PhD in Communication — Journalism and Strategic Media Concentration
Students in the PhD program in Communication — Journalism and Strategic Media Concentration at UofM work with faculty within and across three areas: Integrated Strategic Media, Multimedia Journalism and Visual Media. Students will learn, broadly, the theories and research methods of journalism and communication research, as well as discipline-specific theories, methods, trends and practices, preparing them for both professional and academic careers. All students will learn teaching practices to prepare them for potential faculty careers.
Integrated Strategic Media
The Integrated Strategic Media emphasis explores current issues in the strategic media industry, seeking to understand applications of theory and research in the communication industry. Specific areas of faculty expertise include:
- Advertising
- Public interest communication
- Public relations
- Social media analytics
- Social media listening
Multimedia Journalism
The multimedia journalism emphasis explores current issues in journalism, including digital, broadcast and print. Coursework explores emerging technologies in the industry as well as media research methods, theories related to journalistic practice and emerging media technologies. The journalism faculty also includes several media historians. Specific areas of faculty expertise include:
- Journalism practices
- Media history
- Nonprofit journalism
Visual Media
The visual media emphasis explores the technologies of media and the visuals used in media communication. Coursework explores theory and practices of visual media, as well as emerging technologies. Specific areas of faculty expertise include:
- Branding
- Photojournalism
- Media design
- Media technology
- Visual communication
The PhD in Communication – Journalism & Strategic Media Concentration is offered fully on ground in Memphis and fully online, with a blend of synchronous and asynchronous courses, through UofM Global.
For information about the PhD in Communication – Communication Studies Concentration, see the Department of Communication and Film.
Admissions Standards and Procedures
Admission Requirements:
The following is required to be considered for admission to the PhD program:
- A master’s degree in journalism, strategic media, mass communication, or a related field from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA. Students seeking to pursue the degree with a master’s degree from another discipline will be considered with an undergraduate degree in the field, professional work in the field, or a statement of justification to explain how previous studies and experiences prepared them for work at the doctoral level.
It is strongly recommended that applicants have at least three years of professional work experience in the journalism or strategic media industries.
The following documents are required to be uploaded through UofM’s graduate admissions application:
- Official or unofficial transcripts of prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. Official transcripts must be submitted to be admitted to the University.
- A curriculum vitae or resume including relevant teaching, research, and work experience.
- Two samples of academic writing, such as a research paper from your MA program, professional research or position papers, or chapters from your MA thesis.
- A statement/letter of purpose (maximum 1500 words), explaining your purpose in pursuing a PhD, the specific specialization you would like to explore, and why you would like to study in our department.
- At least three letters of recommendation from faculty or other individuals who are familiar with your academic background and aptitude for doctoral work.
Meeting the minimum department standards does not entitle an applicant to admission. Meeting such standards only ensures consideration of the application.
Deadlines:
- Fall Admission: May 1
- Spring Admission: October 1
- Summer Admission: January 1
Priority deadlines for consideration for graduate assistantships:
- Fall Admission: March 1
- Spring Admission: September 1
Assistantships
The Department of Journalism and Strategic Media offers a limited number of assistantships for doctoral students each year. To be considered for an assistantship for 2025, applications for admission must be received by April 1.
Assistantships are renewable up to three years and include:
- $18,000 stipend per academic year
- Tuition remission for the PhD
- Health insurance
Travel Funding
The Department offers up to $1000 in annual travel funds for graduate assistants. Grad students may also apply for travel funds from the UofM Graduate Student Association.
Other Financial Aid Graduate students may also apply for financial aid through UofM’s Financial Aid office.