PhD in Communication: Current Student Information
The PhD in Communication with a concentration in Communication Studies is designed to support students throughout every stage of their doctoral journey—from coursework and comprehensive examinations to dissertation research and graduation. This page serves as a central resource for important program information, policies, forms, and milestones.
Here you'll find guidance on degree requirements, program expectations, course offerings, and the resources you'll need as you progress through the program. Whether you're preparing for comprehensive exams, completing annual milestones, or planning your dissertation, these materials are intended to help you stay informed and on track.
If you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact your faculty advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, or the Department of Communication & Film. We're here to support your success throughout your doctoral experience.
PhD in Communications Information:
Resources for the support of your studies.
Degree Requirements
The PhD in Communication with a concentration in Communication Studies combines advanced coursework, research training, teaching preparation, and original scholarship. Students work closely with their faculty advisor to develop a plan of study that satisfies departmental and Graduate School requirements while supporting their individual research interests.
The doctoral program requires a minimum of 42 credit hours beyond the master's degree (72 hours beyond the bachelor's degree). Students must also satisfy all Graduate School degree requirements, successfully complete comprehensive examinations, advance to candidacy, and complete an original doctoral dissertation.
Core Coursework
All Communication Studies doctoral students are required to complete:
- COMM 8017 – Introduction to Graduate Studies (taken during the first semester of the program)
- COMM 8321 – Communication Theory (typically offered each Spring semester)
Research Methods
Doctoral students complete a minimum of 6 credit hours of research methods coursework, including at least 3 credit hours within the Department of Communication & Film. Additional methods courses are selected in consultation with the student's faculty advisor and doctoral committee.
The official Graduate Catalog contains complete degree requirements, Graduate School policies, and academic regulations. Students should consult the catalog regularly and work closely with their faculty advisor when planning their program of study.
Graduate courses are offered on a rotating basis to ensure students have regular access to required coursework, research methods, and specialized electives throughout the PhD program. While some core courses are offered annually, many advanced seminars and electives follow a multi-year rotation based on faculty expertise, program needs, and student demand.
Students should consult the current course schedule each semester and work closely with their faculty advisor when planning their program of study. The department also maintains a projected course rotation to help students anticipate when courses are expected to be offered. Because faculty availability and departmental needs may change, the course rotation is intended as a planning guide and is subject to revision.
Milestones & Program Progress
Throughout the PhD program, students complete a series of academic milestones that mark their progress toward the degree. From developing a Plan of Study to successfully defending a dissertation, each milestone builds upon the previous one and requires the completion of specific forms and approvals.
Students are encouraged to review the PhD Advising Checklist to better understand the recommended sequence and timing of each milestone. For detailed requirements, deadlines, and procedures, please refer to the Program Policies. When you're ready to complete a milestone, visit the Doctoral Milestones page for milestone descriptions, required forms, and additional resources.
Policies
Department and Graduate School policies establish the procedures, expectations, and academic requirements that guide students throughout the doctoral program. Students should familiarize themselves with these policies early in their studies and refer to them throughout the program for information regarding comprehensive examinations, dissertation requirements, committee responsibilities, academic standing, and other program expectations.
Forms
The Department of Communication & Film uses a variety of forms to support students, faculty, and staff throughout the academic year. To make these resources easier to find, all departmental forms are available in one centralized location. Visit the Department Forms page to access undergraduate, graduate, graduate assistant, faculty, and staff forms.
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