Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

online phd programs communication studies

We rank the best online PhD degree programs in communications.

Key Takeaways

  • A number of graduate schools offer an online PhD in communications.
  • A communications PhD program is a good fit for students with an interest in linguistics, media studies, organizational communication, post-secondary education, and more.
  • The best online communication doctorates are regionally and programmatically accredited and prepare students for success in the job market.

Featured Programs

Online doctoral degree programs are growing in availability and credibility. However, only a select number of universities offer a full selection of PhD in communication programs online.

In most fields, an online PhD is considered a terminal degree, which means it is the highest degree that you can earn in your field. This means that online doctoral programs for PhD students in communication can lead to opportunities for leadership, public consultation, research, and post-secondary education in your field.

Online PhD in communication candidates are typically already working at a high level in their field. This means that students seeking their doctorate must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, online courses and fully online programs provide a way to achieve this balance.

For a look at how these online doctoral programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the The Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees .

Or see the complete University Rankings Guide .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online PhD in communication through a top-ranked online doctorate program.

Woman giving a speech

About Accredited Online PhD in Communication Degree Programs

Online doctoral students have plenty of options, but quality and credibility are important when it comes to finding an online PhD. The best online doctorate programs will have proper accreditation:

  • Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online PhD programs offered by the graduate school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.

A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

  • Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, look for online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. Specialized programmatic accreditation can be an indication that certain online PhD programs are respected in your field. The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) is the key specialized accrediting agency in communications.
  • Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online Phd programs.

Key Point: The best online doctoral programs will have both institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Students in a lecture hall

Admission Requirements

Schools that offer online doctorate programs have different admission requirements. However, most online doctoral in communication programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

  • A completed online application
  • Official undergraduate college transcripts
  • A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal interviews
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Plan of study

Key Point: In some cases, you’ll be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, manyu specialized online PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses

As with other advanced degree and graduate programs, research is the central component of your online communications doctoral program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses.

Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is three to five years.

The typical components of your online PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

Your online PhD program will typically begin with a number of core courses in areas like technical communication, mass communication, strategic communication, and more. You will likely also take foundational courses in your area of concentration.

PhD program concentrations may include media and communication studies, health communication, political communication, and more. Foundational courses will also provide critical research skills including how to apply both quantitative research methods and qualitative research methods. You may be able to complete many of your communications program requirements through online classes.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

The central component of most online PhD in communications programs will be the completion of a dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online PhD programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements by instructing online students.

Key Point: The online communications PhD is a research-focused degree. Your dissertation will be a central part of your online doctoral degree program.

Professionals having a meeting

Careers for Students Who Complete Online Communications Doctoral Degree Programs

Accredited online doctoral programs are generally terminal degree programs. This means that students who complete credible online doctoral programs in their field are generally eligible for top positions and opportunities in their field. This may indicate high paying opportunities for public policy research, post-secondary education, and editorship.

For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the top 10% of earners in the field of Editing earned nearly $130,000 in 2021.

These higher earnings are reflective of the rarified professional opportunities that await those with a PhD in communications. Working professionals who earn an accredited online doctorate may be eligible to work in the following areas.

  • Marketing and Consumer Research
  • Publishing and Editing
  • Public Relations
  • Post-Secondary Education
  • Public Policy Consultation
  • Political Campaign Management

Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a doctorate n communications will earn more than graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online PhD programs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online Phd programs.

The Best Online Communications Doctorates (PhDs)

The online PhDs and doctorates in communication identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

University of Alabama

  • #1 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
  • #1 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024
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  • #25 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024
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  • #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
  • #1 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
  • #2 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
  • #2 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
  • #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
  • #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
  • #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
  • #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
  • #3 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
  • #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
  • #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
  • #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
  • #6 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
  • #6 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #6 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
  • #6 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
  • #6 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
  • #6 Best Online Master's in Special Education
  • #8 Best Online Master’s in Communications
  • #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
  • #8 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
  • #11 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
  • #11 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
  • #15 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #17 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
  • #21 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #24 Best Online Master's in Management

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Alabama

University of Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Social Work
  • Mathematics
  • Anthropology
  • Political Science
  • Engineering

Most Influential Alumni

  • Edward O. Wilson
  • Timothy Leary
  • George Armitage Miller
  • Bernie Madoff
  • Nathan Jacobson
  • John Ridley Stroop
  • George W. Snedecor
  • Mohammad Ataul Karim

What do we love about University of Alabama?

University of Alabama was founded in the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1820. Emerging in the immediate aftermath of Alabama’s statehood, Bama is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama.

And today, a student body of more than 38,000 undergraduates and postgraduates makes this public research university the largest school in the state of Alabama.

University of Alabama’s Communication and Information Sciences doctoral degree program is noted for its multidisciplinary approach to the study of communication and information sciences.

Enjoy a strong athletics program. The University of Alabama Crimson Tide enjoy a heated cross-state rivalry with the Tigers of Auburn University.

Prefer a more intimate learning environment. University of Alabama is noted for the size of its student body, the scope of its academic offerings, and the expansiveness of its campus facilities.

Journalists interviewing a man in a suit

American University

  • #3 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
  • #3 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
  • #3 Best Colleges in DC 2024
  • #9 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #24 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #3 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
  • #4 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
  • #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #12 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
  • #13 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
  • #4 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree

Career Outlook for Communications degree at American University

What do we love about american university.

American University is a private research university located in Washington D.C. American University was actually formed by an act of Congress in 1893.

Today, American University is home to more than 8000 undergraduates and more than 6000 graduate students.

Its doctoral-level communications program demonstrates the close connection between American University and the city it calls home. The AU School of Communication’s Doctor of Philosophy in Communication gives PhD candidates a chance to conduct independent research at the intersection of media, technology, and democracy. /p>

Have an interest in public service, political affairs, and government work. Its location in the nation’s capital makes American University a feeder school for many government opportunities.

Are seeking a more affordable degree program. American University provides generous student amenities but these expenses are reflected in the cost of attendance.

University of Colorado Boulder

  • #1 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2024
  • #2 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Earth Sciences
  • Computer Science
  • George Gaylord Simpson
  • Sidney Altman
  • Scott Carpenter
  • Jeffrey Beall
  • Jack Williamson
  • Steven M. Wise
  • Marc Bekoff
  • Kenneth R. Miller
  • Terrence Deacon
  • Theodore Maiman
  • Eugene Myers

What do we love about the University of Colorado Boulder?

The University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and was, in fact, established five months before Colorado achieved statehood. This makes it the flagship university in the state’s public university system.

The University of Colorado Boulder, located in the mid-sized city of Boulder, is home to a decidedly large student population. Roughly 38,000 students are currently in pursuit of their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Boulder.

Among its noteworthy graduate degree programs, the University of Colorado Boulder offers a PhD in Communication to students who have earned a master’s degree in a related subject.

Are pursuing advanced degrees. Boulder ranks among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high level of research activity.

Are looking for an intimate college experience. Though the Boulder campus is routinely ranked among the most beautiful colleges in the nation, it is also the largest school in the state of Colorado.

Clemson University

  • #2 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2024
  • #2 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2024
  • #1 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
  • #2 Best Online Master's Programs in South Carolina 2024
  • #2 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
  • #2 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024
  • #4 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
  • #4 Best Online Master's in Biology
  • #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
  • #9 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
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  • #11 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
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  • #18 Best Online Master's in Special Education
  • #20 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
  • #20 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #24 Best Online Master’s in Engineering

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Clemson University

Clemson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • James Dickey
  • Strom Thurmond
  • John Edwards
  • Jo Jorgensen
  • Anthony Bradley
  • James F. Byrnes
  • Warren E. Dixon
  • Dolph Lundgren
  • Thomas Naylor
  • Horace Grant
  • Dwight Clark
  • Deshaun Watson

What do we love about Clemson University?

Clemson University was founded in 1889 and began life as the Clemson Agricultural College. Today, the public land-grant university occupies 1400 acres alongside Lake Hartwell in Clemson, South Carolina.

With more than 25,000 students pursuing degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, Clemson University ranks as the second largest university in the state of South Carolina.

Clemson is included in the list of R1: Doctoral Universities, those noted for their high level of research activity. Clemson offers an array of unique advanced degree programs, such as its doctoral program in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design , which emphasizes “an overall balance of ecologies in rhetorics and communication with emphasis on rhetorics and digital information design.”

Enjoy college athletics. Clemson’s Tigers enjoy an enormous cultural presence both on campus and in the surrounding region.

Are looking for a college in a lively area. Clemson is located in the foothills of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, but this also means that the university is a two hour drive from the nearest city.

Business meeting

Texas Tech University

  • #7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
  • #1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's in English
  • #2 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
  • #2 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
  • #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
  • #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #3 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
  • #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
  • #4 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
  • #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
  • #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
  • #5 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
  • #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
  • #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
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  • #7 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
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  • #8 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
  • #8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
  • #9 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
  • #10 Best Online Master’s in Communications
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  • #12 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
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  • #14 Best Online Master's in Special Education
  • #14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
  • #15 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
  • #15 Best Online Master’s in Education
  • #16 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
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Career Outlook for Communications degree at Texas Tech University

What do we love about texas tech university.

Texas Tech University began life as the Texas Technical College with its founding 1923. Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech is considered the primary institution among the five schools making up the Texas Tech University System.

Taking its present name in 1969, Texas Tech University would become the sixth-largest institution in the state of Texas. Today, there are more than 40,000 students earning degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the public research university.

Texas Tech is particularly noteworthy as a destination for prospective PhDs. Texas Tech is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high research activity. This includes opportunities for doctoral level students interested in Texas Tech’s PhD in Media and Communication .

Like a college with strong school spirit. Students repeatedly note that the school spirit is a major feature of campus life, which can make Texas Tech feel like one big community.

Are looking for a small campus. Like a lot of other things in Texas, Texas Tech is a sprawling campus. Students note that the sheer distance of walking between classes can sometimes be exhausting.

Colorado State University

  • #3 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
  • #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
  • #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2024
  • #4 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024
  • #4 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #5 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
  • #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Colorado
  • #9 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
  • #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
  • #24 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Jean Bethke Elshtain
  • Steve Hanke
  • Yusef Komunyakaa
  • Elaine Ingham
  • Mark Mattson
  • Rebecca Skloot
  • Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf
  • William Tietz
  • James van Hoften
  • Jenna Ellis
  • Martin J. Fettman
  • Anwar al-Awlaki

What do we love about Colorado State University?

Colorado State University was formed in 1870 as the flagship institution in what would become the Colorado state school system. The Fort Collins-based public research university is noted today for including the biomedical sciences, engineering, environmental science, and more.

Colorado State University was formed as a small agricultural school in the years leading up to Colorado’s 1876 statehood. Today, Colorado State serves more than 34,000 students.

Colorado State University is noted for its top-ranked graduate courses and degree programs, such as its PhD in Communication .

Are pursuing careers in healthcare. Colorado State ranks high for spending on its various medical sciences programs.

Are seeking a small campus experience.

University of North Dakota

  • #1 Most Affordable Colleges in North Dakota 2024
  • #1 Best Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities in North Dakota 2024
  • #1 Best Colleges in North Dakota 2024
  • #1 Best Online MBA Programs in North Dakota
  • #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in North Dakota
  • #1 Best Online Colleges in North Dakota 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in North Dakota 2024
  • #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Montana
  • #6 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
  • #3 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of North Dakota

University of North Dakota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Communications
  • Phil Jackson
  • Maxwell Anderson
  • Vilhjalmur Stefansson
  • Chuck Klosterman
  • Thomas McGrath
  • George A. Lundberg
  • Jonathan Toews
  • Michael Rustad

What do we love about the University of North Dakota?

The University of North Dakota’s history actually predates North Dakota statehood by a full six years. Formed in 1883 by the Dakota Territorial Assembly, this Grand Forks-based university began as a liberal arts institution before expanding to include scientific research.

Today, the University of North Dakota is classified among R2: Doctoral Universities, noted for their high level of research activity. UND is currently home to more than 13,000 students pursuing degrees at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The University of North Dakota is noted for its excellent array of doctoral level research programs such as its Communication PhD .

Are seeking options for getting involved. Current students praise the wide range of clubs and activities offered to UND students.

Don’t have a high tolerance for cold weather. Temperatures on campus dip well below freezing throughout the winter months.

Liberty University

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  • #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
  • #7 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
  • #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
  • #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
  • #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
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  • #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
  • #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
  • #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
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  • #1 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
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  • #1 Best Online Associate in Education
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  • #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
  • #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
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Career Outlook for Communications degree at Liberty University

What do we love about liberty university.

Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world as well as one of the largest private non-profit universities in the U.S. Much of this size is based on its online enrollment.

Liberty University enrolls roughly 15,000 residential students across its 17 colleges, and an additional 80,000 through its extensive online course and degree offerings.

Liberty University is noted for the sheer volume of advanced degrees and online degrees earned by its student body. With more than 47,000 students pursuing advanced degrees, Liberty offers an extremely wide range of online doctoral programs, including its PhD in Communication Online program.

Wish to attend the world’s largest seminary—Liberty University’s Rawlings School of Divinity.

Students who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity.

Regent University

  • #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
  • #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
  • #2 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
  • #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
  • #2 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #2 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
  • #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
  • #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #3 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
  • #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
  • #3 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
  • #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
  • #4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
  • #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
  • #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
  • #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
  • #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2024
  • #5 Best Online Associate in Psychology
  • #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
  • #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
  • #7 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
  • #7 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
  • #7 Best Online Master's in Theology
  • #7 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
  • #8 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
  • #8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
  • #8 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
  • #9 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
  • #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
  • #10 Best Online Associate in General Studies
  • #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #10 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2024
  • #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
  • #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
  • #10 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
  • #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
  • #12 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
  • #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
  • #14 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
  • #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
  • #16 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #17 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
  • #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
  • #21 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
  • #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
  • #24 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
  • #24 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
  • #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Regent University

What do we love about regent university.

Regent University is a private Christian University that provides an array of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Founded in 1977 by Southern Baptist Minister Pat Robertson, Regent University offers a wide range of both online and on-campus degree programs.

Regent University serves more than 10,000 students today, with many pursuing online degrees at the master’s and doctoral degree levels.

Regent University is also noteworthy for its extremely diverse range of online doctoral degree programs, including an Online PhD in Communication .

Are pursuing advanced degrees online. More than 60% of Regent’s students are in post-graduate programs.

Prefer a secular educational experience.

Walden University

  • #2 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
  • #3 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #4 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
  • #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
  • #5 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #5 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #6 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
  • #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
  • #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #7 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
  • #8 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
  • #10 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
  • #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
  • #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
  • #12 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #2 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
  • #8 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Walden University

What do we love about walden university.

Walden University is a private online school with headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Walden operates on a for-profit business model.

Walden University was established in 1970 with the goal of helping working adults–specifically those in education–earn their doctoral degree. Today, Walden serves nearly 50,000 students in countless areas of study.

Walden University offers several online doctoral programs through its Departement of Business Administration and Communication including its PhD in Management, which is available as both a full program and a completion program.

Are studying nursing, public health, and healthcare administration. Walden is one of the nation’s top degree providers in these fields.

Plan to earn PhDs in psychology. Walden’s PhDs do not have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).

Other Options for Aspiring Communication PhDs

Students considering an online doctoral in communications should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

New York University

  • #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
  • #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
  • #2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
  • #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
  • #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
  • #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
  • #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
  • #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
  • #18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
  • #1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Management
  • #1 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #2 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #3 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
  • #7 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at New York University

New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Erich Fromm
  • Robert Mueller
  • Martha Nussbaum
  • John Archibald Wheeler
  • Glenn Greenwald
  • Howard Zinn
  • Eric Kandel
  • Lewis Mumford
  • Alvin Toffler
  • Louis Nirenberg

University of Michigan

  • #4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
  • #9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
  • #11 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
  • #11 Best Universities in the World 2024
  • #22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
  • #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
  • #1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
  • #1 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
  • #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
  • #1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
  • #2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
  • #5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
  • #6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
  • #9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
  • #11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
  • #11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
  • #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
  • #14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
  • #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
  • #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
  • #1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
  • #2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
  • #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
  • #5 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Michigan

University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Claude Shannon
  • Arthur Miller
  • Alvin Plantinga
  • George Dantzig
  • Edgar F. Codd
  • Hans-Hermann Hoppe
  • Stephen Smale
  • Urie Bronfenbrenner
  • John Henry Holland
  • Amos Tversky
  • Marshall Sahlins

Boston University

  • #3 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
  • #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2024
  • #3 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #24 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #25 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
  • #1 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
  • #1 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
  • #1 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
  • #2 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
  • #2 Best Online Master's in Project Management
  • #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Finance
  • #3 Best Online Master’s in Communications
  • #3 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
  • #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
  • #3 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #4 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
  • #4 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
  • #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #7 Best Online Master's in Management
  • #7 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #7 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
  • #13 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #1 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
  • #15 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
  • #19 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Boston University

Boston University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Religious Studies
  • Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Sheldon Glashow
  • Neal Stephenson
  • Norman Vincent Peale
  • Tipper Gore
  • Albert-László Barabási
  • Kim Stanley Robinson
  • Bernard Berenson
  • Daniel C. Tsui
  • Bill Simmons

University of Texas at Austin

  • #22 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
  • #23 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
  • #1 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2024
  • #1 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
  • #1 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024
  • #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2024
  • #1 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
  • #4 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
  • #10 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
  • #12 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
  • #17 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
  • #18 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
  • #19 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
  • #22 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
  • #24 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #25 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
  • #2 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
  • #2 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
  • #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
  • #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
  • #4 Best Online Master's in Management
  • #5 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #5 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #11 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
  • #16 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Texas at Austin

University of Texas at Austin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Walter Cronkite
  • Bill Moyers
  • Edsger W. Dijkstra
  • Robert Rauschenberg
  • Bruce Sterling
  • C. Wright Mills
  • Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Steven Best
  • J. M. Coetzee
  • Robert Taylor
  • Abhay Ashtekar

University of Southern California

  • #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
  • #4 Best Colleges in California 2024
  • #4 Best Research Universities in California 2024
  • #4 Best Grad Schools California 2024
  • #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
  • #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
  • #9 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
  • #13 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
  • #15 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
  • #16 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
  • #16 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
  • #17 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
  • #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
  • #17 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
  • #17 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
  • #19 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
  • #19 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
  • #20 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
  • #21 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
  • #22 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
  • #1 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
  • #1 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
  • #1 Best Online Master’s in Communications
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
  • #1 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
  • #1 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
  • #1 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
  • #1 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
  • #1 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
  • #1 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
  • #1 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Project Management
  • #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
  • #1 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
  • #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
  • #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
  • #1 Best Online Master’s in Finance
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
  • #2 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
  • #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
  • #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
  • #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
  • #2 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
  • #2 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
  • #3 Best Online Master's in Management
  • #3 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
  • #4 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
  • #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
  • #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
  • #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
  • #6 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
  • #12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Southern California

University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  • Criminal Justice
  • Frank Gehry
  • Neil Armstrong
  • Jack L. Warner
  • John Mearsheimer
  • Boris Podolsky
  • Michael D. Griffin
  • Maulana Karenga
  • O. J. Simpson
  • Robert Ballard

Learn more with a look at our List of Online Programs .

communication phd student presenting research

Communication Ph.D.

Study the different ways people communicate, so you can prepare for leadership roles across the globe.

Communication plays a fundamental role in our global society and it is imperative for us to recognize and appreciate the international and intercultural contexts in which it occurs. With a Ph.D. in Communication from UND, you'll learn about human communication across diverse cultures and through multiple systems.

Why earn a Ph.D. in communication?

*Priority deadline

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Understanding the different ways people communicate around the world will help you address socially and globally pressing communication challenges. The Communication Ph.D. at UND is a competitive program that provides you with knowledge and skills that will set you apart as a leader in international and intercultural communication.

Intensive Communication Research Ph.D. Program

Through both the on-campus and 100% online program tracks, you'll work hand-in-hand with research faculty recognized for their work in:

  • Interpersonal and persuasive communication
  • Risk and crisis communication
  • New media and cyberculture
  • Strategic communication in digital and social media environments

Online students must be enrolled full-time; on-campus students have the option of enrolling full-time or part time. This is to ensure adequate support for research initiatives.

Due to the research intensive nature of the program we encourage you to review our program's faculty profiles to learn more about individual faculty research interests and expertise. All students will be assigned a faculty advisor directly when conducting research.

Undergraduate to Ph.D. in Communication

Unique to our program, undergraduate students are allowed to apply directly to this Ph.D. program. If you have a bachelor's in Communication , our curriculum allows you to earn your master's in Communication at the same time you are working on a Ph.D.

UND's Communication Ph.D.

Learn from recognized leaders in the field of international and intercultural communication.

Develop your research interest in strategic communication, health communication, interpersonal and organizational communication, and much more.

Take part in graduate teaching assistantships. Positions available for students in both on-campus and 100% online tracks.

Earn a non-thesis master's degree on your way to completing your doctorate in our program.

S tudy closely with faculty across the broad range of communication areas to prepare for both careers and citizenship.

Understand how information processes and communication technologies affect and benefit diverse local and global communities.

Communication Ph.D. Careers

Projected growth for employment of post-secondary teachers from 2022 to 2032

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median annual salary for post-secondary teachers

Upon completion of your Communication doctoral program, you'll emerge as a proficient communication specialist, equipped to excel in academia or thrive in media-related field.

Graduates of the University of North Dakota's Communications Ph.D. program have embarked on leadership roles in global and cross-cultural communication. The have job titles such as:

  • Director of Communications: Spearheading communication strategies, our alumni often assume pivotal roles directing and shaping organizational messaging.
  • Researcher: Equipped with advanced research skills, our graduates contribute valuable insights to the dynamic field of communication studies.
  • Consultant: Our alumni serve as consultants, offering strategic guidance to organizations seeking to enhance their communication effectiveness.
  • Policymaker: Some of our graduates leverage their communication acumen to influence policies. They participate in shaping regulations and standards on a local and global scale.

A substantial number of our graduates choose to contribute to higher education through teaching and advanced research. These paths have led them to roles such as:

  • Department Head: Our alumni guide the direction of communication studies by taking on leadership positions within academic departments.
  • Professorship: Achieving the pinnacle of academic success, our graduates secure professorships, where they shape the next generation of communication professionals.
  • Associate Professorship: In roles as associate professors, our alumni engage in both teaching and research endeavors.
  • Lecturer: Our graduates bring their practical experience and academic insights to the classroom.

Communication Ph.D. Courses

COMM 530. Communication, Society, & Diversity. 3 Credits.

An examination of how people from similar and different cultural, ethnic, national, racial, religious, and/or sexual backgrounds interact with each other, institutions, and society. The course covers issues of representation, identity, and difference. On demand.

COMM 525. Interpersonal Relations and Communication. 3 Credits.

Face-to-face and mediated transactions between two people or people in small groups in diverse settings. Deals with inquiry, conflict management, interpersonal sensitivity, individuality, and conformity.

COMM 535. Intercultural Communication. 3 Credits.

This course incorporates critical conceptualizations of identity, "the Other", and multiculturalism. It explores theoretical reflections of the symbolic systems of unfamiliar cultures, and the emergence of mutual understanding.

COMM 540. Communication and Organizations. 3 Credits.

Examines the general communication processes and dynamics within and among organizations and explores the dynamics in network organizations, with a particular focus on communication in interpersonal groups and inter-organizational working teams. Theories of power and politics in and among organizations, as well as of decision-making, conflict management, and strategic communication are explored.

COMM 550. International and Global Communication. 3 Credits.

An analysis of international media, comparative telecommunications systems and globalization. Covers issues such as transnational communication, global journalism, satellite broadcasting and communication in diplomacy and international affairs.

COMM 523. Social Network Analysis & Visualization. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to introduce you to the theory, methods, and procedures of network analysis with emphasis on applications to communication and social behavior. The goal of the course is to provide a working knowledge of the concepts and methods used to describe and analyze social networks so that you can apply it to important questions in your profession. S.

Communications Ph.D. UND

Best Ph.D. in Communications

UND's Communications Ph.D. ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

#15 MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE DEGREE

Online Communication Ph.D.

best online university in the nation

best online graduate programs

The entire degree program is fully online. You are never required to come to campus.

Online Communication Ph.D. students are highly encouraged to attend live, synchronous online courses in order to get the most out of class participation. However, online courses are recorded and can be viewed at another time, to fit your schedule.

Top-Tier Online Communication Ph.D. Program

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs. No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

  • Same degree:  All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) . Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
  • Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
  • Real interaction:  You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
  • Your own academic advisor:  As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
  • Free online tutoring:  We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
  • Unlimited academic coaching:  Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
  • Full online access:  Dig into virtual research from the Chester Fritz Library. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
  • 24/7 technical support:  UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
  • Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

  • Affordability
  • Student satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
  • Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Leaders that Do

Students at UND take chances, seek challenges and become leaders in the community.

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

  • Department of Communication
  • Find Similar Programs

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In the digital age, pursuing a PhD in communications has never been more accessible and rewarding. You don’t have to fall into the traditional norms of attending classes and ending up so tired that you can’t perform well in your job.

In this informative post, we will explore the realm of the best online communications PhD programs. Our goal is to discover the essential criteria to evaluate these programs. By the end, you’ll be equipped with enough information to make an informed choice that aligns with your academic and professional aspirations.

We’ll also delve into the intricacies of the application process, providing you with valuable insights to navigate the admissions journey seamlessly. Let’s start by shedding light on the promising career prospects that await graduates of these online doctorate programs.

One of the biggest concerns with any kind of education over the Internet is the career prospects. Do employers value online degrees to the same level as traditional degrees ? Well, let’s figure it out by analyzing the career prospects of a communications PhD online.

Imagine yourself as a respected professor, guiding aspiring communicators through the intricacies of the field. With your online doctorate, you can inspire the next generation of media experts, public relations gurus, or digital marketing virtuosos. It makes perfect sense because we’re going full-throttle toward a digital future. You actually get a headstart by adopting a PhD in communications online.

As an academic, your classroom could turn into a hub of innovation where you nurture fresh perspectives and shape the future of communication studies.

In the corporate world, your doctoral degree in communications could open doors that you didn’t know existed. Roles such as a communications director are very possible with your online communication doctoral degree.

In that position, you’ll be responsible for crafting compelling narratives, building brand reputations, and enhancing public perception of the company. No matter what the current trend in the business world is, major companies will always seek communication strategists who can navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. What we’re trying to say is that you can acquire invaluable expertise by simply pursuing a communication Doctor of philosophy online.

Picture yourself as a crisis communication specialist, guiding organizations through critical times. As you hold a PhD in mass communication online, companies will see you as an individual who possesses advanced knowledge.

Your advanced knowledge and research in communication can be the beacon that helps businesses weather storms and maintain public trust. Whether it’s handling a PR crisis or managing reputational risks, your skills will be in high demand as a communication expert.

The scope of work for a seasoned communications expert is not confined to the corporate sector only. Government agencies often require communication specialists to convey policies and engage with the public effectively.

Your doctoral degree can be the key to becoming a trusted advisor for these agencies. You can help shape public opinion and ensure transparent government communications. Your work can influence policies, drive change, and serve the greater good. Needless to say, working for government agencies adds credibility to your portfolio.

After you complete the PhD in communications online courses, you may consider launching your own communication consultancy. By the time you’re done with the degree, you’ll be well-equipped to provide expert advice to businesses on how to build their brands and communicate with impact.

Primarily, you’ll offer strategic insights, conduct research on how to make those strategies effective and execute those strategies for better outreach.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Online Communications PhDs Programs

Thanks to globalization on the internet, you have too many options to choose from when it comes to online communication doctorates. If you’ve never taken any online degree programs before, choosing the right program may turn out more difficult than you imagined.

To help narrow your options and pick the right program that suits your needs, let us outline the most important criteria.

Similar to any other academic pursuit, accreditation is paramount when selecting an online doctorate in communications. You should look for institutions accredited by recognized regional or national accrediting bodies.

In case you’re not aware, accreditation guarantees that the program meets established academic standards for PhD programs. It also ensures that the degree you obtain after completing the program is valuable to employers.

Last but not least, it simplifies the transfer of credits to other academic institutions. You don’t want to start from scratch every time you want to level up your education game.

Before you enroll in an online communications PhD program, you must evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the program’s faculty members. Seasoned professors and industry professionals can not only provide valuable insights but also work as references when you go out into the real world.,

Then there are consistent mentorship and networking opportunities. Their research contributions and real-world experience can enrich your learning experience and enhance the program’s overall quality.

A big part of any PhD endeavor is research. You must consider the research opportunities the program offers. Ensure that it aligns with your specific interests within the field of communications, be it media, journalism, advertising, or PR.

Start by investigating the availability of research resources, funding options, and collaborative projects that allow you to explore your chosen area of study. A program that supports your research aspirations will be more fulfilling than a high-accredited degree you can’t use.

Online PhD programs in communication should accommodate your schedule and personal commitments. Work-life balance is a basic human need in the 21st century and you should take a hard stance to make sure it’s there.

When you research programs online to enroll in, look for flexibility in terms of class times, material availability, and course delivery. The combination should allow you to balance work, family, and studies.

Although we don’t want to compromise the quality of your education based on expenses , it’s a serious consideration before you enroll. You must evaluate the program’s cost. Don’t shy away from hopping on a consultation call to dig up the hidden charges.

At the same time, you should investigate potential sources of financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, or assistantships. A well-funded program can alleviate the financial burden and make your pursuit of a PhD more sustainable.

Last but not least, examine the program’s track record in producing successful graduates. Alumni achievements, such as publications, industry recognition, and leadership positions, can be indicative of the program’s quality and its ability to prepare PhD students for successful careers. Reach out to alumni for insights into their experiences and career paths.

Application Process

So, how do you apply for online communication doctorates? Well, the process is going to vary from institution to institution and the standards set by the local accreditation bodies. Thankfully, we can help you outline the  application process in a few steps.

Research PhD in communications programs to find a suitable match for your interests and goals. Gather application materials in advance, including transcripts, test scores, CV, and a list of potential recommenders. Contact potential recommenders early to secure letters of recommendation. Finally, prepare a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining your academic and research aspirations.

For an online PhD communications degree, you’re required to handle the full process online. So, create accounts on the application portals of the universities you’re interested in. Then, complete the online application forms, providing accurate information.

Sometime during the journey, the portal will require you to upload all required documents such as academic transcripts, test scores, SOP, CV, and letters of recommendation. In the last phase of the application submission, you pay application fees or request fee waivers.

If you are an international student, it’s ideal to take English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Which one you will depends on what institution you’re applying to and what standards the board prefers.

Once you submit the application successfully, you have to wait for the board to make admission decisions. From there, you need to prepare for interview invitations.

Hot tip: prepare for interviews by reviewing your research interests and faculty expertise. The more seasoned the professors are, the better your preparation should be.

If everything goes well, you should receive multiple offers from multiple institutions across the world. Now, it’s time for you to review the admission offers, compare them, and consider funding options.

Once you make a decision, notify universities of your acceptance or rejection of the online PhD communication program.

Once accepted, follow the university’s instructions to enroll in the PhD program. Of course, you’re opting for an online program which means you’re free from responsibilities such as arranging housing or researching the best mode of transportation to the campus.

Top Online PhD in Communications Programs

American University, situated in the heart of Washington D.C., is a prestigious private research institution established by an act of Congress in 1893. Fast forward to today, it boasts a diverse student body where over 8,000 undergraduates and more than 6,000 graduate students learn in harmony.

One of the university’s standout programs is its doctoral-level communications program, which exemplifies its close ties to the nation’s capital. The AU School of Communication offers a PhD in communication that empowers PhD candidates to pursue independent research exploring the convergence of media, technology, and democracy.

Liberty University, a prominent Christian institution, claims its place as one of the world’s largest Christian universities. The university’s student body comprises approximately 15,000 residential students spread across 17 colleges, augmented by an additional 80,000 individuals enrolled in its extensive array of online courses and degree programs, including the coveted PhD in communication online program .

Liberty University caters to those who aspire to attend the world’s largest seminary, the Rawlings School of Divinity. However, individuals who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity may find that it does not align with their personal beliefs and values. But as you’re attending online classes, it shouldn’t be an issue in our opinion.

Established in 1870 as the cornerstone of Colorado’s state school system, Colorado State University (CSU) has evolved into a distinguished public research institution situated in Fort Collins. Renowned for its comprehensive offerings, CSU excels in fields ranging from biomedical sciences and engineering to environmental science and beyond.

Distinguished by its top-tier graduate courses and degree programs, CSU stands out for its acclaimed PhD in communication online.

Besides communications, CSU also appeals to students aspiring to healthcare careers, as the university heavily invests in its various medical sciences programs.

The University of Alabama, founded in 1820 in Tuscaloosa, stands as Alabama’s oldest educational institution. It came to life during the same time Alabama was declared a state.

With a current enrollment exceeding 38,000 students in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, it holds the distinction of being the largest public research university in the state. One notable feature is the multidisciplinary approach of its Communication and Information Sciences doctoral program.

Founded in 1889 as the Clemson Agricultural College, Clemson University now occupies a sprawling 1,400-acre campus nestled alongside the serene Lake Hartwell in Clemson, South Carolina. But for the online program, you won’t get to explore this mesmerizing campus, unfortunately.

Clemson’s dedication to research is evident through its inclusion in the prestigious list of R1: Doctoral Universities, renowned for their high research activity. The university offers a diverse array of advanced degree programs, including its distinctive doctoral program in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design , which places a strong emphasis on the convergence of rhetorics and digital information design.

Yelena Skosyrskih

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

Online College Plan

Top Online PhDs in Communications

Find your degree.

phd in communications online

Communications is a very broad and interdisciplinary area of study. It focuses on the methods, tools, and platforms that people use to communicate and interact with one another. This is a type of degree with sweeping applications in the professional world. Mass media, social engagement, professional interaction, and more all fall under the communications umbrella. As a field, it is easiest to sum communications up as the study of the rules and social structures used to convey and obtain information.

There are multiple forms of communication such as verbal, written, and even bodily. This area of study also extends to public relations , social media, linguistics, psychology, sociology, politics, and more. This field is one that has a lot of depth to it and a broad range of career options. Due to its sweeping nature, it can be easy to write it off as a liberal arts degree that would be difficult to apply in the professional world but that is starkly incorrect. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that media and communications occupations will grow at a rate of 6% between 2016 and 2026. This puts the field in line with the national average rate for all careers.

Earning a PhD in Communications

Choosing to earn your PhD in Communications is a big step but it is one that can propel you to new heights in your career. High-level positions in any area of the field are going to show a strong preference for those who hold a PhD. That is because a PhD is the highest level of academic honor in the country and less than 1% of the population will ever obtain one. Nothing shows that you are more prepared than a terminal degree. A PhD in Communications can also equip you with the skills you need to teach a communications course at the university level.

In fact, a lot of people think that the only professional outcome for a PhD in Communications is a teaching position. However, there are a number of other careers you could pursue. You could choose to work in journalism, advertising, a corporate office, a government agency, and more. With a PhD in Communications, you are also likely to see a higher annual salary. The median salary for PhD graduates in their first year of employment is $80,000. The average salary in all of America comes in much lower at $56,516 per year.

While earning a PhD in Communications, you will be given a strong foundation in many different areas, particularly those relating to Media, Psychology, Marketing, and Communications. Some of the courses you will likely take include:

  • Communication in a Global Environment
  • Media, Culture and Community
  • New Media and Technology
  • Information, Political Economy and Entertainment
  • Groups, Organizations and Networks

Of course, there are many other topics that are covered and many of them depend on the area you choose to focus on when earning your PhD. Some concentration examples include Marketing Communications, Corporate Communication, or Media Industries and Institutions.

online phd programs communication studies

Online PhD in Communications Programs

There are very few programs offered when you’re searching for an online PhD in Communications. In fact, we only found one program that met our ranking criteria. However, this is likely to expand as the field continues to grow. Universities do what they can to adapt to the needs of their evolving student bodies.

With that said, you can still earn this degree online . Even though there are only a few relevant options at this time, a distance-based degree may be better for you. Especially for those of you who are at the stage in your career that you’re ready to pursue a PhD.

Online programs tend to be more flexible. You will most likely be able to work full-time while you study and many online programs will integrate the job that you already do into the curriculum, allowing you to fulfill certain requirements just from doing your job! Online programs don’t require you to relocate and typically have fewer costs associated with them. On top of that, many institutions (the majority of them, in fact) allow online students to receive scholarships, grants, financial aid , and even stipends.

Taking the time to sift through your options and choose the best school for you is often the most difficult part of going to college online . For that reason, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a ranking of the best online doctorates in the field of communications. All schools were ranked according to the following.

Methodology

In order to create this ranking, we started by gathering a list of school that offered PhD programs in communications at a distance. Due to the lack of such programs that met our initial ranking criteria, we also chose to include relevant doctoral programs in communications that were available online. In order to be considered, in addition to offering a doctorate level program in communications in a distance-based format, schools had to be based in the United States, hold proper accreditation, and could not operate as for-profit institutions.

Once we gathered our list of schools, we ranked them based on the following three factors:

  • Freshman Retention Rate (⅓ of final score)
  • Graduation Rate (⅓ of final score)
  • Affordability (⅓ of final score)

Each school could have earned a total possible score of 300 points. They were ranked according to their scores and presented in ascending order below. All of the information used was gathered from the schools’ websites whenever possible. In the even that we needed some additional information, we also utilized the databases of the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News & World Report , Niche.com, and Collegedata.com.

It is important to note that no school is ever given preferential treatment by OnlineCollegePlan for any reason. Some schools that would have otherwise ranked are omitted here due to insufficient data or per their own request. We’d also like to note that cost information and affordability are based on the residential cost of attendance and are simply estimates. We do not guarantee the tuition rate of any school or program.

Texas Tech University

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric

Texas Tech University offers a great option for those of you who would like to earn a PhD in Communications, and that is the PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric. This program is designed to help strengthen your skills in five very broad areas. These include Rhetoric, Composition, and Technology; Technical Communication; Rhetorics of Science and Healthcare; Technology, Culture, and Rhetoric and; Visual Rhetoric, New Media, and User-Centered Design.

This is a 60-credit program that you must have a master’s degree to be eligible to enroll in. In addition to the core requirements, 15 of your credits can come from a minor that you choose. You can add a field you’d like to work in so you can better understand the relationship between technical communication and the field you’d like to work in. This degree is typically geared towards those who would like to teach at the university level; however, this is the highest level of education you can receive in any area, so you don’t need to feel limited.

There is a two-week workshop in May of every year that you will be required to attend, but the rest of the program is completely online. The courses are delivered through a mix of asynchronous and synchronous components. In a typical course, you will meet once or twice weekly in a live session with your cohort and your professors; the number of weekly meetings depends on the semester.

Regent University

PhD in Communications

Regent University offers an online PhD in COmmunications that requires just one visit to campus. This one visit is a week-long summer residency on campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The entire program consists of a minimum of 56 credit hours, but some students may complete as many as 64. There are eight session start dates throughout the year, and thus, eight sessions. This helps you get done faster because there are fewer breaks.

You will take a variety of courses that will prepare you for a range of careers. You could get a higher level position in media relations, market analysis, research, or even teaching at the university level. You will be able to conduct effective research, have a deep understanding of communications theory, and have strong academic writing skills when you complete the program.

Some of the courses you’ll encounter as part of this program include Theology & Communication; Communication in a Global Environment; Academic Writing for Publication; and more. You will also virtually attend doctoral seminars, take basic research courses that are put in context for communication, and you will be required to complete a dissertation.

online phd programs communication studies

What is Communications?

Communications is any form of media that is used to convey one’s idea or message to another person or a group of people. People that aim to get a degree in Communications do so in order to learn how to inform and influence with the most efficacy by choosing the most appropriate delivery method of the information that needs to be provided. This could be via the web, print, audio, video, or still images, among others.

online phd programs communication studies

While studying to get a degree in the field of Communications, students will be provided with a solid foundation in the core areas of Communications on which they can choose build up towards a specialization that will enable them to focus their education path for a specific career. Students that are studying in Communications often choose to take courses in areas pertaining to Anthropology, Linguistics, Sociology, Cultural Studies or Health Care Communications, among others. These specialization courses would be taken concurrently with the core credit courses, such as Economics, Marketing, Management Theory, Media and Mixed Media Studies, Organizational Communication, and Ethics. Even if a student decides to not pursue a more focused education in the field of Communications, they will still obtain a strong understanding of the core values that many employers are looking for when they are looking for new hires to do a multitude of different professional tasks.

If you think you may have an interest in pursuing a career in Communications or any Communications-related field, we recommend you research your options when it comes to finding a school that will best suit your needs and goals. There are many great schools out there that provide many different degree options in Communications, and choosing the right school to provide you with a comprehensive and affordable education that fits into your schedule is the single most important thing that you can do to ensure your path towards a career in Communications gets off to the best possible start.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Communications Degree?

online phd programs communication studies

There are, of course, ways to speed up many degree options. These degree paths are generally what is known as an “Accelerated” degree path. An Accelerated degree path can really help a student to obtain their desired degree in a shortened amount of time, which will benefit them greatly later, as they will be able to establish themselves in their field of choice more quickly. An Accelerated degree is often a great option for students that are able to attend full-time and dedicate more of their time to their education. Accelerated degrees often utilized online programs to supplement the normal in-person classes that are needed to fulfill the required credits for degree completion.

Many well-known and prestigious schools around the country offer Associate’s degrees, Bachelor’s degrees and PhD degree programs in the field of Communications that can be completed in a fully asynchronous and online manner or in a blended education offering, meaning that most of the mandatory courses can be completed online or in a more traditional on-campus format. A lot of these schools even offer Accelerated degree options to their full-time students, both online and on-campus.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Communications?

online phd programs communication studies

Some of the fields that rely heavily on the expertise of professionals that have a strong background in the field of Communications include:

  • Broadcasting;
  • News Agencies;
  • Advertising Agencies;
  • Courts of Law, and;
  • Marketing Research Firms.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Communications Degree?

online phd programs communication studies

  • Public Relations and Fundraising Manager;
  • Technical Writer;
  • Journalist, and;
  • Marketing Manager, among many others.

This is just a small sample of jobs that you would be qualified for with a PhD in Communications. There are many other career paths that would be open to you as a Communications major. These career paths would have you doing specific tasks relating to the field of Communications, but the field that you could be performing your Communications work could be anything. Virtually every company, association, and organization have varying degrees of need for an employee with a degree in Communications. Due to the background that individuals with a PhD in Communications will possess in numerous highly desired areas-of-expertise, many associations and organizations will have a strong desire to have a Communications professional on their payroll. If you are thinking about enrolling into a PhD in Communications program, or you wish to pursue a career in Communications at all but are worried about your future career prospects, you can rest assured that you will be able to find a rewarding job with any number of industry leaders in the United States–or around the world–due to how in demand and how pivotal Communications is in running a successful business. For most companies, the skills and knowledge that is provided by completing a PhD program in Communications is the crux of their day-to-day functions.

What is the Average Communications Degree Salary?

online phd programs communication studies

  • A Technical Writer will earn on average $71,850 per year;
  • An Author will earn on average $62,170 per year;
  • An Editor will earn on average $59,480 per year;
  • A Public Relations and Fundraising Managers will earn on average $114,800 per year, and;
  • A Broadcast and Sound Engineering Technicians will earn, on average $43,660 per year.

What Associations or Organizations Can You Join With Careers in Communications?

online phd programs communication studies

  • Public Relations Society of America (PRSA): PRSA is a not-for-profit trade association that founded in 1947 by the merger of the American Council on Public Relations with the National Association of Public Relations Councils. PRSA is a long-time member of the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB) and provides its members with a suite of tools that will help them to hone their skills and to further their education.
  • American Advertising Federation (AAF): The American Advertising Federation’s members are comprised of almost 100 prestigious corporate members that specialize in the fields of advertising and media. AAF’s network also represents nearly 40,000 advertising professionals individually.
  • International Communication Association (ICA): ICA is a large academic association that helps to bring together scholars with an interest in the study, teaching and the various applications of all aspects regarding personal and mediated communication.
  • International Association of Business Communicators (IABC): The International Association of Business Communicators, which is more commonly called the IABC, is a global network of Communications professional and which hosts a yearly three-day event–the World Conference–in which professional development seminars and activities take place alongside symposiums hosted by industry leaders and researchers.
  • Society for Technical Communication (STC): The STC is an association that was formed in order to advance the professional understanding and application of Technical Communications. STC publishes a magazine eight times a year, which provides new insights into Technical Communications. Additionally, the Society for Technical Communications hosts an annual international conference known as the STC Technical Communication Summit, where professionals gather to discuss and exchange ideas relating to the field. STC also provides its members with live webinars, online certificate courses, and virtual conferences with Communications experts, among others.

These are just a few of the many different associations and organizations that will be open to you after you have obtained a PhD in Communications. Many of these organizations have a multitude of helpful tools for networking, researching, educating, and sharing ideas. By becoming a member of one or more of these organizations, you will be able to broaden your horizons and open up new opportunities in your Communications career. Additionally, by becoming a member of a Communications oriented organization or association, you will be able to socialize with your peers and those that hold the same career and academic interests as yourself, which should never be underestimated as a benefit.

online phd programs communication studies

2024 Best Online PhD in Communications Programs

If you’re interested in the relay of information, including through digital media and mass communication, then pursuing a PhD in Communications online program may be the right path for you.

PhD in Communications Programs

Earning your doctoral degree in communications can provide you with the opportunity to work in a variety of fields.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Communications experts play an important role in managing the communication of information from one person, group, or organization to another.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Communications Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

American University

American University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Communications program. The program is designed to be completed in 3 years by providing courses for 11 months a year. A total of 54 credits are needed to graduate. Applicants must submit 2 letters of recommendation, a resume, GRE scores, and a master’s thesis.

American University  is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

Clemson University

Clemson University offers a PhD program in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design.

Students need to complete 30 credits hours and 6 credit hours of research to defend a dissertation. Exams and the defense of the dissertation must be completed on campus. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and a portfolio of past graduate work.

Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a PhD in Communications. Students may choose courses in the following fields: Rhetoric and Civic Engagement, Relational and Organizational Communication, or Film and Media Studies. Applicants must complete 81 credits to graduate. Applicants need 3 letters of reference and a resume to apply.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a PhD in Media and Communication Studies. A total of 60 credits are needed to graduate, with 12 hours used for a dissertation. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to graduate. Applicants must submit official transcripts and 2 letters of recommendation when applying.

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Communications program. Students must complete 60 credit hours and may apply to transfer in up to half of the credits required. Courses are 8 weeks long. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and need to submit official transcripts to be eligible for the program.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University offers a PhD in Communications. The program can be completed online, though a week-long residency in Virginia Beach during the summer is required. Students must complete a minimum of 56 credit hours to graduate.

Applicants must submit official transcripts and a past graduate program academic paper and need to complete an academic background questionnaire. Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Robert Morris University

Robert Morris University offers an online PhD in Information Systems and Communications program. Students must complete 60 credit hours, with 12 dedicated to writing a dissertation. At the end of each school year, students must finish a milestone.

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and submit 3 letters of recommendation. An interview with the program director and admissions committee is also required.

Robert Morris University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication and Rhetoric. Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and transcripts from previous college work.

Students must complete at least 72 hours to graduate from the program. They also have the option to add one of five areas of emphasis to their degree, including Technical Communication and Rhetoric of Science and Healthcare. Texas Tech University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a Doctorate in Communications and Information Sciences. Students may choose to add a concentration in one of seven different areas, including Media Processes and Effects and Books and Publishing Studies.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit 3 academic references and their transcripts.

The  University of Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a PhD in Communication. The program can typically be completed in 5 years and requires 90 credit hours.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must either have a master’s degree in communications or a GPA of 3.0 or higher from their undergraduate studies. GRE scores and 3 letters of recommendation must be submitted when applying.

The  University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online PhD in Communications Programs

Online PhD in Communications Programs

Online PhD in Communications programs can help you develop your expertise in areas of public relations, mass communication, digital and social media, and journalism.

Common careers in this field include:

  • Teacher or professor
  • Chief communications officer
  • Director of public relations
  • Public relations manager
  • News media correspondent
  • Technical writer

Becoming a teacher within a postsecondary school is a common career path for graduates of a communications PhD program. As a postsecondary teacher, you may develop course curriculum, instruct students on various communication topics, and evaluate student performance through assessments, tests, and other measures.

There are a number of other career options outside of academia that you may also qualify for. Some graduates advance their careers as public relations specialists or managers.

Working in the area of public relations may require drafting press releases and communicating with the media on a regular basis. PR professionals help businesses manage public relations crises and maintain their reputation or public image.

Specific course curriculum can vary depending on the school and program that you choose to attend. Here are some topics, though, that are commonly covered in a communications program:

  • History of communication
  • Communication theories
  • Digital media and mass communication
  • Communication in politics
  • Media and the environment
  • Research methods
  • Professional writing

In most cases, PhD communication programs require you to complete coursework as well as a research project in the form of a dissertation.

Communications Careers & Salaries

Communications Careers & Salaries

Earning an online PhD in Communications can help you qualify for a variety of advanced positions. Leadership and management positions can include chief communications officer or director of public relations.

PhD graduates tend to teach at postsecondary schools, pursue academic research, or embark on rewarding careers in finance, law, policy development, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , positions in the field of communications are far-reaching and can span across various areas and industries. One of these professional areas includes media, such as journalism, news correspondence, or broadcasting.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that a number of positions in the communication field will experience positive job growth in the next ten years. These positions include top executives (4% job growth), marketing managers (7%), public relations specialists (7%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

Communications Doctorate Curriculum

Communications Doctorate

Courses in doctoral communications programs can provide you with advanced knowledge in areas related to public relations, digital media, mass communication, media studies, and research. Courses may include:

  • Communication Research Methodologies : This course is an in-depth look at standard methodologies used in research in the field of communications and the arts and social sciences more generally.
  • Quantitative Research in Communication : You’ll review quantitative research practices in social science, including the use of statistics.
  • Qualitative Research in Communication : This course is an overview of qualitative research methods in communication, including interviewing techniques, observation, and the use of focus groups.
  • Advanced Communication Theory : You’ll take a look at key theories in the field of communication, including scholars, existing research, and emerging trends and theories.
  • History of Communication : This course is an analysis of communication throughout history, including a look at recent changes in technology and the impact that those changes have had on communication.
  • Writing for Publication : You’ll examine the approaches used in writing for publication, including conference papers, chapter books, academic papers, and more.
  • Social, Mobile, and Online Media Analytics : You’ll look at various social, mobile, and media tools available, along with the metrics, analytics, and big data related to each that help explain the experience of end-users.
  • Social Media Strategy : This course is an overview of various digital channels that exist in the realm of communications studies and media, and you’ll learn about leveraging those channels to persuade and interact with an audience.
  • Content Communication : This course is a review of content communication strategies used in the pursuit of delivering a message to a target audience and capturing the intended result.
  • Analytics in Digital and Strategic Communication : You’ll look at how research in communication has evolved over time, including the increased use of digital analytics.

In addition to regular coursework, you may be required to complete a dissertation, thesis, or research project option as part of your degree program.

Admissions Requirements

PhD in Communications Admissions

In order to enroll in one of the available communication doctoral programs, you may be required to meet a number of admissions requirements. Criteria can vary from one school to the next, but here are a few common requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree . It’s necessary to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and to submit your official transcripts.
  • GRE or GMAT scores . Although this requirement is becoming less common, some schools still require the submission GRE or GMAT scores.
  • Letters of reference . Delivery of one or more letters of reference from academic or professional supervisors and colleagues is often requested.
  • Resume . You may need to submit a copy of your resume, detailing your academic and workplace experience.

Additional admissions criteria can include completing a written essay, submitting an online application, and completing a writing test.

Accreditation

PhD in Communications Accreditation

Regional accreditation is a status that verifies that a postsecondary school and its programming meet a specific set of academic quality standards.

Attending a regionally accredited school can impact your ability to transfer credits to another program or join various professional associations. The accreditation status of the school you choose to attend can also influence the hiring decisions of potential employers.

You can visit the US Department of Education ’s website to find out the accreditation status of a particular school or program.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

PhD in Communications Financial Aid

There are a number of financial aid and scholarship opportunities that may help you fund your doctorate in communication. Financial aid is available to qualifying students in the form of grants and loans from federal and state governments.

Another option is employer training programs. If you’re currently employed, you can check to see if you’re eligible to receive educational funding from your employer through professional development or employee training programs.

In many cases, postsecondary schools also offer funding to PhD students. While funding amounts and options can vary from one school to the next, some examples include tuition rebates or cost of living stipends. For more information regarding financial aid, you can visit the US Department of Education ’s website.

Communications Professional Organizations

Communications Professionals

Joining a professional association or organization for communications professionals can provide you with the opportunity to network with others in your field. Professional organizations may also highlight new employment opportunities.

Some communications professional organizations include:

  • American Advertising Federation (AAF)
  • International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
  • Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

Professional organizations can also be a great resource for learning and networking if you’re interested in starting your own business.

Is Communications a Good Career?

career in communications

A career in communications may allow you to explore positions in education, finance, law, policy development, nonprofit, or government.

While it is common for graduates of a PhD in Communications program to pursue positions in teaching, a number of other career options are available. These include positions in public relations, management, research, and media.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that a number of positions in the field of communications will experience growth over the next several years. These positions include top executives (4% job growth), marketing managers (7%), public relations specialists (7%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

What Can You Do with a PhD in Communications?

PhD in Communications

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning your PhD in Communications online may allow you the opportunity to work in a variety of positions. Public relations, media, and education are just some of the industries where your communications skills are applicable.

Common careers in this field include chief communications officer, marketing manager, advertising and promotions manager, public relations manager, postsecondary school teacher, and public relations specialist. Other career options include writer, author, reporter, correspondent, and broadcast news analyst.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Communications Online?

Completing a PhD in Communications online may take 3 to 5 years when attending on a full-time basis.

Depending on the school you choose to attend, you may be able to enroll on a part-time basis, which could lengthen the amount of time it takes for you to obtain your degree. Some online degree programs in communications offer shorter 8 week terms that may allow you to finish your coursework sooner.

Similar to most masters in communications programs , it is common for communications PhD programs to be theory- and research-intensive. A large portion of academic time can be absorbed by work on a dissertation, which is generally required in order to graduate.

What’s the Difference Between Marketing vs. Communications?

While there are some overlapping areas of study between communications and marketing, there are also a few key differences.

Careers in marketing and communications can have some overlapping options, such as advertising, promotions, and marketing managers.

Is a PhD in Communications Worth It?

PhD in Communications

Yes, a PhD in Communications is worth it for many students. Pursing a terminal degree in communications can allow you to explore topics related to history, writing, research, and social media.

Common careers in this field include marketing manager, advertising and promotions manager, public relations manager, public relations specialist, writer, author, reporter, and broadcast news analyst. PhD graduates often pursue research or postsecondary teacher positions.

Getting Your PhD in Communications Online

PhD in Communications Online

A Ph.D. in Communications can help equip you to pursue career paths in education, research, leadership, public relations, or media communications.

A doctoral degree may allow you to benefit from a flexible career path. There may be a variety of opportunities available to you in many different industries, such as government, nonprofit, finance, law, academia, or news media.

If you’re wanting to advance in this highly versatile and lucrative field, you can start today by exploring online communications doctoral programs from accredited universities.

online phd programs communication studies

online phd programs communication studies

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Best Online Doctorates in Communication: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salary

The best online PhD in Communication offers you a flexible higher education path that will allow you to increase your earning potential and employability without having to step foot on campus. If getting your communication PhD online sounds appealing to you, read on to find out more about the top PhD programs in the country as well as the best communication jobs you can get after earning yours.

In this guide, you’ll get an in-depth look at how you can earn your doctorate without having to put the rest of your life on hold and a breakdown of the cost, admission requirements, and other details about each program. This article will help you with your school search by giving you a detailed look at the best online PhDs in Communication in the country.

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Can you get a phd in communication online.

Yes, you can get a PhD in Communication online. There are several institutions that offer either fully online or hybrid PhD programs for students looking for a more flexible learning format. While there are some key differences between online and on-campus programs, both of these research-based degrees typically require the completion of the same number of credit hours.

Is an Online PhD Respected?

Yes, an online PhD is respected. Any PhD earned from an accredited institution is respected and holds the same weight no matter the learning format. Online classes are of the same quality as in-person classes and are optimized for distance learning. While on-campus students may have access to more physical resources, online programs take this limitation into consideration and compensate for it. Hence, online degrees are respected by many employers today.

What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Communication?

The best online PhD program in communication is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by Indiana State University, which provides a flexible learning method. Designed for part-time and full-time students, this program only takes three years to complete at most and offers its students plenty of hands-on experience through its online courses.

Why Indiana State University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Communication

Indiana State University has the best online communication PhD program because not only is it one of the most affordable doctoral programs on our list, but it’s also one of the most flexible, allowing students to adjust their course load to best accommodate their schedules. It is also the shortest of all doctoral programs on our list, even when taken part time.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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Online PhD in Communication Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for an online PhD in Communication are different from one school to another. That being said, you’ll typically need to submit an online application form and provide your official transcripts from any institute you’ve previously attended, a scholarly writing sample, your resume, a list of references, your GRE test scores , and a personal statement.

  • An online application form
  • All of your postsecondary transcripts
  • A writing sample
  • Your current resume
  • A list of references or reference letters
  • A personal statement
  • Your GRE scores

Best Online PhDs in Communication: Top Degree Program Details

Best online phds in communication: top university programs to get a phd in communication online.

The top university programs to get a PhD in Communication online are all terminal degrees, meaning that they are the highest level of education you can get in the field. These programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their career goals and earn a high annual wage after graduating. Here’s our list of the best online PhDs in Communication.

Boasting internationally-renowned faculty and being highly ranked among all schools and colleges across the country, American University is a research university that was established in 1893. Headquartered in Washington DC, The university offers flexible learning options across its various online programs specializing in numerous disciplines.

PhD in Communication

American University uses an interdisciplinary program to approach its coursework and offers its PhD students a highly-structured program that addresses political and social challenges. This three-year program teaches its students about the relationship between media, technology, and politics and how to analyze it critically.

PhD in Communication Overview

  • Accreditation: Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities 
  • Program Length: 3 years
  • Acceptance Rate: Not specified, but only 5 applicants are admitted each year
  • Tuition: $1,866/credit

PhD in Communication Admission Requirements

  • Submit a completed online application form.
  • Submit an admissions essay, two letters of recommendation, and your master’s thesis.
  • Submit your GRE scores.
  • Provide an updated resume.
  • Provide your transcripts from all previous universities and colleges attended.
  • Complete an interview if requested by the program director. 

Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) is a research institute that was established in 1875. The university offers over 140 undergraduate programs of study, 56 master's degree programs, and 14 doctoral degree programs. Prospective students at this accredited school can choose between an in-person program, an online program, and a hybrid program in most fields of study.

PhD in Media and Communication

The media and communication studies online program at IUP is flexible, teaching students the skills they need to be able to work in communication and training for the corporate space, health and political communication, media and management, and more. Prospective students wanting to enroll in this program can adjust their course load to fit their needs.

PhD in Media and Communication Overview

  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Program Length: Two to three years
  • Acceptance Rate: 72%
  • Tuition and Fees: $516/credit (in state); $593/credit (out of state)

PhD in Media and Communication Admission Requirements

  • Create your admissions profile.
  • Provide your official transcripts from all attended colleges and universities.
  • Complete the online application.
  • Upload your goal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
  • Attend an interview if requested by the admissions faculty.

Established in 1972, Liberty University is a Christian, private, non-profit institution headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University prides itself in providing a high-quality education at an affordable cost. One of the largest private universities in the country, Liberty University is currently home to almost 94,000 students.

The PhD in Communication degree program at Liberty University is delivered fully online. This 60-credit doctoral program in the study of communications focuses on qualitative research methods and theory, equipping you with the skills needed to become a leader in a variety of areas of business or become a researcher or a college professor. 

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Acceptance Rate: N/A
  • Tuition and Fees: $595/credit
  • Fill out and submit your online application.
  • Have a minimum college GPA of 3.0.
  • Pay the $50 application fee.
  • Submit your official transcripts of all previously attended postsecondary institutions. 

Michigan State University (MSU) was founded in 1855 and is among the top research universities in the country. With over 200 academic programs offered at its East Lansing, Michigan campus, students can choose from a wide variety of specialties among its comprehensive doctorate programs. The communication programs offered at the institute are all highly ranked.

As early as 1961, the PhD in Communication at MSU has been recognized as being one of the most prestigious in the world. The structure of this graduate degree program focuses on communication theory, quantitative methods, and teamwork, allowing students to work in behavioral research, teaching, and communication consultancy or even specialize in hospitality research.

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Program Length: 4 years
  • Tuition and Fees: 817.25/credit (in state); 1,605.75/credit (out of state)
  • Complete the online MSU Graduate School Application and pay the application fee.
  • Provide a list of three referees and their email addresses.
  • Submit an academic statement and a personal statement.
  • Provide a copy of your resume.
  • Submit a copy of your official transcripts to the Department of Communication PhD Program.
  • Submit your GRE scores (optional).

Regent University was founded in 1978 and offers 60 programs for its online school graduate students to choose from. The institute has consistently ranked among the top national universities by US News & World Report. Prospective students can choose from a wide range of programs spanning many different fields of study at Regent University.

Regent University’s PhD in Communication is offered online alongside a one-week summer residency in Virginia Beach. This graduate degree takes an interdisciplinary approach to training, scholarly writing, and research and allows students to improve their communication and research skills . Common careers for graduates of this program include working as a writer, teacher, speaker, or thought leader.

  • Program Length: 2-3 years
  • Tuition and Fees: $950/credit
  • Submit your application using the Regent University online application portal.
  • Submit a minimum five-page scholarly or published writing sample that demonstrates your research, writing, analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Submit your unofficial college transcripts.
  • Complete Regent University’s Academic Background Questionnaire.
  • Provide a scanned copy of a government-issued ID.

Established in 1921, Robert Morris University (RMU) is a private institution that offers 60 bachelor's degree programs and 35 master's and doctoral programs. Home to approximately 4,100 students, most of which are undergraduate students, Robert Morris University’s doctoral degree in communication is one of the few PhD programs the school offers.

PhD in Information Systems and Communication

The PhD in Media and Communication at RMU is an executive-style doctor of philosophy program structured to give students the tools they need to become scholarly researchers and leaders. Through a blended learning format, the school uses an interdisciplinary approach to help students analyze the connections between technology and human communication.

PhD in Information Systems and Communication Overview

  • Tuition and Fees: $1,207/credit

PhD in Information Systems and Communication Admission Requirements

  • Have a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • Submit an online application.
  • Submit your official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
  • Provide three letters of reference and a current resume.
  • Provide an academic writing sample.
  • Complete an interview with the Doctoral Program Director and Doctoral Admissions Committee. 

Founded in Lubbock, Texas, in 1923, Texas Tech University is a public research institution offering degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral-level. Home to over 40,000 students, Texas Tech has produced a large number of notable alumni across a wide variety of fields of study.

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric

The PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric at Texas Tech allows students to develop their knowledge of rhetoric, writing, technical communication, and composition. Students can specialize in technical communication and user-centered design, rhetorical theory and practice, composition, writing, and literacy studies.

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Overview

  • Tuition and Fees: $8,653/year (in state); $16,180/year (out-of-state)

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Admission Requirements

  • Submit a graduate course paper or the equivalent that demonstrates your ability to develop a thesis using research and analysis.
  • Submit a statement of purpose.
  • Submit a copy of your resume, three letters of reference, and a signed copy of the Distance Learning Agreement.

Established in 1820, The University of Alabama has consistently produced award-winning graduates. These include sixty Goldwater Scholars, 16 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars, 37 Hollings Scholars, and 16 Boren Scholars. The school is well known for its programs in social sciences and business.

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences

The PhD in Communication & Information Sciences at The University of Alabama prepares students to work as library professionals and leaders in information environments. This online program has a curriculum that blends scholarly research and synchronous online courses to develop well-rounded graduates.

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Overview

  • Program Length: 2-4 years
  • Tuition and Fees: $440/credit

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Admission Requirements

  • Have a Master’s Degree in Communications or in a related field with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
  • Complete a graduate school application form and pay the application fee.
  • Provide a statement of purpose and a copy of your resume.
  • Provide the names and contact information for three academic references.
  • Provide your unofficial college transcripts. 

The University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and offers 124 master's, doctoral and professional degree programs. The institute is one of the country’s top-ranked Tier 1 research institutions and is one of only 35 public research institutions in the Association of American Universities (AAU). 

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PhD in Strategic Communication

This program’s coursework trains students in communication theory and research, as well as strategic communication research methods. The curriculum focuses on mass communication and public communication studies, literature and academic journals, social media trends , political communication, media organizations, and video games.

PhD in Strategic Communication Overview

  • Program Length: 5 years
  • Tuition and Fees: $866.29/credit

PhD in Strategic Communication Admission Requirements

  • Have a master’s degree with a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5.
  • Submit a personal statement, three letters of reference, and a scholarly writing sample.
  • Submit an academic and professional resume.
  • Provide the unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate courses you’ve taken.

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university recognized for leading research in engineering, medicine, aviation, space, and unmanned aircraft systems. The university also has the largest number of fully-online students among all universities in its region.

The PhD in Communication degree program at UND teaches students about the role of communication within the global community, as well as the international and intercultural contexts surrounding it. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and the diverse nature of human communication across various cultures and systems.

  • Program Length: 3-5 years
  • Tuition and Fees: $660.08/credit 
  • Create an admissions account on the school portal.
  • Submit an online application and pay the application fee.
  • Submit your official transcripts and GRE scores.
  • Submit a statement of interest detailing your personal goals and the relevance of the Doctor of Philosophy in Communication to those goals.
  • Submit an original academic paper that shows your ability to articulate and synthesize ideas.
  • Provide three letters of recommendation from sources familiar with your potential as a doctoral student in communication.

Online Communication PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Communication?

It is somewhat hard to complete an online PhD program in communication. While the curricular content can be quite complex, most online programs are structured to be flexible, meaning that students can more easily take the time they need to learn what they’re being taught. Online PhDs require hard work, dedication, and motivation to complete even more than on-campus programs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Communication Online?

It takes about two to five years to get a PhD in Communication online. The amount of time it takes you to complete your program depends heavily on whether you study part time or full time, if you have any transfer credits from other institutions, and the structure and curriculum of your chosen program. Most universities have a seven-year cap on their PhD programs.

How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Communication?

An online doctorate in communication is not very hard to get if you are able to dedicate the time and effort required. A doctorate is the highest level of formal education that is available, meaning that it will be challenging, and while an online PhD may offer more flexibility, it doesn’t make the learning aspect of it any easier. Online programs only make it easier to fit other commitments into your life while pursuing your degree.

Best PhD Programs

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What Courses Are in an Online Communication PhD Program?

The courses in an online communication PhD program include Organizational Communication, Communication and Technology, Interpersonal Communication, and Health Communication, to name a few. Each program offers a different variety of introductory courses, advanced core courses, and elective courses.

Main Areas of Study in a Communication PhD Program

  • Organizational communication
  • Communication and technology
  • Interpersonal communication
  • Health communication

How Much Does Getting an Online Communication PhD Cost?

It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Communication, on average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The actual cost of your degree is dependent on the institution you attend and whether it is private, public, or non-profit. Public universities typically cost the least to attend, and private and for-profit institutions will cost more.

How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Communication

You can pay for an online PhD program in communication by either choosing from a selection of fully-funded doctoral programs, qualifying for a scholarship, applying for financial aid , or making an arrangement for a long-term pay-off plan. Many scholarships are offered through the research departments of some schools. Make sure to research what opportunities the school you’re interested in provides.

How to Get an Online PhD for Free

You cannot get an online PhDs for free. Online PhDs all require some form of payment. The only exception is those that offer full funding. Even then, this is done through an application and selection process, and not everyone qualifies for it. If you require financial aid, your best bet is to choose one of the aforementioned methods to reduce your financial burden.

What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Communication Degree Program?

The most affordable online PhD in Communication degree program is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. This program will only cost you $319 per credit, making it much less expensive than the other programs on our list, which can cost up to $1,866 per credit.

Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Communication: In Brief

Why you should get an online phd in communication.

You should get an online PhD in Communication because of the flexible and more convenient learning format it offers. Online programs give you the option to work or have time for other commitments such as your family. Online degree programs also tend to be less expensive than in-person degree programs.

Additionally, as previously mentioned, an online degree from an accredited institution is as valid as an in-person degree program. Having a PhD will increase your earning potential, allow you to work in a wider range of areas, and allow you to climb the corporate or institutional ladder more easily.

Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Communication

  • Career options. Because the knowledge and skills you’ve gained during your communication degree are useful and applicable in many industries, you’ll have a wider variety of options for career paths that you can pursue.
  • Career outlook. The projected job growth for the common careers available to communication PhD grads indicates that, over the next decade, there is a good chance of finding employment upon completing your doctoral degree program.
  • Higher-paying jobs . Since a PhD is the highest form of formal education you can get, that gives you a leg up when searching for employment opportunities. Employers generally seek out the most qualified candidates for the jobs they are offering. With a PhD, you will be among the most qualified and will be able to negotiate for a higher salary.
  • Interest in expanding knowledge. Arguably, the best reason to get a PhD is the desire to learn more about an area you have a keen interest in. If you have the privilege of pursuing a degree in a topic you are passionate about, that in itself is reason enough to do it.

Best Master’s Degree Programs

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What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Communication PhD and an Online PhD in Communication?

The difference between an on-campus communication PhD and an online PhD in Communication is the learning format and flexibility that an online degree program offers to its students and isn’t available to on-campus students. Whether you choose to get your PhD in Communication online or in person, the quality of the education you are receiving won’t change.

Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences

  • Flexibility. The flexibility offered by online learning is perhaps the most notable difference between an online PhD and an on-campus PhD. Online programs are specifically designed for busy professionals and generally are more conducive to part-time enrollment.
  • Cost. Typically, it costs less to enroll in an online degree program than it does to attend on-campus classes because distance learning students use fewer of the university’s resources. Additionally, when you factor in costs related to travel and supplies, the total expense of studying online tends to be significantly lower.
  • College options. Another aspect of not having to travel to campus is that it opens up many more options when it comes to where you can choose to study. Not being limited by distance allows you to consider schools that you might have otherwise not been able to attend.
  • Study locations. Whether you choose to study from home, in a library, or any other location, your learning environment is up to you. That being said, the benefit of studying on campus is that the formal environment often makes it easier to stay focused during your communication studies.

How to Get a PhD in Communication Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

A public speaker leading a discussion.

To get a PhD in Communication online, you need to submit an application on the school website or portal, complete all of the required coursework set by the program, get your dissertation topic approved by the program’s faculty, pass all qualifying and comprehensive exams, and finally defend and submit your dissertation.

The first step to getting your communication PhD is applying. In most cases, you’ll need to fill out an application form with your personal details and the details of the degree you want to pursue and submit any additional materials to support your application. These usually include transcripts, a resume, and letters of recommendation, among others.

All doctoral students must complete a certain number of required courses throughout their PhD studies. The total number of courses you need to complete will differ from one institution to the next, but your academic advisor will be able to help you plan out your schedule in accordance with whether you are attending a program part time or full time.

At the same time as you work through your required courses, you will also need to present a dissertation topic that will be the focus of your PhD research. After its approval by your supervisor and the program director, you’ll be able to start your research. At multiple points during your research, you’ll need to demonstrate your progress to your supervisor.

To earn your doctoral degree in communication, you’ll need to pass qualifying and comprehensive exams. PhD faculty use these exams to ensure that their students are able to retain and use the knowledge they are gathering during their courses. Keep in mind that simply passing may not be enough. Most programs require that students maintain a minimum GPA throughout their studies.

The last thing you need to do to earn your PhD is to defend your dissertation in front of the program committee and director. If you succeed and have completed all of your coursework and maintained an acceptable GPA throughout your studies while staying in good academic standing, you will be able to apply for graduation.

Online PhD in Communication Salary and Job Outlook

The job outlook for online PhD in Communication holders from 2020 to 2030 looks promising. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication occupations have a projected 14 percent growth . This is faster than the average projection for all occupations, which indicates that communication PhD graduates should not face many challenges in their job search.

What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Communication?

With an online doctorate in communication, you can explore various career paths, including sales management, technical writing, human resources management, and marketing management. In addition, you can also become a professor .

Best Jobs with a PhD in Communication

  • Sales Manager
  • Technical Writer
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Marketing Manager
  • Postsecondary Teacher

Potential Careers With a Communication Degree

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What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Communication?

The average salary for an online PhD holder in communication is $74,000 per year , according to PayScale. That means that you have the potential to earn a slightly higher salary than the average American employee’s salary . The actual amount you earn will depend heavily on your location, employer, job title, and experience.

Highest-Paying Communication Jobs for PhD Grads

Best communication jobs for online phd holders.

The best communication jobs for online PhD holders are all jobs that heavily utilize your understanding of how humans interact with one another as well as how factors such as technology and media affect this. In the following section, we break down some of the best jobs you can get with a PhD in Communication, including their salary, outlook, and the highest-paying states.

Marketing managers work in industries such as advertising, finance, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail to execute strategies that raise consumer awareness. These strategies include promotional work that appeals to the consumers and maximizes profits and, ultimately,  the company’s success.

  • Salary with a Communication PhD: $133,380
  • Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
  • Number of Jobs: 316,800
  • Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, Virginia

Human resources managers play an incredibly vital role in the proper functioning of any business. HR managers are tasked with hiring new employees and serving as the liaison between a company and its employees. HR managers are charged with the important responsibility of finding the best-suited candidates who will help push the company to new highs.

  • Salary with a Communication PhD: $126,230
  • Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
  • Number of Jobs: 161,700
  • Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island

Postsecondary teachers, also called professors, teach students at universities and colleges, conduct research, and publish materials related to their field of study. You can choose to be a professor in any academic subject that is related to your PhD and teach at almost any academic level, depending on your level of experience.

  • Salary with a Communication PhD: $79,640
  • Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
  • Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
  • Highest-Paying States: California, Alaska, New York, District of Columbia, New Jersey

The job of a technical writer is to write academic journal articles, develop product manuals that teach people how to use products, write website help sections, and write about any other informational content that requires technical knowledge. Strong academic and corporate communication skills are vital for this position.

  • Salary with a Communication PhD: $78,060
  • Number of Jobs: 52,300
  • Highest-Paying States: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, District of Columbia

Public relations specialists work for various types of organizations including schools and professional associations and are tasked with creating media releases, attending meetings and events, delivering speeches, and, generally, creating and maintaining a good public image for those they represent.

  • Salary with a Communication PhD: $62,800
  • Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
  • Number of Jobs: 273,300
  • Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, California

Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Communication Online?

Yes, it is worth it to do a PhD in Communication online if you wish to advance your knowledge and skills and work in the field of communications, retaining a significantly larger amount of flexibility than if you were enrolled in an in-person program. The variety of career options that this degree will offer you when you choose a career path is well worth the hard work.

A PhD in Communication will allow for quicker professional development when compared to the less advanced degree options within the field, allowing you to enter into higher and better-paying positions once you have graduated. With a PhD being a terminal degree in this field, you will have an incredible leg up over other candidates during your job search.

Additional Reading About Communication

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/everything-about-communications-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/communication-associate-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-online-communication-associate-degrees/

Online PhD in Communication FAQ

The most common specializations with a PhD in Communication include advanced communication theory, feminist studies, global communication, and cultural studies, to name a few. There are many specialization options you can choose from for your online PhD in Communication. In general, communications degrees can prove quite useful in different industries, so it is worth it pursuing a PhD in this field.

The degrees that you can get in communication include an associate degree , a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, as well as a PhD in Communication. The kind of degree you should get depends on your career goals.

Yes, there are associations and organizations you can join with careers in communication, such as the International Communication Association (ICA), the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management (GAPRCM). There are several jobs for communication degree holders .

Yes, you can get an online PhD in Communication without a master’s degree. While not as common, you can apply for a PhD in Communication with only a bachelor’s degree at certain institutions. Make sure to check your desired program’s admission requirements to see if it’s a possibility for you and look at interesting communication topics you can research during your PhD.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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NCA's Doctoral Program Guide

NCA's Doctoral Program Guide logo image

About the Doctoral Program Guide

The  Doctoral Program Guide  is designed to provide timely and useful information about doctoral programs in Communication for students, prospective students, and other interested parties.

Which Programs Are Listed? Many doctoral programs are included in this guide, all of which offer a Ph.D. degree in some area or field of the Communication discipline. We began with the programs that have traditionally been ranked or evaluated as doctoral programs in Communication by other sources and added a number of new programs.   

For doctoral programs in related areas of study, visit the following:

  • American Library Association's Accredited Programs page  
  • American Society for Theater Research's Doctoral Program Directory  
  • American Speech & Hearing Association's EdFind  
  • Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication's Graduate Student Info page  
  • Modern Language Association's Guide to Doctoral Programs in English and Other Modern Languages  
  • Public Relations Society of America's Higher Education Programs Online Directory  

What Information Can Be Found in the Guide?

All information presented in this guide is publicly available on the individual department or program website and/or in other published sources. Each university is identified by its  Carnegie Classification , its membership in the  Association of American Universities , and by the number of doctorates it has conferred from 2010 to 2019, according to the  National Science Foundation's  Survey of Earned Doctorates . The guide provides the areas of study of each program, the admissions requirements for each program, a listing of each program's graduate faculty, and contact information. In addition, we also recognize a program's recipients of NCA Awards from 2000 to the present and synthesize and report on the programs' standing in a series of different rankings/ratings, including:

  • The university's 2019 ranking in the Communication & Media Studies category of the QS World University Rankings . (Note: this ranking includes 200 universities; the first 50 are individually ranked, followed by category rankings for the remainder.)
  • The university's 2019-2020 ranking in the "Language, Communication, and Culture" category of the University Ranking by Academic Performance measure.  

Explanation of Areas of Study

Most doctoral programs in Communication indicate research areas or special research concentrations. Such areas are usually based on the types of research conducted by the faculty members in the program, as well as by the courses offered toward the graduate degree. 

A program is listed within a specific research area based entirely upon its self-identification of research focus. Because the identification and labeling of research foci vary so greatly across programs, this list groups and categorizes research areas according to commonly understood labels. Thus, a given doctoral program may identify its research specialty as "media economics" or "media studies" or "media effects." That program would be included in the broader category below of "Mass Communication/Media Studies."

Michigan State University

Michigan State University, Ph.D. in Information and Media

University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh, Department of Communication

University of California-San Diego

University of California-San Diego, Department of...

Regent University Logo

Regent University, School of Communication & the Arts

University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota, Department of Communication Studies

University of Florida

University of Florida, College of Journalism &...

University of Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts, Department of Communication

University of New Mexico

University of New Mexico, Department of Communication &...

Purdue University

Purdue University, Brian Lamb School of Communication

Ohio University

Ohio University, School of Communication Studies

University of Connecticut

University of Connecticut, Department of Communication

University of Delaware

University of Delaware, Department of Communication

Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University, School of Media and...

University of Alabama

University of Alabama, College of Communication &...

University of California-Davis

University of California Davis, Department of Communication

University of Maryland

University of Maryland, Department of Communication

  • SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION

PhD in Communication Studies - Northwestern University School of Communication

online phd programs communication studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Rhetoric, Media, and Publics is replacing the PhD in Communication Studies (Rhetoric and Public Culture). Rhetoric, Media, and Publics is an interschool program between the School of Communication, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, and the Medill School of Journalism, Media & Integrated Marketing Communications; and it is based in the School of Communication.

The Rhetoric, Media, and Publics PhD program, grounded in the humanistic tradition of rhetoric, asks the fundamental question of how people influence, reflect, and transform society through mediated practices. Students learn to analyze the production and circulation of meaning in a range of rhetorical and journalistic texts, practices, and institutions through varied modes of qualitative inquiry, and to engage audiences and communities directly in the production of knowledge. The stakes of this inquiry are profoundly social and political as well as formal and aesthetic. The program teaches students to approach public media as sites for political contestation, for the representation and interrogation of ethics and power, and for imagining personhood and collective life.

online phd programs communication studies

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  • DBA – Doctor of Business Administration
  • Doctor | in Actuarial Science
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  • Doctoral Degree Programs
  • Doctoral in International Finance
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Doctorate in Communication Online (D.Sc)

  • Doctorate in Computer Engineering
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  • Master in Database Administrator
  • Master in Early Childhood Education
  • Master in Ecotechnology
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  • Master in Educational Technology
  • Master in Electric Vehicle Engineering
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  • Master in Energy Storage and Battery Technology
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  • Master in Fashion Design
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  • Master in Geography
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  • Master in Metallurgy
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  • Master in Nutritional Science
  • Master in Oil Gas And Energy Engineering
  • Master in Organizational Development
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  • Master in Pedagogical Training For Professionals
  • Master in Philosophy
  • Master in Physical Anthropology
  • Master in Physical Culture And Sports
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  • Master in Quantum Computing
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  • Master in Technical Writing
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  • Master in Virtual Archival Science
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  • Master of Agriculture (MS)
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  • Master of Architecture (MS)
  • Master of Art History (MA)
  • Master of Artificial Intelligence
  • Master of Banking and Finance (MA)
  • Master of Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
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  • Master of Human Resources Management (MHRM)
  • Master of Humanities (MA)
  • Master of Hydrology (MS)
  • Master of Information Systems (MS)
  • Master of Information Technology (MS, MIT)
  • Master of Interior Design (MA)
  • Master of International Relations (MS)
  • Master of Journalism (MA, MJ)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MA)
  • Master of Logistics (MA)
  • Master of Marketing (MS, MBA, MPA)
  • Master of Mathematics (MS)
  • Master of Mechanical Engineering (MS)
  • Master of Mining Engineering (MS)
  • Master of Music (MA)
  • Master of Nutrition Science
  • Master of Physical Education (MS)
  • Master of Renewable Energy (MS)
  • Master of Science in Educational Administration (MS)
  • Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MS)
  • Master of Telecommunications (MS, M.TEL.)
  • Master of Tourism Planning and Development
  • Master of Travel and Tourism
  • Master of Urban Planning
  • Master of Visual and Performing Arts
  • Master of Web Design
  • Masters in Accounting
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  • Masters in Education
  • Masters in Finance
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  • Masters in Psychology
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  • Postdoctoral in Actuarial Science
  • Postdoctoral in Addiction Counseling
  • Postdoctoral in Animal Science
  • Postdoctoral in Anti Terrorism Security
  • Postdoctoral in Autonomous Vehicle Technology
  • Postdoctoral in Behavior Analysis In Special Education
  • Postdoctoral in Bibliotechnology
  • Postdoctoral in Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
  • Postdoctoral in Biosystems
  • Postdoctoral in Blockchain Technology and Digital Currency
  • Postdoctoral in Business Communication
  • Postdoctoral in Business Management
  • Postdoctoral in Chemistry
  • Postdoctoral in Cloud Computing
  • Postdoctoral in Computer Engineering
  • Postdoctoral in Computer Science
  • Postdoctoral in Criminal Justice
  • Postdoctoral in Culinary Arts
  • Postdoctoral in Cultural Theological Communication
  • Postdoctoral in Cybersecurity And Hacking
  • Postdoctoral in Data Communication And Networking
  • Postdoctoral in Early Childhood Education
  • Postdoctoral in Ecotechnology
  • Postdoctoral in Ecotourism
  • Postdoctoral in Education
  • Postdoctoral in Educational Technology
  • Postdoctoral in Electrical Vehicle Engineering
  • Postdoctoral in Electrochemical Engineering
  • Postdoctoral in Electronic Engineering
  • Postdoctoral in Energy Storage and Battery Technology
  • Postdoctoral in Engineering Systems
  • Postdoctoral in English Literature
  • Postdoctoral in Environmental Science
  • Postdoctoral in eVTOL Engineering
  • Postdoctoral in Fashion Design
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Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University

The online Doctorate in Communication program at AIU is designed to equip graduates with the essential knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions. Our research-intensive, academically free curriculum delves into the diverse theories and research methods employed across various academic disciplines, including political science, law, communication arts and sciences, history, psychology, education, anthropology, health and human development, and sociology.

Our unique and unrepeatable commitment to advancing the professional development of communication graduates and industry professionals sets AIU apart. The program aims to broaden their horizons and equip them with robust research and communication skills, enabling them to emerge as influential leaders in their respective fields. By extending the boundaries of traditional communication studies, AIU’s Doctorate in Communication Online program provides a unique and comprehensive foundation encompassing practical knowledge and computer science theory.

At AIU, we understand the importance of tailored education, and our distance learning approach reflects this philosophy. Our Doctoral program is not a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, it offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to collaborate with your advisor to shape a custom-made curriculum that aligns with your career aspirations and interests. This personalized approach distinguishes our online Doctoral program from others in the distance learning landscape.

Core Courses & Topics in Civil Communications

The Doctorate in Communication program at the AIU (American International University) offers a comprehensive andragogy-centric curriculum designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in communication studies through online Ph.D. programs. Accredited by ASIC , this distance learning PhD in media communication provides a flexible and accessible platform for individuals pursuing advanced academic credentials. Core courses encompass a broad spectrum of topics, including Advanced Communication Theory, Strategic Communication in the Digital Age, Cross-Cultural Communication, and Research Methods in Communication.

  • Intercultural Communication
  • Telecommunications Architectures
  • Mass Communications
  • Public Policy
  • Communication Planning
  • Classical Sociological Theory
  • Media Economics and Policy
  • Science/Health Communication
  • Information Technologies
  • Research Methods
  • Telecommunication Services
  • International Relations

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Orientation Courses

AIU’s online Doctorate in Communication introduces students to the essentials of strategic communication through orientation courses designed for the digital era. As part of the b est virtual universities for communication doctorate programs , these courses cover critical topics like Fundamentals of Strategic Communication, Digital Communication Landscape, and Theories of Online Persuasion. This program is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and relevant education in the field, offering a concise yet comprehensive exploration of strategic communication in the digital age.

  • Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
  • Organization Theory (Portfolio)
  • Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
  • Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
  • Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
  • Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
  • Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
  • Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)

Research Projects in Civil Communications

AIU’s online Doctorate in Communication features engaging research projects that align with online communication doctoral courses. This holistic program , specializing in an Online PhD in Mass Communication, emphasizes dynamic research topics exploring the intersection of theory and practice.

  • Doctoral Dissertation Project
  • MBM900 Doctoral Proposal
  • MBM902 Doctoral Dissertation (15,000 words)

Publication: Each Doctor of Communications graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.

Ready to Take Your Communication Education to the Next Level?

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Take Your Journey in Communications to Another Level with a Doctorate from AIU

Embarking on a Doctorate in Communication at AIU offers students a transformative and enriching academic journey , particularly within communication theory online Ph.D. With a specialized focus on intercultural communication, the program provides a dynamic learning environment that encourages students to explore diverse perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. 

The online format allows for flexibility, accommodating the needs of professionals pursuing advanced degrees. As students progress, they delve into compelling and integrated online doctoral thesis topics in communication, fostering independent research and contributing to advancing communication knowledge. The immersive experience at AIU equips students with expertise in communication theory and prepares them to address real-world challenges in intercultural communication, making a significant impact in the field.

Community & Social

Immerse yourself in a dynamic online learning community with AIU’s cutting-edge e-learning PhD programs in communication. Our virtual doctoral seminars in communication leadership utilize state-of-the-art technologies to connect students worldwide, ensuring a collaborative and enriching academic journey. Engage seamlessly through our Virtual Campus, accessible via the AIU Campus APP on Android and iOS. Explore topics in communication leadership through MYAIU, AIULink, AIUTV , AIU Magazine , and Curriculum Builder Tool ,  fostering connections with fellow scholars and faculty. The wealth of academic content on Merlin Media Center enhances your research experience, making the online doctorate in communication leadership at AIU a holistic and uniquely transformative endeavor.

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We understand how busy adults do not have time to go back to school. Now, it’s possible to earn your degree in the comfort of your own home and still have time for yourself and your family. The Admissions office is here to help you, for additional information or to see if you qualify for admissions please contact us. If you are ready to apply please submit your Online Application and paste your resume and any additional comments/questions in the area provided.

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Academic Resources

Embark on an unparalleled distance education journey in media studies Ph.D. at Atlantic International University, where our Virtual Campus serves as an innovation hub designed for academic excellence . Unleashing over 25 unique tools, including a groundbreaking Virtual Reality 3D immersive experience, we redefine the boundaries of online doctoral education in corporate communication.

Dive into a vast academic realm with our online library housing 260,000 books and 30 million peer-reviewed articles, journals, and publications. Engage in a vibrant community where students contribute to a rich pool of over 105,000 resources, meticulously curated to elevate your experience in online graduate courses in communication. At AIU, we are dedicated to nurturing your growth, development and realizing your aspirations in the ever-evolving landscape of media studies.

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Virtual Campus

Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device. 

My AIU Elements

MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.

AIU TV & Radio

The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.

AIU Campus Mundi

AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.

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Graduation Ceremony

Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.

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Symposiums & Webinars

AIU events, including symposiums and conferences , offer a platform for Doctorate in Communication students to showcase their expertise globally. These opportunities not only encourage the exchange of ideas and challenges but also contribute to enhancing overall research quality.

Live Classes

AIU stands at the forefront of innovative education, providing a dynamic learning experience for Doctorate in Communication graduates. As part of our commitment to excellence , AIU offers two live classes daily, creating a flexible and interactive platform for further academic exploration. This initiative is particularly beneficial for those enrolled in the Web-based PhD in Communication Technology program, ensuring that graduates stay at the forefront of advancements in the field. These live classes facilitate real-time engagement with professors and foster a collaborative environment among students, enhancing the overall learning experience and preparing graduates to be leaders in the ever-evolving landscape of communication technology.

Special Projects

Whether crafting communication strategies for diverse audiences, analyzing media trends, or developing innovative solutions for communication issues, these special projects empower students to make a meaningful impact while collaborating with the best relevant organizations worldwide . Guided by experienced faculty mentors, students engage in hands-on, interdisciplinary research, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. These special projects not only enhance the academic experience but also prepare graduates for leadership roles in the dynamic and ever-changing field of communication.

G et Started to Experience the AIU Impact

Sign up for us, career center.

AIU’s Career Center for Doctorate in Communication is a dedicated resource that empowers graduates with the tools and guidance necessary to navigate their professional journey successfully. With a focus on personalized career development, the center offers services such as resume building, interview preparation, and networking strategies explicitly tailored for communication. 

Through workshops, webinars, and one-on-one counseling sessions, students receive valuable insights into industry trends and job market dynamics. The Career Center collaborates with industry partners to provide internship opportunities, ensuring practical exposure and hands-on experience. The center is crucial in facilitating successful career transitions for AIU’s Doctorate in Communication graduates by fostering connections between students and potential employers.

Job Opportunities

AIU Doctorate in Communication graduates have a diverse skill set, positioning them for impactful roles across various professional domains. From crafting comprehensive communication strategies as Communication Strategists to analyzing and interpreting media trends as Media Analysts, our alumni excel in roles such as Corporate Communication Directors, Digital Media Consultants, and Public Relations Specialists.

  • Communication Strategist As a Communication Strategist, AIU graduates leverage their in-depth knowledge to develop and implement effective organizational communication plans, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
  • Media Analyst AIU Doctorate in Communication holders excel as Media Analysts, applying their expertise to evaluate and interpret media trends, helping organizations stay informed and responsive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
  • Corporate Communication Director Graduates often assume roles as Corporate Communication Directors, overseeing and orchestrating internal and external communication efforts, ensuring consistency and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Digital Media Consultant Equipped with a deep understanding of digital communication, AIU alumni serve as Digital Media Consultants, guiding businesses in navigating and optimizing their online presence and communication strategies.
  • Public Relations Specialist Doctorate in Communication holders at AIU makes impactful Public Relations Specialists, skillfully managing an organization’s public image, building relationships with stakeholders, and handling crisis communication.
  • Academic Researcher Many graduates choose a path in academia, contributing to the field’s knowledge base as researchers, educators, and thought leaders, further advancing the discipline of communication.
  • Social Media Manager AIU alumni often excel as Social Media Managers, developing and implementing social media strategies to enhance brand visibility, engage audiences, and drive organizational objectives.
  • Communication Trainer With a wealth of knowledge, graduates may take on roles as Communication Trainers, guiding individuals and teams in honing their communication skills for professional and personal success.
  • Content Development Manager Leveraging their communication expertise, graduates may assume roles as Content Development Managers, overseeing the creating of engaging and impactful content across various platforms.
  • Government Affairs Specialist AIU Doctorate in Communication holders may find roles as Government Affairs Specialists, adeptly navigating the intersection of communication and government relations to shape public policy discussions and outcomes.

Tools for Communication Professionals

In the dynamic communication realm, professionals rely on a diverse toolkit to navigate modern complexities. From strategic planning to execution, the right tools are essential for success. This curated list highlights critical resources that empower communication professionals to craft compelling content, manage social media, and conduct data-driven analysis.

In the dynamic field of communication, professionals require a robust toolkit to navigate the complexities of the modern landscape. From strategic planning to effective execution, communication professionals rely on various tools to streamline workflows and enhance outcomes. Whether crafting compelling content, managing a social media presence, or conducting data-driven analysis, having the right tools is crucial for success. Here’s a curated list of essential tools that empower communication professionals to excel in their roles:

  • Google Analytics
  • SurveyMonkey

Associations for Communication Professionals

Navigating the intricate communication landscape is facilitated by being part of professional associations that offer valuable resources and networking opportunities. Doctorate in Communication professionals can benefit from engaging with these associations, fostering personal and career growth. Here is a list of notable associations that provide a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and staying abreast of industry trends:

  • National Communication Association (NCA)
  • International Communication Association (ICA)
  • Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)
  • Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
  • International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
  • American Marketing Association (AMA)
  • Association for Women in Communications (AWC)
  • International Public Relations Association (IPRA)
  • Digital Analytics Association (DAA)
  • Society for Technical Communication (STC)

Submit Your Application for a Doctorate in Communication Online at AIU

Check out us virtually, doctorate in communication requirements.

Admission to the online Doctorate in Communication program at AIU requires candidates to hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, providing a solid academic foundation for advanced studies. Additionally, applicants should have a minimum of five years of practical experience in the field of communication, ensuring a cohort of professionals with substantial industry exposure. This combination of academic excellence and real-world experience is integral to the program’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and well-rounded learning environment. Prospective students are encouraged to demonstrate their passion for communication, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a significant impact in the field.

How Can You Apply?

  • Follow the provided link to input your personal and educational details for your Doctorate in Communication application.
  • Enhance your application by attaching your comprehensive resume to the designated form.
  • Prior to submission, take a moment to meticulously review the entire application to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  • Once satisfied with the details, proceed confidently to submit your application, marking the first step towards embarking on a transformative journey in the field of communication.

Financial Support & Scholarships

Embarking on the pursuit of your Doctorate in Communication online at AIU is now more attainable than ever. Recognizing the financial challenges often associated with advanced education, we’ve curated a range of scholarships designed to meet diverse circumstances. By sharing your details , you set in motion the process of uncovering scholarships precisely tailored to your needs. Initiate this journey by submitting your inquiry, allowing us to guide you through the myriad possibilities. At AIU, we are committed to not only providing an enriching academic experience in communication but also ensuring it is financially feasible for you. Take the first step toward your online doctoral journey with AIU and explore the customized financial support awaiting your application.

How Much Does a Doctorate in Chemistry Cost Per Year?

Navigating your academic journey at AIU ensures confidence in the affordability of our Doctorate in Communication program. With a total affordable cost, we understand the financial considerations that come with advanced education. To enhance convenience, we offer a flexible monthly payment plan, making the pursuit of a doctoral degree not just a goal but a financial reality. 

At AIU, our commitment extends to providing exceptional education without compromising your financial stability. Immerse yourself in a community where outstanding learning seamlessly integrates with adaptable financial solutions, ensuring your educational aspirations in communication become effortlessly attainable.

How long does it typically take to complete an online PhD in communication?

It typically takes 3-5 years to complete PhD in Communication online.

Are online doctoral programs in communication widely recognized in the academic and professional fields?

Yes, online doctoral programs in communication are increasingly recognized in both academic and professional fields. The online doctoral program in Communication at AIU is widely accepted everywhere and as technology advances, the acceptance and recognition of online doctoral degrees continue to grow.

Can I specialize in digital or media communication in an online doctorate program?

Yes, AIU’s online doctorate program offer specializations in digital or media communication, allowing you to focus your studies on these specific areas within the broader field of communication.

How interactive are online doctoral courses in communication studies?

Online doctoral courses in communication studies are highly interactive, incorporating virtual discussions, collaborative projects, and real-time communication tools to facilitate engagement and meaningful interactions among students and professors.

Are there any fully online PhD programs in mass communication?

Yes, AIU offers one of the best online PhD programs in mass communication.

How do online communication doctoral programs balance theory and practical application?

Online communication doctoral programs typically balance theory and practical application by integrating case studies, hands-on projects, and real-world applications into the curriculum. This approach ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field.

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Journalism and communication menu, journalism and communication, communication and media studies phd program, doctoral degree in communication and media studies.

Communication and media are among the most powerful forces shaping the world today. In our Communication and Media Studies PhD program, you’ll work with some of the world’s top media and communication experts to research and contribute to this crucial field. Our school is one of the nation’s oldest accredited schools of journalism and communication, housed within an Association of American Universities R1 research institution.

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Doctoral Degree in    Communication and Media Studies

Launch a trailblazing career in media research.

In our doctoral program, you’re more than just a student. You’ll work as a co-author, scholar, and teacher and become part of a welcoming and inclusive community influenced by perspectives from across many disciplines and cultures around the world. You’ll also conduct impactful research that contributes to the field and your research portfolio under the guidance of SOJC faculty advisors.

Our faculty are internationally recognized experts in many mass communication and media research topics, including science, health, and environmental communication; technology and society; game studies; global media; critical/cultural approaches to communication; persuasion and media psychology; media and public life; and more.

Apply   » Degree Requirements   » Sample Schedules   » Courses   » Faculty and Staff  » Visit Us   »

Take flight with a Communication and Media Studies Doctoral Degree

Students in our media studies graduate program develop the knowledge, skill, and research portfolios to claim teaching and research posts at top universities and think tanks around the world. But their analytic and research skills set them apart in any field. 

Meet More PhD Alums

Bryce Peake

Bryce Macher ’13   is a data scientist for Hilton Innovation Lab. →

Sonia De La Cruz

Sonia De La Cruz ’14   is a professor and documentary filmmaker. →

Erica Ciszek

Erica Ciszek ’14   studies how communication affects understandings of gender. →

Take flight   with a Communication and Media Studies Doctoral Degree

Students in our media studies graduate program develop the knowledge, skill, and research portfolios to claim teaching and research posts at top universities and think tanks around the world. But their analytic and research skills set them apart in any field. A communication and media studies degree offers a solid foundation that can springboard you into academia or a career in media, government, law, or nonprofit work.

Communication and Media Studies PhD Program News

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More News   »

Named for renowned journalist Eric W. Allen , who founded the SOJC over 100 years ago, Allen Hall sits at the heart of the verdant University of Oregon campus. During your studies in Eugene, you’ll enjoy expert guidance, hands-on experience with the latest technology, and opportunities for collaboration.

You'll also have access to our state-of-the-art  Experience Hub —part production studio, part research center, part hands-on learning lab—a place where students and faculty collaborate to develop innovative content and examine the media from every angle.

See a Sample PhD Schedule

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Study in the Beautiful Pacific Northwest

Fully funded phd.

You bring the intellectual curiosity, we’ll take care of the tuition: Our doctoral candidates are fully funded for four consecutive years*, including health benefits and a stipend. We also offer resources for conducting research that contributes to the field while preparing you for a career in higher education or meaningful work in the public and private sectors.

*Eligibility for continued funding requires maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Learn More about Funding

Student research

Our doctoral candidates work with internationally renowned SOJC faculty experts to do groundbreaking research on today’s most pressing communication and media realities.

See More Student Work

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Meet Our Faculty View All Communication and Media Studies PhD Faculty →

Whitney Phillips teaches a class

Whitney Phillips     Assistant Professor of Digital Platforms and Ethics

Whitney Phillips uses her research and teaching to help students and consumers of media navigate the potentially treacherous terrain of what she’s coined the “information hellscape.” The modern media landscape is fraught with political biases, implicit messages, and harmful communication, but it is also a powerful tool. So Phillips challenges and inspires her students to incorporate self-care and mindfulness into their media-consumption regimens.

Learn about Whitney’s Research

portrait of Seth Lewis

Seth Lewis     is an expert on the digital transformation of journalism. →

portrait of Gabriela Martinez

Gabriela Martínez     is a gender studies researcher and award-winning documentary filmmaker. →

portrait of Maxwell Foxman

Maxwell Foxman     researches how play manifests in nongame contexts. →

portrait of Janet Wasko

Janet Wasko     is an expert in the political economy of media and all things Disney. →

Meet Our Faculty

Whitney Phillips    Assistant Professor of Digital Platforms and Ethics

portrait of Seth Lewis

Seth Lewis    is an expert on the digital transformation of journalism. →

portrait of Gabriela Martinez

Gabriela Martínez    is a gender studies researcher and award-winning documentary filmmaker. →

portrait of Maxwell Foxman

Maxwell Foxman    researches how play manifests in nongame contexts. →

portrait of Janet Wasko

Janet Wasko    is an expert in the political economy of media and all things Disney. →

View All Communication and Media Studies PhD Faculty →

Next Steps:

Request more information   Fill out a quick form and our graduate recruiter will be in touch soon!  →

Check out campus   Schedule an in-person tour of Allen Hall or watch our virtual tour video.  →

Start your application   Ready to join us and become a Duck? Get started now.  →

Communication Studies

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Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Communication Studies requires a minimum of 72 semester hours of graduate credit, including at least 39 hours earned at the University of Iowa and in courses numbered above 3000. Students must maintain a cumulative g.p.a. of at least 3.00. The degree program includes specializations in interpersonal communication and relationships; media history and culture; and rhetoric, culture, engagement.

Graduate education in Communication Studies focuses on the Ph.D., but doctoral students may choose to earn a Master of Arts on their way toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree. A terminal master's degree may be an option for some students already admitted to the doctoral program.

For additional information on the Doctor of Philosophy program in Communication Studies, including courses, curriculum, and requirements,  visit the UI General Catalog .

Learning Outcomes

  • Plan, organize, and conduct innovative, ethical, and significant communication research using qualitative, quantitative, and critical-cultural methods.
  • Evaluate and apply communication theories broadly conceived to a range of social, cultural, interpersonal, and other contextual and communicative settings.
  • Demonstrate broad-based knowledge of relevant subfields of scholarship in communication studies and related disciplines.
  • Develop relevant teaching and professional training (such as teaching technologies; pedagogy; grant writing; diversity, equity, and inclusion; digital scholarship; media production; or community engagement) to contribute to better and more equitable educational and social outcomes, and to develop transferable skills for employment both inside and outside of academic settings.
  • Cultivate the skills necessary to publish peer-reviewed articles and communicate in writing and orally to both professional and popular audiences in ways that demonstrate intercultural competence and personal and social responsibility.

How do I apply?

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

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Ph.D. in Strategic Media Online

Transfer credits, next start date, become an expert in strategic communications with a ph.d. in strategic media.

Today’s world is buzzing with digital conversation. From politics to healthcare and human services, every industry is impacted by the media. By pursuing a Ph.D. in Strategic Media, you can grow your organization and your career by understanding the theory behind effective communication and the application of practical techniques to 21st-century problems.

Imagine utilizing the latest trends in video, graphic, and online visual persuasion to take your organization to new levels. Paired with the management and leadership skills you can cultivate in our Ph.D. in media studies, your new expertise can help you shape the future direction of policies, goals, and objectives within the communication sector.

Liberty’s Ph.D. in media studies blends theory with praxis. Through this online program, you can develop a strong background in communication theory, strategic media communication, and applications for nonprofit, for-profit, and higher education sectors. So whether you work in an academic, corporate, or faith-based setting, this degree can equip you with the social media and strategic communications tools you need to bring fresh insight to your company. And with a degree taught from biblical principles, you can become a trusted, ethical voice in media and communication.

Why Choose Liberty’s Strategic Media Ph.D. Degree?

Choosing Liberty for your Ph.D. in Strategic Media means beginning the path to equipping yourself to become an expert in various digital and strategic media channels. Expand your mind and your skill set under professors who hold advanced degrees and have years of related professional experience. This online doctoral degree can introduce you to new ideas as well as scholarship, research, and professional practices from around the world.

With the mentorship of your professors and the biblical integration you’ll get in every program at Liberty, you can graduate with a doctorate that prepares you for a fulfilling career both personally and professionally. You can become more equipped to pursue positions including public relations specialist, social media executive, university administrator, professor, or researcher. This degree can help you get where you want to go.

But a doctorate from Liberty does more than set you up for professional success. Your advanced studies can also open you up to new peers, perspectives, and research opportunities that can shape you and empower you to make a difference in the world around you.

Military Tuition Discount We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

What Will You Learn in Our Ph.D. in Strategic Media Degree?

A Ph.D. in media studies degree can help provide the foundation in data-gathering and insight tools you need to effectively impact your field. With courses in interactive media design and strategic communications media analytics, you can become an expert in the field of strategic communications.

Within our Ph.D. in Strategic Media, you will take courses in 4 major areas: advanced core, research, application, and dissertation courses. The advanced core courses are designed to help you master communication theory so you can apply that knowledge to your other courses and career. On the other hand, our professional application courses can help you gain tactical principles and practices in integrated communications.

Finally, the research and dissertation component of your degree brings the theories and applications together. This can help you fine-tune your communication capabilities and set you up for publication and future career success.

View the Degree Completion Plan , and check out our featured courses below for more information!

Featured Courses

  • DIGI 700 – Digital and Strategic Communication Orientation I
  • DIGI 710 – Communication Research Methods
  • DIGI 720 – Qualitative Data Analysis
  • DIGI 825 – Seminar: From Digital Analytics to Communication Action 

Highlights of Our Ph.D. in Media Studies Online

  • We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ph.D. in Strategic Media degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
  • Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
  • Our faculty members have years of real-world experience in the field of communication and invest in students both personally and professionally. You can learn practical skills from seasoned professionals to further your career.

Ph.D. in Strategic Media Degree Information

  • This program falls under the School of Communication and the Arts .
  • Download and review the Degree Completion Plan .
  • View the Graduate School of Communication and the Arts Course Guides (login required) .

Apply Now     Request Info

Career Opportunities for Strategic Media Graduates

  • Advertising/public relations executive
  • Chief customer experience officer
  • Communications executive
  • Director of online sales and services
  • Research manager
  • Social media executive
  • University administrator
  • University professor
  • Vice president of customer satisfaction

Admission Requirements for the Ph.D. in Strategic Media

A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or above is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our  admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

  • Admission application
  • Application fee*
  • Official college transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

* There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

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School of Communication Studies 2021 Doctoral Cohort

The deadline to apply for the COMS Doctoral Program is January 1st.

The School of Communication Studies traces its roots to the founding of Ohio University, where the first curriculum emphasized persuasion, logic, and rhetoric. As Ohio University has grown and developed, so has our PhD program.

In 2003 the School of Interpersonal Communication changed its name to the School of Communication Studies (COMS). Reflecting the wide variety of specialties represented in the department, COMS emphasizes three primary research areas for the PhD: I nterpersonal and Organizational Communication , R hetoric and Culture , and H ealth Communication . These areas combine existing research areas while adjusting to the contemporary trends in the communication discipline.

We believe that strong doctoral students should have a broad understanding of the discipline in addition to specialized coursework. This is why we embrace a modified cohort system for the first year of our program. Core classes are explicitly designed as first-year courses, and they provide foundation for the other courses in the School. As students progress through the first year classes, they develop a sense of community that will exist far after completion of our program. At the same time, students will take courses in their primary area of study to become initiated in the expectations of their sub-field. We feel strongly that our first year sequence of courses is both innovative and meaningful in the way that it “jump-starts” our students’ growth as thinkers, teachers, and scholars.

Interpersonal and Organizational Communication

Interpersonal and Organizational Communication Degree Requirements (PDF)

Students in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication blend theory from both organizational communication and interpersonal communication to ask provocative questions about communication contexts ranging from traditional organizational settings to the classroom and more traditional interpersonal relationships. Although students and faculty in this track perform conventional focuses like Organizational, Interpersonal and Instructional Communication (to name a few), many also select coursework and research projects that blend across one or more of those traditional areas.

Interpersonal and Organizational Communication Faculty

Although our faculty cross multiple areas, the following scholar-mentors specialize in topics related to  Interpersonal and Organizational Communication:

Health Communication Degree Requirement (PDF)

Our Health Communication track is broad in its orientation, with students and faculty addressing topics ranging from narrative approaches to understanding health to health message effects. Faculty scholars in this area have developed meaningful connections with the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, the College of Health Sciences and Professions, as well as several health related community advocacy organizations. Our courses and research projects build on these relationships.

Health Communication Faculty

Although our faculty cross multiple areas, the following scholar-mentors specialize in topics related to  Health Communication:

Rhetoric and Culture Degree Requirements (PDF)

Students and faculty in the Rhetoric and Culture track tend to specialize in the study of contemporary discourses on issues ranging from politics to sports. Students and faculty in this track are exposed to a wide range of rhetorical theorists including Burke, Bakhtin, Foucault, Fisher, as well as many other interdisciplinary theorists. Courses and research projects in this area seek to help us understand how we participate as advocates in society and enable us to become better advocates.

Rhetoric and Culture Faculty

Although our faculty cross multiple areas, the following scholar-mentors specialize in topics related to  Rhetoric and Culture:

U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

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To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based  Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The  University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the  main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the  part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The  Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based  George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the  Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our  complete rankings  of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

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Non-Credit Certificate Program in Medical Writing and Editing

Master the fundamentals and best practices of medical writing, editing, and communication.

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Upcoming Events

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Freelancing in Medical Writing and Editing

Apr 9, 2024 • Online

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How to Land Your First Job in Editing

Apr 29, 2024 • Online

At a Glance

The University of Chicago’s non-credit certificate in Medical Writing and Editing uses the AMA Manual of Style as the foundation for mastering the fundamentals and best practices of medical writing, editing, and communication.

Developed for professionals with backgrounds in science or writing, the online medical writing certificate program with synchronous course sessions has a comprehensive curriculum focused on creating medical communicators with strong writing, editing, data reporting, and analytic skills. Student have the opportunity to boost their skills quickly in nine months to one year, part-time.

Designed For

Designed for both professionals with a background in science who want to acquire writing skills, and those with a background in writing or an English degree who want to understand medical terminology.

Learn from Industry Experts

Our program instructors have worked with and for a wide range of leading organizations, including the American Medical Association, WebMD, the Mayo Clinic, The Journal of Infectious Diseases, and the Journal of Graduate Medical Education.

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Want to Learn More?

View our comprehensive curriculum, taught by seasoned medical writers and editors.

Grow Your Network

Current students and alumni have access to networking events and webinars hosted by our Student Advisory Board and our Professional Development team, who also fund an alumni scholarship program.

Join a Thriving Field in Medical Writing

Driven by the expansion of scientific and technical products, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a faster growth rate in the employment of technical writers than that in other fields.

Potential Job Titles for Medical Writers and Editors

  • Content Specialist
  • Medical Writer/Editor
  • Regulatory Writer/Editor
  • Technical Editor

Average salaries for Medical Writers and Editors

According to Glassdoor, the salaries of both medical writers and editors average around $97,000.

Focus Areas

  • Specialization Track in Freelancing

Offered by The University of Chicago's Professional Education

Ready to Take Your Next Step?

Of interest.

  • Non-Credit Certificate Program in Regulatory Writing

Gain in-demand medical writing skills that will help elevate your career in healthcare or medical...

Inescapable Ethics

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Essential Courses on Medical Copyediting

Medical Writing & Editing Student Kirsti Cole

From Freelancer to Founder

  • Non-Credit Certificate Program in Editing
  • Learning the Business of Freelance Medical Writing and Editing

Online program empowers students to align passion with education

Juggling full-time work and family, online student finds success in master's program.

Jecobi Swafford graduated with a Masters in Educational Psychology while working and raising a family.

”Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” For many people, that is a challenging goal to achieve. However, thanks to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville online program, one student’s dream of aligning her passion with her educational goals has become a reality.

As someone specializing in human connections, Jecobi Swafford found choosing a degree path easy. Educational Psychology with a concentration in Adult Education was a program she knew would involve interacting with and teaching adults. It would also benefit her full-time career as a human resource professional.

“I am constantly in contact with employees at various stages of their careers and life. I had a deep desire to take my expertise and enhance the learning experience for adults in the workplace,” said Swafford.

With a full-time job and an active family, Swafford found that online learning was the perfect way to pursue her goal while allowing her to effectively balance work, family and studying. It offered her convenience, flexibility, and an opportunity to focus and develop self-discipline. The absence of a daily commute was a big plus, giving her more time to manage responsibilities, including self-care, which she believes is essential to success.

Swafford also found that being an online learner at UT didn’t mean missing the support students find in an in-person classroom. She found a welcoming, passionate community that offered assistance and encouragement while fostering teamwork and collaboration. It is an environment where students truly matter.

Today, Swafford uses her knowledge from the master’s program as a human resource professional in the solar and construction industry. Yet, her journey isn't just about work; it's about personal growth too. She emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, hard work and dedication.

Earning a master's degree has enhanced Swafford's professional credibility and solidified her expertise in human resources. It sharpened her research, problem-solving, and writing skills, making her a more competent and confident professional.

“The master’s degree has equipped me with the tools to more clearly understand the unique and diverse perspectives of adult learners,” she said. “I want to be part of a team, ensure we meet employees where they are, and support them with the tools they need to be successful.”

For more information, visit volsonline.utk.edu .

online phd programs communication studies

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Beth Haas Participates in Panel at 7th Annual Legal Master’s Conference

Beth Haas Participates in Panel at 7th Annual Legal Master’s Conference

By Miami Law Staff Report 04-03-2024

Associate Dean Beth Haas moderated a panel recently at the 7 th Annual Legal Master’s conference in San Antonio. Her panel, titled “Preparing Legal Masters Students for Success from Day One” discussed how an admitted student can be prepared to successfully navigate the legal master’s program to maximize their learning experience. Haas is a co-author of a forthcoming book “Navigating Your Legal Master’s Program: A Roadmap for Success,” and it is designed to prepare legal master’s students to return to the classroom for their rigorous and engaging academic journey. 

Haas is a nationally recognized expert in online legal education. Before joining Miami Law in 2023, she served as Associate Dean, Graduate Studies and Online Education and Associate Professor of Law at Drexel University’s Kline School of Law in Philadelphia. At Miami Law she directs all strategy for developing exceptional and engaging online degree and certificate programs. 

Haas was a pioneer in online legal education.  In addition to teaching many core courses in the face-to-face JD classroom, she developed and delivered Drexel Law’s first fully asynchronous J.D.-level online courses more than a decade ago for which she received Drexel University’s Outstanding Online Faculty Award.  In her role as Associate Dean, she then developed, exclusively in-house, one of the largest and most rigorous online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) programs in the country, along with eight online post-bac graduate certificates and three online LL.M degrees. 

Most recently, Haas has helped to create Miami Law’s new on-line Master of Legal Studies .

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  1. Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates

    Key Takeaways. A number of graduate schools offer an online PhD in communications. A communications PhD program is a good fit for students with an interest in linguistics, media studies, organizational communication, post-secondary education, and more.

  2. Communication Ph.D.

    2#. best online graduate programs. EDsmart. The entire degree program is fully online. You are never required to come to campus. Online Communication Ph.D. students are highly encouraged to attend live, synchronous online courses in order to get the most out of class participation.

  3. Best Online PhD in Communications Programs

    Before you enroll in an online communications PhD program, you must evaluate the qualifications and expertise of the program's faculty members. ... Flexibility to Balance Life and Studies. Online PhD programs in communication should accommodate your schedule and personal commitments. Work-life balance is a basic human need in the 21st century ...

  4. Top Online PhDs in Communications

    PhD in Communications. Regent University offers an online PhD in COmmunications that requires just one visit to campus. This one visit is a week-long summer residency on campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The entire program consists of a minimum of 56 credit hours, but some students may complete as many as 64.

  5. The Best Online Communications Doctorate for You

    A physical setting can be necessary and energizing for many. 2. Fully online programs. A less popular yet growing option, the fully online PhD in communications makes all coursework available via distance learning. This even extends to a majority of dissertation activities near the end of the degree program.

  6. 2024

    Ranked as: -. State: Virginia. Acceptance: 50.44%. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Communication is offered online with a one-week summer residency in Virginia Beach. You can become a better communicator and scholar while making a lasting impact whether as a writer, teacher, speaker, or thought leader.

  7. Online Ph.D. in Communication Degree

    Admission Requirements for the Doctorate in Communication Online. A regionally or nationally accredited master's degree with a 3.0 or above GPA is required for admission in good standing.

  8. 2024 Best Online PhD in Communications Programs

    Robert Morris University offers an online PhD in Information Systems and Communications program. Students must complete 60 credit hours, with 12 dedicated to writing a dissertation. At the end of each school year, students must finish a milestone. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and submit 3 letters of recommendation.

  9. Ph.D. in Communication Online

    In the field of Communication, a Ph.D. program equips students with the necessary skills to contribute to the ever-changing landscape of communication theory and practice. Instead of focusing on ...

  10. Best Online PhDs in Communication

    The most affordable online PhD in Communication degree program is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. This program will only cost you $319 per credit, making it much less expensive than the other programs on our list, which can cost up to $1,866 per credit.

  11. NCA's Doctoral Program Guide

    The Doctoral Program Guide is designed to provide timely and useful information about doctoral programs in Communication for students, prospective students, ... The university's 2019 ranking in the Communication & Media Studies category of the QS World University Rankings. (Note: this ranking includes 200 universities; the first 50 are ...

  12. Communication & Information Sciences

    Curriculum. Online PhD students in Communication & Information Sciences are not eligible to complete a formal concentration in the program and may only pursue a focused area of study in library and information studies. The online C&IS PhD requires 48 credit hours of coursework and 24 credit hours of dissertation research.

  13. Top Online Graduate Programs in Communications 2024+

    The Master of Communications from Wake Forest builds your communications expertise and prepares you to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, driving equity, justice, and innovation through authentic internal and external messaging. Shape influential dialogues with premier Online Graduate Programs in Communications 2024 - 2025.

  14. PhD in Communication Studies

    The Doctor of Philosophy in Rhetoric, Media, and Publics is replacing the PhD in Communication Studies (Rhetoric and Public Culture). Rhetoric, Media, and Publics is an interschool program between the School of Communication, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, and the Medill School of Journalism, Media & Integrated Marketing Communications; and it is based in

  15. PhD in Communication (Online)

    The online Ph.D. in Communication program equips doctoral students with an extensive understanding of varying communication processes. Learn more! ... COM 700 Introduction to Doctoral Studies in Communication, scheduled for one week in the student's first semester of study. This week is a daily, intensive reading/lecture/writing course in the ...

  16. Ph.D. in Communications

    Program Overview. The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Communications offers a multidisciplinary approach to the study of the relationships between people and media in their cultural, social, political, historical, economic and technological contexts. With the guidance of an interdisciplinary faculty advisory committee, students craft i ndividual ...

  17. Doctorate in Communication Online (D.Sc)

    The Doctorate in Communication program at the AIU (American International University) offers a comprehensive andragogy-centric curriculum designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in communication studies through online Ph.D. programs. Accredited by ASIC, this distance learning PhD in media communication provides a flexible and accessible platform for individuals pursuing advanced ...

  18. Ph.D. in Communication Online

    In the field of Communication, a Ph.D. program equips students with the necessary skills to contribute to the ever-changing landscape of communication theory and practice. Instead of focusing on ...

  19. Communication and Media Studies Doctoral Program

    School of Journalism and Communication. 1275 University of Oregon. Eugene, OR 97403. P: 541-346-3738. F: 541-346-0682. 70 NW Couch Street. Portland, OR 97209. P: 503-412-3662. Earn a communications and media studies PhD while conducting groundbreaking research alongside top communication and media studies experts at the SOJC.

  20. Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Studies

    The Doctor of Philosophy program in Communication Studies requires a minimum of 72 semester hours of graduate credit, including at least 39 hours earned at the University of Iowa and in courses numbered above 3000. Students must maintain a cumulative g.p.a. of at least 3.00. The degree program.

  21. PhD in Communication Studies: Online and Campus-Based Programs

    A Ph.D. in communications studies is a graduate program designed to prepare you for teaching and researching positions in higher education. Like many Ph.D. programs, there is not a set plan of study. You will customize your program by deciding a specialization within communication studies. Sample specializations may include:

  22. Ph.D. in Strategic Media Online

    Within our Ph.D. in Strategic Media, you will take courses in 4 major areas: advanced core, research, application, and dissertation courses. The advanced core courses are designed to help you ...

  23. PhD

    PhD. The deadline to apply for the COMS Doctoral Program is January 1st. The School of Communication Studies traces its roots to the founding of Ohio University, where the first curriculum emphasized persuasion, logic, and rhetoric. As Ohio University has grown and developed, so has our PhD program. In 2003 the School of Interpersonal ...

  24. U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

    As it did last year, Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1 within the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. Once again, Duke University School of Nursing tied with other schools for the No. 2 spot ...

  25. Earn a Medical Writing Certificate

    The University of Chicago's non-credit certificate in Medical Writing and Editing uses the. AMA Manual of Style. as the foundation for mastering the fundamentals and best practices of medical writing, editing, and communication. Developed for professionals with backgrounds in science or writing, the online medical writing certificate program ...

  26. Online PhD in Social Work ranked among nation's best

    OLLU's online PhD program in Social Work has been ranked No. 8 in the U.S. for 2024, according to Forbes Advisor. Forbes Advisor cited the program's flexibility, private school setting and courses in decolonized pedagogy and mixed methods research. "The four-year, online Ph.D. in social work from Our Lady of the Lake University's Worden ...

  27. Online program empowers students to align passion with education

    Online program empowers students to align passion with education. Juggling full-time work and family, online student finds success in master's program. University of Tennessee, Knoxville. "Do ...

  28. Beth Haas Participates in Panel at 7th Annual Legal Master's Conference

    Beth Haas. Associate Dean Beth Haas moderated a panel recently at the 7 th Annual Legal Master's conference in San Antonio. Her panel, titled "Preparing Legal Masters Students for Success from Day One" discussed how an admitted student can be prepared to successfully navigate the legal master's program to maximize their learning experience.