Program Overview
Arizona State University's PhD program in Communication offers a transdisciplinary approach with a focus on critical-cultural communication, health communication, and other areas. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary training and research-oriented careers, with a required 96 credit hours, including core courses, electives, research, and a culminating dissertation. Applicants with bachelor's or master's degrees from any field are welcome, with a minimum GPA requirement of 3.00.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Hugh Downs School of Human Communication offers a transdisciplinary PhD program in communication with a focus on critical-cultural communication and rhetoric, health communication, intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, organizational communication, and performance studies. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary training and research-oriented careers in academia, the public sector, and private sectors.
Outline:
- 96 credit hours comprising:
- Required Core (9 credit hours):
- COM 604 Theory Construction in Communication (3)
- Two chosen from:
- COM 607 Contemporary Rhetorical Methods (3)
- COM 608 Multivariate Statistical Analysis of Data in Communication (3)
- COM 609 Advanced Qualitative Research Methods in Communication (3)
- Electives (45 credit hours)
- Other Requirements (24 credit hours):
- COM 691 Seminar (24)
- Research (6 credit hours):
- COM 792 Research (6)
- Culminating Experience (12 credit hours):
- COM 799 Dissertation (12)
- 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree can be used towards this program with approval.
- At least 6 elective credit hours must be from outside the communication field.
Assessment:
- Written comprehensive exam
- Oral comprehensive exam
- Prospectus
- Dissertation
Teaching:
- Award-winning faculty with expertise in various communication fields.
- Collaborative research opportunities.
- Interdisciplinary training opportunities.
- Supportive and dynamic learning environment.
Careers:
- Academic research and teaching positions at universities.
- Research-oriented roles in public and private sectors.
- Opportunities in areas like campaign management, consulting, policy advocacy, and program direction.
Other:
- The program accepts applicants with bachelor's or master's degrees from any field.
- Minimum GPA requirement of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of the first bachelor's degree or in an applicable master's degree program.
- Application materials include transcripts, resume/CV, statement of goals, three letters of recommendation, writing sample, and proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers.
Application Deadlines:
- Fall Session, Session A/C (In Person): Deadline - January 5th (Final)
