Communication Studies, Ph.D.

About this programme

The Ph.D. at UNC is an inquiry-based degree, offering students the opportunity to build unique programs of study around their respective research interests. The program requires the student to define a program of study organized by an evolving research question or research problem. The program ensures foundational study in subdisciplines of communication studies, including rhetoric, performance studies, media arts, media and technology studies, interpersonal and organizational communication, and cultural studies. The program encourages interdisciplinary work across these areas and across disciplines to enhance one's ability to address the research question or problem, while at the same time helping to professionalize students for various employment opportunities. The research question or problem and subordinate lines of inquiry that help to define it serve as the basis for selecting coursework, for developing integrative reading lists for the doctoral comprehensive exam, and for completing a major, original research project in the form of a doctoral dissertation. All students — whether admitted with a baccalaureate degree or a master’s degree — are admitted to the doctoral program; the department does not offer a terminal M.A. degree.