The Department of Communication is dedicated to helping students understand and promote the study of communication. To accomplish this goal, students are given opportunities to study theory, criticism, research methods, and application in a variety of communication areas.

The Doctoral program offers specializations in 

• Rhetoric, Politics, and Society 
  
• Health Communication 
  
• Media, Technology, & Society 
  

The Master's program offers a choice of two concentrations: 

• Film and Video Production
• Communication, where MA students study alongside doctoral students in the areas listed above.

Our faculty members are nationally recognized and have received numerous awards for excellence in research, filmmaking, teaching, and professional service. Specific areas of faculty expertise include: 

• Communication & Conflict 
• Communication & Technology 
• Discourse Studies 
• Documentary and Narrative Film Studies
• Film And Video Production
• Health Communication 
• Instructional & Interpersonal Communication 
• Political Communication 
• Public Address
• Rhetoric Of Science & Medicine
• Rhetorical Theory and Criticism 

We are also proud to host WUMR, the only exclusive jazz outlet in the Memphis metro area.

The Department awards a number of graduate teaching/research assistantships to those outstanding applicants who have demonstrated interest and ability in teaching and research. These assistantships include a stipend and a remission of tuition fees. To determine eligibility for the assistantships, refer to the requirements for admission to the MA and PhD programs. 

For inquiries about any of our programs, please contact: 

Dr. Leroy G. Dorsey
Chair and Interim Graduate Coordinator