University of Ottawa

Overview

The PhD in Communication at the University of Ottawa is designed to cultivate advanced research skills in the fields of media studies and organizational communication. Students engage in original doctoral research and acquire the ability to effectively communicate their findings to both academic and professional audiences. This program typically spans 48 months, although the duration may vary based on individual progress and research developments.

What you'll study

The programme structure combines rigorous coursework with dedicated research supervision. Candidates will complete a blend of required and elective courses tailored to their research interests while developing a dissertation grounded in original scholarship.

Coursework (examples)

• Contemporary Communication Issues
• Social History of Communication Technologies
• Communication Ethics
• Public Communication Campaigns: Theories and Applications
• Diversity in the Workplace: Communication Challenges
• Theories and Effects of the Media
• Advanced Research in Traditional and Emerging Media
• Political Uses of Media

Research components

• Supervised development of a proposed research project
• Ongoing research training and academic mentorship
• Dissertation research and writing (doctoral thesis)
• Presentation and communication of research findings to academic and professional audiences

Note: The specific sequence of courses and research milestones will depend on the student’s approved study plan and supervisory committee.

Entry requirements

Applicants seeking admission to the PhD program typically need to provide academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of interest, letters of recommendation, and a proposed research outline. A minimum GPA requirement is usually expected, along with proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL iBT, depending on the applicant's background.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Communication program will be well-equipped for a range of careers in academia, research, and various communication-related fields. Potential career paths include roles in higher education, research institutions, media organizations, and corporate communication departments, where advanced communication skills and research expertise are highly valued.