4 Affordable Online Communications Degrees in Pennsylvania 2025

Students interested in careers in journalism, social media, marketing, copywriting, or editing often pursue communication degrees. If you want to study this field but have financial limitations or can't travel for on-campus classes, you can find schools with low-cost online communications degrees.

In Pennsylvania, cost-friendly online communication programs are available at Kutztown University and Millersville University. Below, we'll highlight affordable online colleges in Pennsylvania and other states. We'll also answer frequently asked questions about online communications programs.

Affordable Online Communications Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

You can find affordable online communications programs in Pennsylvania at online colleges that accept FAFSA or offer lower tuition. Explore the list of schools below to discover great options.

1. Drexel University

Drexel University offers an online bachelor's degree in communication that students can pursue for $473 per credit, a 52% discount from the school's regular tuition rate. Enrollees interested in reducing costs can fill out the FAFSA form to qualify for financial aid. Special rates are also available for communication majors working for partner organizations.

The online bachelor's program teaches communication theory, public relations, marketing, and more. After graduating, students will be ready to work in for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

2. Kutztown University

The online Bachelor of Arts in communication studies at Kutztown University helps strengthen students' writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills. Concentrations include rhetoric and civic engagement, media studies, strategic communication, and performance and culture.

Pennsylvania residents attending online pay $3,858 in tuition costs each semester. Federal student aid, state assistance like the PA State Grant, and school scholarships can help students save.

3. Millersville University

Students interested in studying public relations, organizational communication, and digital media can find a great degree option at Millersville University. The online Bachelor of Science in public relations teaches ethical communication principles and grows writing and research skills.

Undergraduate in-state residents pursuing fully online degrees pay $376 per credit hour. Grants, scholarships, loans, and other aid are available to make online learning at Millersville more affordable.

4. Pennsylvania Western University

Pennsylvania Western University's online Master of Arts in corporate communication prepares students for career paths in healthcare, education, management, and advertising. This 30-credit program's core and elective courses explore essential communication skills and theories.

In-state online students can earn this master's degree for $516 per credit hour. Enrollees interested in paying less for college can pursue scholarships and financial aid.

Other Affordable Online Communications Programs

Pennsylvania is one of many states offering reputable and affordable online programs. Review the following schools to find low-cost degrees in other states.

1. Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University's 100% online BA in communication studies prepares students to manage people and messaging for companies through coursework exploring persuasion, journalism, and more. This program offers flexible schedules for adult learners with work and family commitments.

Students pay $494 per credit to earn this degree and can benefit from guaranteed tuition rates for up to six years. A generous transfer credit policy and financial aid help learners save on school costs.

2. Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University offers an online BA in professional writing and communication for students interested in scientific writing, new media, and business communications. Coursework explores mass media, graphic communication, and more.

This program, which costs $305 per credit hour, offers full-time and part-time enrollment options. Students can save by applying for FAFSA financial aid and school scholarships.

3. Texas State University

The BA in communication studies at Texas State University is an online program students can complete at a tuition rate of $404 per credit hour. Enrollees learn about persuasion, interpersonal communication, public speaking, and more.

Eligible freshmen might qualify for the Bobcat Promise, which provides free tuition for 15 credit hours per semester. Other financial aid and scholarships�and a generous transfer credit policy�can help lower school costs.

4. Western Illinois University

Western Illinois University's online BA in communication program helps students prepare for positions in marketing, healthcare, public relations, and human resources. Core and elective courses explore rhetorical criticism, conflict management, and more.

New undergraduate students in online-only programs pay $5,047.50 in tuition per semester when taking 15 hours. Freshmen and transfer scholarships and financial aid can make this degree even more affordable.

5. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri offers several online communication programs. Bachelor's degree seekers can choose from the online BS in communication studies and the online public relations degree completion program for students with associate degrees. The MA in communication offers a completely online applied communication specialization.

Online undergraduate and graduate students pay $285 and $425 per credit, respectively. Scholarships, grants, and other financial options are available for learners with financial need.

Our Selection Criteria

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

• Accredited: The schools have received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Higher Learning Commission, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We verified that the institutions in this list are respected schools, considering factors such as acceptance rates, student outcomes, and graduation rates.
• Affordable: The schools above offer lower tuition rates, financial aid, or credits for transfer to increase affordability.

FAQs About Online Communications Programs

Are you ready to enroll in an online communication degree program? Read the following FAQs before getting started.

What Courses Are Typically in an Online Communications Degree Program?

You might encounter different courses depending on your degree program. However, programs often explore the following concepts:

• communication theory
• journalism
• social media
• public speaking
• mass communication
• persuasion
• new media
• marketing communications
• public relations
• organizational leadership

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

The cost of earning an online degree in communication can depend on factors like residency, degree type, and enrollment status. The key to finding a program at the right price is researching schools that offer lower rates like Kutztown University and Millersville University. You can also find online colleges that accept transfer credits and provide scholarships and financial aid to reduce costs.

What Can You Do With an Online Communications Degree?

Students interested in becoming communication professionals can find great careers in numerous business settings. Top positions include:

• brand manager
• copywriter
• marketing coordinator
• social media analyst
• web content creator

Working as a public relations specialist is another great option for degree holders. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 27,000 openings are expected for this role annually from 2023 to 2033.

Find an Online Bachelor's Degree Today

Take steps toward your dream career in communications by exploring the accredited degree programs offered by colleges on Learn.org. Contact one of these schools today to learn how they can help you reach your goals.