Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Communication program and graduate certificate portfolio earns Forbes’ No. 4 spot nationally

Purdue University’s online communication graduate certificate portfolio was named “Best for Graduate Certificates” by Forbes.

The program, ranked by Forbes as No. 4 nationally for Best Online Communications Master’s Degrees in 2025, was recommended because its graduate certificates could be applied towards its online Master of Science in Communication degree.

The recognition by the internationally respected business publication serves as validation of the efforts the Brian Lamb School of Communication has made in strengthening its online offerings, said Matt Charles, the school’s director of online graduate programs and a continuing online lecturer.

“The Lamb School launched a variety of graduate certificates over the past year and a half to meet student and workplace needs and has received amazing feedback,” Charles said. “Forbes’ recognition is another validation of this important work to meet professional development needs.”

Designed for working professionals who want to add communication expertise to their skill set, the portfolio offers six online graduate certificates that can be completed in two years or less, requires three to four courses and costs less than $900 per course.

“The graduate certificates help students secure jobs with the courses they take, building their foundational strategic communication skills in their respective focus area,” Charles said. “If students choose, they can use the credits earned to work toward the Master of Science in Communication degree.”

Each one of these graduate certificates can be applied towards the Master of Science in Communication degree. They also can serve as concentrations within the major, allowing practitioners to explore and customize their degree journey while acquiring hands-on experience with emerging technologies and innovative trends.

While the master’s in communication program and its associated certifications are 100 percent online, all courses are taught by Purdue West Lafayette’s world class professors.

The portfolio is comprised of a variety of programs, covering the most common communication needs in almost every industry and at every level of expertise. The Graduate Certificate in Communication and Leadership program, for example, can benefit anyone at any stage of their career who is interested in becoming a good leader. More specialized programs, like those designed for health- and sports-related specialists, are also available.

It includes:

Graduate Certificate in Strategic Communication Management – Created for future–focused professionals who want to communicate with confidence. Gain the critical leadership skills needed to navigate complex situations. Topics covered include strategic planning, crisis communication, emerging technologies, global engagement and campaign evaluation. While professionals like public relations specialists, marketing managers and corporate communications directors will benefit from this certificate, Charles said he believes all professionals need to learn how to communicate strategically.

Graduate Certificate in Communication and Leadership – Applicable in a variety of professional settings, learn how to develop communication plans, shape company culture, improve team productivity and refine the communication skills needed to be an effective leader. This program is designed to help current and aspirational executives, department heads and managers become better communicators and stronger leaders.

Graduate Certificate in Branding and Marketing Communication – In a world dominated by a 24-hour business cycle, branding and marketing are the only things that work long after employees stop. Harvest that relentless power by creating quality content and boosting brand recognition. Explore proven and innovative ways to share messaging that resonate with a variety of stakeholders. Public relations specialists, marketing managers, consultants and corporate communications directors would benefit from this degree.

Graduate Certificate in Health Communication – Healthcare is the one of the few fields that impact everyone while requiring strict adherence to communication guidelines. Learn how to communicate prudently with a variety of stakeholders while navigating the complexities involved in this vital field. This program is ideal for public relations consultants, public health educators, patient advocates and anyone working within the healthcare sector.

Graduate Certificate in Sports Communication – With an estimated value of $2.3 trillion globally, the sports industry has become its own ecosystem with its own language and communications rules. Learn how to manage social media, address crisis communications challenges and help sports organizations navigate unpredictable events. Sports media professionals looking to strengthen their skills, coaches and athletes transitioning into the media industry and public relations practitioners who want to specialize in sports would benefit from this program.

Graduate Certificate in Digital Media and Communication Technology – Social media marketing has evolved beyond posts about upcoming sales. It is now an integral communication tool for businesses and consumers. In fact, a Sprout Social study found 98 percent of professionals believed that social data impacted their companies’ business decisions. Unlock the secrets behind planning effective campaigns, creating compelling content, growing engagement and analyzing and reporting results. Professionals like social media managers, public relations specialists, marketing managers and corporate communications directors would benefit from this certificate.

For more information about Purdue’s online Master of Science in Communication and communication graduate certificates, visit the program’s website.