Your cost to attend
Tuition is $667 per credit or $2,156.50 per course for the 2025-2026 academic year. The total cost for the whole program is approximately $20,000. The rate is the same whether you are an Iowa resident or a nonresident.
Fees
Iowa graduate students pay a $155 technology fee.
Iowa graduate students also pay a one-time $250 University Records and Document Fee.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, check the Tuition & Fees Table.
Scholarship and support
Scholarships and support
Limited scholarships can be available. Please reach out if you'd like to learn more about opportunities.
Funding opportunities for current students
Limited funding opportunities may be available at various times throughout your program. For example, the Graduate Tuition Scholarship offers up to $6,000.00 towards tuition costs for one semester and is available to current students who have completed at least 9 semester hours of course credit. Please reach out to grad-fellowships@uiowa.edu if you'd like to learn more about potential internal or external funding opportunities.
Employer assistance
Many of our students have a portion of their tuition reimbursed by their employer. Share with your organization or supervisor the learning outcomes associated with earning your MA in Strategic Communication. The skills you gain will benefit your work and your employer's business goals. Often, students will use their work for projects and case studies, providing an even more direct benefit. It is also a winning strategy for employee development and retention.
Veteran benefit
As a military veteran or active-duty service member, you’re entitled to pay zero application fee. If you intend to use veteran’s education benefits, you can get assistance through the Office of GI Bill Services at 319-335-3895 or by emailing registrar-vets-office@uiowa.edu.
Want to learn more?
Whether you're ready to apply, looking for more information, or have a specific question, drop us a line and we'll be in touch!
Frequently asked questions
What is the total cost of the Iowa Masters in Strategic Communication degree?
The total program costs approximately $20,000, based on $667 per credit hour across 30 credits. That rate is the same for Iowa residents and out-of-state students — which is uncommon for a Big Ten university and makes this one of the most affordable online strategic communication master's degrees available.
Are there scholarships available?
Limited scholarships are available, and current students who have completed at least 9 credit hours may be eligible for the Graduate Tuition Scholarship, which provides up to $6,000 for one semester. Reaching out directly to the program is the best way to learn what's currently available.
Can my employer pay for this degree?
Many students receive partial or full tuition reimbursement from their employer. Because coursework can often be applied directly to workplace projects, the degree can be positioned as an investment in professional development and leadership growth. If you're considering asking your employer for support, program staff can provide information and talking points to help you start the conversation.
Are there benefits for veterans or active-duty military?
Yes, military veterans and active-duty service members pay zero application fee and are eligible to use VA education benefits. The Office of GI Bill Services at Iowa can assist with the process and can be reached at 319-335-3895.
Are there additional fees beyond tuition?
There two small fees apply: a $155 technology fee each semester, and a one-time $250 University Records and Document Fee. These are the only fees beyond per-credit tuition.