Disruption in PR Education: Online Master’s Degree Programs in Public Relations and Strategic Communication

Abstract

This study describes the characteristics of fully online public relations and strategic communication master’s programs offered by regionally accredited nonprofit and public universities in the United States. A website analysis of 53 programs reveals the types of institutions and academic units offering these programs, degrees offered, program names, and basic program requirements. In-depth interviews with 27 program directors provides further insight into the types of students served, overall focus of program curricula, distinguishing program features, and successes and challenges. Despite growth in online education, this appears to be the first study of online master’s programs in public relations and strategic communication.