a rigorous vetting process. Each school in this list has met the following criteria for delivering a high-quality experience in higher education:

• Accredited: The institutions have received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, WASC Senior College and University Commission, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Affordable: The schools on this list offer lower tuition rates, accept financial aid, or grant credits for transfer, exams, or work experience reducing the cost of attendance.
• Reputable: We confirmed that the colleges and universities in this list are respected schools, considering factors such as student outcomes, acceptance rates, and graduation rates.

FAQs About Online Communications Programs

Is an online communication degree right for you? Learn more about these programs by reviewing the following FAQs.

Is Communications a Valuable Degree?

Yes, a communications degree is very valuable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional communication and media careers earned much more than the median annual wage for all occupations in May 2023. These occupations expect fast-as-average employment growth from 2023 to 2033.

What Is the Average Cost of an Online Communications Degree Program?

The average cost of an online communications degree program depends on factors like the type of degree you pursue (i.e., bachelor's, master's, or doctoral), your enrollment status (part-time or full-time), and where you live (in-state or out-of-state). If you want to reduce the cost of earning a degree, consider online schools that accept financial aid and offer scholarships.

What Can You Do With an Online Communications Degree?

Graduating with an online communications degree opens doors to numerous careers. Roles you might consider include:

• copywriter
• editor
• public relations specialist
• social media manager
• human resources specialist

Find Accredited Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

Are you ready to start your career in communications? Explore the degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org and contact one of these colleges to learn how their programs can help you reach your career goals.