communication phd programs online

Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

We rank the best online PhD degree programs in communications.

Key Takeaways

• A number of graduate schools offer an online PhD in communications.
• A communications PhD program is a good fit for students with an interest in linguistics, media studies, organizational communication, post-secondary education, and more.
• The best online communication doctorates are regionally and programmatically accredited and prepare students for success in the job market.

Featured Programs

Online doctoral degree programs are growing in availability and credibility. However, only a select number of universities offer a full selection of PhD in communication programs online.

In most fields, an online PhD is considered a terminal degree, which means it is the highest degree that you can earn in your field. This means that online doctoral programs for PhD students in communication can lead to opportunities for leadership, public consultation, research, and post-secondary education in your field.

Online PhD in communication candidates are typically already working at a high level in their field. This means that students seeking their doctorate must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, online courses and fully online programs provide a way to achieve this balance.

For a look at how these online doctoral programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the The Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees .

Or see the complete University Rankings Guide .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online PhD in communication through a top-ranked online doctorate program.

About Accredited Online PhD in Communication Degree Programs

Online doctoral students have plenty of options, but quality and credibility are important when it comes to finding an online PhD. The best online doctorate programs will have proper accreditation:

• Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online PhD programs offered by the graduate school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.

A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

• Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, look for online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. Specialized programmatic accreditation can be an indication that certain online PhD programs are respected in your field. The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) is the key specialized accrediting agency in communications.
• Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online Phd programs.

Key Point: The best online doctoral programs will have both institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Admission Requirements

Schools that offer online doctorate programs have different admission requirements. However, most online doctoral in communication programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

• A completed online application
• Official undergraduate college transcripts
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interviews
• Personal statement or essay
• Plan of study

Key Point: In some cases, you’ll be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, manyu specialized online PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses

As with other advanced degree and graduate programs, research is the central component of your online communications doctoral program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses.

Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is three to five years.

The typical components of your online PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

Your online PhD program will typically begin with a number of core courses in areas like technical communication, mass communication, strategic communication, and more. You will likely also take foundational courses in your area of concentration.

PhD program concentrations may include media and communication studies, health communication, political communication, and more. Foundational courses will also provide critical research skills including how to apply both quantitative research methods and qualitative research methods. You may be able to complete many of your communications program requirements through online classes.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

The central component of most online PhD in communications programs will be the completion of a dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online PhD programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements by instructing online students.

Key Point: The online communications PhD is a research-focused degree. Your dissertation will be a central part of your online doctoral degree program.

Careers for Students Who Complete Online Communications Doctoral Degree Programs

Accredited online doctoral programs are generally terminal degree programs. This means that students who complete credible online doctoral programs in their field are generally eligible for top positions and opportunities in their field. This may indicate high paying opportunities for public policy research, post-secondary education, and editorship.

For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the top 10% of earners in the field of Editing earned nearly $130,000 in 2021.

These higher earnings are reflective of the rarified professional opportunities that await those with a PhD in communications. Working professionals who earn an accredited online doctorate may be eligible to work in the following areas.

• Marketing and Consumer Research
• Publishing and Editing
• Public Relations
• Post-Secondary Education
• Public Policy Consultation
• Political Campaign Management

Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a doctorate n communications will earn more than graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online PhD programs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online Phd programs.

The Best Online Communications Doctorates (PhDs)

The online PhDs and doctorates in communication identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

University of Alabama

• #1 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024
• #10 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #25 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #6 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #6 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #6 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #6 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #6 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
• #8 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #11 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #14 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #15 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #17 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #21 Best Online Master's in Management
• #21 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #11 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Alabama

University of Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Social Work
• Mathematics
• Anthropology
• Political Science
• Engineering

Most Influential Alumni

• Edward O. Wilson
• Timothy Leary
• George Armitage Miller
• Bernie Madoff
• Nathan Jacobson
• John Ridley Stroop
• George W. Snedecor
• Mohammad Ataul Karim

What do we love about University of Alabama?

University of Alabama was founded in the city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1820. Emerging in the immediate aftermath of Alabama’s statehood, Bama is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama.

And today, a student body of more than 38,000 undergraduates and postgraduates makes this public research university the largest school in the state of Alabama.

University of Alabama’s Communication and Information Sciences doctoral degree program is noted for its multidisciplinary approach to the study of communication and information sciences.

Enjoy a strong athletics program. The University of Alabama Crimson Tide enjoy a heated cross-state rivalry with the Tigers of Auburn University.

Prefer a more intimate learning environment. University of Alabama is noted for the size of its student body, the scope of its academic offerings, and the expansiveness of its campus facilities.

American University

• #3 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
• #3 Best Grad Schools in DC 2024
• #3 Best Colleges in DC 2024
• #9 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
• #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #12 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #15 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #4 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree

Career Outlook for Communications degree at American University

What do we love about american university.

American University is a private research university located in Washington D.C. American University was actually formed by an act of Congress in 1893.

Today, American University is home to more than 8000 undergraduates and more than 6000 graduate students.

Its doctoral-level communications program demonstrates the close connection between American University and the city it calls home. The AU School of Communication’s Doctor of Philosophy in Communication gives PhD candidates a chance to conduct independent research at the intersection of media, technology, and democracy. /p>

Have an interest in public service, political affairs, and government work. Its location in the nation’s capital makes American University a feeder school for many government opportunities.

Are seeking a more affordable degree program. American University provides generous student amenities but these expenses are reflected in the cost of attendance.

University of Colorado Boulder

• #1 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2024
• #2 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Computer Science
• George Gaylord Simpson
• Sidney Altman
• Scott Carpenter
• Jeffrey Beall
• Jack Williamson
• Steven M. Wise
• Marc Bekoff
• Kenneth R. Miller
• Terrence Deacon
• Theodore Maiman
• Eugene Myers

What do we love about the University of Colorado Boulder?

The University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and was, in fact, established five months before Colorado achieved statehood. This makes it the flagship university in the state’s public university system.

The University of Colorado Boulder, located in the mid-sized city of Boulder, is home to a decidedly large student population. Roughly 38,000 students are currently in pursuit of their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Boulder.

Among its noteworthy graduate degree programs, the University of Colorado Boulder offers a PhD in Communication to students who have earned a master’s degree in a related subject.

Are pursuing advanced degrees. Boulder ranks among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high level of research activity.

Are looking for an intimate college experience. Though the Boulder campus is routinely ranked among the most beautiful colleges in the nation, it is also the largest school in the state of Colorado.

Clemson University

• #2 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in South Carolina 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in South Carolina 2024
• #2 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #2 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024
• #4 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
• #4 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #9 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #9 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #11 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #18 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #18 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #20 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #20 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #24 Best Online Master’s in Engineering

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Clemson University

Clemson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• James Dickey
• Strom Thurmond
• John Edwards
• Jo Jorgensen
• Anthony Bradley
• James F. Byrnes
• Warren E. Dixon
• Dolph Lundgren
• Thomas Naylor
• Horace Grant
• Dwight Clark
• Deshaun Watson

What do we love about Clemson University?

Clemson University was founded in 1889 and began life as the Clemson Agricultural College. Today, the public land-grant university occupies 1400 acres alongside Lake Hartwell in Clemson, South Carolina.

With more than 25,000 students pursuing degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, Clemson University ranks as the second largest university in the state of South Carolina.

Clemson is included in the list of R1: Doctoral Universities, those noted for their high level of research activity. Clemson offers an array of unique advanced degree programs, such as its doctoral program in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design , which emphasizes “an overall balance of ecologies in rhetorics and communication with emphasis on rhetorics and digital information design.”

Enjoy college athletics. Clemson’s Tigers enjoy an enormous cultural presence both on campus and in the surrounding region.

Are looking for a college in a lively area. Clemson is located in the foothills of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, but this also means that the university is a two hour drive from the nearest city.

Texas Tech University

• #7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in English
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
• #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #4 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #8 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #8 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #9 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #10 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #11 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #12 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #14 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #15 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #15 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #16 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #23 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #23 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Texas Tech University

What do we love about texas tech university.

Texas Tech University began life as the Texas Technical College with its founding 1923. Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech is considered the primary institution among the five schools making up the Texas Tech University System.

Taking its present name in 1969, Texas Tech University would become the sixth-largest institution in the state of Texas. Today, there are more than 40,000 students earning degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the public research university.

Texas Tech is particularly noteworthy as a destination for prospective PhDs. Texas Tech is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high research activity. This includes opportunities for doctoral level students interested in Texas Tech’s PhD in Media and Communication .

Like a college with strong school spirit. Students repeatedly note that the school spirit is a major feature of campus life, which can make Texas Tech feel like one big community.

Are looking for a small campus. Like a lot of other things in Texas, Texas Tech is a sprawling campus. Students note that the sheer distance of walking between classes can sometimes be exhausting.

Colorado State University

• #3 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2024
• #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2024
• #4 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024
• #4 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #5 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Colorado
• #9 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
• #24 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jean Bethke Elshtain
• Steve Hanke
• Yusef Komunyakaa
• Elaine Ingham
• Mark Mattson
• Rebecca Skloot
• Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf
• William Tietz
• James van Hoften
• Jenna Ellis
• Martin J. Fettman
• Anwar al-Awlaki

What do we love about Colorado State University?

Colorado State University was formed in 1870 as the flagship institution in what would become the Colorado state school system. The Fort Collins-based public research university is noted today for including the biomedical sciences, engineering, environmental science, and more.

Colorado State University was formed as a small agricultural school in the years leading up to Colorado’s 1876 statehood. Today, Colorado State serves more than 34,000 students.

Colorado State University is noted for its top-ranked graduate courses and degree programs, such as its PhD in Communication .

Are pursuing careers in healthcare. Colorado State ranks high for spending on its various medical sciences programs.

Are seeking a small campus experience.

University of North Dakota

• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in North Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in North Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in North Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in North Dakota
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Programs in North Dakota
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in North Dakota 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in North Dakota 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Montana
• #6 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #3 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of North Dakota

University of North Dakota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Communications
• Phil Jackson
• Maxwell Anderson
• Vilhjalmur Stefansson
• Chuck Klosterman
• Thomas McGrath
• George A. Lundberg
• Jonathan Toews
• Michael Rustad

What do we love about the University of North Dakota?

The University of North Dakota’s history actually predates North Dakota statehood by a full six years. Formed in 1883 by the Dakota Territorial Assembly, this Grand Forks-based university began as a liberal arts institution before expanding to include scientific research.

Today, the University of North Dakota is classified among R2: Doctoral Universities, noted for their high level of research activity. UND is currently home to more than 13,000 students pursuing degrees at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The University of North Dakota is noted for its excellent array of doctoral level research programs such as its Communication PhD .

Are seeking options for getting involved. Current students praise the wide range of clubs and activities offered to UND students.

Don’t have a high tolerance for cold weather. Temperatures on campus dip well below freezing throughout the winter months.

Liberty University

• #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
• #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Associate in Education
• #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
• #2 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
• #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
• #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #4 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #4 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
• #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #8 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Associate's in Physics
• #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #11 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #11 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #12 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #12 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
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• #14 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
• #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #17 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #18 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #18 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #23 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
• #25 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
• #5 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
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• #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #14 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Liberty University

What do we love about liberty university.

Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world as well as one of the largest private non-profit universities in the U.S. Much of this size is based on its online enrollment.

Liberty University enrolls roughly 15,000 residential students across its 17 colleges, and an additional 80,000 through its extensive online course and degree offerings.

Liberty University is noted for the sheer volume of advanced degrees and online degrees earned by its student body. With more than 47,000 students pursuing advanced degrees, Liberty offers an extremely wide range of online doctoral programs, including its PhD in Communication Online program.

Wish to attend the world’s largest seminary—Liberty University’s Rawlings School of Divinity.

Students who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity.

Regent University

• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #2 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #2 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #5 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
• #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #7 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
• #7 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #7 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #8 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
• #8 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #9 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #9 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #10 Best Online Associate in General Studies
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2024
• #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #10 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
• #14 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #15 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
• #16 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #17 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
• #21 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
• #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #24 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #24 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
• #8 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Regent University

What do we love about regent university.

Regent University is a private Christian University that provides an array of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Founded in 1977 by Southern Baptist Minister Pat Robertson, Regent University offers a wide range of both online and on-campus degree programs.

Regent University serves more than 10,000 students today, with many pursuing online degrees at the master’s and doctoral degree levels.

Regent University is also noteworthy for its extremely diverse range of online doctoral degree programs, including an Online PhD in Communication .

Are pursuing advanced degrees online. More than 60% of Regent’s students are in post-graduate programs.

Prefer a secular educational experience.

Walden University

• #2 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #3 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #6 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #7 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
• #8 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
• #10 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
• #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #12 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #6 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #8 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #11 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
• #18 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Walden University

What do we love about walden university.

Walden University is a private online school with headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Walden operates on a for-profit business model.

Walden University was established in 1970 with the goal of helping working adults–specifically those in education–earn their doctoral degree. Today, Walden serves nearly 50,000 students in countless areas of study.

Walden University offers several online doctoral programs through its Departement of Business Administration and Communication including its PhD in Management, which is available as both a full program and a completion program.

Are studying nursing, public health, and healthcare administration. Walden is one of the nation’s top degree providers in these fields.

Plan to earn PhDs in psychology. Walden’s PhDs do not have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).

Other Options for Aspiring Communication PhDs

Students considering an online doctoral in communications should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

New York University

• #13 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #1 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Best Online Master's in Management
• #2 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #7 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at New York University

New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Erich Fromm
• Robert Mueller
• Martha Nussbaum
• John Archibald Wheeler
• Glenn Greenwald
• Howard Zinn
• Eric Kandel
• Lewis Mumford
• Alvin Toffler
• Louis Nirenberg

University of Michigan

• #4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #11 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #11 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
• #5 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Michigan

University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Claude Shannon
• Arthur Miller
• Alvin Plantinga
• George Dantzig
• Edgar F. Codd
• Hans-Hermann Hoppe
• Stephen Smale
• Urie Bronfenbrenner
• John Henry Holland
• Amos Tversky
• Marshall Sahlins

Boston University

• #3 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #25 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #1 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
• #1 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
• #2 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #3 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #3 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #4 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #5 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #7 Best Online Master's in Management
• #7 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #13 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #15 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #19 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at Boston University

Boston University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Sheldon Glashow
• Neal Stephenson
• Norman Vincent Peale
• Tipper Gore
• Albert-László Barabási
• Kim Stanley Robinson
• Bernard Berenson
• Daniel C. Tsui
• Bill Simmons

University of Texas at Austin

• #22 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #23 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools In Texas 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #4 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #25 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #2 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #2 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #5 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #6 Best Online Master's in Management
• #11 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #16 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Texas at Austin

University of Texas at Austin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Walter Cronkite
• Bill Moyers
• Edsger W. Dijkstra
• Robert Rauschenberg
• Bruce Sterling
• C. Wright Mills
• Neil deGrasse Tyson
• Steven Best
• J. M. Coetzee
• Robert Taylor
• Abhay Ashtekar

University of Southern California

• #19 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
• #4 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #4 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #4 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #1 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
• #1 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #1 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
• #1 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #1 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #1 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #1 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #1 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #2 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #3 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #4 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #5 Best Online Master's in Management
• #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
• #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Communications degree at University of Southern California

University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Criminal Justice
• Frank Gehry
• Neil Armstrong
• Jack L. Warner
• John Mearsheimer
• Boris Podolsky
• Michael D. Griffin
• Maulana Karenga
• O. J. Simpson
• Robert Ballard

Learn more with a look at our List of Online Programs .

Communication Ph.D.

Study the different ways people communicate, so you can prepare for leadership roles across the globe.

Communication plays a fundamental role in our global society and it is imperative for us to recognize and appreciate the international and intercultural contexts in which it occurs. With a Ph.D. in Communication from UND, you'll learn about human communication across diverse cultures and through multiple systems.

Why earn a Ph.D. in communication?

*Priority deadline

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Understanding the different ways people communicate around the world will help you address socially and globally pressing communication challenges. The Communication Ph.D. at UND is a competitive program that provides you with knowledge and skills that will set you apart as a leader in international and intercultural communication.

Intensive Communication Research Ph.D. Program

Through both the on-campus and 100% online program tracks, you'll work hand-in-hand with research faculty recognized for their work in:

• Interpersonal and persuasive communication
• Risk and crisis communication
• New media and cyberculture
• Strategic communication in digital and social media environments

Online students must be enrolled full-time; on-campus students have the option of enrolling full-time or part time. This is to ensure adequate support for research initiatives.

Due to the research intensive nature of the program we encourage you to review our program's faculty profiles to learn more about individual faculty research interests and expertise. All students will be assigned a faculty advisor directly when conducting research.

Undergraduate to Ph.D. in Communication

Unique to our program, undergraduate students are allowed to apply directly to this Ph.D. program. If you have a bachelor's in Communication , our curriculum allows you to earn your master's in Communication at the same time you are working on a Ph.D.

UND's Communication Ph.D.

Learn from recognized leaders in the field of international and intercultural communication.

Develop your research interest in strategic communication, health communication, interpersonal and organizational communication, and much more.

Take part in graduate teaching assistantships. Positions available for students in both on-campus and 100% online tracks.

Earn a non-thesis master's degree on your way to completing your doctorate in our program.

S tudy closely with faculty across the broad range of communication areas to prepare for both careers and citizenship.

Understand how information processes and communication technologies affect and benefit diverse local and global communities.

Communication Ph.D. Careers

Projected growth for employment of post-secondary teachers from 2022 to 2032

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median annual salary for post-secondary teachers

Upon completion of your Communication doctoral program, you'll emerge as a proficient communication specialist, equipped to excel in academia or thrive in media-related field.

Graduates of the University of North Dakota's Communications Ph.D. program have embarked on leadership roles in global and cross-cultural communication. The have job titles such as:

• Director of Communications: Spearheading communication strategies, our alumni often assume pivotal roles directing and shaping organizational messaging.
• Researcher: Equipped with advanced research skills, our graduates contribute valuable insights to the dynamic field of communication studies.
• Consultant: Our alumni serve as consultants, offering strategic guidance to organizations seeking to enhance their communication effectiveness.
• Policymaker: Some of our graduates leverage their communication acumen to influence policies. They participate in shaping regulations and standards on a local and global scale.

A substantial number of our graduates choose to contribute to higher education through teaching and advanced research. These paths have led them to roles such as:

• Department Head: Our alumni guide the direction of communication studies by taking on leadership positions within academic departments.
• Professorship: Achieving the pinnacle of academic success, our graduates secure professorships, where they shape the next generation of communication professionals.
• Associate Professorship: In roles as associate professors, our alumni engage in both teaching and research endeavors.
• Lecturer: Our graduates bring their practical experience and academic insights to the classroom.

Communication Ph.D. Courses

COMM 530. Communication, Society, & Diversity. 3 Credits.

An examination of how people from similar and different cultural, ethnic, national, racial, religious, and/or sexual backgrounds interact with each other, institutions, and society. The course covers issues of representation, identity, and difference. On demand.

COMM 525. Interpersonal Relations and Communication. 3 Credits.

Face-to-face and mediated transactions between two people or people in small groups in diverse settings. Deals with inquiry, conflict management, interpersonal sensitivity, individuality, and conformity.

COMM 535. Intercultural Communication. 3 Credits.

This course incorporates critical conceptualizations of identity, "the Other", and multiculturalism. It explores theoretical reflections of the symbolic systems of unfamiliar cultures, and the emergence of mutual understanding.

COMM 540. Communication and Organizations. 3 Credits.

Examines the general communication processes and dynamics within and among organizations and explores the dynamics in network organizations, with a particular focus on communication in interpersonal groups and inter-organizational working teams. Theories of power and politics in and among organizations, as well as of decision-making, conflict management, and strategic communication are explored.

COMM 550. International and Global Communication. 3 Credits.

An analysis of international media, comparative telecommunications systems and globalization. Covers issues such as transnational communication, global journalism, satellite broadcasting and communication in diplomacy and international affairs.

COMM 523. Social Network Analysis & Visualization. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to introduce you to the theory, methods, and procedures of network analysis with emphasis on applications to communication and social behavior. The goal of the course is to provide a working knowledge of the concepts and methods used to describe and analyze social networks so that you can apply it to important questions in your profession. S.

Best Ph.D. in Communications

UND's Communications Ph.D. ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

#15 MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE DEGREE

Online Communication Ph.D.

best online university in the nation

best online graduate programs

The entire degree program is fully online. You are never required to come to campus.

Online Communication Ph.D. students are highly encouraged to attend live, synchronous online courses in order to get the most out of class participation. However, online courses are recorded and can be viewed at another time, to fit your schedule.

Top-Tier Online Communication Ph.D. Program

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs. No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

• Same degree:  All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) . Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
• Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
• Real interaction:  You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
• Your own academic advisor:  As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
• Free online tutoring:  We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
• Unlimited academic coaching:  Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
• Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
• 24/7 technical support:  UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
• Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

• Affordability
• Student satisfaction (retention rate)
• Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
• Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Leaders that Do

Students at UND take chances, seek challenges and become leaders in the community.

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

• Department of Communication
• Find Similar Programs

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Top Online PhDs in Communications

Find your degree.

Communications is a very broad and interdisciplinary area of study. It focuses on the methods, tools, and platforms that people use to communicate and interact with one another. This is a type of degree with sweeping applications in the professional world. Mass media, social engagement, professional interaction, and more all fall under the communications umbrella. As a field, it is easiest to sum communications up as the study of the rules and social structures used to convey and obtain information.

There are multiple forms of communication such as verbal, written, and even bodily. This area of study also extends to public relations , social media, linguistics, psychology, sociology, politics, and more. This field is one that has a lot of depth to it and a broad range of career options. Due to its sweeping nature, it can be easy to write it off as a liberal arts degree that would be difficult to apply in the professional world but that is starkly incorrect. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that media and communications occupations will grow at a rate of 6% between 2016 and 2026. This puts the field in line with the national average rate for all careers.

Earning a PhD in Communications

Choosing to earn your PhD in Communications is a big step but it is one that can propel you to new heights in your career. High-level positions in any area of the field are going to show a strong preference for those who hold a PhD. That is because a PhD is the highest level of academic honor in the country and less than 1% of the population will ever obtain one. Nothing shows that you are more prepared than a terminal degree. A PhD in Communications can also equip you with the skills you need to teach a communications course at the university level.

In fact, a lot of people think that the only professional outcome for a PhD in Communications is a teaching position. However, there are a number of other careers you could pursue. You could choose to work in journalism, advertising, a corporate office, a government agency, and more. With a PhD in Communications, you are also likely to see a higher annual salary. The median salary for PhD graduates in their first year of employment is $80,000. The average salary in all of America comes in much lower at $56,516 per year.

While earning a PhD in Communications, you will be given a strong foundation in many different areas, particularly those relating to Media, Psychology, Marketing, and Communications. Some of the courses you will likely take include:

• Communication in a Global Environment
• Media, Culture and Community
• New Media and Technology
• Information, Political Economy and Entertainment
• Groups, Organizations and Networks

Of course, there are many other topics that are covered and many of them depend on the area you choose to focus on when earning your PhD. Some concentration examples include Marketing Communications, Corporate Communication, or Media Industries and Institutions.

Online PhD in Communications Programs

There are very few programs offered when you’re searching for an online PhD in Communications. In fact, we only found one program that met our ranking criteria. However, this is likely to expand as the field continues to grow. Universities do what they can to adapt to the needs of their evolving student bodies.

With that said, you can still earn this degree online . Even though there are only a few relevant options at this time, a distance-based degree may be better for you. Especially for those of you who are at the stage in your career that you’re ready to pursue a PhD.

Online programs tend to be more flexible. You will most likely be able to work full-time while you study and many online programs will integrate the job that you already do into the curriculum, allowing you to fulfill certain requirements just from doing your job! Online programs don’t require you to relocate and typically have fewer costs associated with them. On top of that, many institutions (the majority of them, in fact) allow online students to receive scholarships, grants, financial aid , and even stipends.

Taking the time to sift through your options and choose the best school for you is often the most difficult part of going to college online . For that reason, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a ranking of the best online doctorates in the field of communications. All schools were ranked according to the following.

Methodology

In order to create this ranking, we started by gathering a list of school that offered PhD programs in communications at a distance. Due to the lack of such programs that met our initial ranking criteria, we also chose to include relevant doctoral programs in communications that were available online. In order to be considered, in addition to offering a doctorate level program in communications in a distance-based format, schools had to be based in the United States, hold proper accreditation, and could not operate as for-profit institutions.

Once we gathered our list of schools, we ranked them based on the following three factors:

• Freshman Retention Rate (⅓ of final score)
• Graduation Rate (⅓ of final score)
• Affordability (⅓ of final score)

Each school could have earned a total possible score of 300 points. They were ranked according to their scores and presented in ascending order below. All of the information used was gathered from the schools’ websites whenever possible. In the even that we needed some additional information, we also utilized the databases of the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News & World Report , Niche.com, and Collegedata.com.

It is important to note that no school is ever given preferential treatment by OnlineCollegePlan for any reason. Some schools that would have otherwise ranked are omitted here due to insufficient data or per their own request. We’d also like to note that cost information and affordability are based on the residential cost of attendance and are simply estimates. We do not guarantee the tuition rate of any school or program.

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric

Texas Tech University offers a great option for those of you who would like to earn a PhD in Communications, and that is the PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric. This program is designed to help strengthen your skills in five very broad areas. These include Rhetoric, Composition, and Technology; Technical Communication; Rhetorics of Science and Healthcare; Technology, Culture, and Rhetoric and; Visual Rhetoric, New Media, and User-Centered Design.

This is a 60-credit program that you must have a master’s degree to be eligible to enroll in. In addition to the core requirements, 15 of your credits can come from a minor that you choose. You can add a field you’d like to work in so you can better understand the relationship between technical communication and the field you’d like to work in. This degree is typically geared towards those who would like to teach at the university level; however, this is the highest level of education you can receive in any area, so you don’t need to feel limited.

There is a two-week workshop in May of every year that you will be required to attend, but the rest of the program is completely online. The courses are delivered through a mix of asynchronous and synchronous components. In a typical course, you will meet once or twice weekly in a live session with your cohort and your professors; the number of weekly meetings depends on the semester.

PhD in Communications

Regent University offers an online PhD in COmmunications that requires just one visit to campus. This one visit is a week-long summer residency on campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The entire program consists of a minimum of 56 credit hours, but some students may complete as many as 64. There are eight session start dates throughout the year, and thus, eight sessions. This helps you get done faster because there are fewer breaks.

You will take a variety of courses that will prepare you for a range of careers. You could get a higher level position in media relations, market analysis, research, or even teaching at the university level. You will be able to conduct effective research, have a deep understanding of communications theory, and have strong academic writing skills when you complete the program.

Some of the courses you’ll encounter as part of this program include Theology & Communication; Communication in a Global Environment; Academic Writing for Publication; and more. You will also virtually attend doctoral seminars, take basic research courses that are put in context for communication, and you will be required to complete a dissertation.

What is Communications?

Communications is any form of media that is used to convey one’s idea or message to another person or a group of people. People that aim to get a degree in Communications do so in order to learn how to inform and influence with the most efficacy by choosing the most appropriate delivery method of the information that needs to be provided. This could be via the web, print, audio, video, or still images, among others.

While studying to get a degree in the field of Communications, students will be provided with a solid foundation in the core areas of Communications on which they can choose build up towards a specialization that will enable them to focus their education path for a specific career. Students that are studying in Communications often choose to take courses in areas pertaining to Anthropology, Linguistics, Sociology, Cultural Studies or Health Care Communications, among others. These specialization courses would be taken concurrently with the core credit courses, such as Economics, Marketing, Management Theory, Media and Mixed Media Studies, Organizational Communication, and Ethics. Even if a student decides to not pursue a more focused education in the field of Communications, they will still obtain a strong understanding of the core values that many employers are looking for when they are looking for new hires to do a multitude of different professional tasks.

If you think you may have an interest in pursuing a career in Communications or any Communications-related field, we recommend you research your options when it comes to finding a school that will best suit your needs and goals. There are many great schools out there that provide many different degree options in Communications, and choosing the right school to provide you with a comprehensive and affordable education that fits into your schedule is the single most important thing that you can do to ensure your path towards a career in Communications gets off to the best possible start.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Communications Degree?

There are, of course, ways to speed up many degree options. These degree paths are generally what is known as an “Accelerated” degree path. An Accelerated degree path can really help a student to obtain their desired degree in a shortened amount of time, which will benefit them greatly later, as they will be able to establish themselves in their field of choice more quickly. An Accelerated degree is often a great option for students that are able to attend full-time and dedicate more of their time to their education. Accelerated degrees often utilized online programs to supplement the normal in-person classes that are needed to fulfill the required credits for degree completion.

Many well-known and prestigious schools around the country offer Associate’s degrees, Bachelor’s degrees and PhD degree programs in the field of Communications that can be completed in a fully asynchronous and online manner or in a blended education offering, meaning that most of the mandatory courses can be completed online or in a more traditional on-campus format. A lot of these schools even offer Accelerated degree options to their full-time students, both online and on-campus.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Communications?

Some of the fields that rely heavily on the expertise of professionals that have a strong background in the field of Communications include:

• Broadcasting;
• News Agencies;
• Advertising Agencies;
• Courts of Law, and;
• Marketing Research Firms.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Communications Degree?

• Public Relations and Fundraising Manager;
• Technical Writer;
• Journalist, and;
• Marketing Manager, among many others.

This is just a small sample of jobs that you would be qualified for with a PhD in Communications. There are many other career paths that would be open to you as a Communications major. These career paths would have you doing specific tasks relating to the field of Communications, but the field that you could be performing your Communications work could be anything. Virtually every company, association, and organization have varying degrees of need for an employee with a degree in Communications. Due to the background that individuals with a PhD in Communications will possess in numerous highly desired areas-of-expertise, many associations and organizations will have a strong desire to have a Communications professional on their payroll. If you are thinking about enrolling into a PhD in Communications program, or you wish to pursue a career in Communications at all but are worried about your future career prospects, you can rest assured that you will be able to find a rewarding job with any number of industry leaders in the United States–or around the world–due to how in demand and how pivotal Communications is in running a successful business. For most companies, the skills and knowledge that is provided by completing a PhD program in Communications is the crux of their day-to-day functions.

What is the Average Communications Degree Salary?

• A Technical Writer will earn on average $71,850 per year;
• An Author will earn on average $62,170 per year;
• An Editor will earn on average $59,480 per year;
• A Public Relations and Fundraising Managers will earn on average $114,800 per year, and;
• A Broadcast and Sound Engineering Technicians will earn, on average $43,660 per year.

What Associations or Organizations Can You Join With Careers in Communications?

• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA): PRSA is a not-for-profit trade association that founded in 1947 by the merger of the American Council on Public Relations with the National Association of Public Relations Councils. PRSA is a long-time member of the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB) and provides its members with a suite of tools that will help them to hone their skills and to further their education.
• American Advertising Federation (AAF): The American Advertising Federation’s members are comprised of almost 100 prestigious corporate members that specialize in the fields of advertising and media. AAF’s network also represents nearly 40,000 advertising professionals individually.
• International Communication Association (ICA): ICA is a large academic association that helps to bring together scholars with an interest in the study, teaching and the various applications of all aspects regarding personal and mediated communication.
• International Association of Business Communicators (IABC): The International Association of Business Communicators, which is more commonly called the IABC, is a global network of Communications professional and which hosts a yearly three-day event–the World Conference–in which professional development seminars and activities take place alongside symposiums hosted by industry leaders and researchers.
• Society for Technical Communication (STC): The STC is an association that was formed in order to advance the professional understanding and application of Technical Communications. STC publishes a magazine eight times a year, which provides new insights into Technical Communications. Additionally, the Society for Technical Communications hosts an annual international conference known as the STC Technical Communication Summit, where professionals gather to discuss and exchange ideas relating to the field. STC also provides its members with live webinars, online certificate courses, and virtual conferences with Communications experts, among others.

These are just a few of the many different associations and organizations that will be open to you after you have obtained a PhD in Communications. Many of these organizations have a multitude of helpful tools for networking, researching, educating, and sharing ideas. By becoming a member of one or more of these organizations, you will be able to broaden your horizons and open up new opportunities in your Communications career. Additionally, by becoming a member of a Communications oriented organization or association, you will be able to socialize with your peers and those that hold the same career and academic interests as yourself, which should never be underestimated as a benefit.

2024 Best Online PhD in Communications Programs

If you’re interested in the relay of information, including through digital media and mass communication, then pursuing a PhD in Communications online program may be the right path for you.

Earning your doctoral degree in communications can provide you with the opportunity to work in a variety of fields.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Communications experts play an important role in managing the communication of information from one person, group, or organization to another.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Communications Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

American University

American University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Communications program. The program is designed to be completed in 3 years by providing courses for 11 months a year. A total of 54 credits are needed to graduate. Applicants must submit 2 letters of recommendation, a resume, GRE scores, and a master’s thesis.

American University  is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

Clemson University

Clemson University offers a PhD program in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design.

Students need to complete 30 credits hours and 6 credit hours of research to defend a dissertation. Exams and the defense of the dissertation must be completed on campus. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and a portfolio of past graduate work.

Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a PhD in Communications. Students may choose courses in the following fields: Rhetoric and Civic Engagement, Relational and Organizational Communication, or Film and Media Studies. Applicants must complete 81 credits to graduate. Applicants need 3 letters of reference and a resume to apply.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a PhD in Media and Communication Studies. A total of 60 credits are needed to graduate, with 12 hours used for a dissertation. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to graduate. Applicants must submit official transcripts and 2 letters of recommendation when applying.

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Communications program. Students must complete 60 credit hours and may apply to transfer in up to half of the credits required. Courses are 8 weeks long. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and need to submit official transcripts to be eligible for the program.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University offers a PhD in Communications. The program can be completed online, though a week-long residency in Virginia Beach during the summer is required. Students must complete a minimum of 56 credit hours to graduate.

Applicants must submit official transcripts and a past graduate program academic paper and need to complete an academic background questionnaire. Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Robert Morris University

Robert Morris University offers an online PhD in Information Systems and Communications program. Students must complete 60 credit hours, with 12 dedicated to writing a dissertation. At the end of each school year, students must finish a milestone.

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and submit 3 letters of recommendation. An interview with the program director and admissions committee is also required.

Robert Morris University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication and Rhetoric. Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and transcripts from previous college work.

Students must complete at least 72 hours to graduate from the program. They also have the option to add one of five areas of emphasis to their degree, including Technical Communication and Rhetoric of Science and Healthcare. Texas Tech University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a Doctorate in Communications and Information Sciences. Students may choose to add a concentration in one of seven different areas, including Media Processes and Effects and Books and Publishing Studies.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit 3 academic references and their transcripts.

The  University of Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a PhD in Communication. The program can typically be completed in 5 years and requires 90 credit hours.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must either have a master’s degree in communications or a GPA of 3.0 or higher from their undergraduate studies. GRE scores and 3 letters of recommendation must be submitted when applying.

The  University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online PhD in Communications Programs

Online PhD in Communications programs can help you develop your expertise in areas of public relations, mass communication, digital and social media, and journalism.

Common careers in this field include:

• Teacher or professor
• Chief communications officer
• Director of public relations
• Public relations manager
• News media correspondent
• Technical writer

Becoming a teacher within a postsecondary school is a common career path for graduates of a communications PhD program. As a postsecondary teacher, you may develop course curriculum, instruct students on various communication topics, and evaluate student performance through assessments, tests, and other measures.

There are a number of other career options outside of academia that you may also qualify for. Some graduates advance their careers as public relations specialists or managers.

Working in the area of public relations may require drafting press releases and communicating with the media on a regular basis. PR professionals help businesses manage public relations crises and maintain their reputation or public image.

Specific course curriculum can vary depending on the school and program that you choose to attend. Here are some topics, though, that are commonly covered in a communications program:

• History of communication
• Communication theories
• Digital media and mass communication
• Communication in politics
• Media and the environment
• Research methods
• Professional writing

In most cases, PhD communication programs require you to complete coursework as well as a research project in the form of a dissertation.

Communications Careers & Salaries

Earning an online PhD in Communications can help you qualify for a variety of advanced positions. Leadership and management positions can include chief communications officer or director of public relations.

PhD graduates tend to teach at postsecondary schools, pursue academic research, or embark on rewarding careers in finance, law, policy development, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , positions in the field of communications are far-reaching and can span across various areas and industries. One of these professional areas includes media, such as journalism, news correspondence, or broadcasting.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that a number of positions in the communication field will experience positive job growth in the next ten years. These positions include top executives (4% job growth), marketing managers (7%), public relations specialists (7%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

Communications Doctorate Curriculum

Courses in doctoral communications programs can provide you with advanced knowledge in areas related to public relations, digital media, mass communication, media studies, and research. Courses may include:

• Communication Research Methodologies : This course is an in-depth look at standard methodologies used in research in the field of communications and the arts and social sciences more generally.
• Quantitative Research in Communication : You’ll review quantitative research practices in social science, including the use of statistics.
• Qualitative Research in Communication : This course is an overview of qualitative research methods in communication, including interviewing techniques, observation, and the use of focus groups.
• Advanced Communication Theory : You’ll take a look at key theories in the field of communication, including scholars, existing research, and emerging trends and theories.
• History of Communication : This course is an analysis of communication throughout history, including a look at recent changes in technology and the impact that those changes have had on communication.
• Writing for Publication : You’ll examine the approaches used in writing for publication, including conference papers, chapter books, academic papers, and more.
• Social, Mobile, and Online Media Analytics : You’ll look at various social, mobile, and media tools available, along with the metrics, analytics, and big data related to each that help explain the experience of end-users.
• Social Media Strategy : This course is an overview of various digital channels that exist in the realm of communications studies and media, and you’ll learn about leveraging those channels to persuade and interact with an audience.
• Content Communication : This course is a review of content communication strategies used in the pursuit of delivering a message to a target audience and capturing the intended result.
• Analytics in Digital and Strategic Communication : You’ll look at how research in communication has evolved over time, including the increased use of digital analytics.

In addition to regular coursework, you may be required to complete a dissertation, thesis, or research project option as part of your degree program.

Admissions Requirements

In order to enroll in one of the available communication doctoral programs, you may be required to meet a number of admissions requirements. Criteria can vary from one school to the next, but here are a few common requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree . It’s necessary to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and to submit your official transcripts.
• GRE or GMAT scores . Although this requirement is becoming less common, some schools still require the submission GRE or GMAT scores.
• Letters of reference . Delivery of one or more letters of reference from academic or professional supervisors and colleagues is often requested.
• Resume . You may need to submit a copy of your resume, detailing your academic and workplace experience.

Additional admissions criteria can include completing a written essay, submitting an online application, and completing a writing test.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation is a status that verifies that a postsecondary school and its programming meet a specific set of academic quality standards.

Attending a regionally accredited school can impact your ability to transfer credits to another program or join various professional associations. The accreditation status of the school you choose to attend can also influence the hiring decisions of potential employers.

You can visit the US Department of Education ’s website to find out the accreditation status of a particular school or program.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are a number of financial aid and scholarship opportunities that may help you fund your doctorate in communication. Financial aid is available to qualifying students in the form of grants and loans from federal and state governments.

Another option is employer training programs. If you’re currently employed, you can check to see if you’re eligible to receive educational funding from your employer through professional development or employee training programs.

In many cases, postsecondary schools also offer funding to PhD students. While funding amounts and options can vary from one school to the next, some examples include tuition rebates or cost of living stipends. For more information regarding financial aid, you can visit the US Department of Education ’s website.

Communications Professional Organizations

Joining a professional association or organization for communications professionals can provide you with the opportunity to network with others in your field. Professional organizations may also highlight new employment opportunities.

Some communications professional organizations include:

• American Advertising Federation (AAF)
• International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

Professional organizations can also be a great resource for learning and networking if you’re interested in starting your own business.

Is Communications a Good Career?

A career in communications may allow you to explore positions in education, finance, law, policy development, nonprofit, or government.

While it is common for graduates of a PhD in Communications program to pursue positions in teaching, a number of other career options are available. These include positions in public relations, management, research, and media.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that a number of positions in the field of communications will experience growth over the next several years. These positions include top executives (4% job growth), marketing managers (7%), public relations specialists (7%), and postsecondary teachers (9%).

What Can You Do with a PhD in Communications?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning your PhD in Communications online may allow you the opportunity to work in a variety of positions. Public relations, media, and education are just some of the industries where your communications skills are applicable.

Common careers in this field include chief communications officer, marketing manager, advertising and promotions manager, public relations manager, postsecondary school teacher, and public relations specialist. Other career options include writer, author, reporter, correspondent, and broadcast news analyst.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Communications Online?

Completing a PhD in Communications online may take 3 to 5 years when attending on a full-time basis.

Depending on the school you choose to attend, you may be able to enroll on a part-time basis, which could lengthen the amount of time it takes for you to obtain your degree. Some online degree programs in communications offer shorter 8 week terms that may allow you to finish your coursework sooner.

Similar to most masters in communications programs , it is common for communications PhD programs to be theory- and research-intensive. A large portion of academic time can be absorbed by work on a dissertation, which is generally required in order to graduate.

What’s the Difference Between Marketing vs. Communications?

While there are some overlapping areas of study between communications and marketing, there are also a few key differences.

Careers in marketing and communications can have some overlapping options, such as advertising, promotions, and marketing managers.

Is a PhD in Communications Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Communications is worth it for many students. Pursing a terminal degree in communications can allow you to explore topics related to history, writing, research, and social media.

Common careers in this field include marketing manager, advertising and promotions manager, public relations manager, public relations specialist, writer, author, reporter, and broadcast news analyst. PhD graduates often pursue research or postsecondary teacher positions.

Getting Your PhD in Communications Online

A Ph.D. in Communications can help equip you to pursue career paths in education, research, leadership, public relations, or media communications.

A doctoral degree may allow you to benefit from a flexible career path. There may be a variety of opportunities available to you in many different industries, such as government, nonprofit, finance, law, academia, or news media.

If you’re wanting to advance in this highly versatile and lucrative field, you can start today by exploring online communications doctoral programs from accredited universities.

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Best Online Doctorates in Communication: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salary

The best online PhD in Communication offers you a flexible higher education path that will allow you to increase your earning potential and employability without having to step foot on campus. If getting your communication PhD online sounds appealing to you, read on to find out more about the top PhD programs in the country as well as the best communication jobs you can get after earning yours.

In this guide, you’ll get an in-depth look at how you can earn your doctorate without having to put the rest of your life on hold and a breakdown of the cost, admission requirements, and other details about each program. This article will help you with your school search by giving you a detailed look at the best online PhDs in Communication in the country.

Find your bootcamp match

Can you get a phd in communication online.

Yes, you can get a PhD in Communication online. There are several institutions that offer either fully online or hybrid PhD programs for students looking for a more flexible learning format. While there are some key differences between online and on-campus programs, both of these research-based degrees typically require the completion of the same number of credit hours.

Is an Online PhD Respected?

Yes, an online PhD is respected. Any PhD earned from an accredited institution is respected and holds the same weight no matter the learning format. Online classes are of the same quality as in-person classes and are optimized for distance learning. While on-campus students may have access to more physical resources, online programs take this limitation into consideration and compensate for it. Hence, online degrees are respected by many employers today.

What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Communication?

The best online PhD program in communication is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by Indiana State University, which provides a flexible learning method. Designed for part-time and full-time students, this program only takes three years to complete at most and offers its students plenty of hands-on experience through its online courses.

Why Indiana State University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Communication

Indiana State University has the best online communication PhD program because not only is it one of the most affordable doctoral programs on our list, but it’s also one of the most flexible, allowing students to adjust their course load to best accommodate their schedules. It is also the shortest of all doctoral programs on our list, even when taken part time.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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Online PhD in Communication Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for an online PhD in Communication are different from one school to another. That being said, you’ll typically need to submit an online application form and provide your official transcripts from any institute you’ve previously attended, a scholarly writing sample, your resume, a list of references, your GRE test scores , and a personal statement.

• An online application form
• All of your postsecondary transcripts
• A writing sample
• Your current resume
• A list of references or reference letters
• A personal statement
• Your GRE scores

Best Online PhDs in Communication: Top Degree Program Details

Best online phds in communication: top university programs to get a phd in communication online.

The top university programs to get a PhD in Communication online are all terminal degrees, meaning that they are the highest level of education you can get in the field. These programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their career goals and earn a high annual wage after graduating. Here’s our list of the best online PhDs in Communication.

Boasting internationally-renowned faculty and being highly ranked among all schools and colleges across the country, American University is a research university that was established in 1893. Headquartered in Washington DC, The university offers flexible learning options across its various online programs specializing in numerous disciplines.

PhD in Communication

American University uses an interdisciplinary program to approach its coursework and offers its PhD students a highly-structured program that addresses political and social challenges. This three-year program teaches its students about the relationship between media, technology, and politics and how to analyze it critically.

PhD in Communication Overview

• Accreditation: Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities 
• Program Length: 3 years
• Acceptance Rate: Not specified, but only 5 applicants are admitted each year
• Tuition: $1,866/credit

PhD in Communication Admission Requirements

• Submit a completed online application form.
• Submit an admissions essay, two letters of recommendation, and your master’s thesis.
• Submit your GRE scores.
• Provide an updated resume.
• Provide your transcripts from all previous universities and colleges attended.
• Complete an interview if requested by the program director. 

Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) is a research institute that was established in 1875. The university offers over 140 undergraduate programs of study, 56 master's degree programs, and 14 doctoral degree programs. Prospective students at this accredited school can choose between an in-person program, an online program, and a hybrid program in most fields of study.

PhD in Media and Communication

The media and communication studies online program at IUP is flexible, teaching students the skills they need to be able to work in communication and training for the corporate space, health and political communication, media and management, and more. Prospective students wanting to enroll in this program can adjust their course load to fit their needs.

PhD in Media and Communication Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Program Length: Two to three years
• Acceptance Rate: 72%
• Tuition and Fees: $516/credit (in state); $593/credit (out of state)

PhD in Media and Communication Admission Requirements

• Create your admissions profile.
• Provide your official transcripts from all attended colleges and universities.
• Complete the online application.
• Upload your goal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
• Attend an interview if requested by the admissions faculty.

Established in 1972, Liberty University is a Christian, private, non-profit institution headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University prides itself in providing a high-quality education at an affordable cost. One of the largest private universities in the country, Liberty University is currently home to almost 94,000 students.

The PhD in Communication degree program at Liberty University is delivered fully online. This 60-credit doctoral program in the study of communications focuses on qualitative research methods and theory, equipping you with the skills needed to become a leader in a variety of areas of business or become a researcher or a college professor. 

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Tuition and Fees: $595/credit
• Fill out and submit your online application.
• Have a minimum college GPA of 3.0.
• Pay the $50 application fee.
• Submit your official transcripts of all previously attended postsecondary institutions. 

Michigan State University (MSU) was founded in 1855 and is among the top research universities in the country. With over 200 academic programs offered at its East Lansing, Michigan campus, students can choose from a wide variety of specialties among its comprehensive doctorate programs. The communication programs offered at the institute are all highly ranked.

As early as 1961, the PhD in Communication at MSU has been recognized as being one of the most prestigious in the world. The structure of this graduate degree program focuses on communication theory, quantitative methods, and teamwork, allowing students to work in behavioral research, teaching, and communication consultancy or even specialize in hospitality research.

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Program Length: 4 years
• Tuition and Fees: 817.25/credit (in state); 1,605.75/credit (out of state)
• Complete the online MSU Graduate School Application and pay the application fee.
• Provide a list of three referees and their email addresses.
• Submit an academic statement and a personal statement.
• Provide a copy of your resume.
• Submit a copy of your official transcripts to the Department of Communication PhD Program.
• Submit your GRE scores (optional).

Regent University was founded in 1978 and offers 60 programs for its online school graduate students to choose from. The institute has consistently ranked among the top national universities by US News & World Report. Prospective students can choose from a wide range of programs spanning many different fields of study at Regent University.

Regent University’s PhD in Communication is offered online alongside a one-week summer residency in Virginia Beach. This graduate degree takes an interdisciplinary approach to training, scholarly writing, and research and allows students to improve their communication and research skills . Common careers for graduates of this program include working as a writer, teacher, speaker, or thought leader.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Tuition and Fees: $950/credit
• Submit your application using the Regent University online application portal.
• Submit a minimum five-page scholarly or published writing sample that demonstrates your research, writing, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Submit your unofficial college transcripts.
• Complete Regent University’s Academic Background Questionnaire.
• Provide a scanned copy of a government-issued ID.

Established in 1921, Robert Morris University (RMU) is a private institution that offers 60 bachelor's degree programs and 35 master's and doctoral programs. Home to approximately 4,100 students, most of which are undergraduate students, Robert Morris University’s doctoral degree in communication is one of the few PhD programs the school offers.

PhD in Information Systems and Communication

The PhD in Media and Communication at RMU is an executive-style doctor of philosophy program structured to give students the tools they need to become scholarly researchers and leaders. Through a blended learning format, the school uses an interdisciplinary approach to help students analyze the connections between technology and human communication.

PhD in Information Systems and Communication Overview

• Tuition and Fees: $1,207/credit

PhD in Information Systems and Communication Admission Requirements

• Have a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Submit an online application.
• Submit your official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
• Provide three letters of reference and a current resume.
• Provide an academic writing sample.
• Complete an interview with the Doctoral Program Director and Doctoral Admissions Committee. 

Founded in Lubbock, Texas, in 1923, Texas Tech University is a public research institution offering degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral-level. Home to over 40,000 students, Texas Tech has produced a large number of notable alumni across a wide variety of fields of study.

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric

The PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric at Texas Tech allows students to develop their knowledge of rhetoric, writing, technical communication, and composition. Students can specialize in technical communication and user-centered design, rhetorical theory and practice, composition, writing, and literacy studies.

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Overview

• Tuition and Fees: $8,653/year (in state); $16,180/year (out-of-state)

Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Admission Requirements

• Submit a graduate course paper or the equivalent that demonstrates your ability to develop a thesis using research and analysis.
• Submit a statement of purpose.
• Submit a copy of your resume, three letters of reference, and a signed copy of the Distance Learning Agreement.

Established in 1820, The University of Alabama has consistently produced award-winning graduates. These include sixty Goldwater Scholars, 16 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars, 37 Hollings Scholars, and 16 Boren Scholars. The school is well known for its programs in social sciences and business.

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences

The PhD in Communication & Information Sciences at The University of Alabama prepares students to work as library professionals and leaders in information environments. This online program has a curriculum that blends scholarly research and synchronous online courses to develop well-rounded graduates.

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Overview

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Tuition and Fees: $440/credit

Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Admission Requirements

• Have a Master’s Degree in Communications or in a related field with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Complete a graduate school application form and pay the application fee.
• Provide a statement of purpose and a copy of your resume.
• Provide the names and contact information for three academic references.
• Provide your unofficial college transcripts. 

The University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and offers 124 master's, doctoral and professional degree programs. The institute is one of the country’s top-ranked Tier 1 research institutions and is one of only 35 public research institutions in the Association of American Universities (AAU). 

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PhD in Strategic Communication

This program’s coursework trains students in communication theory and research, as well as strategic communication research methods. The curriculum focuses on mass communication and public communication studies, literature and academic journals, social media trends , political communication, media organizations, and video games.

PhD in Strategic Communication Overview

• Program Length: 5 years
• Tuition and Fees: $866.29/credit

PhD in Strategic Communication Admission Requirements

• Have a master’s degree with a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5.
• Submit a personal statement, three letters of reference, and a scholarly writing sample.
• Submit an academic and professional resume.
• Provide the unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate courses you’ve taken.

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university recognized for leading research in engineering, medicine, aviation, space, and unmanned aircraft systems. The university also has the largest number of fully-online students among all universities in its region.

The PhD in Communication degree program at UND teaches students about the role of communication within the global community, as well as the international and intercultural contexts surrounding it. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and the diverse nature of human communication across various cultures and systems.

• Program Length: 3-5 years
• Tuition and Fees: $660.08/credit 
• Create an admissions account on the school portal.
• Submit an online application and pay the application fee.
• Submit your official transcripts and GRE scores.
• Submit a statement of interest detailing your personal goals and the relevance of the Doctor of Philosophy in Communication to those goals.
• Submit an original academic paper that shows your ability to articulate and synthesize ideas.
• Provide three letters of recommendation from sources familiar with your potential as a doctoral student in communication.

Online Communication PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Communication?

It is somewhat hard to complete an online PhD program in communication. While the curricular content can be quite complex, most online programs are structured to be flexible, meaning that students can more easily take the time they need to learn what they’re being taught. Online PhDs require hard work, dedication, and motivation to complete even more than on-campus programs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Communication Online?

It takes about two to five years to get a PhD in Communication online. The amount of time it takes you to complete your program depends heavily on whether you study part time or full time, if you have any transfer credits from other institutions, and the structure and curriculum of your chosen program. Most universities have a seven-year cap on their PhD programs.

How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Communication?

An online doctorate in communication is not very hard to get if you are able to dedicate the time and effort required. A doctorate is the highest level of formal education that is available, meaning that it will be challenging, and while an online PhD may offer more flexibility, it doesn’t make the learning aspect of it any easier. Online programs only make it easier to fit other commitments into your life while pursuing your degree.

Best PhD Programs

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What Courses Are in an Online Communication PhD Program?

The courses in an online communication PhD program include Organizational Communication, Communication and Technology, Interpersonal Communication, and Health Communication, to name a few. Each program offers a different variety of introductory courses, advanced core courses, and elective courses.

Main Areas of Study in a Communication PhD Program

• Organizational communication
• Communication and technology
• Interpersonal communication
• Health communication

How Much Does Getting an Online Communication PhD Cost?

It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Communication, on average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The actual cost of your degree is dependent on the institution you attend and whether it is private, public, or non-profit. Public universities typically cost the least to attend, and private and for-profit institutions will cost more.

How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Communication

You can pay for an online PhD program in communication by either choosing from a selection of fully-funded doctoral programs, qualifying for a scholarship, applying for financial aid , or making an arrangement for a long-term pay-off plan. Many scholarships are offered through the research departments of some schools. Make sure to research what opportunities the school you’re interested in provides.

How to Get an Online PhD for Free

You cannot get an online PhDs for free. Online PhDs all require some form of payment. The only exception is those that offer full funding. Even then, this is done through an application and selection process, and not everyone qualifies for it. If you require financial aid, your best bet is to choose one of the aforementioned methods to reduce your financial burden.

What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Communication Degree Program?

The most affordable online PhD in Communication degree program is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. This program will only cost you $319 per credit, making it much less expensive than the other programs on our list, which can cost up to $1,866 per credit.

Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Communication: In Brief

Why you should get an online phd in communication.

You should get an online PhD in Communication because of the flexible and more convenient learning format it offers. Online programs give you the option to work or have time for other commitments such as your family. Online degree programs also tend to be less expensive than in-person degree programs.

Additionally, as previously mentioned, an online degree from an accredited institution is as valid as an in-person degree program. Having a PhD will increase your earning potential, allow you to work in a wider range of areas, and allow you to climb the corporate or institutional ladder more easily.

Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Communication

• Career options. Because the knowledge and skills you’ve gained during your communication degree are useful and applicable in many industries, you’ll have a wider variety of options for career paths that you can pursue.
• Career outlook. The projected job growth for the common careers available to communication PhD grads indicates that, over the next decade, there is a good chance of finding employment upon completing your doctoral degree program.
• Higher-paying jobs . Since a PhD is the highest form of formal education you can get, that gives you a leg up when searching for employment opportunities. Employers generally seek out the most qualified candidates for the jobs they are offering. With a PhD, you will be among the most qualified and will be able to negotiate for a higher salary.
• Interest in expanding knowledge. Arguably, the best reason to get a PhD is the desire to learn more about an area you have a keen interest in. If you have the privilege of pursuing a degree in a topic you are passionate about, that in itself is reason enough to do it.

Best Master’s Degree Programs

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What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Communication PhD and an Online PhD in Communication?

The difference between an on-campus communication PhD and an online PhD in Communication is the learning format and flexibility that an online degree program offers to its students and isn’t available to on-campus students. Whether you choose to get your PhD in Communication online or in person, the quality of the education you are receiving won’t change.

Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences

• Flexibility. The flexibility offered by online learning is perhaps the most notable difference between an online PhD and an on-campus PhD. Online programs are specifically designed for busy professionals and generally are more conducive to part-time enrollment.
• Cost. Typically, it costs less to enroll in an online degree program than it does to attend on-campus classes because distance learning students use fewer of the university’s resources. Additionally, when you factor in costs related to travel and supplies, the total expense of studying online tends to be significantly lower.
• College options. Another aspect of not having to travel to campus is that it opens up many more options when it comes to where you can choose to study. Not being limited by distance allows you to consider schools that you might have otherwise not been able to attend.
• Study locations. Whether you choose to study from home, in a library, or any other location, your learning environment is up to you. That being said, the benefit of studying on campus is that the formal environment often makes it easier to stay focused during your communication studies.

How to Get a PhD in Communication Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

To get a PhD in Communication online, you need to submit an application on the school website or portal, complete all of the required coursework set by the program, get your dissertation topic approved by the program’s faculty, pass all qualifying and comprehensive exams, and finally defend and submit your dissertation.

The first step to getting your communication PhD is applying. In most cases, you’ll need to fill out an application form with your personal details and the details of the degree you want to pursue and submit any additional materials to support your application. These usually include transcripts, a resume, and letters of recommendation, among others.

All doctoral students must complete a certain number of required courses throughout their PhD studies. The total number of courses you need to complete will differ from one institution to the next, but your academic advisor will be able to help you plan out your schedule in accordance with whether you are attending a program part time or full time.

At the same time as you work through your required courses, you will also need to present a dissertation topic that will be the focus of your PhD research. After its approval by your supervisor and the program director, you’ll be able to start your research. At multiple points during your research, you’ll need to demonstrate your progress to your supervisor.

To earn your doctoral degree in communication, you’ll need to pass qualifying and comprehensive exams. PhD faculty use these exams to ensure that their students are able to retain and use the knowledge they are gathering during their courses. Keep in mind that simply passing may not be enough. Most programs require that students maintain a minimum GPA throughout their studies.

The last thing you need to do to earn your PhD is to defend your dissertation in front of the program committee and director. If you succeed and have completed all of your coursework and maintained an acceptable GPA throughout your studies while staying in good academic standing, you will be able to apply for graduation.

Online PhD in Communication Salary and Job Outlook

The job outlook for online PhD in Communication holders from 2020 to 2030 looks promising. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication occupations have a projected 14 percent growth . This is faster than the average projection for all occupations, which indicates that communication PhD graduates should not face many challenges in their job search.

What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Communication?

With an online doctorate in communication, you can explore various career paths, including sales management, technical writing, human resources management, and marketing management. In addition, you can also become a professor .

Best Jobs with a PhD in Communication

• Sales Manager
• Technical Writer
• Human Resources Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Postsecondary Teacher

Potential Careers With a Communication Degree

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What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Communication?

The average salary for an online PhD holder in communication is $74,000 per year , according to PayScale. That means that you have the potential to earn a slightly higher salary than the average American employee’s salary . The actual amount you earn will depend heavily on your location, employer, job title, and experience.

Highest-Paying Communication Jobs for PhD Grads

Best communication jobs for online phd holders.

The best communication jobs for online PhD holders are all jobs that heavily utilize your understanding of how humans interact with one another as well as how factors such as technology and media affect this. In the following section, we break down some of the best jobs you can get with a PhD in Communication, including their salary, outlook, and the highest-paying states.

Marketing managers work in industries such as advertising, finance, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail to execute strategies that raise consumer awareness. These strategies include promotional work that appeals to the consumers and maximizes profits and, ultimately,  the company’s success.

• Salary with a Communication PhD: $133,380
• Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 316,800
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, Virginia

Human resources managers play an incredibly vital role in the proper functioning of any business. HR managers are tasked with hiring new employees and serving as the liaison between a company and its employees. HR managers are charged with the important responsibility of finding the best-suited candidates who will help push the company to new highs.

• Salary with a Communication PhD: $126,230
• Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 161,700
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island

Postsecondary teachers, also called professors, teach students at universities and colleges, conduct research, and publish materials related to their field of study. You can choose to be a professor in any academic subject that is related to your PhD and teach at almost any academic level, depending on your level of experience.

• Salary with a Communication PhD: $79,640
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Alaska, New York, District of Columbia, New Jersey

The job of a technical writer is to write academic journal articles, develop product manuals that teach people how to use products, write website help sections, and write about any other informational content that requires technical knowledge. Strong academic and corporate communication skills are vital for this position.

• Salary with a Communication PhD: $78,060
• Number of Jobs: 52,300
• Highest-Paying States: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, District of Columbia

Public relations specialists work for various types of organizations including schools and professional associations and are tasked with creating media releases, attending meetings and events, delivering speeches, and, generally, creating and maintaining a good public image for those they represent.

• Salary with a Communication PhD: $62,800
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 273,300
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, California

Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Communication Online?

Yes, it is worth it to do a PhD in Communication online if you wish to advance your knowledge and skills and work in the field of communications, retaining a significantly larger amount of flexibility than if you were enrolled in an in-person program. The variety of career options that this degree will offer you when you choose a career path is well worth the hard work.

A PhD in Communication will allow for quicker professional development when compared to the less advanced degree options within the field, allowing you to enter into higher and better-paying positions once you have graduated. With a PhD being a terminal degree in this field, you will have an incredible leg up over other candidates during your job search.

Additional Reading About Communication

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Online PhD in Communication FAQ

The most common specializations with a PhD in Communication include advanced communication theory, feminist studies, global communication, and cultural studies, to name a few. There are many specialization options you can choose from for your online PhD in Communication. In general, communications degrees can prove quite useful in different industries, so it is worth it pursuing a PhD in this field.

The degrees that you can get in communication include an associate degree , a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, as well as a PhD in Communication. The kind of degree you should get depends on your career goals.

Yes, there are associations and organizations you can join with careers in communication, such as the International Communication Association (ICA), the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management (GAPRCM). There are several jobs for communication degree holders .

Yes, you can get an online PhD in Communication without a master’s degree. While not as common, you can apply for a PhD in Communication with only a bachelor’s degree at certain institutions. Make sure to check your desired program’s admission requirements to see if it’s a possibility for you and look at interesting communication topics you can research during your PhD.

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2024 Best PhD in Communications Online [Doctoral Guide]

To increase your contribution to the field of communications, you may want to think about getting a PhD in communications online.

This degree program can help prepare you to stand at the forefront of research, to teach new generations of communications students, or to serve as a leader in business, government, or nonprofit work.

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Doctoral communication studies can help you launch an academic career. Other professionals in the field hold leadership positions in various industries, such as advertising, media, marketing, public relations, or journalism.

Online PhD in Communications Programs

If you want to make your mark in the field of communications, then a Ph.D. in Communications might be the path for you. Getting a doctoral degree can be quite the undertaking, but it can also lead to opportunities for you to make a lasting difference.

With a doctorate, you might be recognized as a leader who’s trusted to educate students, deliver messages, or spearhead change.

Doctoral programs in communications often include classes on strategic communication theories, interpersonal dynamics, and mass media. Some courses may cover modern issues in organizational communication as well as the influence of digital technologies.

In addition, there’s usually a core curriculum that focuses on doctoral research. Those doctoral program courses teach you to develop research topics, conduct studies, analyze statistics, and write in an academic style.

Communication is important in all sectors, so this is a broad, versatile field. You may be able to tailor your course of study to your particular goals. Some students build their programs around specialties like:

• Advertising
• Digital media
• Family communication
• Health communication
• Intercultural dynamics
• Mass communication
• Organizational communication
• Public relations
• Strategic communication

Some communication PhD graduates go on to become professors who teach communication or media studies. Tenured roles, in particular, usually require holding a doctorate. This academic track can also lead to research opportunities.

While professorships are often associated with PhDs, you may also find work as a practitioner in a variety of fields, such as journalism, marketing, public policy, or media relations. Jobs may be available in corporations, government agencies, think tanks, and nonprofit organizations.

Communications Careers & Salary Data

Many communications doctoral students have academic careers in mind. PhD graduates may become community college or university professors of media studies. Depending on experience, job titles include assistant professor, associate professor, or department chair.

Being a professor isn’t the only option in higher education. Many college administrators, such as deans and provosts, also need to have PhDs. A PhD can also lead to research positions.

Even if you’re not employed in academia, you can still consider a research career. Market research analytics and survey research are two fields where you could apply your scientific training. Government agencies, for instance, may hire social science researchers.

While academic roles are common, many communications students also have non-academic careers in mind. You may apply your doctoral expertise as a practitioner in a variety of settings. For example, many organizations hire communications directors, digital media specialists, or public policy directors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , jobs in media and communications pay a median annual salary of $61,310, and the median salary for management occupations is $109,760.

While an online PhD in Communications isn’t required for all of the above careers, it could enhance your earnings and contributions to any of these fields.

The business fields of public relations, advertising, and marketing, for example, rely heavily on communications principles. Having a communication PhD might qualify you for a management role in one of those departments. Your knowledge of communications could also help you design employee training modules as a professional development specialist.

This specialized degree might even justify your advancement to one of the top spots in your company. Sometimes, experts in communications, media relations, or marketing are named chief officers of their organization.

As a communications professional, writing might be one of your strengths. Technical writers sometimes contribute to grant proposals, user experience research, and scientific journalism. News reporters for print and digital media also rely on strategic communication skills.

Online Doctorate in Communications Curriculum

For your communications PhD, you may take a selection of core classes and electives. The doctoral program coursework can bolster your research skills and strategic leadership skills and also help you work toward your career goals.

The curriculum for the communications program at your school might include classes like the below examples:

• Communication Theories : During your time in this course, you’ll read published research from the communications field and compare and contrast theories on how strategic communication occurs.
• Digital Media : This course applies communications principles to website design and may include lessons on coding.
• Family Communication : You can explore the dynamics of communication styles in various family structures and discuss roadblocks to effective family communication.
• Health Communication : In this course, you might discuss the role of strategic communication in health promotion, provider-patient relationships, and health informatics.
• Historical Foundations of Communications Study : This class covers major events in human history that have shaped communication practices and explores the technologies that have played a role.
• Modern Trends in Communications : You’ll learn about the latest research in this field and become more familiar with scholarly journals and other influential resources.
• Research in Communications : By introducing you to research methodologies used in the humanities and social sciences, this class can help get you ready for your dissertation.
• Social Science Statistics : In preparation for the dissertation, you can increase your understanding of both qualitative research methods and quantitative research methods and statistical analysis.
• Social Marketing : Your time in this class will explore the idea of communicating in ways that bring about social change or encourage healthy living.
• Workplace Communication : You can learn about the dynamics of interpersonal communication in professional settings and discuss how strategic communication theories can shape workplace practices.

Your program will also likely include a dissertation, which you may work on for several years. For this major project, you will typically draft proposals, conduct research, write a dissertation, and defend it before a committee.

Admissions Requirements

Before you can begin your doctoral studies, it’s necessary to apply and be admitted to a program.

GRE scores were once a standard prerequisite for graduate school, but a number of schools no longer requires test scores for admission. The requested application materials for your communications PhD program may include:

• Reference letters
• Scholarly writing sample
• Transcripts from all colleges you’ve attended

Many PhD programs are reserved for students who already hold masters degrees, but some allow you to begin this level of study with only a bachelor’s degree.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation is given to colleges that meet quality standards. To earn it, schools have to be evaluated and approved by a regional accrediting agency . If a college is accredited, you can trust that it meets high educational standards.

A doctoral degree will often garner more respect if it comes from a regionally accredited college. This can be especially important when you’re looking for jobs or postdoctoral fellowships.

Accreditation is considered especially important in academia, so an accredited doctorate is necessary for professorship. Attending an accredited school can also play a factor in determining eligibility for receiving financial aid from the government.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial assistance may help you achieve your goal of earning a doctoral degree. To begin your search for tuition support, you can fill out the government’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

As a doctoral student, you might qualify for low-interest loans through the federal government or a state program. Scholarships and fellowships can contribute to your tuition assistance as well. You may be able to secure awards through professional associations or philanthropic groups.

As a doctoral candidate, you might also qualify for tuition relief and a stipend in exchange for working as a teaching or research assistant. Such arrangements are most common at on-campus colleges, but some online programs may have these opportunities available as well.

If you intend to use your PhD in your current workplace, your employer might even help pay for your schooling.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Communications?

Being a professor is one of the top jobs that many students consider when getting a PhD in Communications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most communications professors earn between $40,690 and $137,520 annually.

A PhD might also contribute to a career in government, business, or community development. Some professionals in the field work as communications directors, public relations managers, and marketing managers. Marketing managers typically earn between $74,620 and $208,000 each year (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Some doctoral program communications graduates use their expertise to pursue or advance their careers in technical writing, journalism, training and professional development, or survey research.

What’s the Difference Between Marketing vs. Communications?

In both communications and marketing, communication skills are critically important. The communications field is quite broad and has many applications. Marketing, on the other hand, is specifically tailored toward building brands and selling products.

For communications, you may study:

• Communications history
• Interpersonal dynamics
• Social media

Topics covered in marketing programs can include:

• Market research
• Neuroscience

Even though these two programs are different, a communications degree can also be useful for a marketing career.

Is a PhD in Communications Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Communications is worth it for many professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for postsecondary teachers are expected to grow at a 9% rate over the next decade. Since communications plays a role in nearly every field, this PhD can be useful outside of academia too.

Several relevant careers are also experiencing growth rates above the national average. For example, marketing management jobs are increasing at a 7% rate, and positions for public relations and fundraising managers are expected to grow by 9% over the next ten years.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Communication Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree online programs or in a hybrid format.

American University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Communications. The program can usually be completed in 3 years, with each year allowing students to study over the course of 11 months.

Students must defend a dissertation to graduate. Applicants must possess a master’s degree and must submit a master’s thesis, GRE scores, 2 letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. American University  is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

Clemson University offers a PhD program in Rhetoric, Communication, and Information Design. Students must complete a dissertation and 30 semester hours to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.5 and need to submit a personal statement, a portfolio, transcripts, and a curriculum vita.

Clemson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado State University offers an online PhD in Communications program. To graduate, students must complete 81 credits of online courses and a dissertation and must participate in departmental research seminars. To be eligible for the program, applicants must submit a statement of purpose, 3 letters of reference, and a writing sample.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a PhD in Media and Communication Studies. When taken full-time, the program can typically be completed in 2 years with students taking 3 courses per semester.

A total of 60 credits and a dissertation are needed to graduate. Applicants need to submit transcripts, a resume, and 2 letters of recommendation when applying. The  Indiana University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Communications. Students must complete 60 credit hours. Online courses last for 8 weeks, and the program can typically be completed in 3 years. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Official transcripts must be submitted when applying.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University offers a PhD in Communication. This online program can be completed with only a week-long summer residency.

The program requires 64 credits of online courses, including a dissertation and an examination, to graduate. Applicants must submit a graduate writing sample, transcripts, government ID, and an academic background questionnaire.

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Robert Morris University offers a PhD in Information Systems and Communications. A total of 60 credits, a qualifying exam, and a dissertation are needed to graduate. The program typically takes 3 years to complete. To be eligible for the program, students must have a GPA of 3.0, 3 letters of reference, and a personal essay. Robert Morris University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University offers an online program leading to a Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication and Rhetoric.

The program requires 60 credits and a successfully defended dissertation to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, a statement of interest, and 3 letters of reference. Students may choose to start in the spring, summer, or fall terms. Texas Tech University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Alabama offers a PhD in Communication and Information Sciences. Students may choose to add a specialization in one of seven areas, including Applied Communication or Book and Publishing Studies. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

The  University of Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of North Dakota offers a PhD in Communications. The program requires 90 credits to graduate and can usually be completed in 3 years. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and 3 letters of recommendation to be eligible for the program. When applying, an original academic paper and GRE scores must be submitted.

The  University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Earning Your PhD in Communications Online

A communications doctoral degree program can help you further develop your expertise in this versatile field. A PhD can help you qualify for positions in both academic and non-academic sectors.

Just as you can earn an online master’s in communication , an online communications PhD program can be a convenient way for you to complete doctoral studies. Some programs allow you to take online courses through distance learning and communicate remotely with your doctoral advisor.

With the flexibility of an online communications degree program , you may be able to keep up with work or family responsibilities while also taking steps toward your degree. If you’re ready to find the PhD degree program that’s right for you, you may want to take a look at the various online programs in communications from accredited universities.

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NCA's Doctoral Program Guide

About the Doctoral Program Guide

The  Doctoral Program Guide  is designed to provide timely and useful information about doctoral programs in Communication for students, prospective students, and other interested parties.

Which Programs Are Listed? Many doctoral programs are included in this guide, all of which offer a Ph.D. degree in some area or field of the Communication discipline. We began with the programs that have traditionally been ranked or evaluated as doctoral programs in Communication by other sources and added a number of new programs.   

For doctoral programs in related areas of study, visit the following:

• American Library Association's Accredited Programs page  
• American Society for Theater Research's Doctoral Program Directory  
• American Speech & Hearing Association's EdFind  
• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication's Graduate Student Info page  
• Modern Language Association's Guide to Doctoral Programs in English and Other Modern Languages  
• Public Relations Society of America's Higher Education Programs Online Directory  

What Information Can Be Found in the Guide?

All information presented in this guide is publicly available on the individual department or program website and/or in other published sources. Each university is identified by its  Carnegie Classification , its membership in the  Association of American Universities , and by the number of doctorates it has conferred from 2010 to 2019, according to the  National Science Foundation's  Survey of Earned Doctorates . The guide provides the areas of study of each program, the admissions requirements for each program, a listing of each program's graduate faculty, and contact information. In addition, we also recognize a program's recipients of NCA Awards from 2000 to the present and synthesize and report on the programs' standing in a series of different rankings/ratings, including:

• The university's 2019 ranking in the Communication & Media Studies category of the QS World University Rankings . (Note: this ranking includes 200 universities; the first 50 are individually ranked, followed by category rankings for the remainder.)
• The university's 2019-2020 ranking in the "Language, Communication, and Culture" category of the University Ranking by Academic Performance measure.  

Explanation of Areas of Study

Most doctoral programs in Communication indicate research areas or special research concentrations. Such areas are usually based on the types of research conducted by the faculty members in the program, as well as by the courses offered toward the graduate degree. 

A program is listed within a specific research area based entirely upon its self-identification of research focus. Because the identification and labeling of research foci vary so greatly across programs, this list groups and categorizes research areas according to commonly understood labels. Thus, a given doctoral program may identify its research specialty as "media economics" or "media studies" or "media effects." That program would be included in the broader category below of "Mass Communication/Media Studies."

University of Massachusetts, Department of Communication

Drexel University, Department of Communication

University of Arizona, Department of Communication

North Dakota State University, Department of Communication

New York University, Department of Media, Culture &...

University of Iowa, Department of Communication Studies

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Department of...

Michigan State University, Department of Communication

Southern Illinois University, Department of Communication...

University of Pittsburgh, Department of Communication

University of Washington, Department of Communication

Purdue University, Brian Lamb School of Communication

University of Wisconsin, Ph.D. Program in Mass...

Texas Tech University, Department of English

Temple University, College of Media & Communication

Pennsylvania State University, College of Communications

PhD in Communication

Doctor of philosophy in school of communication.

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At the Intersection of Media, Technology, and Democracy

The AU School of Communication's Doctor of Philosophy in Communication allows you to research at the intersection of media, technology, and democracy. We study how media and technology interact with democratic culture and politics. Communication creates culture; communication is a vector of power; communication is central to democratic action. Our normative orientation toward a healthier democratic process is a theme consistent with the core public service mission of American University. Internet governance, podcasts as news sources, disinformation on Twitter, digital surveillance, facial recognition and power, racism on social media, and state social-media propaganda are all topics of recent dissertations.

Our focus is at the cutting edge of the field of communication studies today, and our students routinely present at our leading conferences. Our approach is also interdisciplinary, and we benefit from the diverse intellectual resources across American University, such as those showcased at the Internet Governance Lab , the AU Game Center ,  the Center for Media & Social Impact , the Center for Latino and Latin American Studies , and the Institute on Disability and Public Policy (IDPP) . We also tap into our relationships with NGOs, media companies, foundations, and government institutions throughout the Washington metro area. 

In our doctoral program, you'll produce scholarship, using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, that has real-world connection and impact . Your work will position you well to pick from career options that range from the professoriate to public policy research to media production to government. 

This is a three-year PhD, and from the moment you arrive, you will be working in a highly-structured program toward your dissertation research, building your networks, and developing publishable projects. You will join us in using knowledge to address our most pressing political and social challenge s . We welcome your application to become a part of the next generation of communication scholars, professors, leaders, and practitioners.

Demonstrate Your Commitment and Interest

Applicants for the Communication (PhD) degree program must hold an accredited bachelor's degree and a master's degree in communication, or a related field, with a cumulative GPA of 3.30 or higher, unless the applicant demonstrates comparable experience. The degree does not have to be in the field of communication or be research-based, as many of our PhD students have master's degrees in film or journalism. 

Applicants must submit a statement of purpose that outlines the intended research area, what research methods and theories the applicant will use, and which faculty members the applicant hopes to work with.

The candidate must also submit either a master's thesis or another example of substantial research. The GRE is optional. Students should submit their official GRE scores to CEEB code 5007 if desired.

The School of Communication's PhD program operates on a hard deadline. Applications must be received by December 15th.  Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

A complete PhD application consists of the following:

• Statement of purpose
• University transcripts from all universities attended (transcripts from outside of the U.S. must be evaluated by a NACES approevd organization)
• Two letters of recommendation
• GRE scores (optional)
• Master's thesis (or another example of substantial research)
• Proof of English proficiency (100 on the TOEFL, 7.0 on the IELTS, 120 on Duolingo, or a bachelor or master's degree from a university in an English speaking country)

The admissions committee may ask applicants to interview with the program director and affiliated faculty. Interviews are conducted either on campus or virtually.

Financing Your Education

Each year, we welcome several doctoral students with full tuition remission as well as a graduate assistantship . We may also offer admission to top candidates without merit funding. If funding becomes available, students admitted without funding may be eligible to receive a merit package from the school.

The PhD in Communication is 54 credit hours. To estimate the cost of tuition , please see the current cost per credit hour for graduate students.

Students whose funding package includes a graduate assistantship will work as research or teaching assistants for 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters. 

The School of Communication offers graduate students both merit-based and need-based financial aid . Merit awards, named scholarships, and fellowships are administered by the SOC Graduate Admissions Office, while need-based awards are administered by the American University Office of Financial Aid . Several prestigious graduate fellowships are also available for students in the Political Communication program. Additional financial support is available for veterans .

Each year, we welcome several doctoral students with full tuition remission as well as a graduate assistantship. We may also offer admission to top candidates without merit funding. If funding becomes available, students admitted without funding may be eligible to receive a merit package from the school. 

All merit awards are based on your academic merit and professional experience , specifically your undergraduate grades and leadership activities as well as career-related accomplishments. Merit awards are valid for one year-they vary in amount, are typically divided evenly between the fall and spring semesters, and are not typically renewable.

Some merit awards come in the form of graduate assistantships , which consist of graduate tuition remission, a stipend, or both. Tuition remission will vary in the number of credits offered. If you are offered a stipend, you must employed as a graduate assistant for a School of Communication faculty member for 10 hours per week.

Graduate Fellowships for Political Communication

The School of Communication offers prestigious merit-based fellowships in partnership with leading Washington, DC-based media organizations. These fellowships provide varying amounts of tuition remission and stipend and allow you to pursue professional projects with some of the finest media organizations while completing your graduate program. Separate applications are required . 

Research fellowships at academic centers within the School of Communication and throughout the university may also be available.

Unless indicated, students may not accept both a graduate assistantship and a graduate fellowship.

 Advanced Study at Your Convenience 

The School of Communication makes continuing on for your advanced degree a simple, straightforward process. You may apply for admission to our combined bachelor of arts/master of arts program during the second semester of your junior year (after completing 75 credits, but before you have completed 90 credits). Students in any undergraduate major at AU are eligible for consideration. An undergraduate degree in communication is not required.

You may apply for combined degrees in Political Communication, Strategic Communication, Film and Video, Journalism and Public Affairs, Game Design, or International Media.

More information about admissions requirements can be found here.

Meet Our Students

Our students produce scholarship, using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, that has real-world connection and impact.

Democracy is a Laughing Matter

In the Top 5 percent of Best Ranked Programs in Communication and Media Studies

According to College Factual

Course Progression

Complete your degree in three years.

In contrast to the traditional 9-month-per-year schedule, your annual course of study takes place over 11 months, including faculty supervision and mentoring via formal course work, organized research group meetings, and online collaboration. The  accelerated structure  of your program allows you to complete your degree in three years.

You'll take six required courses, three each in the fall and spring semester. Depending on your past master's coursework and professional experience, you may be able to petition for credit for methods and/or statistics course work, substituting an advanced methods course or other elective. The required teaching seminar prepares you to work as a teaching assistant in an undergraduate course during your second year of coursework. Students who have prior college teaching experience or who have already taken a similar teaching seminar as part of their master's program can place out of this course, substituting an additional elective. In the summer immediately following your first year, you'll enroll in one course for credit and participate in research group meetings.

COMM-704: Media, Technology & Democracy (3) This is a foundation overview course focused on scholarship and analysis concerning the intersections of media, technology, and democracy. It also introduces other core courses and study concentrations for advanced study in these topics.

COMM-750: Advanced Media Theory (3) This course examines a range of theories for explaining the complex interrelationships among media, technology, human behavior, social interaction, and democratic processes. It provides an in-depth comparative analysis of theoretical approaches from a variety of academic fields including mass communication, cultural studies, film criticism, and digital media.

COMM-751: Advanced Media Research Methods (3) This course covers major social scientific, historical, ethnographic, qualitative, and critical approaches to media research, including discussions of epistemology, conceptualization, measurement, and ethics.

COMM-754: Media, Law & Policy (3) This course equips students with a strong grounding in U.S laws, policies, and regulatory infrastructure. It analyzes how public debates and political struggles over policy issues have shaped the culture, structure, and operations of contemporary U.S. media industries and institutions.

COMM-711: Teaching Seminar (3) This course provides students with career preparation knowledge, including understanding the culture and history of higher education, teaching skills, and career skills including submission to journals, book proposals, finding appropriate job opportunities, writing cover letters and doing job interviews. Some individual coaching is also involved.

NOTE: This course begins the Friday BEFORE school starts in spring semester, with attendance at an all-day event, the Ann Ferren Conference. This affects your travel schedule over winter holidays!

Approved graduate statistics or research methods course (3) (by preference) OR

Elective selected in consultation with faculty mentor (3)

Note: Students will work with their faculty mentor, who must have an appropriate terminal degree, to select two electives for the first fall semester.

COMM-755: Research Design in Communication (3). This course strengthens student skills in defining an answerable research questions and finding appropriate methodologies.

In the fall, you'll take two electives and a course to prepare you for the comprehensive examinations. By the end of your fall semester, you'll be expected to have gained approval and to have finalized the four faculty members of your doctoral committee, with at least one member being from outside of the School of Communication. At the beginning of your spring semester, you'll begin your qualifying exams. This process takes approximately one month from the assignment of questions to a successful written and oral defense. You will also take a seminar to guide you in developing your dissertation proposal. By the end of the spring semester or beginning of the summer, students are expected to have successfully defended their dissertation proposals and to spend the summer focused on dissertation research.

COMM-860 Seminar in Doctoral Teaching and Research (3) Creation of dissertation literature review and preparation for the comprehensive exam. Introduction to teaching philosophies and strategies, preparation for scholarly career in Communication Studies.

Approved elective courses (6)

Approved graduate statistics or research methods course (3)

COMM-861: Advanced Research & Project Development (3) Prepares students for advancing to candidacy by taking the comprehensive exam and preparing a dissertation proposal.

COMM-898: Doctoral Continuing Enrollment (6) May be taken by doctoral students completing coursework, exams or proposals in preparation for advancement to candidacy.

In the fall and spring semesters, you'll register for dissertation research credits. During the fall and spring semesters, you will also probably be applying and interviewing for jobs, drawing upon information from your first-year course, COMM 711 and on your mentors’ advice. By late spring, your dissertation committee expects to have about six weeks to read and respond to a dissertation draft and to read and respond to a revised version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should apply to the phd in communication program.

Applicants could be interested in tenure track, faculty positions in academia, or seeking careers at prestigious institutions in government, industry, and/or the nonprofit community.

How can the PhD program help strengthen my pedagogical skills?

In addition to the teaching seminars and teaching assistantships that are part of the regular doctoral curriculum, The Art of Teaching is a one-credit course offered each spring semester for PhD students who want to learn more about educational pedagogy. The course was originally designed by American University's former provost, Milton Greenberg.

Previously known as the Greenberg Seminars for Effective Teaching, this course complements the PhD academic experience, providing hands-on, practical introduction to professional development and classroom techniques. PhD students can participate at any time during their PhD program. There is no tuition fee for the course.

What are areas of faculty expertise?

Our program is focused on impactful research at the intersection of media, technology, and democracy. Our faculty and students study how media messages and communication technologies shape, and are shaped by, social and governmental processes. Specific sites of research range from Internet governance to music and film culture to social and political organizing to journalism to new media and games. We study communication patterns and their meanings across and between societies on a global scale, including, every continent in addition to indigenous and stateless groups. We draw upon cultural production, critical communication, science and technology studies, law and society perspectives, and other theories, and we use both quantitative and qualitative research methods as well as policy analysis.

What kinds of positions do alumni have now?

Our alumni have found full time and tenure-track jobs at universities throughout the U.S. and around the world, as well as prestigious post-doctoral positions and non-profit and government posts.

What kinds of collaborations can I expect with faculty?

You are assigned a mentor when you first arrive, a selection that results from both your stated interests and faculty interest. This assignment can change by request. You can expect to work with your mentor and, potentially, other faculty on research resulting in joint publications and conference presentations. In your second year, you may assist a faculty member with teaching. Several recent alumni have continued to collaborate with SOC faculty and student colleagues after graduation, resulting in dozens of published research articles, book chapters, and policy papers.

What other opportunities do the school and university offer?

The PhD program offers several PhD Symposia throughout the year, offering informal presentations of completed work and work in progress by both students and faculty. The  Internet Governance Lab , a joint program in the School of Communication and School of International Service, offers a range of activities throughout the year, putting a spotlight on Internet policy. The Center for Media & Social Impact offers workshops, events, a biannual conference, and research projects for which you can apply as research assistant. The AU Game Center  provides a community of scholars and graduate students in numerous programs across the university engaged in the design, production, and study of games, including the cultural and social impact of the medium, with substantial opportunities for collaboration with faculty, staff, and students across multiple related fields and contexts. The Institute for Immersive Designs, Experiences, Applications, and Stories (Institute for IDEAS) offers paid fellowships and research projects for which you can apply as a research assistant, often collaborating with faculty at other institutions. The PhD programs in the School of Communication, School of International Service, and School of Public Affairs jointly host a day-long research conference featuring work in progress by their PhD students, in February. The university-wide Center for Teaching, Research and Learning (CTRL) provides tools and programs throughout the year to help faculty and PhD students with best practices in teaching, and hosts an annual conference on teaching in January. PhD students are welcome, at no cost. CTRL also offers training and access to research tools . Finally, each PhD student receives enough annual funding to attend at least one major scholarly conference or event, anywhere in the world.

What are examples of dissertations students have written?

Our students have explored a wide diversity of interests with rigorous research, including dissertations such as:

• Lucy Odigie, “Digital Margins: Digital Technology Use, Social Change and the Empowering Strategies of Domestic Workers of Color in Brooklyn, NY”
• Isabelle Zaugg, “Ethiopic: Coding for Linguistic Survival in the Face of Digital Extinction”
• Aras Cosuntuncel, “Networking Authoritarian Neoliberalism: Realigned Strategies of Information Control and Resistance in the Case of Turkey” Dorian Davis, “The Twitter Election? New Perspectives on Agenda-Building during the 2016 Campaign”
• Louisa Imperiale, “Democracy for Sale: A Critical Examination of the Political-Media Complex at work in Campaign Finance and Political Broadcast Regulation in U.S. Presidential Elections from 1976 to 2016”
• Fernanda Rosa, “Global Internet Interconnection Infrastructure: Materiality, Concealment and Surveillance in Contemporary Communication”
• Donte Newman, “Straddling the Fence: How White Facebook Users Express Ambivalence to Navigate the Context Collapse”
• Emily O’Connell, “Hybrid Systems and Hybrid Genres: Exploring U.S. Political Podcast Framing Tactics and Effects”

How many applicants are admitted each year?

Five people are selected each year to join the program, and there are usually about 20 people in the program at any one time.

Can I attend part-time?

The program is designed to be full-time.

Can I take courses outside of the School of Communication?

The SOC PhD program was designed as an interdisciplinary program. We encourage students to take full advantage of the wealth of resources and opportunities across the university, including taking courses and finding expertise in other departments, as well as courses at our partner universities around Washington, DC. Dissertation committees are required to include at least one member outside of the school.

Can I complete my PhD program in 3 years?

The program is designed to be completed in three years, and more than half of our PhD students accomplish their goal in doing so.

Still have questions? Send us an email: [email protected]

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Communication, PHD

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Communication

The Hugh Downs School of Human Communication offers a transdisciplinary graduate program leading to the PhD in communication.

This program provides coursework and resources in critical-cultural communication and rhetoric, health communication, intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, organizational communication and performance studies. Students receive training in communication theory, research methodology and multiple areas of emphasis, and they actively participate in one or more of the school's collaborative research initiatives.

The program is designed to meet the needs of students whose interests transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries and to prepare scholars for research-oriented careers in universities and in the public or private sectors.

Research Collaboratives

Doctoral Student Resources

Graduate Faculty

Bradley Adame Elissa Adame Benjamin Broome Pauline Cheong Steve Corman Olga Davis Uttaran Dutta Serap Erincin Laura Guerrero Jenna Hanchey Heewon Kim Loretta LeMaster Paul Mongeau Jonathan Pettigrew Tony Roberto Liesel Sharabi Sarah Tracy Joris Van Ouytsel Alaina Zanin  

Affiliated Faculty

Christine Buzinde Cheree Carlson Stephen Carradini Marivel Danielson Mark Hannah Aaron Hess Jeffrey Kassing Jacqueline Martinez   Lindsey Meân   Majia Nadesan   Gyan Nyaupane Brendan O'Connor Ashley Randall Vincent Waldron Greg Wise

Degree Requirements

96 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (9 credit hours) COM 604 Theory Construction in Communication (3) Choose two: 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)

Additional Curriculum Information When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this degree; 66 credit hours are required beyond an appropriate master's degree.

At least six elective credit hours must be coursework outside of the communication field.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• resume or curriculum vitae
• statement of goals
• three letters of recommendation
• writing sample
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Most commonly, students enter with a research-based MA in which they have completed a master's thesis.

Applicants should visit the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication website for further details.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, career opportunities.

A doctoral degree in communication opens doors to a variety of careers in research, teaching, training and consulting. Graduates typically obtain jobs in research and teaching institutions that range from large research universities to four-year teaching schools and community colleges. A number of career opportunities appear in government agencies and organizations, both for-profit and nonprofit.

Graduates have obtained jobs as:

• academic administrators
• academic advisors
• campaign managers
• consultants
• policy advocates
• program directors
• researchers

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 602/543-5619

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Communication (PhD)

You will acquire the leading-edge theory and research methodologies you need to shape a more ethical and just world. 

Whether you seek a career in academia, the industry, or governmental and non-governmental organizations, you will become a critical educator and researcher of communication through rigorous coursework, independent and collaborative research projects, and teaching opportunities.

You will work side by side with your peers and our distinguished faculty to advance knowledge in the field while creating interdisciplinary solutions to complex societal and organizational problems. At the same time, you will build a professional network of worldwide and lifelong connections with fellow scholars and practitioners.

USC Annenberg’s location at the heart of a top-tier research university and in the dynamic city of Los Angeles provides you with the ideal setting to explore ways to inventively fuse your scholarship and expertise in communication studies with disciplines such as political science, international relations, sociology and information sciences as well as gender, media and popular culture studies.

Program Information

• Learning Objectives
• Research and Teaching
• Areas of Study
• Current Doctoral Students
• Class Profile

By the numbers

Student and faculty work.

Changing the world through better communication

Former U.S. Navy Blue Angels team member Amber Lynn Scott became interested in studying high-reliability organizations for her dissertation to make a positive impact for military and first responders.

Requiem for a meme

Alexandria Arrieta researches how the intersection of memes and music are having a profound impact on people’s communication and connection across social media.

Making social media a better tool for political activism

With his lifelong interest in politics, Alfonso Hedge realized Annenberg’s doctoral program would be the perfect place to study how grassroots political organizations use social media.

From music to AI

Event promoter and DJ Stephen Yang examines the on-the-ground practices of technologists and media professionals as they reshape the culture of production.

Jermaine Anthony Richards named 2023 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow

The merit-based program provides funding for Richards to explore his research on how transmedia storytelling animates human security politics, security cultures, and political movements.

Exploring identity through social media

Samah Sadig shares her passion for identity, expression and education — and how it all brought her to USC Annenberg.

Work on groundbreaking research with expert faculty

As innovations in information and communication technologies continue at a rapid pace, USC Annenberg remains at the forefront of efforts to explore these social, cultural, rhetorical and organizational processes. You will work and collaborate with fellow doctoral students, our world-class faculty, and industry and public/private sector professionals to advance research and insights across a wide range of interdisciplinary areas of study. You will also have the opportunity to lead research endeavors that impact scholarship and practice across the contemporary communications landscape.

Explore the research of USC Annenberg faculty and students. View the areas of study available to our PhD students.

Get to know your fellow students

The communication doctorate program enrolls students from diverse backgrounds, nationalities and educational experiences. Connect with fellow students by viewing their profiles and get to know USC Annenberg through their eyes.

Communication (PhD) faculty

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• Associate of Interior Design
• Associate of International Relations
• Associate of Journalism
• Associate of Legal Studies
• Associate of Logistics
• Associate of Marketing
• Associate of Mass Media and Communication
• Associate of Mathematics
• Associate of Mechanical Engineering
• Associate of Mining Engineering
• Associate of Music
• Associate of Nutrition Science
• Associate of Philosophy
• Associate of Physical Education
• Associate of Political Science
• Associate of Project Management
• Associate of Psychology
• Associate of Renewable Energy
• Associate of Software Engineering
• Associate of Sport Science
• Associate of Statistics
• Associate of Strategic Management
• Associate of Technical Writing
• Associate of Telecommunications
• Associate of Theater
• Associate of Theology
• Associate of Tourism Planning and Development
• Associate of Travel and Tourism
• Associate of Unmanned Areal Systems Engineering
• Associates in Artificial Intelligence
• Associates in Engineering Systems
• Associates in Physical Anthropology
• Associates in Social Sciences
• Associates in Sociocultural Anthropology
• Associates in Systems Engineering
• Associates of Accounting
• Associates of Anthropology
• Associates of Archeology
• Associates of Architecture
• Associates of Art History
• Associates of Banking and Finance
• Associates of Business Administration
• Associates of Public Administration
• Associates of Science
• Associates of Urban Planning
• Associates of Visual and Performing Arts
• Micro and Multimode Grid Design
• Bachelor in Data Communication and Networking
• Bachelor in Actuarial Science
• Bachelor in Addiction Counseling
• Bachelor in Agriculture, Food and Resources
• Bachelor in Animal Science
• Bachelor in Anti Terrorism Security
• Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence
• Bachelor in Arts in Cultural Theological Communication
• Bachelor in Autonomous Vehicle Technology
• Bachelor in Bachelor of Bioethics (BA)
• Bachelor in Behavior Analysis in Special Education
• Bachelor in Bibliotechnology
• Bachelor in Biosystems
• Bachelor in Blockchain Technology & Digital Currency
• Bachelor in Business Communication
• Bachelor in Business Management
• Bachelor in Chemistry
• Bachelor in Cloud Computing
• Bachelor in Computer Science
• Bachelor in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor in Culinary Arts
• Bachelor in Cybersecurity and Hacking
• Bachelor in Database Administrator (BS)
• Bachelor in Ecotechnology
• Bachelor in Ecotourism
• Bachelor in Education (B.Ed, BS)
• Bachelor in Educational Technology
• Bachelor in Electric Vehicle Engineering
• Bachelor in Electrochemical Engineering
• Bachelor in English Literature
• Bachelor in eVTOL Engineering
• Bachelor in Fashion Design (BA)
• Bachelor in Fine Arts
• Bachelor in Foreign Trade
• Bachelor in Genetic Engineering
• Bachelor in Geology
• Bachelor in Geophysical Sciences
• Bachelor in Graphic Design
• Bachelor in Health Sciences
• Bachelor in Integrated Water Management
• Bachelor in International Finance
• Bachelor in International Marketing
• Bachelor in Islamic Studies
• Bachelor in Kinesiology and Physiotherapy
• Bachelor in Linguistics
• Bachelor in Management
• Bachelor in Metallurgy
• Bachelor in Micro and Multimode Grid Design
• Bachelor in Modern Power and Energy Systems
• Bachelor in Multimedia Design and Digital Art
• Bachelor in Nutrigenetics
• Bachelor in Operations Management (BA)
• Bachelor in Optoelectronic Systems
• Bachelor in Organizational Development
• Bachelor in Organizational Diversity
• Bachelor in Physical Anthropology
• Bachelor in Physical Culture And Sports
• Bachelor in Public Relations
• Bachelor in Quantum Computing Technology
• Bachelor in Radio And Television Production
• Bachelor in Scenography
• Bachelor in Social Media Marketing
• Bachelor in Social Sciences
• Bachelor in Sociocultural Anthropology
• Bachelor in Sport Management
• Bachelor in Sports Marketing
• Bachelor in Sports Psychology
• Bachelor in Sustainable Design and Construction
• Bachelor in Sustainable Materials Science
• Bachelor in Sustainable Natural Resources Management
• Bachelor in Sustainable Tourism
• Bachelor in Synthetic Biology
• Bachelor in Virtual Archival Science
• Bachelor of Adult Education
• Bachelor of Advertising
• Bachelor of Animation
• Bachelor of Art History
• Bachelor of Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
• Bachelor of Educational Administration
• Bachelor of Healthcare Administration
• Bachelor of Human Resources Management
• Bachelor of Humanities
• Bachelor of Hydrology
• Bachelor of Information Technology
• Bachelor of Mass Media and Communication
• Bachelor of Philosophy
• Bachelor of Physical Education
• Bachelor of Project Management
• Bachelor of Public Administration
• Bachelor of Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Sport Science
• Bachelor of Sports Science
• Bachelor of Statistics
• Bachelor of Strategic Management
• Bachelor of Technical Writing
• Bachelor of Theater
• Bachelor of Theology
• Bachelor of Tourism Planning and Development
• Bachelor of Travel and Tourism
• Bachelor of Unmanned Areal Systems Engineering
• Bachelor of Urban Planning
• Bachelor of Visual and Performing Arts
• Bachelor of Web Design
• Bachelors in Energy Storage and Battery Technology
• Bachelors in Accounting
• Bachelors in Accounting & Finance
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• DBA – Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor | in Actuarial Science
• Doctor | in Agriculture Food And Resources
• Doctor | in Animal Science
• Doctor | in Biosystems
• Doctor | in Cultural Theological Communication
• Doctor | in Cybersecurity And Hacking
• Doctor | in Early Childhood Education
• Doctor | in Ecotechnology
• Doctor | In Ecotourism
• Doctor | In Educational Technology
• Doctor | In Electronic Engineering
• Doctor | In Foreign Trade
• Doctor | of Biology (PhD)
• Doctor in Addiction Counseling
• Doctor in Behavior Analysis In Special Education
• Doctor in Bibliotechnology
• Doctor in Business Management
• Doctor in Data Communication And Networking
• Doctor of Adult Education
• Doctor of Agriculture
• Doctor of American History
• Doctor of Animation
• Doctor of Anthropology
• Doctor of Archaeology
• Doctor of Architecture (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Art History
• Doctor of Artificial Intelligence
• Doctor of Autonomous Vehicle Technology
• Doctor of Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
• Doctor of Business Management (DBM)
• Doctor of Civil Engineering (D.Sc)
• Doctor of Cloud Computing
• Doctor of Economics (PhD)
• Doctor of Educational Administration (PhD)
• Doctor of Electric Vehicle Engineering
• Doctor of Electrical Engineering (D.Sc, PhD)
• Doctor of Electrochemical Engineering
• Doctor of Engineering Systems (D.Sc)
• Doctor of eVTOL Engineering
• Doctor of Finance (PhD)
• Doctor of Humanities
• Doctor of Hydrology
• Doctor of Industrial Engineering (D.Sc)
• Doctor of International Relations (D.Sc)
• Doctor of Legal Studies (PhD)
• Doctor of Logistics
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• Doctor of Micro and Multimode Grid Design
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• Doctor of Theater
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• Doctoral Degree Programs
• Doctoral in International Finance
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• Doctorate in Behavior Analysis In Special Education
• Doctorate in Bibliotechnology
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• Doctorate in Biosystems
• Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA, PhD)
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Doctorate in Communication Online (D.Sc)

• Doctorate in Computer Engineering
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• Doctorate in Conflict Resolution & Peace Building
• Doctorate in Criminal Justice
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• Doctorate in Cyber Security & Hacking
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• Doctorate in Early Childhood Education
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• Doctorate in Education
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• Doctorate in Fashion Design
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• Doctorate in Integrated Water Management
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• Doctorate in Journalism (PhD)
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• Doctorate in Mathematics
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• Doctorate in Organizational Development
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• Doctorate in Physical Anthropology
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• Doctorate in Political Science
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• Doctorate in Radio And Television Production
• Doctorate in Scenography
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• Doctorate in Sociocultural Anthropology
• Doctorate in Sports Management
• Doctorate in Sports Marketing
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• Doctorate in Strategic Leadership
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• Doctorate in Sustainable Design and Construction
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• DS – Doctorate in Science
• Online Doctorate in Health Administration
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• School of Social and Human Studies
• Master in Actuarial Science
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• Master in Agriculture Food And Resources
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• Master in Bibliotechnology
• Master in Bioethics
• Master in Biosystems
• Master in Blockchain Technology and Digital Currency
• Master in Business Communication
• Master in Chemistry
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• Master in Cloud Computing
• Master in Computer Programming
• Master in Criminal Justice
• Master in Culinary Arts
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• Master in Cybersecurity And Hacking
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• Master in Database Administrator
• Master in Early Childhood Education
• Master in Ecotechnology
• Master in Ecotourism
• Master in Educational Technology
• Master in Electric Vehicle Engineering
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• Master in Energy Storage and Battery Technology
• Master in Engineering Systems (MS)
• Master in Environmental Science
• Master in eVTOL Engineering
• Master in Fashion Design
• Master in Fine Arts
• Master in Foreign Trade
• Master in Geography
• Master in Geophysical Sciences
• Master in Graphic Design
• Master in Health Sciences
• Master in History
• Master in Industrial Engineering
• Master in Integrated Water Management
• Master in International Finance
• Master in Islamic Studies
• Master in Kinesiology And Physiotherapy
• Master in Linguistics
• Master in Management
• Master in Management Information Systems
• Master in Mass Media and Communication
• Master in Metallurgy
• Master in Micro and Multimode Grid Design
• Master in Microbiology
• Master in Modern Power and Energy Systems
• Master in Multimedia Design and Digital Art
• Master in Nutritional Science
• Master in Oil Gas And Energy Engineering
• Master in Organizational Development
• Master in Organizational Diversity
• Master in Pedagogical Training For Professionals
• Master in Philosophy
• Master in Physical Anthropology
• Master in Physical Culture And Sports
• Master in Public Administration (MA)
• Master in Quantum Computing
• Master in Radio And Television Production
• Master in Scenography
• Master in Social Media Marketing
• Master in Social Sciences
• Master in Sociocultural Anthropology
• Master in Sociology (MA, MS)
• Master in Software Engineering
• Master in Sport Management
• Master in Sport Science
• Master in Sports Marketing
• Master in Sports Psychology
• Master in Statistics
• Master in Strategic Management
• Master in Sustainable Design and Construction
• Master in Sustainable Materials Science
• Master in Sustainable Natural Resources Management
• Master in Sustainable Tourism
• Master in Synthetic Biology
• Master in Technical Writing
• Master in Theater
• Master in Theology
• Master in Unmanned Aerial Systems Engineering (UAV and Drone Technology)
• Master in Virtual Archival Science
• Master of Adult Education
• Master of Advertising (MS, MBA)
• Master of Agriculture (MS)
• Master of American History
• Master of Animation
• Master of Anthropology (MA)
• Master of Archeology (MA)
• Master of Art History (MA)
• Master of Artificial Intelligence
• Master of Banking and Finance (MA)
• Master of Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
• Master of Biology (MS)
• Master of Business Management (MS, MBM)
• Master of Chemical Engineering (MS)
• Master of Computer Engineering
• Master of Construction Management
• Master of Economics (MS)
• Master of Human Resources Management (MHRM)
• Master of Humanities (MA)
• Master of Hydrology (MS)
• Master of Interior Design (MA)
• Master of International Relations (MS)
• Master of Journalism (MA, MJ)
• Master of Logistics (MA)
• Master of Marketing (MS, MBA, MPA)
• Master of Mathematics (MS)
• Master of Mechanical Engineering (MS)
• Master of Mining Engineering (MS)
• Master of Music (MA)
• Master of Nutrition Science
• Master of Physical Education (MS)
• Master of Renewable Energy (MS)
• Master of Science in Educational Administration (MS)
• Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MS)
• Master of Telecommunications (MS, M.TEL.)
• Master of Tourism Planning and Development
• Master of Travel and Tourism
• Master of Urban Planning
• Master of Visual and Performing Arts
• Master of Web Design
• Masters in Accounting
• Masters in Architecture
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• Masters in International Business
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• Masters in Psychology
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• Postdoctoral in Actuarial Science
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• Postdoctoral in Animal Science
• Postdoctoral in Anti Terrorism Security
• Postdoctoral in Autonomous Vehicle Technology
• Postdoctoral in Behavior Analysis In Special Education
• Postdoctoral in Bibliotechnology
• Postdoctoral in Biohacking and Nutrigenomics
• Postdoctoral in Biosystems
• Postdoctoral in Blockchain Technology and Digital Currency
• Postdoctoral in Business Communication
• Postdoctoral in Business Management
• Postdoctoral in Chemistry
• Postdoctoral in Cloud Computing
• Postdoctoral in Computer Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Computer Science
• Postdoctoral in Criminal Justice
• Postdoctoral in Culinary Arts
• Postdoctoral in Cultural Theological Communication
• Postdoctoral in Cybersecurity And Hacking
• Postdoctoral in Data Communication And Networking
• Postdoctoral in Early Childhood Education
• Postdoctoral in Ecotechnology
• Postdoctoral in Ecotourism
• Postdoctoral in Education
• Postdoctoral in Educational Technology
• Postdoctoral in Electrical Vehicle Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Electrochemical Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Electronic Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Energy Storage and Battery Technology
• Postdoctoral in Engineering Systems
• Postdoctoral in English Literature
• Postdoctoral in Environmental Science
• Postdoctoral in eVTOL Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Fashion Design
• Postdoctoral in Fine Arts
• Postdoctoral in Foreign Trade
• Postdoctoral in Genetic Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Geophysical Sciences
• Postdoctoral in Graphic Design
• Postdoctoral in Health Sciences
• Postdoctoral in Human Resources
• Postdoctoral in Humanities
• Postdoctoral in Integrated Water Management
• Postdoctoral in International Finance
• Postdoctoral in International Marketing
• Postdoctoral in International Relations
• Postdoctoral in Islamic Studies
• Postdoctoral in Journalism
• Postdoctoral in Kinesiology And Physiotherapy
• Postdoctoral in Linguistics
• Postdoctoral in Logistics
• Postdoctoral in Management
• Postdoctoral in Marketing
• Postdoctoral in Mass Communication
• Postdoctoral in Mathematics
• Postdoctoral in Metallurgy
• Postdoctoral in Micro and Multimode Grid Design
• Postdoctoral in Mining Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Modern Power and Energy Systems
• Postdoctoral in Multimedia Design and Digital Art
• Postdoctoral in Music
• Postdoctoral in Nutrigenetics
• Postdoctoral in Nutrition
• Postdoctoral in Oil, Gas and Energy Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Organizational Development
• Postdoctoral in Organizational Diversity
• Postdoctoral in Pedagogical Training For Professionals
• Postdoctoral in Philosophy
• Postdoctoral in Physical Anthropology
• Postdoctoral in Physical Culture And Sports
• Postdoctoral in Political Science
• Postdoctoral in Public Administration
• Postdoctoral in Public Health
• Postdoctoral in Quantum Computing
• Postdoctoral in Radio And Television Production
• Postdoctoral in Social Media Marketing
• Postdoctoral in Social Sciences
• Postdoctoral in Sociocultural Anthropology
• Postdoctoral in Sociology
• Postdoctoral in Software Engineering
• Postdoctoral in Sport Management
• Postdoctoral in Sport Science
• Postdoctoral in Sports Marketing
• Postdoctoral in Sports Psychology
• Postdoctoral in Statistics
• Postdoctoral in Strategic Management
• Postdoctoral in Sustainable Design and Construction
• Postdoctoral in Sustainable Materials Science
• Postdoctoral in Sustainable Natural Resources Management
• Postdoctoral in Sustainable Tourism
• Postdoctoral in Synthetic Biology
• Postdoctoral in Technical Writing
• Postdoctoral in Theater
• Postdoctoral in Theology
• Postdoctoral in Virtual Archival Science
• Postdoctoral of Biology
• Postdoctoral of Industrial Engineering
• Postdoctoral of Information Systems
• Postdoctoral of Legal Studies
• Postdoctoral Research in Accounting
• Postdoctoral Research in Adult Education
• Postdoctoral Research in Advertising
• Postdoctoral Research in Agriculture
• Postdoctoral Research in American History
• Postdoctoral Research in Animation
• Postdoctoral Research in Anthropology
• Postdoctoral Research in Archeology
• Postdoctoral Research in Architecture
• Postdoctoral Research in Art History
• Postdoctoral Research in Artificial Intelligence
• Postdoctoral Research in Banking and Finance
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• Postdoctoral Research in Business Management
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• Postdoctoral Research in Communications
• Postdoctoral Research in Economics
• Postdoctoral Research in Educational Administration
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• Postdoctoral Research in Finance
• Postdoctoral Research in Healthcare Administration
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• Postdoctoral Research in Interior Design
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• Postdoctoral Research in Mechanical Engineering
• Postdoctoral Research in Physical Education
• Postdoctoral Research in Project Management
• Postdoctoral Research in Psychology
• Postdoctoral Research in Renewable Energy
• Postdoctoral Research in Scenography
• Postdoctoral Research in Telecommunications
• Postdoctoral Research in Tourism Planning and Development
• Postdoctoral Research in Travel and Tourism
• Postdoctoral Research in Unmanned Aerial Systems Engineering (UAV and drone technology)
• Postdoctoral Research in Urban Planning
• Postdoctoral Research in Visual and Performing Arts
• Postdoctoral Research in Web Design
• Postdoctoral Research Program

Distance Learning at AIU is enhanced by vast academic resources and innovative technologies build into the Virtual Campus: Hundreds of self-paced courses with video lectures and step by step lessons, thousands of optional assignments, 140,000 e-books, the Social Media & Networking platform allowing collaboration/chat/communications between students, and MYAIU develop students holistically in 11 areas beyond just academics.

The world is YOUR campus!”, that is the message of AIU’s month magazine Campus Mundi. Hear the voices and see the faces that make up AIU. Campus Mundi brings the world of AIU to you every months with inspirational stories, news and achievements by AIU members from around the world (students and staff are located in over 200 countries).

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Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University

The online Doctorate in Communication program at AIU is designed to equip graduates with the essential knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions. Our research-intensive, academically free curriculum delves into the diverse theories and research methods employed across various academic disciplines, including political science, law, communication arts and sciences, history, psychology, education, anthropology, health and human development, and sociology.

Our unique and unrepeatable commitment to advancing the professional development of communication graduates and industry professionals sets AIU apart. The program aims to broaden their horizons and equip them with robust research and communication skills, enabling them to emerge as influential leaders in their respective fields. By extending the boundaries of traditional communication studies, AIU’s Doctorate in Communication Online program provides a unique and comprehensive foundation encompassing practical knowledge and computer science theory.

At AIU, we understand the importance of tailored education, and our distance learning approach reflects this philosophy. Our Doctoral program is not a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, it offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to collaborate with your advisor to shape a custom-made curriculum that aligns with your career aspirations and interests. This personalized approach distinguishes our online Doctoral program from others in the distance learning landscape.

Core Courses & Topics in Civil Communications

The Doctorate in Communication program at the AIU (American International University) offers a comprehensive andragogy-centric curriculum designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in communication studies through online Ph.D. programs. Accredited by ASIC , this distance learning PhD in media communication provides a flexible and accessible platform for individuals pursuing advanced academic credentials. Core courses encompass a broad spectrum of topics, including Advanced Communication Theory, Strategic Communication in the Digital Age, Cross-Cultural Communication, and Research Methods in Communication.

• Intercultural Communication
• Telecommunications Architectures
• Mass Communications
• Public Policy
• Communication Planning
• Classical Sociological Theory
• Media Economics and Policy
• Science/Health Communication
• Information Technologies
• Research Methods
• Telecommunication Services
• International Relations

Orientation Courses

AIU’s online Doctorate in Communication introduces students to the essentials of strategic communication through orientation courses designed for the digital era. As part of the b est virtual universities for communication doctorate programs , these courses cover critical topics like Fundamentals of Strategic Communication, Digital Communication Landscape, and Theories of Online Persuasion. This program is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and relevant education in the field, offering a concise yet comprehensive exploration of strategic communication in the digital age.

• Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
• Organization Theory (Portfolio)
• Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
• Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
• Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
• Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
• Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
• Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)

Research Projects in Civil Communications

AIU’s online Doctorate in Communication features engaging research projects that align with online communication doctoral courses. This holistic program , specializing in an Online PhD in Mass Communication, emphasizes dynamic research topics exploring the intersection of theory and practice.

• Doctoral Dissertation Project
• MBM900 Doctoral Proposal
• MBM902 Doctoral Dissertation (15,000 words)

Publication: Each Doctor of Communications graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.

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Take Your Journey in Communications to Another Level with a Doctorate from AIU

Embarking on a Doctorate in Communication at AIU offers students a transformative and enriching academic journey , particularly within communication theory online Ph.D. With a specialized focus on intercultural communication, the program provides a dynamic learning environment that encourages students to explore diverse perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. 

The online format allows for flexibility, accommodating the needs of professionals pursuing advanced degrees. As students progress, they delve into compelling and integrated online doctoral thesis topics in communication, fostering independent research and contributing to advancing communication knowledge. The immersive experience at AIU equips students with expertise in communication theory and prepares them to address real-world challenges in intercultural communication, making a significant impact in the field.

Community & Social

Immerse yourself in a dynamic online learning community with AIU’s cutting-edge e-learning PhD programs in communication. Our virtual doctoral seminars in communication leadership utilize state-of-the-art technologies to connect students worldwide, ensuring a collaborative and enriching academic journey. Engage seamlessly through our Virtual Campus, accessible via the AIU Campus APP on Android and iOS. Explore topics in communication leadership through MYAIU, AIULink, AIUTV , AIU Magazine , and Curriculum Builder Tool ,  fostering connections with fellow scholars and faculty. The wealth of academic content on Merlin Media Center enhances your research experience, making the online doctorate in communication leadership at AIU a holistic and uniquely transformative endeavor.

Contact Us Today!

We understand how busy adults do not have time to go back to school. Now, it’s possible to earn your degree in the comfort of your own home and still have time for yourself and your family. The Admissions office is here to help you, for additional information or to see if you qualify for admissions please contact us. If you are ready to apply please submit your Online Application and paste your resume and any additional comments/questions in the area provided.

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Academic Resources

Embark on an unparalleled distance education journey in media studies Ph.D. at Atlantic International University, where our Virtual Campus serves as an innovation hub designed for academic excellence . Unleashing over 25 unique tools, including a groundbreaking Virtual Reality 3D immersive experience, we redefine the boundaries of online doctoral education in corporate communication.

Dive into a vast academic realm with our online library housing 260,000 books and 30 million peer-reviewed articles, journals, and publications. Engage in a vibrant community where students contribute to a rich pool of over 105,000 resources, meticulously curated to elevate your experience in online graduate courses in communication. At AIU, we are dedicated to nurturing your growth, development and realizing your aspirations in the ever-evolving landscape of media studies.

Virtual Campus

Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device. 

My AIU Elements

MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.

AIU TV & Radio

The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.

AIU Campus Mundi

AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.

Graduation Ceremony

Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.

Symposiums & Webinars

AIU events, including symposiums and conferences , offer a platform for Doctorate in Communication students to showcase their expertise globally. These opportunities not only encourage the exchange of ideas and challenges but also contribute to enhancing overall research quality.

Live Classes

AIU stands at the forefront of innovative education, providing a dynamic learning experience for Doctorate in Communication graduates. As part of our commitment to excellence , AIU offers two live classes daily, creating a flexible and interactive platform for further academic exploration. This initiative is particularly beneficial for those enrolled in the Web-based PhD in Communication Technology program, ensuring that graduates stay at the forefront of advancements in the field. These live classes facilitate real-time engagement with professors and foster a collaborative environment among students, enhancing the overall learning experience and preparing graduates to be leaders in the ever-evolving landscape of communication technology.

Special Projects

Whether crafting communication strategies for diverse audiences, analyzing media trends, or developing innovative solutions for communication issues, these special projects empower students to make a meaningful impact while collaborating with the best relevant organizations worldwide . Guided by experienced faculty mentors, students engage in hands-on, interdisciplinary research, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. These special projects not only enhance the academic experience but also prepare graduates for leadership roles in the dynamic and ever-changing field of communication.

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AIU’s Career Center for Doctorate in Communication is a dedicated resource that empowers graduates with the tools and guidance necessary to navigate their professional journey successfully. With a focus on personalized career development, the center offers services such as resume building, interview preparation, and networking strategies explicitly tailored for communication. 

Through workshops, webinars, and one-on-one counseling sessions, students receive valuable insights into industry trends and job market dynamics. The Career Center collaborates with industry partners to provide internship opportunities, ensuring practical exposure and hands-on experience. The center is crucial in facilitating successful career transitions for AIU’s Doctorate in Communication graduates by fostering connections between students and potential employers.

Job Opportunities

AIU Doctorate in Communication graduates have a diverse skill set, positioning them for impactful roles across various professional domains. From crafting comprehensive communication strategies as Communication Strategists to analyzing and interpreting media trends as Media Analysts, our alumni excel in roles such as Corporate Communication Directors, Digital Media Consultants, and Public Relations Specialists.

• Communication Strategist As a Communication Strategist, AIU graduates leverage their in-depth knowledge to develop and implement effective organizational communication plans, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Media Analyst AIU Doctorate in Communication holders excel as Media Analysts, applying their expertise to evaluate and interpret media trends, helping organizations stay informed and responsive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
• Corporate Communication Director Graduates often assume roles as Corporate Communication Directors, overseeing and orchestrating internal and external communication efforts, ensuring consistency and alignment with organizational goals.
• Digital Media Consultant Equipped with a deep understanding of digital communication, AIU alumni serve as Digital Media Consultants, guiding businesses in navigating and optimizing their online presence and communication strategies.
• Public Relations Specialist Doctorate in Communication holders at AIU makes impactful Public Relations Specialists, skillfully managing an organization’s public image, building relationships with stakeholders, and handling crisis communication.
• Academic Researcher Many graduates choose a path in academia, contributing to the field’s knowledge base as researchers, educators, and thought leaders, further advancing the discipline of communication.
• Social Media Manager AIU alumni often excel as Social Media Managers, developing and implementing social media strategies to enhance brand visibility, engage audiences, and drive organizational objectives.
• Communication Trainer With a wealth of knowledge, graduates may take on roles as Communication Trainers, guiding individuals and teams in honing their communication skills for professional and personal success.
• Content Development Manager Leveraging their communication expertise, graduates may assume roles as Content Development Managers, overseeing the creating of engaging and impactful content across various platforms.
• Government Affairs Specialist AIU Doctorate in Communication holders may find roles as Government Affairs Specialists, adeptly navigating the intersection of communication and government relations to shape public policy discussions and outcomes.

Tools for Communication Professionals

In the dynamic communication realm, professionals rely on a diverse toolkit to navigate modern complexities. From strategic planning to execution, the right tools are essential for success. This curated list highlights critical resources that empower communication professionals to craft compelling content, manage social media, and conduct data-driven analysis.

In the dynamic field of communication, professionals require a robust toolkit to navigate the complexities of the modern landscape. From strategic planning to effective execution, communication professionals rely on various tools to streamline workflows and enhance outcomes. Whether crafting compelling content, managing a social media presence, or conducting data-driven analysis, having the right tools is crucial for success. Here’s a curated list of essential tools that empower communication professionals to excel in their roles:

• Google Analytics
• SurveyMonkey

Associations for Communication Professionals

Navigating the intricate communication landscape is facilitated by being part of professional associations that offer valuable resources and networking opportunities. Doctorate in Communication professionals can benefit from engaging with these associations, fostering personal and career growth. Here is a list of notable associations that provide a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and staying abreast of industry trends:

• National Communication Association (NCA)
• International Communication Association (ICA)
• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)
• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
• International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
• American Marketing Association (AMA)
• Association for Women in Communications (AWC)
• International Public Relations Association (IPRA)
• Digital Analytics Association (DAA)
• Society for Technical Communication (STC)

Submit Your Application for a Doctorate in Communication Online at AIU

Check out us virtually, doctorate in communication requirements.

Admission to the online Doctorate in Communication program at AIU requires candidates to hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, providing a solid academic foundation for advanced studies. Additionally, applicants should have a minimum of five years of practical experience in the field of communication, ensuring a cohort of professionals with substantial industry exposure. This combination of academic excellence and real-world experience is integral to the program’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and well-rounded learning environment. Prospective students are encouraged to demonstrate their passion for communication, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a significant impact in the field.

How Can You Apply?

• Follow the provided link to input your personal and educational details for your Doctorate in Communication application.
• Enhance your application by attaching your comprehensive resume to the designated form.
• Prior to submission, take a moment to meticulously review the entire application to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Once satisfied with the details, proceed confidently to submit your application, marking the first step towards embarking on a transformative journey in the field of communication.

Financial Support & Scholarships

Embarking on the pursuit of your Doctorate in Communication online at AIU is now more attainable than ever. Recognizing the financial challenges often associated with advanced education, we’ve curated a range of scholarships designed to meet diverse circumstances. By sharing your details , you set in motion the process of uncovering scholarships precisely tailored to your needs. Initiate this journey by submitting your inquiry, allowing us to guide you through the myriad possibilities. At AIU, we are committed to not only providing an enriching academic experience in communication but also ensuring it is financially feasible for you. Take the first step toward your online doctoral journey with AIU and explore the customized financial support awaiting your application.

How Much Does a Doctorate in Chemistry Cost Per Year?

Navigating your academic journey at AIU ensures confidence in the affordability of our Doctorate in Communication program. With a total affordable cost, we understand the financial considerations that come with advanced education. To enhance convenience, we offer a flexible monthly payment plan, making the pursuit of a doctoral degree not just a goal but a financial reality. 

At AIU, our commitment extends to providing exceptional education without compromising your financial stability. Immerse yourself in a community where outstanding learning seamlessly integrates with adaptable financial solutions, ensuring your educational aspirations in communication become effortlessly attainable.

How long does it typically take to complete an online PhD in communication?

It typically takes 3-5 years to complete PhD in Communication online.

Are online doctoral programs in communication widely recognized in the academic and professional fields?

Yes, online doctoral programs in communication are increasingly recognized in both academic and professional fields. The online doctoral program in Communication at AIU is widely accepted everywhere and as technology advances, the acceptance and recognition of online doctoral degrees continue to grow.

Can I specialize in digital or media communication in an online doctorate program?

Yes, AIU’s online doctorate program offer specializations in digital or media communication, allowing you to focus your studies on these specific areas within the broader field of communication.

How interactive are online doctoral courses in communication studies?

Online doctoral courses in communication studies are highly interactive, incorporating virtual discussions, collaborative projects, and real-time communication tools to facilitate engagement and meaningful interactions among students and professors.

Are there any fully online PhD programs in mass communication?

Yes, AIU offers one of the best online PhD programs in mass communication.

How do online communication doctoral programs balance theory and practical application?

Online communication doctoral programs typically balance theory and practical application by integrating case studies, hands-on projects, and real-world applications into the curriculum. This approach ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field.

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PhD Communications Online

By Shilpee Singh

Updated march 16, 2024.

Shilpee Singh

Content Creator

Shilpee Singh is an English Literature graduate and a Linguistics postgraduate from Delhi University. She believes in sustainable living and tries to lead a holistic life. She has a knack for writing and puts together the best facts for the reader’s benefit.

BA. Hons. English Literature // MA in Linguistics // Batchelor in Education (Gold Medalist)

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The study of human communication is at the core of the discipline of communication. As technology evolves, so does the process of creating a product such as social media or the internet. People’s interactions with one another, as well as the many messages they receive from various media, have been profoundly altered because of this transition. Communications is a multidisciplinary subject of study. It tries to comprehend the human communication process and its relationship to social, cultural, economic, and political institutions. Graduates of the PhD Communications Online programs are taught research methodology and communication theory so that they can better understand how these institutions interact with one another. Doctorate in communication graduates are well-equipped to pursue academic jobs as professors and researchers, as well as positions of leadership in a variety of sectors, including the media industry, public relations, journalism, advertising, marketing, education, branding, and corporate communications, among other fields. A Ph.D. in communications graduate can expect good pay packets and career prospects across different positions. For example, Public Relations Managers take home a median annual wage of $118,430 and can expect jobs to grow by 10% to 15% between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This article closely examines the Ph.D. in communications online degree and all relevant aspects, including the best colleges to pursue this degree, how to fund the degree, career options, information on accreditation, and more.

Best Online Ph.D. in Communications Programs

Many factors go into picking the finest online Ph.D. in communications programs. There are several factors to consider, such as the college’s infrastructure, the quality and expertise of its faculty and staff, the availability of student support services, career counseling, the areas of specializations available, program structure and flexibility, affordability, and accreditation, among others. When searching for the best communications colleges for a Ph.D. degree, these and other aspects must be considered and weighted in order to make informed decisions and choose a college or program that aligns with one’s needs. FBD has studied all these factors and more and prepared a list of the best communication Ph.D. programs based on them. Here are the best Ph.D. programs in communication: *

Clemson University

University of alabama, colorado state university.

American University

Texas Tech University

Regent university, university of north dakota, robert morris university, liberty university, indiana university of pennsylvania.

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page . 

What to expect from the Online Doctorate in Communication?

Online Ph.D. programs in communications are designed to prepare students for academic and other careers. This program provides theoretical underpinnings in addition to extensive research. Students gain a foundation for developing new skills that will help them start their careers and keep current with the newest developments in the industry. They will work with professors to create a study plan specific to their interests. The program normally includes advanced quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, emphasis areas, specialized electives, independent study credits, and more.

A Ph.D. in Communication curriculum is centered around a specific, one-of-a-kind program of study. The core curriculum introduces students to basic communication theories, qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and strategic communication approaches utilized by academicians in the field. Armed with key theories and concepts, students will learn how to read and evaluate academic literature, construct research design approaches, and write at the Ph.D.-level.

The online Ph.D. degree in marketing can be broken down into 5 sections that span about 65 credits (varies by program and college), requiring about 4 to 7 years. These sections are:

Foundation Courses

Students get a comprehensive picture of the marketing field based on recent research and developments. 

Core Courses

Students deepen their understanding of several crucial facets of marketing.

Specialization Courses

Students intensively research one or more specific issues in marketing.

Courses on Research Methods

Students learn the fundamental principles required for performing Ph.D. research.

Courses for Capstone/Thesis Preparation

Students define, investigate, and write a capstone topic/thesis, which must be defended at the end of the program.

Students will take seminars, begin to create potential research subjects, gain essential research skills, complete a series of tests, and interact with lecturers and fellow students during the early stages of a Ph.D. in communications. From then on, they will have to work closely with their academic advisors, often directly on existing research projects. A typical doctorate in communication program’s curriculum is entirely devoted to learning how to plan and perform empirical research. Students can expect to take the following courses in a Ph.D. communications online program:

• Advertising and the Digital Age
• Introduction to Networks
• Gendered Media Economies
• Describing Your Data
• Crisis Communications
• Communication and Cultural Studies
• Nonverbal Communication
• Introduction to Political Communication
• Rhetorical Criticism
• Media Criticism and the Future of Journalism
• Experimental Design and Issues in Causality
• Digital News and the Consumption of Information Online
• Advanced Seminar in Collective Memory Studies
• Popular Culture and Politics
• Labor, Communication, and Technology
• Research Seminar on Computational Social Science
• Narrative Journalism
• Collective Memory & Journalism
• Networked Journalism
• Public Health Communication
• Social-Scientific Approaches to Communication Research
• Social Psychology of Communication
• Introduction to Media Policy
• Message Effects
• Digital Media and Social Theory
• Content Analysis
• Advanced Qualitative Research
• Organizational Communication
• History of Media Research, 1890-1990
• Ethnography and the Internet
• Dark Sides of Digital Media
• Media Effects Research Design
• Health Psychology Seminar
• Social Approaches to Interpersonal Communication
• Race, Gender, and Sexuality in the Media
• Health Communication Inequalities in the Digital Age
• Public Relations and Society
• Media and Social Movements
• Reporting Global Issues
• Qualitative Communication Research Methods
• Critical Race Theory
• Data Reporting
• Journalism and Literature
• Media Ethnography: Theory and Practice
• Qualitative Ways of Knowing
• Research Seminar on Internet Experiments
• Discursive Constructions of Realities
• Attitude & Behavior Prediction
• Communication Technology and Politics
• Political Communication
• Public Opinion
• Introduction to Communication Research
• Analysis Election Data
• Data Visualization for Research
• Introduction to the Political Economy of Media
• Neurobiology Social Influence
• Digital Inequalities
• Theories and Methods in Qualitative Research

When students tailor-make their Ph.D. programs, they will have an option of focusing on one or more areas of study. Some examples of areas of study include:

• Journalism Studies
• Communication and Difference
• Interpersonal Communication
• Communication Technology and Society
• Organizing And Structures

Areas of Specialization for Online Ph.D. in Communications

Many schools now offer students the opportunity to specialize in a specific communication discipline or field of practice through clearly defined specialty options. Students can tailor their Ph.D. program to their professional and career goals by pursuing specializations, which are sometimes known as concentrations or areas of study. The following are some of the most common specializations offered as part of Ph.D. in communication programs:

Organizational Communication Ph.D.

This specialization provides students with both basic and advanced training in all elements of organizational internal and external communication, as well as the research methods that should underpin communication strategy formulation. Students are typically provided with practical skills in areas such as corporate reputation management, interpersonal and organizational leadership, public and media relations management, conflict mediation, marketing and advertising, and crisis communication, with the goal of preparing professionals to manage and optimize internal and external communications within organizations.

Global and International Communication Ph.D.

This specialization equips students to work on a variety of international and multicultural communications projects, ranging from global marketing initiatives and public relations announcements to international news. Students who complete the global communication specialization can work in a range of corporate, government, and nonprofit settings. Their responsibilities could include creating international media and marketing campaigns, collaborating with global nonprofit groups on philanthropic efforts, or utilizing new media technologies to communicate vital ideas to a global audience.

Political Communication Ph.D.

This specialization enables students to develop, assess, and curate many types of political communication, such as public policy research and writing, political news, campaign speeches and media, and advocacy for various social and political concerns, among other things. The political communication specialization is designed for people who want to work as academics in the field, conducting research on topics like the science and theory of persuasion in political contexts, community mobilization, political discourse and the effects of political communication on political systems, and more. Students are prepared for advanced positions in campaigning, public policy, policy development, public affairs, research and pedagogical positions at universities and research centers, and government operations, to name a few.

Strategic Communication Ph.D.

This specialization prepares students to communicate in a variety of ways, including written, oral, visual, and interactive. Students generally take up courses in human psychology and behavior, interpersonal communication, public relations in corporate and nonprofit settings, strategic communication theory and principles, advertising and marketing, community education, brand and trust-building, social advocacy, and so on. Because strategic communication is such a large area that encompasses everything from interpersonal communication to mass communication, graduate programs in this field can differ even though their titles are similar. Furthermore, some programs provide students with a wide range of elective courses, allowing them to specialize in a specific area of strategic communication, such as corporate or organizational communication, marketing and advertising, advocacy and social impact, or public relations.

Marketing Communication and Public Relations Ph.D.

This specialization prepares students to plan and implement a wide range of marketing and public relations campaigns. This specialization’s focus areas include client experience assessment and management, consumer research, public relations writing, advertising campaigns, marketing content production and analytics, and additional approaches to enhancing the relationship between a company’s brand and its customers. Students learn how to plan marketing and public relations initiatives, how to implement marketing and public relations campaigns, and how to incorporate the latest marketing and customer experience management insights and technical innovations into these efforts. They also learn how to evaluate consumer responses to their companies’ outreach initiatives and provide product and service positioning advice to other divisions within the organization.

Health Communication Ph.D.

This specialization covers a wide range of communication topics, such as healthcare interventions, health promotion, the use of health communication technologies, and patient-caregiver interactions. Students in this specialization are taught how to manage health-related communication in both the public and private sectors, as well as how to promote social change by creating and disseminating information that educates people about public health issues. Graduates of master’s programs in health communication may work in hospitals, biotechnology firms, government health departments, health technology companies, and nonprofit organizations, among other places.

Some of the other available specializations in communications are:

• Ph.D. in Rhetorical Communication
• Ph.D. in Health Communication
• Ph.D. in Performance Studies
• Ph.D. in Communication Technology
• Ph.D. in Health, Environment, Risk, and Science Communication 
• Ph.D. Interpersonal Communication
• Ph.D. Media Communication and Society
• Ph.D. Human-Computer Interaction
• Ph.D. Cultural studies
• Ph.D. Feminist studies
• Ph.D. Film studies
• Ph.D. Media effects
• Ph.D. Popular Culture
• Ph.D. in Digital Communication
• Ph.D. in Intercultural Communication
• Online Ph.D. in Communication Studies
• Online Ph.D. Technical Communication
• Online Ph.D. in Journalism and Mass Communication
• Online Ph.D. in Language and Communication
• Online Ph.D. in Language and Social Interaction
• Online Ph.D. in Social Psychology Communication
• Online Ph.D. in Intercultural Communication

Why should I do Online Ph.D. in Communications?

The Ph.D. in communications program has traditionally been focused on graduating students with the research skills and knowledge needed to conduct an independent academic inquiry in the field of communication at the doctoral level. Aside from academic careers, the Ph.D. program can prepare students for leadership positions in the communications industry, including journalism, advertising and marketing, corporate communications, government, charitable organizations, and more.

A doctorate in communication training can help an individual comprehend people from other cultures, which is particularly useful in the workplace. With so many companies offering remote work, communications professionals can find themselves working with people from all over the world. It is critical that they all understand acceptable communication methods to operate cooperatively. Mastering communications is also a useful ability for networking, presenting, public speaking, and providing outstanding customer service. Courses in a Ph.D. communications online program can benefit students in every aspect of their lives. The curriculum focuses on communication and technology, and students gain a complete understanding of the discipline, as well as proficiency in its theories, research skills, and experience teaching in a university setting. They also choose a specialty from among those recognized by scholarly societies and reflected in department faculty research priorities.

With many career paths to choose from, a Ph.D. in communications is a viable choice for students at the crossroads of deciding what to do with their lives. Communication is one of those few fields that is necessary and used in also all sectors of commerce and industry – from education and hospitals to nonprofits and businesses. No wonder the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that communication occupations are projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030 , much faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S.

Upon graduating from a Ph.D. in communications online program, students should be able to:

• explain, synthesize, and evaluate the most important theories, concepts, and principles in the field of communication studies;
• use a programmatic approach to communication-based research, initiatives, and projects;
• communicate in-depth expertise in both core and secondary fields of study in terms of communication theories, viewpoints, ideas, and concepts;
• communicate effectively in a variety of teaching and training contexts by selecting appropriate instructional communicative behaviors;
• independently design, conduct, and interpret novel quantitative research in the field of communication; 
• participate in professional organizations and volunteer for the department, university, and the community to show commitment to the communication profession; and
• write clearly and persuasively in order to be successful in the discipline of communication studies.

How to get into the Online Ph.D. in Communications Program?

A rigorous selection process makes sense, given the Ph.D. program’s high standards and extensive requirements. Admissions officials or committee members evaluate whether or not an applicant has the necessary qualifications to pursue the program and is willing to put in the effort required to complete the program effectively and quickly during the enrollment process. Colleges are on the lookout for skilled individuals with prior experience in their profession, solid academic credentials, and a passion for both research and teaching equal to or greater than average. Apart from the standard admissions requirements, there are times when an interview with a member of the admissions committee is required, as are other specific prerequisites. All institutions have unique admissions procedures and requirements, which should be taken into consideration. As a general rule, students getting a Ph.D. in communications must have met the following basic requirements:

• Application for Admission
• Application Fee
• Official Academic Transcripts
• An Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
• Acceptable undergraduate coursework and Grade Point Average (GPA)
• A Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in any discipline, preferably in communications or a closely related field from an accredited institution. (Preference is generally given to applicants with a master’s in communications)
• A Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 in graduate-level studies
• Acceptable Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score (no more than five years old)
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
• Professional Resume
• At least 3 to 4 Letters of Recommendation

Admission Essays or Scholarly Writing Samples may also be required of individuals who do not have communications experience. Those coming from a background other than communications may be required to take additional prerequisite courses such as math and statistics or public relations or courses in languages.

Note: Admissions requirements can vary by college and program. Students are advised to read the college prospectus, contact the school’s admissions office, or speak to the department of communications at the choice of school, to understand exact requirements.

How long is a Ph.D. in Communications?

After graduating from high school and getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university, it typically takes 4 to 7 years (or longer) to complete a Ph.D. program in communications. Because coursework accounts for the vast majority of the Ph.D. requirements, practically the whole program can be completed online (with some limitations). However, it is much more typical for Ph.D. students to complete their dissertation/thesis through traditional coursework rather than primarily over the internet.

In most Ph.D. in communications programs, for the most part, coursework is completed in the first two years or four semesters of the program, with the remaining years being devoted to research, for writing and defending a thesis or dissertation, or completing other similar assignments/requirements during the last two years or four semesters. Additionally, seminars and extensive tests are incorporated into the 55-65 credit program, spread across several semesters.

Although some Ph.D. communications online programs allow students to work at their own pace and complete lectures and examinations on their own time, others adhere to a strict class schedule and enroll students in a cohort for the duration of their course. The length of a doctorate in communication may vary as a result of this and other factors such as the coursework load, chosen specialization, topic of dissertation/thesis, etc.

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Communication

The credibility of an institution is built on the foundation of accreditation, which demonstrates the quality of the organization it certifies. Students and employers can rest easy knowing that their chosen college or program has been evaluated and found to be up to and beyond the standard in areas such as administrative support and policies, instructor selection and evaluation, program quality, infrastructure, and curriculum requirements, all of which are part of the accreditation process. There are six major regional accreditation agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation ( CHEA ) and by the U.S. Department of Education ( USDE ), which ensures that credentials and credits earned at an institution are accepted by other institutions and can be used for future employment. The six regional accrediting organizations are as follows:

• New England Association of Schools and Colleges ( NEASC )
• Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools ( MSA-CESS )
• Higher Learning Commission ( HLC )
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC )
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities ( NWCCU )
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission ( WSCUC )

The accreditation status of a school or program can be checked online on the official U.S Department of Education website or using a credible source like the National Center for Education Statistics ( NCES ).

Although accredited online Ph.D. programs in communication studies can be pursued at a college that is regionally accredited, as an alternative, the Ph.D. program might also be programmatically accredited by a specialized accrediting agency. Programmatic accreditation in communications reflects a school’s compliance with the exacting standards for certification in this field. An example of such programmatic accreditation is the professional journalism and mass communication programs, which are accredited by the Accreditation Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications ( ACEJMC ).

Find out all about accreditation in the detailed Accreditation Guide .

Online Ph.D. in Communication no GRE Programs

Admission to online Ph.D. programs in communications has traditionally required either Graduate Records Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores. However, some colleges do not have this requirement and have waived this requirement due to the current Covid-19 pandemic. Examples of online Ph.D. in communications programs that do not require the GRE or GMAT include the following:

The University of North Carolina (UNC)

The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill, Hussman School of Journalism and Media, offers a Ph.D. in Media and Communication that does not require GRE scores to be submitted for enrollment.

Ohio University

The Ohio University, Scripps College of Communication, offers a Ph.D. in Mass Communication program for which the submission of GRE scores is optional (but encouraged).

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, Annenberg School for Communication, has a Ph.D. program in communication for which the submission of GRE scores is optional for the coming application cycle (2022) due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cornell University

Cornell University Graduate School, an ivy league school, offers a Ph.D. in Communication program that has waived the GRE requirement due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The scores are also not required due to “broader concerns about the inequities inherent in this standardized test”.

Accelerated Online Ph.D. in Communications Programs

Ph.D. programs are usually designed to be rigorous, involving a lot of work and requiring a lot of commitment. The fact that these programs need a large amount of time and effort on a daily basis should not be underestimated by students. Students who wish to complete their doctorate in a shorter amount of time must take three courses per term rather than two. They must work on their dissertation throughout the program rather than putting everything together at the end. Given the program’s requirements and depth, it is extremely rare for colleges to offer accelerated online Ph.D. in communications programs that can be completed in the fewer than 4 to 7 years one would normally need. However, with additional work and dedication, some students can successfully go on to complete their Ph.D. in communication doctoral studies in 3 to 4 years. Here is an example of an accelerated Ph.D. program in communications:

The American University offers a Ph.D. in Communication in which, in contrast to the traditional 9-month-per-year schedule, the annual course of study takes place over 11 months, including faculty supervision and mentoring via formal course work, organized research group meetings, and online collaboration. This accelerated structure of the Ph.D. program allows students to complete their degrees in three years.

How to Pay for Online Doctorate in Communication Programs?

Despite the lower cost of Ph.D. communications online programs compared to traditional in-state or out-of-state programs, the overall cost of the Ph.D. can go into the tens of thousands of dollars. Because working professionals make up the bulk of Ph.D. students, they try their best to cover the costs of their education entirely out of pocket. Unfortunately, this may not always be possible due to family, professional, medical, and lifestyle demands. Therefore, looking into alternative funding options for one’s doctorate in communication may be a good idea. As an online Ph.D. in communications student, here are a few options for financial aid:

Scholarships

Scholarships are by far the most frequent type of aid for the vast majority of students seeking financial assistance. Individual contributors, private groups, alumnae associations, cultural, religious, and commercial organizations all contribute to the establishment of scholarships for advanced education students. The academic performance and achievements of applicants are taken into account first and foremost when deciding whether or not to award a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded to students who, in addition to academic achievement, have demonstrated leadership in their communities, come from a certain cultural background, or belong to a particular faith, to name a few other considerations. (Note: Read about Scholarship Scams to avoid being scammed.)

Ph.D. Fellowships (also known as Predoctoral Fellowships) are stipends awarded to doctoral students who are nearing completion of their degrees. Some Ph.D. fellowships provide financing for specific causes to students who meet certain criteria, while others require students to complete a future assignment in exchange for the funds. Fellowships are also awarded for exceptional performance, and some are intended to attract and retain highly valued students. Departments, colleges, people, government agencies, and companies are among the institutions that award fellowships.

Compared to their academically strong peers, students who are academically gifted yet come from low-income families are more likely to receive grants. Grants, as opposed to scholarships, are not awarded solely because of merit but rather on the basis of financial need, frequently determined by the financial position of the family. Grant money can either pay for tuition or cover other educational expenses such as transportation, accommodation, food, educational supplies, etc.

Graduate Assistantships

Although usually reserved for graduate students, Ph.D. students who wish to work in a classroom, assist professors with lessons, work in a lab or workshop, or teach and demonstrate to undergraduates have the option of applying for a Teaching Assistantship. For their efforts, students will be compensated in some way, usually in the form of a fee waiver or stipend. A Research Assistantship is another option for students who prefer to assist professors in their research rather than teach.

Employer Sponsorship

A growing number of firms allow their employees to pursue further education while they are on the clock. Students should inquire about the terms, conditions, and circumstances of any sponsorship that a potential doctorate student’s firm may make available. A long-term commitment from the company’s personnel is usually required for the company’s support and sponsorship of Ph.D. programs.

Student Loans

Doctoral students and working professionals who are seeking a Ph.D. may want to explore taking out loans from the government, banks, or other private lenders that include interest payments. It is noteworthy that if students fail to pay back their loans on time, they are likely going to end up with more student debt because of accruing interest and penalties.

The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid , is a form students can fill in and submit to check their eligibility for financial aid against various criteria. Financial aid may include scholarships, grants, work-study programs, etc. More FAFSA-related information is available here .

Read the best Financial Guide to know more about various types of financial aid to fund a Ph.D. in communications program.

Fully Funded Online Communication Ph.D. Programs

Many universities offering doctoral communications programs are either fully or partially funded. To be eligible for funding, students will have to meet several criteria and sometimes show financial need as well. Apart from universities, private organizations and for-profit research businesses also offer financial aid in certain instances. Here are a few universities that provide fully-funded Ph.D. in communications:

Free Courses for Online Ph.D. in Communications

In many instances, communication specialists and colleges offer free courses in the discipline of communications. Although students will seldom come by Ph.D.-level courses for free, some of the available courses can nonetheless prove to be beneficial for Ph.D. students. They can help students improve their communication skills, interpersonal talents, and self-confidence, as well as add value to their efforts in research and preparation for their thesis or dissertation. A few online learning portals offer free courses and depending on the course or learning path, a certificate of completion can be earned. Here are some free resources for students who are pursuing a Ph.D. degree in communications online:

FAQs about Online Doctorate in Communication Programs

What is a doctorate in communication.

In most fields, doctorate degrees are referred to as “terminal degrees” since they represent the pinnacle of academic achievement. Students who choose to pursue these types of degrees in communications are serious about learning in-depth about the discipline and enhancing their research skills. There are two types of doctoral degrees: those that focus on academic research and subject matter expertise – called the Ph.D. and those that educate students for action-based research and work in an applied setting – such as the DNP, Pharm.D., Ed.D., DrPH, etc.

How to get a doctorate in communications?

Although a master’s degree in communications (or a related field) is preferred for entry into a Ph.D. in communications program, some colleges will accept bachelor’s degree holders but who will need to fulfill several other criteria and prerequisites before being formally accepted into the program. It is worth noting that, in general, Master’s degree holders are more likely to get admitted into Ph.D. programs. Once enrolled, students are required to take foundational, core, specialized, research methodology, and capstone/thesis preparation courses in their early years of study. In the following years of the program, students are expected to carry out research, write and submit a dissertation or thesis, and defend it before an academic committee.

What are the best communication Ph.D. programs?

Several universities across the country offer communication doctoral degrees. A reputed college or university should have state-of-the-art research facilities and teaching staff, along with program flexibility, choice of courses, accreditation, etc. Based on several factors that are part of school rankings, a list of the best Ph.D. in communications programs has been prepared by FBD teams, which is published on this page.

What can you do with a Ph.D. in communications?

The skills and knowledge graduates gain from a Ph.D. in communications online program prepare them for jobs as professors and researchers in academia, as well as positions of leadership in the corporate houses, the news and media industry, journalism, education, public relations, advertising, marketing, corporate communications, and more.

What is the average fee charged by the colleges?

The overall cost of a doctorate depends on a number of variables, including the type of school one attends, the type of doctorate one pursues, the length of the program, and the amount of financial aid one qualifies for. Although it is hard to pinpoint the exact cost of a Ph.D. in communications program, it has been estimated by Education Data that the average cost of a Ph.D. degree (in general) in the United States is $98,800 .

Can I do a Ph.D. communications online?

Yes, a Ph.D. in communications program can be completed entirely online because, in the present times, most of the classes are conducted online. However, it is more customary for Ph.D. candidates to complete their dissertations through traditional coursework rather than solely online, taking tests and seminars over multiple semesters. Students can also choose a hybrid model that mixes online classes with in-person sessions. Some of the best online Ph.D. in communications programs are listed on this page.

How long is Ph.D. communication?

The average time it takes to complete a Ph.D. in communication is between four and seven years. Some colleges allow students to take a maximum of 8 years. But it is important to understand that the duration of the program is dependent on several factors, including the specialization chosen, the quantum of coursework necessary, and the topic of the dissertation or thesis. For full-time students who are not working professionals and commit all their time to their Ph.D. studies, the degree can be completed in around four to five years.

Can I do a Ph.D. in communications without a masters?

Yes, some colleges do allow bachelor’s students to pursue a Ph.D. in communications. These programs will require additional classes in specific subjects and a qualifications evaluation at the end of the 4 th or 5 th semester. A typical timeline for a student entering a Ph.D. in communication program without a master’s degree would be

• 7 semesters of coursework – typically 3 courses per semester
• Comprehensive exams in semesters 6 or 7
• A dissertation or thesis proposal defense in semester 8
• Dissertation or thesis research and writing in semesters 8 to 10
• Dissertation or thesis defense and graduation at the end of semester 10

Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online Ph.D. in Communications

A Ph.D. in communications opens the door to senior positions in education and academia. However, it is not uncommon for graduates to enter research settings or work in other sectors such as healthcare, media, sport and entertainment, television, business, social media, the government, law enforcement, etc., usually in upper-level and responsible roles. Communications Ph.D. holders can also enter fields such as:

Data Analytics and Emerging Technologies (such as Immersive and Social Media)

Legal and Historical Studies

Media in Healthcare Contexts

Visual Communication

Critical Media Studies

Strategic Communication and Mass Media Persuasion

International Media

Of course, Ph.D. in communications can also open careers in:

• Human Resources
• Broadcasting
• Sports Reporting
• Social Media
• Advertising
• Intercultural Relations
• Health Care Management
• Music Production
• Public Relations
• Human Resource Management
• Event Planning
• Entrepreneurism
• Social work
• Campaign Management
• Nonprofit Management
• Visual Communications

What can you do with a Ph.D. in communications? There are several roles Ph.D. degree holders in communications can consider. Some of the common job titles and positions include but are not limited to

• Digital Strategy Director
• Director of Creative Services
• Social Media Manager
• Creative Services Director
• Public Relations Director
• Corporate Communications Director
• Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager or Director
• Director of Communications and Digital Strategy
• Director of Digital Marketing
• Marketing Communications Manager
• Digital Product Manager
• Communications Consultant
• SEO or SEM Manager
• Brand Manager
• Editor in Chief
• Professor of Communications
• Public Relations Manager
• Campaign Manager
• Broadcasting Director
• Writer or Author
• Digital Marketing Manager
• Donor Relations Manager

Ph.D. communications graduates earn substantially more than their bachelor’s or masters counterparts. Of course, added experience, certifications, and education can further increase pay and make career advancements easier. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, communication occupations are projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030 , much faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S. PayScale reports that the average median Corporate Communications Director salary is $127,801 , with 90% earning over $175,000 per year.

Below is a list of a few roles in the communications sector and what Ph.D. holders in communications can come to expect by way of salary and job growth, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) . It is noteworthy that the salaries mentioned are for junior to mid-level positions. Ph.D. holders will almost certainly earn more.

Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. in Communications

Students who earn a Ph.D. communications online and then go on to earn a professional certification can show off their skills and abilities while also establishing their credentials. Certifications enable individuals to participate in a lifelong learning process that boosts their professional development and provides a framework for keeping their skills current and relevant. A doctorate in communication can also lead to specific senior positions and enhanced employability, which in turn can lead to promotions, advancements, and a better salary. The following certifications are available to students pursuing a Ph.D. in communications:

Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) Credential

The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) demonstrates professional competence, high standards of current public relations techniques, and communicates professional skill with personal and professional dedication and ideals in the field of public relations. The APR credential is offered in two variants by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) – APR: Accredited in Public Relations , and the APR+M: Accredited in Public Relations and Military Communication .

Communication Management Professional (CMP)

The Communication Management Professional (CMP) certification is for communication professionals who are in the generalist or specialized stage of their careers. The certification is apt for those with 6 to 8 years of work experience in the communications field. The CMP has been developed by the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC), a team of communication professionals assembled by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)’s international executive board.

Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP)

The Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP) credential is for communication professionals who are at the senior level in their careers. The certification is apt for those with 8 to 11 years of work experience in the communications field. The SCMP has also been developed by the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC), a team of communication professionals assembled by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)’s international executive board.

Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X) Credential

The Career Directors International (CDI) Certified Industry Resume Specialist offers the Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X) designation and is available in 20 areas of competence that are regarded to be the most sought after in the resume industry. A Certified IT Resume Specialist (CRS+IT), for example, can indicate one’s ability to lead in the field of IT resumes. Certifications include Public Relations and Marketing Communications – (CRS+PR), Sales and Business Development – (CRS+BD), Administration and Clerical – (CRS+AC), and other certifications are available.

Additional Resources for Online Ph.D. in Communications Degree

In order to fully comprehend and analyze the many varied forms, effects, and uses of communication, a thorough examination and analysis of the discipline are required. Having the opportunity to network with communications specialists from all around the world would be beneficial for students, as it would allow them to get a more in-depth grasp of the field, as well as new insights and skills that would help them develop in their careers. These resources for communications Ph.D. students can help them in their studies as well as in their future employment as communications professionals. They include:

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) is the nation’s largest professional communications group. PRSA is the industry’s foremost advocate for excellence and ethical conduct, offering members lifelong learning opportunities and cutting-edge resources to help them build professional networks and provide support at every stage of their careers. PRSA has almost 30,000 members and is represented on nearly 375 college and university campuses through 110 Chapters and 14 Professional Interest Sections, as well as the Public Relations Student Society of America, its student affiliate (PRSSA).

EBSCO – Communication Source

EBSCO provides libraries, health care and medical institutions, corporations, and government agencies with access to content and resources to meet the information and workflow needs of their users and organizations, ranging from research, acquisition management, subscription services, and discovery to clinical decision support and patient care, learning, and research and development.

National Communication Association (NCA)

The National Communication Association (NCA) encourages and promotes communication as a field that explores all modes, forms, media, and ramifications of communication through social scientific, humanistic, and artistic study. The NCA facilitates and supports the professional interests of students, teachers, and practitioners in the areas of teaching, learning, and research. The organization publishes 11 academic journals, holds an annual convention, runs a career center, provides teaching and learning tools, and engages in public policy advocacy.

Association for Women in Communications (AWC)

The Association for Women in Communications (AWC) is the leading organization in the industry dedicated to providing women with the confidence, support, and resources they need to advance their careers and make a difference. The AWC is a professional association that fosters leadership, recognizes excellence, and places members at the forefront of the changing communications landscape.

Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP)

The Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP) encourages and supports nonprofit and public-service marketing and communication professionals. The AMCP honors excellent achievement and dedication to the communication profession through national and international competitions.

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The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our  proprietary methodology . They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our  Terms of Service . Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.

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15 Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs – 2024

April 24, 2024

If you’re looking to attain a terminal degree but want to skip the commute to campus, an online doctoral program might be a great option for you. As our world becomes increasingly digital, many top universities have branched out into online learning, offering online PhD and doctoral programs that are just as rigorous as their in-person counterparts. Online graduate education can offer aspiring doctoral students flexibility, a high-quality education, and the option to continue working while pursuing a degree.

Many of the universities below in our round-up of the best online doctoral programs offer degrees in education—a common track for teachers looking to advance their careers. But universities across the country offer a wide range of degrees in everything from engineering management to library science. Read on for everything you need to know as you consider applying.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctoral Degree Online?

Online doctoral programs are often designed with full-time professionals in mind, prioritizing flexibility so that you can complete your degree at your own pace. Program lengths will vary, but most will take four to seven years. For students who need to take things slower, many programs offer options to spread degree requirements out over time. When applying, here are a few good questions to ask your admissions officer:

• How long do most graduate students take to complete their degrees?
• Are there flexible options for how many courses you’ll take per term?
• Will you pay tuition per semester or per credit hour? If paying by credit hour, will you able to choose how many classes you take each semester?
• Will you be required to write a dissertation? If so, how long do students usually take to write them?

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Is an Online PhD Program a Good Fit for Me?

There’s no denying it: online doctoral programs are different than traditional ones. Many traditional PhD programs are designed for future academics, aka for graduate students who intend to apply for jobs as university professors after graduation. Traditional PhD programs are full-time, research-focused, in-person, and often offer graduate students funding in exchange for teaching or research assistant responsibilities. Online doctoral programs do also involve research, but most online graduate students are not full-time students. Rather, many students enrolled in online doctoral programs are working professionals who attend classes in the evenings or asynchronously. With that in mind, an online program can be a fantastic opportunity to further your current career.

An online doctorate program could be a great fit for you if:

• You want to advance your career. A doctorate can lead to further opportunities for promotion and certain fields offer automatic pay increases for people with advanced degrees.
• You love research and want to develop expertise in a topic that fascinates you.
• You learn well in online settings, including asynchronous classes.
• You plan to continue working while you study.

Online doctoral programs typically do not offer their students funding, though there may be scholarships and grants available to you.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What to Consider When Choosing an Online Doctorate Program

Since a doctorate can take 4-7 years or more to complete, choosing the right school for you is a huge decision. Our list below dives into many details you’ll need to know like acceptance rate, retention rate, and cost of tuition. It’s important to consider big-picture factors such as:

• Time to complete degree
• Professors and mentors—you’ll want to make sure you can study with faculty who have expertise in your academic interests
• Flexibility—does the program fit with your schedule? Do they require any in-person meetings?
• Graduation rate—ask your admissions officer for the most recent figures

You’ll also want to consider whether you want to pursue a PhD or a doctorate degree. If you’re pursuing a PhD, you can expect to focus more significantly on academic research and you’ll need to complete a dissertation. A doctorate is an equivalent degree that is less focused on academic research and may not require a dissertation. Doctorates can often involve more career development or hands-on practicum experience.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Are Online PhDs Respected?

Yes, online doctoral programs are just as rigorous and respected as their in-person counterparts. If you hope to earn a tenure-track faculty position at a university, it’s likely a traditional PhD program will be a better route. However, if you’re seeking a doctorate for career advancement and further learning, an online doctoral program can be a great fit. Many of the most prestigious universities offer online programs, and your diploma will likely not specify whether you completed an online or traditional degree.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What Do I Need to Apply?

Application requirements will vary depending on the program you’re applying to. All programs will require your academic transcripts, many require letters of recommendation, and some require GRE scores. On top of that, some programs will require a personal statement or writing portfolio. Contrary to what you might think, Master’s degrees are not always required for admission to online doctoral programs.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs

1) university of florida.

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers 10 different online doctoral programs . Well known for its graduate programs in education, educators can pursue PhDs in educational leadership, special education, computer science education, among other options. UF also offers online programs in nursing, Latin and Roman studies, microbiology, and a few other fields. Established in 1853, UF is a flagship state university with a strong reputation.

• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Acceptance Rate: 31%
• In State Tuition: $6,380
• Out of State Tuition: $28,658
• Application Requirements: Application portfolio (sample essays or projects), GRE scores, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or graduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation

2) George Washington University

George Washington University ’s Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering leads the way with the university’s most comprehensive online PhD offerings . Through them, students can pursue doctoral degrees in cybersecurity analytics, engineering in artificial intelligence, systems engineering, or engineering management. Educators can also pursue well-respected degrees in education leadership and human and organizational learning.

• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Tuition: $31,770
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, academic records

3) Johns Hopkins University

• A ten-year-old program , Johns Hopkins ’ online PhD in education allows students to specialize in digital age learning, entrepreneurial leadership, urban leadership, and other topics. Note their high graduation rate: Johns Hopkins is a competitive program , but admitted students are well-supported on their path to graduation.
• Graduation Rate: 94%
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Tuition: $57,010
• Application Requirements: Master’s degree, minimum GPA of 3.0

Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs (Continued)

4) texas tech university.

Texas Tech University offers a wide range of online and hybrid PhD programs that provide their students flexibility as they work toward completing their terminal degree. An affordable university in Lubbock, Texas Tech is a great place for future doctors of education, consumer science, technical communication, engineering management, and financial planning.

• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• In State Tuition: $6,788
• Out of State Tuition: $14,968
• Application Requirements: Academic transcripts, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

5) Iowa State University

Although Iowa State University ’s online doctorate programs require some in-person meetings, ISU may still be a good fit for online students. With more uncommon online doctoral programs in hospitality management and apparel, merchandising, and design, ISU offers flexible routes to completing your dissertation.

• Graduation Rate: 75%
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• In State Tuition: $9,758
• Out of State Tuition: $24,720
• Application Requirements: Academic records, minimum 3.0 GPA

6) University of Alabama

Online University of Alabama students may miss out on a lively campus culture and football games, but they can still take advantage of UA’s top-notch academics. Well-known for its online education graduate programs, UA also offers programs in social work, communication and information sciences, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• In State Tuition: $11,940
• Out of State Tuition: $32,300
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records

7) University of Missouri

One of the most robust in terms of online offerings, the University of Missouri ’s online PhD classes are taught by the same professors who teach Mizzou’s in-person classes. Mizzou offers programs in education and nursing. They also allow students to pursue doctorates in harder-to-find subjects like health sciences, agriculture, architecture, and library science.

• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• In State Tuition: $9,478
• Out of State Tuition: $25,946
• Application Requirements: Academic record, minimum GPA of 3.0, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

8) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

One of the oldest public universities in the U.S., University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill is known as a leader in education. UNC Chapel Hill offers just three online PhDs: public health, nursing, and education. Although some online classes require in-person or proctored final exams, doctoral requirements can mostly be completed online.

• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• In State Tuition: $9,208
• Out of State Tuition:  $36,891
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records, letters of recommendation, personal statement

9) Georgia Southern University

Located in Savannah, Georgia Southern University works hard to create an environment of support and collaboration, even online. One of the more robust programs out there, GSU offers respected online programs in public health, nursing, education, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• In State Tuition: $4,986
• Out of State Tuition: $19,890
• Application Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0

10) Indiana University

Indiana University allows students to study at their own pace through flexible online doctoral programs. One of the only schools to offer online programs in music therapy and philanthropy leadership, IU also allows students to pursue tracks in health sciences, education, and computing and technology. Most classes are asynchronous and students can take courses through any IU campus.

• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Acceptance Rate: 92%
• In State Tuition: $9732
• Out of State Tuition: $21,160
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic record

11) Mississippi State University

A solid option for future doctors of philosophy, Mississippi State University is a research-focused and inclusive university. An especially strong option for those looking to study engineering or computer science, MSU offers 9 different majors within those fields.  MSU also offers tracks in plant science and education leadership.

• Graduation Rate: 64%
• In State Tuition: $9,398
• Out of State Tuition: $25,444
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement

12) Appalachian State University

Although Appalachian State University is known for its beautiful setting in Boone, North Carolina, App State still has much to offer online students. This school offers only one part-time PhD program in education leadership , but its affordability compared to other programs makes this school stand out.

• In State Tuition: $4,839
• Out of State Tuition: $18,271
• Application Requirements: Academic record, GRE scores or 3.0 minimum GPA, Master’s degree

13) Purdue University

An online doctoral program that maintains a high standard of excellence, Purdue is a great place for future doctors of technology, educational leadership and policy, and higher education. Purdue graduate students can expect to co-author papers with faculty and gain hands-on experience in research.

• Graduation Rate: 38%
• Acceptance Rate: 30%
• Tuition: $420 per credit

14) Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University ’s online doctoral programs allow students to complete their degree in three to five years. Through their shortened term system, students take 8-week classes and then write their dissertation in their final three semesters. A leader in online doctoral programs, Concordia offers paths in strategic innovation, healthcare management, education leadership, and organizational leadership.

• Tuition: $9,090
• Application Requirements: Academic record, Master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

15) Clemson University

A public school in South Carolina, Clemson aims to prepare online doctoral students for diverse career paths. Proudly offering programs that are difficult to find elsewhere, Clemson graduate students can study healthcare genetics and parks, recreation, and tourism management. Education professionals can complete degrees in education systems, learning science, and teaching, literacy, language, and culture.

• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• In State Tuition: $10,600
• Out of State Tuition: $22,050
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement vary by program

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Additional Resources

Looking to learn more about graduate school admissions? We’ve got you covered.

Admissions Tips

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• Write a Grad School Statement of Purpose in 12 Simple Steps
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• Do You Need a Master’s to get a PhD?

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• Best Online MSW Programs
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Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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  Next Start Date: May 13, 2024

• Delivery: 100% Online
• Credits: 30-33
• Finish in 18-24 months
• No GRE Required

Our curriculum is built for new and experienced professionals from all fields, especially those seeking to diversify their communication and business experiences. The skills you will gain are the same highly sought-after skills employers area looking for in job candidates: social media analytics, entrepreneurship, evaluation techniques, reputation management and more . The public relations master’s program is also great for students interested in careers as public affairs or media relations managers, business leaders, communication or event coordinators, media or market research analysts, public relations directors or professors.

Our award-winning faculty are agile and adaptive, embracing a fast-changing media landscape that pushes innovation and entrepreneurial learning. In addition to the individual attention you receive from faculty, you also get focused, one-on-one advising sessions each semester to ensure you're hitting your goals. curriculum incorporates empathy and self-awareness to help you recognize bias and stay grounded in ethics throughout your career. It prepares you to be a critical thinker and collaborator, a leader with digital proficiency, and an agile communications professional.

The PRMA program at Ball State was critical in teaching me the research and critical thinking skills I used in my daily life as an integrated communications professional in the largest PR agencies and corporations in the world. Ball State’s PR program is highly regarded in the industry, and has opened countless doors for me throughout my career.

—Matt Kelly, Senior Vice President, Chicago Market Digital Lead at BCW Global Master’s in Public Relations, 2010  

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The UT Tyler Health Science Center facility offers an array of crucial medical and healthcare education resources, fostering an environment dedicated to excellence in education. From cutting-edge simulation labs to dedicated research spaces, every aspect of the UT Tyler Health Science Center is designed to enhance the educational experience. This dynamic campus is not just a hub for learning; it’s a catalyst for progress in healthcare education and a testament to UT Tyler's commitment to shaping the future of healthcare in the East Texas region.

Office of Health Affairs

School of Health Professions

School of Medicine

Center for Biomedical Research

Simulation in Medicine and Immersive Learning Experience Center

Watson W. Wise Medical Research Library

Public Health Laboratory of East Texas

UT Health North Campus Tyler (UTHET)

HOPE Cancer Center

A Regional Leader in Health Research

UT Tyler pioneers solutions to improve health. Several research centers, including the Center for Mycobacterial Treatment and Discovery and the Center for Biomedical Research, are housed on this campus. The centers build on our history of innovative treatments for lung disease and focus on the health concerns of rural populations through projects funded by agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities and instruction informed by the latest developments in the field. 

Dr. Maolin Lu

Assistant Professor of Cellular and Molecular Biology

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Community Outreach and Engagement

Ut health east texas.

In its regional network of hospitals, clinics and other facilities, UT Health East Texas delivers world-class care to thousands of patients each year while conducting clinical trials and training the next generation of professionals through UT Tyler’s unique programs. The UT Tyler Health Science Center is home to UT Health North Campus Tyler .

Public Health Programs

Faculty, staff and students at the UT Tyler Health Science Center campus connect their expertise with local community needs to assist traditionally underserved populations through an array of health and outreach programs, including behavioral health telemedicine services for rural populations, cancer screenings, parental education, lifestyle changes and more.

Pollen and Mold Count

UT Tyler's Health Science Center provides a daily pollen and mold count as a resource to the community. See today's counts as well as prior counts.

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The university of texas at tyler health science center.

Phone:   903.877.7777

We’re pioneering the future of healthcare in East Texas. Find out how you can join us.

11937 U.S. Hwy. 271 Tyler, TX 75708-3154

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The Reed College of Media and College of Creative Arts will merge to form the new WVU College of Creative Arts and Media as of July 1, 2024. Get details.

• Professional Development
• Marketing Communications Today
• Marketing Communications Today Blog

Finding Mentorship and Connection in WVU's IMC Program

Stefanie Moore | Monday, May 06, 2024

Jill Gibboney is grateful for the support she has and found through her time in the IMC program and doesn’t ever want to stop learning. The support from fellow classmates and the learning environment are two things she is going to miss most from WVU.

Gibboney’s favorite memory from WVU was attending the Integrate 2023 conference. “Getting to meet fellow students and faculty, plus attending informative sessions gave me some insight and made me feel connected to the program and the school at large,” she shared from her experience. “I ended up getting somewhat of a mentor and I also developed some solid, amazing friendships just by attending a conference. I was also able to bring back the learnings from the sessions for my team at work.”

With a focus on creative strategy, Gibboney gained some valuable feedback during her time at WVU. Most notably, she remembers one piece of feedback that changed her life and how she saw herself as a marketer. That advice came from Advanced Creative Concepts instructor, Nathan Pieratt . “Not only is he such a supportive educator who cares deeply about the creative process and his students, but he encouraged me to see myself for who I was, not who I thought I was. Learning is part of the process of any educational system, but learning about myself made the biggest impact, and I am grateful for Professor Pieratt's contribution to that lesson.”

For those considering the Marketing Communications Online Programs, Gibboney shares “It can be daunting to go back to school! Things WILL come up once you enroll, no question, and if you're anything like me, they will come up again and again and again during your time here. It will feel like you can't go on. But you will, and you can, and you will be so glad you did. Just keep going.”

Gibboney is a 2024 graduate of the Integrated Marketing Communications master’s degree with an emphasis in Creative Strategy . She currently resides in Cincinnati and is from Punxsutawney, PA. She is grateful to her husband, son, parents, siblings and friends for their endless support and patience. “I truly couldn't have done it without them!”

Marketing Communications Online Programs

The marketing communications landscape is constantly changing. Our programs are focused on what is happening next in marketing. Learn more about our innovative programs .

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Marketing Communications Today is a collection of resources for marketing communications professionals filled with industry research, marketing trends, and career information about integrated marketing and data-driven communications. Learn industry insights through the Marketing Communications Today blog, podcast, as well as Integrate Online.

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Post Graduate Programs

Purdue University through its Purdue University Online initiative has partnered with Simplilearn, an international online training company, to offer a range of courses for professionals looking to jump start their careers. Program participants will use a combination of self-paced videos and live virtual classes with significant hands-on exposure to ensure practical, industry-aligned learning.

Simplilearn is the entity responsible for all sales and learner interactions. There are no credits awarded by Purdue as Simplilearn is the institution of record.

Data Analytics

The Post Graduate Program in Data Analytics, in collaboration with IBM, will give you a broad exposure to key technologies and in-demand skills used in the data analytics field, including Excel, SQL, Python, R, Tableau, and Power BI. The program follows an applied learning model designed with hands-on projects and business case studies to help you take on the role of a Data Analytics professional.

• View The Program

Business Analysis

The Post Graduate Program in Business Analysis will help you master business analysis techniques, Agile Scrum methodologies, SQL databases, and visualization tools, including Excel, Power BI, and Tableau. You will learn about business analysis planning and monitoring, build interactive dashboards and master the competencies of a business analyst.

• View the Program

AI and Machine Learning

The Post Graduate Program in AI and Machine Learning, in collaboration with IBM, demystifies concepts like statistical methods, Python programming, machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, reinforcement learning, and more. The program also helps you explore some of the latest advancements in the AI space, such as ChatGPT, generative AI, explainable AI, and GPT models, among others.

• View The Progran

Data Science

The Post Graduate Program in Data Science, in collaboration with IBM, uses an applied learning model to cover job-critical topics like statistical models, SQL, Python programming, Machine Learning techniques, Data Visualization with Tableau, and more. Master the ability to discover business insights with live sessions from global practitioners, hands-on industry projects and integrated labs.

Data Engineering

The Post Graduate Program in Data Engineering focuses on distributed processing using the Hadoop framework, large-scale data processing using Spark, data pipelines with Kafka, and working with big data on AWS and Azure Cloud infrastructures. It includes a comprehensive curriculum covering the essentials of big data, including Apache Python basics, AWS EMR, Quicksight, Sagemaker, the AWS cloud platform, and Azure services.

Digital Marketing

The Post Graduate Program in Digital Marketing will help you gain a deep understanding of digital marketing strategies and expertise in the most widely used digital marketing tools and channels. Through real-life projects and virtual simulations, this digital marketing certification program will help you master various in-demand digital marketing skills.

Digital Supply Chain Management

The Post Graduate Program in Digital Supply Chain Management focuses on the critical aspects of building a digitally-enabled supply chain. You will gain an understanding of and how to leverage technology to improve operational efficiency and decision-making across the supply chain.

Digital Transformation

The Post Graduate Program in Digital Transformation focuses on the critical aspects of building a digital-ready business. You will learn everything from understanding and leveraging the drivers of transformation to build a digital business strategy, to lead organizations, and help them navigate through digital disruption.

• Online Master’s Degree Programs

Online Master’s Degree Programs Advancing Your Career with Specialized Graduate Education

Earn an Online Masters Program That Fits Your Needs — And Your Life

No matter why you’re looking for a master’s degree, you can find one that meets your needs at Liberty University. Maybe an online master’s degree is required to move you forward in your profession. Perhaps you’re ready to start down a new career path, or maybe you simply want the competitive edge a graduate degree can bring.

At Liberty, you can choose from a wide variety of nearly 300 master’s degrees that are flexible, affordable, and designed to help you achieve personal and professional success. Most degree programs are 100% online and offered in an 8-week course format, so no matter your work, family, or volunteer obligations, you can find a program that fits your schedule.

Our online master’s degree programs have been designed with your success in mind. We imagine what a better world would look like — and then we train the people who would work there. Partner with us to gain valuable skills and take your career to new heights!

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Available Online Masters Degrees

Aeronautics.

• Aeronautics (M.S.)

Arts and Sciences

• Composition (M.A.)
• Creative Writing (M.F.A.)
• Geographic Information Systems (M.S.)
• Geography (M.A.)
• History (M.A.)
• Interdisciplinary Research (M.A.)
• Interdisciplinary Studies (M.A.)
• Linguistics (M.A.)
• Literature (M.A.)
• Military Operations (M.A.)
• Professional Writing (M.A.)
• Public History (M.A.)
• Teaching English as a Second Language (M.A.)

Behavioral Sciences

• Addiction Counseling (M.A.)
• Applied Psychology (M.A.)
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.)
• Education – School Counseling (M.Ed.)
• Human Services Counseling (M.A.)
• Marriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)
• Pastoral Counseling (M.A.)
• Social Work (M.S.W.) – Advanced Generalist
• Accounting (MSA)
• Business Administration (MBA) 36-hours
• Business Administration (MBA) 45-hours
• Finance (M.S.)
• Healthcare Administration (M.S.)
• Health Informatics (MSHI)
• Human Resource Management (M.S.)
• Marketing (M.S.)
• Nonprofit Management (MNM)
• Sports Management (M.S.)

Communication

• Communication (M.A.)
• Promotion and Video Content (M.A.)
• Social Media Management (M.S.)
• Strategic Communication (M.A.) – Digital Communication
• Applied Ministry (M.A.)
• Biblical Exposition (M.A.)
• Biblical Languages (M.A.)
• Biblical Studies (M.A.B.S.)
• Chaplaincy – General (M.A.)
• Christian Apologetics (M.A.)
• Christian Apologetics (M.A.) – Thesis
• Christian Ministry (M.C.M.)
• Church Planting (M.A.)
• Divinity (M.Div.)
• Educational Ministries (M.A.)
• Global Studies (M.G.S.)
• Humanitarian Action and Human Rights (M.A.)
• Religion (M.A.R.)
• Religious Education (M.R.E.)
• Sports Chaplaincy (M.A.)
• Theological Studies (M.A.T.S.)
• Educational Studies (M.A.)
• Education (M.Ed.)
• Education (M.Ed.) – Curriculum and Instruction
• Education (M.Ed.) – Higher Education
• Education (M.Ed.) – Special and Gifted Education: Twice Exceptionalities
• Teaching (M.A.T.)

Engineering

• Engineering Management (M.S.)
• Criminal Justice (M.S.)
• Homeland Security and Disaster Management (M.S.)
• International Relations (M.S.)
• National Security (M.S.)
• Political Science (M.S.)
• Public Administration (M.P.A.)
• Public Policy (M.A.P.P.)
• Public Safety (M.S.)

Health Sciences

• Exercise Science and Wellness (M.S.)
• Human Biology (M.S.)
• Human Performance (M.S.)
• Medical Sciences (M.A.)
• Nutrition (M.S.)
• Public Health (M.P.H.)

Information Technology

• Cyber Security (M.S.)
• Information Systems (M.S.I.S.)
• Information Technology (M.S.I.T.)
• General (J.M.)
• American Legal Studies (J.M.)
• Compliance (J.M.)
• Health Law (J.M.)
• International Legal Studies (J.M.)
• International Legal Studies (LL.M.)
• Executive Leadership (M.A.E.L.)
• Project Management (M.S.)
• Ethnomusicology (M.A.)
• Music and Worship (M.A.)
• Music Education (M.A.)
• Worship Studies (M.A.)
• Nursing (MSN)
• Nursing (MSN)/Business Administration (MBA) Dual Degree
• Nursing (MSN)/Healthcare Administration (MSHA) Dual Degree

Visual and Creative Arts

• Graphic Design (MFA)
• Human-Centered Design (M.A.)
• Visual Communication Design (M.A.)

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

What’s the Value of an Online Masters Program?

At Liberty, you can strengthen your communication, research, and critical thinking skills and accomplish something remarkable. Earning an advanced degree isn’t just something you do – it can be an invaluable experience. Take a look at some other reasons why earning an online master’s degree is worth it.

Return on Investment

What else will you get? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that professionals who hold a master’s degree are paid on average more than those who hold only a bachelor’s degree – learn more .* In many cases, a master’s degree is a wise investment that can increase your earning potential and boost your chances of earning a promotion. Pursuing a master’s degree can enrich your life. You’ll spend time studying, researching, and writing while you pursue your educational and career goals, but many students find great personal and professional fulfillment along the way. At Liberty, we don’t just want you to earn a life-changing degree — we want you to derive satisfaction from the work you do.

Employment Opportunities

If your purpose for completing a master’s degree is to gain new employment, you’re on the right track. An increasing number of employers prefer that you have a master’s degree ** — which can make you a more attractive job candidate than someone without a master’s degree. If you haven’t started yet, don’t worry. Liberty University offers nearly 300 online master’s degrees in a variety of areas and career fields. Our master’s degrees are designed to help give you a professional edge — whatever your calling may be.

Convenience

Chances are you’re a working professional with a home, a family, and an active social life. What if you could pursue your degree while still working full-time? Or take classes without moving your family across the country or the globe? By earning your master’s degree online at Liberty, you’ll have the opportunity to reap all the benefits of higher education and advanced training without pausing your life. You can complete classes on your own time while maintaining all of your professional and social relationships.

Professional Connections

At Liberty, we don’t believe that mastering concepts and gaining advanced knowledge should be the only benefits of a master’s degree, which is why our world-class online learning environment is designed to facilitate collaboration and networking. You won’t just have the chance to build lasting relationships with your professors at Liberty — you’ll also work alongside students like yourself, and in turn, be able to develop lasting professional connections.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at  Unemployment rates and earnings by educational attainment, 2021  (viewed online July 18, 2022). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

**Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at  Employment, wages, and projected change in employment by typical entry-level education  (viewed online July 18, 2022). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Why Choose Liberty University for Your Online Master’s Program?

As you grow in your profession, you may find that many fields require a master’s degree for continued advancement. A master’s degree demonstrates your high level of expertise in a specific area of study and is available to students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree. Having a master’s degree can help you stand out from among your peers — especially in competitive career fields. 

As an institution with decades of experience in distance education, we understand what it takes to design an online master’s degree that meets your needs. Whether you’re studying business, computer science, nursing, or another subject, we recognize that your personal commitments don’t change when you become a graduate student — even if you’re taking online courses. That’s why we’ve put a great deal of time and effort into making a graduate-level education that’s offered online as simple as possible for you. 

Liberty University is dedicated to helping you expand your knowledge and pursue new career opportunities. Our variety of online master’s degree programs are designed to add to your existing expertise. As a result, our advanced degrees can help you become even more competitive in today’s labor market. 

Furthermore, we offer nearly 300 online master’s degree programs, allowing you to find a program that fits you perfectly. Look through our wide range of options and find the degree program designed for you. 

Getting a master’s degree shouldn’t mean putting the important people, plans, and responsibilities in your life on hold. Completing an online master’s degree program at Liberty University is a great way to advance your career without losing the time needed for other priorities. In fact, many of our online master’s degrees can be completed in as little as 12 months! 

Contact an  admissions counselor  today and see how an online master’s degree from Liberty University can give you the skills and knowledge you need to shape a better world.

Compare Liberty to the Competition

Liberty University’s award-winning, flexible, low-cost programs offer you great value for your time and money. Find out how Liberty compares to the competition today!

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course) *
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Our Online Masters Programs

What can i expect when pursuing an online master’s degree program through liberty.

• Affordability  |  Tuition has been frozen for all online master’s programs for the past 9 years — and counting — because Liberty University strives to keep your costs low. Liberty is recognized by multiple institutions for its affordability, accessibility, and academic quality.
• Credibility  | Liberty University is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ) and holds some of the highest programmatic accreditation for the  School of Education  (CAEP),  School of Nursing  (CCNE),  School of Business  (ACBSP),  School of Music  (NASM), and  School of Behavioral Sciences  (CACREP).
• Flexibility  | Most of Liberty’s online master’s courses are offered in a flexible, 8-week course format with 8 different start dates throughout the year.
• Professional instructors  | Every online professor has professional experience in their field, and Liberty professors are known for their personal investment in their students. You can benefit from real-world knowledge and mentorship in your virtual classroom.
• Simple admission process  | There are no GRE requirements for Liberty’s online master’s degrees. Submit your official college transcripts, or let us request them for you through our Transcript Request Form
• Student support  | Admission counselors, academic advisors, and a technical support team are here to assist you from day one — through the admission process to graduation.

What will You study in our online Master’s Degree programs?

You want an education that’s worth the effort you put into it, and we want you to be proud of the education you receive. As a result, your online master’s degree through Liberty University can give you:

• Advanced knowledge  of a specialized body of theoretical and applied topics
• A high level of skills  and techniques associated with your chosen field
• A range of transferable and professional abilities  gained through independent and highly focused learning and research

Your online master’s degree program will be taught by professional educators dedicated to your academic success. Our professors are available to mentor you while teaching from a biblical worldview. Choose one of the online master’s degree programs we offer and join a growing community of innovators, dreamers, and leaders.

Can I earn a master’s degree online?

Yes! At Liberty University, we offer nearly 300 online masters programs — allowing you to earn a valuable career-enhancing credential from the comfort of home. If you’re like most of our students, odds are you’re a working professional with many responsibilities to juggle. We’ve designed each of our masters programs online with this in mind.

At Liberty, the life of a working professional isn’t always easy. You may find yourself strapped for time between work, family, community, church, and various other commitments. Your responsibilities aren’t going away anytime soon, and you may fear that your busy schedule will prevent you from achieving your goal of earning a masters degree. 

Our online master’s programs are designed with your success in mind. Most of our online graduate degrees are offered 100% online in 8-week sections with no set login times and no required intensives, so you can remain active in your community while still working on your online masters degree.

In addition, expert professors with years of real-world experience teach each of our courses. When you choose to pursue your online masters degree at Liberty, you’re choosing professors who are educated, knowledgable and committed to your success. Our instructors also can mentor you, offer constructive feedback that can improve your base of knowledge, and pray for you. 

Do I need a GRE for an online master’s program?

At Liberty University, a GRE is not required for admission to an online masters degree program. This is just one of the many ways we strive to make quality education available and accessible.

Is a master’s degree online the same?

There are a few differences and similarities between our online master’s degrees and our residential master’s degrees. 

In our online master’s programs, you will complete your coursework remotely instead of on our residential campus. While some of our online master’s degrees have required on-campus intensives, you won’t need to worry about permanently relocating to attend weekly lectures.

Our online master’s programs and our residential master’s programs use the same curriculum but have different delivery methods. When you choose to pursue your master’s degree online at Liberty, you choose a curriculum that was developed with the same care and attention to detail as our residential degrees. We don’t shortchange you when you take an online degree — we empower you. Experience the power of online learning, earn a life-changing credential from the comfort of home, and take your career to new heights.

What are the best master’s degrees to get?

The best masters degree online for you simply depends on your academic and professional goals. 

A master’s degree in itself is a goal for some, and rightfully so. Earning an online masters degree is a great accomplishment, and upon earning your degree in one of Liberty’s online masters programs, you’ll have a career-enhancing credential that cannot be taken away from you. 

You may also want to earn your online masters degree for career purposes. If you work in business, an  online MBA  from Liberty could be an excellent addition to your résumé. If you’re interested in working towards becoming a licensed* professional counselor, you may find our  Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling  to be a great fit. 

Maybe you’d like to become a licensed* teacher by earning your  Master of Arts in Teaching  degree online. Our online MS in Criminal Justice is a great option if you work in law enforcement and want additional career-specific knowledge.

Be sure to check out our 10 most popular online masters degrees, and contact us with any questions you have. It’s our privilege to assist you, and it’s our mission to help you earn a life-changing, career-enhancing online masters degree. 

*Be sure to verify the  individual licensure requirements  for the state where you reside.

What online master’s degree is the best fit for me?

Different online masters programs have varying levels of difficulty for different people.

If you have a natural talent for language and writing, our  Master of Arts in Professional Writing  or our  Master of Arts in Linguistics  are both excellent options. If you’re great with numbers, you may find our  Master of Science in Engineering Management , Master of Science in Accounting , or our online master’s program in information technology to be a great fit for you. 

Quite a few of our students find their passion during their undergraduate studies and continue their studies in the same area. For example, if you have a bachelor’s degree in business, you may find our  online MBA program  to be a great fit that builds on your previously earned business degree. If you studied criminal justice at the undergraduate level and would like to expand your knowledge of law enforcement, our  Master of Science in Criminal Justice  may suit you well.

While certain subjects may come naturally to you, our online masters degree programs are designed to challenge you to grasp new concepts, gain in-depth knowledge, and develop an advanced understanding of your subject. At Liberty, it is our goal to challenge you to think critically, and as a result, you can graduate as a more confident, prepared professional who is capable of making a considerable impact in your career field. If you’d like help choosing the perfect degree program for you,  call today  to speak with an admissions counselor!

Are online master’s degrees credible?

Yes — we believe Liberty’s online master’s degrees are credible and capable of helping you reach your professional goals. 

The credibility of our online master’s programs is backed by several accrediting agencies. Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. 

In addition, a number of our online degree programs — such as  clinical mental health counseling ,  nursing , and  business  — hold either programmatic or degree-specific accreditation from esteemed accrediting agencies. For more information, please see our  accreditation page .

What is the most affordable master’s degree?

Because “affordable” means a different monetary figure to each student, it’s difficult to say which online masters degree is the most affordable. However, at Liberty, we strive to make earning your masters degree as affordable as possible. We do this in several ways. 

First, most of our online masters programs are billed at just $565 per credit hour for full-time students. We also offer a number of discounts for eligible students, and several programs have their own special rates. For example, the  Master of Arts in Teaching  and our  Master of Education  programs are available at a full-time rate of $415 per credit hour.

Several divinity programs, such as our  Master of Divinity , offer a block rate of $2,750 for full-time students. At Liberty, you can earn a world-class education for less money than you might pay at a competing institution of higher education. 

Second, we have frozen tuition for the past 9 years and counting. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university. Our mission is to  Train Champions for Christ , not to accumulate wealth. Keeping tuition low is just one of the ways we strive to achieve this mission. 

Third, we offer generous military discounts. At Liberty, eligible current and former members of the armed forces and their spouses can receive a discounted graduate tuition rate of just $275 per credit hour. If you’re a veteran who currently serves as a first responder in a civilian capacity, you may also be eligible for an additional discount. For more information, check out our  First Responder Discount page .

Is an online master’s degree worth your time?

If you’re interested in higher earning potential, commanding respect in applicant pools, increasing your chances of earning a promotion, and gaining valuable knowledge that can serve you well throughout your career, then yes — we believe an online masters degree is worth it.

What’s the difference between a master’s degree and a doctoral degree?

There are several differences between an online masters degree and an online doctoral degree. 

First, a doctoral degree is more advanced than a masters degree. Most doctoral programs require a master’s degree for admission. While this may be the case, master’s degrees are still in high demand among employers, and earning an online masters degree at Liberty can help set you up for career success. Our online masters programs can also help prepare you for future doctoral studies. 

Second, master’s degrees are more sought-after by students looking for practical job skills, while doctoral degrees are popular among students seeking research-focused, academic careers — perhaps as a professor at a college or university. 

Lastly, masters degrees are typically shorter than doctoral degrees. While most of Liberty’s online masters degrees take about 1.5-2 years to complete, most of our online doctoral programs can be completed in as little as 3 years. 

Is Liberty University a good school?

Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Not only have we met rigorous institutional accreditation standards, a number of our online degree programs — such as our MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, BS in Nursing, and Bachelor of Social Work  — hold either programmatic or degree-specific accreditation from esteemed accrediting agencies. For more information, please see our  accreditation page .

All of our courses are taught by respected professionals with years of real-world experience, and many of our instructors have terminal degrees. Our residential and online students have gone on to lead spectacular careers — as nurses, doctors, elected officials, business professionals, and more. When you choose Liberty for your online master’s degree, you choose an institution of education that can help set you apart as a knowledgeable, principled difference-maker. 

So, yes: we are a great school — and we have the credentials to prove it. 

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