8 Affordable Online Communications Degrees in Florida 2025

A degree in communications can lead to many communications careers, like that of a public relations specialist or other type of communications professional. For students who can't learn on campus, many low-cost online communications degrees are available.

These degrees help students develop their communication skills and teach key soft skills like critical thinking. Keep reading to discover the most affordable online communications degree programs in Florida.

Affordable Online Communications Degree Programs in Florida

There are many low-cost online colleges in Florida; in fact, Florida has the lowest average in-state tuition rates in the nation. Several of these online schools offer communications degrees, and we've highlighted the most affordable options below.

1. Columbia College

Columbia College is a private school based in Columbia, MO, but with several campuses across the U.S., including one in Jacksonville, FL. It offers an online bachelor's degree in communications that covers topics such as:

• communication theory
• intercultural communication
• mass communication
• social media

The tuition rate for online students is $375 per credit hour. The college offers several scholarship opportunities and also allows students to use outside aid programs.

2. Florida Atlantic University

At Florida Atlantic University, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in communication studies online. It includes a blend of communication and media studies to prepare students to address contemporary cultural issues through communication strategies.

FAU, a public research university, is based in Boca Raton, FL. Tuition costs just $302.29 for in-state students but $721.84 per credit for out-of-state students. Financial aid options include institutional grants and scholarships, as well as federal and state grants and independent scholarship programs.

3. Florida International University

Both a bachelor's and a master's in communication are available online through Florida International University. The public research institution is located in University Park, FL.

The bachelor's degree in communication arts includes a specialization in organizational communications, which covers fields like business communication, intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, and organizational communication. Tuition is $235.57 per credit hour for Florida residents and $648.87 per credit hour for nonresidents, with financial aid available.

The master's degree is a Master of Science in mass communication with a specialization in global strategic communications. The tuition rate is about $833.33 per credit hour before financial aid is applied.

4. Florida State University

Florida State University offers an online Master of Science in professional communication. This program includes specializations in corporate and public communication as well as organizational management and communication, both of which help students hone their communication skills.

FSU, based in Tallahassee, FL, is a public research university. It charges a tuition rate of $444.26 for this online program, and grants and scholarships are available.

5. Lynn University

Lynn University is a private school in Boca Raton, FL. It offers a bachelor's degree in communication and media online with coursework on subjects like:

• digital media
• intercultural communication
• public relations
• social media

The tuition cost for this bachelor's program is $375 per credit hour. Scholarship and grant programs are available to help students pay for their online learning.

6. Palm Beach Atlantic University

Students at Palm Beach Atlantic University can earn an online Bachelor of Arts in communication studies. The communication courses in this program help students sharpen their understanding of mass media, civil discourse, and effective interpersonal skills.

PBA, a private Christian school, is located in West Palm Beach, FL. Tuition for online learners is $400 per credit, and students can use financial aid to lower the costs of their undergraduate degree.

7. University of Central Florida

A bachelor's degree and master's degree in communication are available online through the University of Central Florida. UCF is a public research university in Orlando, FL.

In the bachelor's degree in communication and conflict, students take core courses and electives on topics like interpersonal communication, public relations, business communication, and communication research methods. Tuition is $179.19 per credit for in-state students and $715.80 for out-of-state students.

The master's degree is a degree in English with a specialization in technical communication, which trains students to make technical ideas accessible and impactful. The tuition rate is $327.32 per credit hour for Florida residents and $1,151.72 per credit hour for nonresidents.

8. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers an online Master of Arts in mass communication with multiple specializations, including:

• digital journalism and multimedia storytelling
• global strategic communications
• public relations and communication management
• social media

The public university, based in Gainesville, FL, charges $484.48 per credit hour for this program. Note that while UF doesn't offer a bachelor's degree specifically in communications online, it does offer online bachelor's programs in journalism and public relations.

Our Selection Criteria

We select schools based on a number of important factors to ensure each institution provides high-quality, affordable education for online students. The colleges and universities in the list above all meet the following criteria:

• based in or have campuses in Florida
• hold regional accreditation
• are public or nonprofit
• offer an online bachelor's or master's degree in communications
• have a tuition rate below $500 for in-state students
• are online colleges that accept financial aid or offer comprehensive financial aid programs of their own

FAQs About Online Communications Programs

Below, we've addressed a few frequently asked questions about online communications programs.

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

For the online bachelor's degrees listed above, the tuition rate ranges from about $180 to $400 per credit for in-state students. That being said, the final cost of your degree will depend on many things, including:

• what level of degree you're earning
• if you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• whether you study full-time or part-time
• how many credits you need
• what type of financial aid you qualify for

How Do I Pay for an Online Bachelor's in Communication Degree Program?

All students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This allows them to qualify for federal and state aid, as well as many institutional aid programs.

Grants and scholarships are both types of aid that you don't need to pay back. Grants are usually need-based, while scholarships are usually (but not always) merit-based. Grants are available through the government and individual schools, while scholarships are available through schools and private organizations.

Student loans aren't the ideal option for most students, but if you aren't able to secure enough grants and scholarships to cover your tuition costs, you can find low-rate student loans through StudentAid.gov.

What Are the Prerequisites for Enrolling in an Online Communications Degree Program?

Most communications majors don't have many prerequisites for their bachelor's degree. You may need to take your general education courses first, which often include a standard course on public speaking. Your academic advising department can usually tell you more.

If you have an associate degree, you may be able to go straight to studying your major through a degree completion program. Look for online colleges that accept transfer credits so your previous learning doesn't go to waste.

Master's degree programs vary. You may need a bachelor's degree in communications or a related field and may also need to take the GRE.

Explore Accredited Online Programs Today

Find the right online communications program for you by exploring the best colleges featured on Learn.org. Reach out to specific schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.