Rutgers University’s School of Communication and Information (SC&I) is proud to announce that its esteemed Master of Communication and Media (MCM) program will offer a fully online option beginning with the summer 2025 cohort. This expansion aligns with Rutgers’ ongoing commitment to accessibility, flexibility, and innovative learning for students nationwide and potentially worldwide.

Key Details of the Fully Online MCM Program:

• Affordable Tuition: Newly admitted students to the fully online MCM program will benefit from a significantly reduced tuition rate that aligns closely with in-state costs, making advanced education more accessible to out-of-state learners.
• Flexible Learning Options: Students can choose between fully online, hybrid, or in-person formats, catering to diverse learning preferences and life circumstances.
• Global Accessibility: Students from around the globe may enroll in the fully online program, furthering Rutgers’ reach and impact.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The MCM program’s robust course offerings will remain consistent across the modalities, ensuring the same rigorous education for all students.

All the specializations within the MCM program will be available online with the exception of the Communication and Media Research track which will remain exclusively on campus due to its hands-on research requirements. This track’s unique focus on research practicums is essential for students pursuing a Ph.D.

Expanding Opportunities Through Innovation

Since its start in 1987, 1,800 students have successfully completed the program with 90% finishing in 24 months or less. The MCM program has evolved into a dynamic and highly regarded graduate program, serving a growing population of students. Enrollment has increased dramatically in recent years, rising from 85 students in 2016 to over 170 active students as of 2024. This growth reflects the program’s adaptability and the increasing demand for communication and media expertise in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

With more than 50 master’s programs in communication nationwide, the Rutgers MCM stands out due to its unique interdisciplinary structure, combining the strengths of the Departments of Communication and Journalism & Media Studies. This collaboration, coupled with Rutgers’ reputation, positions the MCM as a leader in graduate communication education.

“We are dedicated to delivering a graduate education that is high-quality, flexible, and accessible,” says Teaching Professor and MCM Program Director Richard Dool, D.Mgt. “Expanding our program to include a fully online option empowers students to pursue advanced education without the limitations of geographic boundaries.”

Supporting the Shift to Online Learning

The MCM program has a solid foundation in online education, with courses offered in asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid formats since 2018. The shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic further proved the program’s ability to deliver quality education across modalities. Today, approximately 70% of MCM students opt for remote learning or hybrid options.

Ready to Join the Future of Communication and Media?

Prospective students can apply for the fully online MCM program starting in summer 2025. Current application processes remain unchanged, with the addition of a new designation to select the preferred learning format.

For more information about the MCM program and its new fully online option, register to attend a virtual info session, go to SC&I’s website, email our admissions team, and visit MCM admissions to apply. This is your opportunity to advance your career in communication and media while enjoying the flexibility of online learning at a globally recognized institution.