Northwestern University

Overview

The Media, Technology and Society (MTS) program at Northwestern University offers an interdisciplinary PhD track designed to explore the intricate relationships between media, technology, and culture. This program equips students with essential research skills in areas such as human-computer interaction, social media, and innovation, preparing them to contribute to scholarly discourse and practical applications in the field.

What you'll study

Doctoral curriculum (core themes):

• Digital media use and effects
• Health and well-being
• Human-computer interaction
• Innovation and change
• Media institutions
• Networks and organizing
• Social media

How students typically progress:

• Acquire foundational knowledge through coursework aligned with the program’s research themes.
• Develop research methods and theoretical understanding relevant to the dissertation topic.
• Refine the dissertation research plan with faculty guidance, supported by ongoing academic writing and feedback.

Note: While specific semester-by-semester module names, credit requirements, and dissertation milestones are not detailed, students can expect a comprehensive educational experience within the outlined themes.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the MTS program are expected to meet the university’s general PhD admission standards. While specific GRE/GMAT or GPA thresholds are not indicated, candidates should demonstrate strong academic preparation for interdisciplinary research. Standard application components typically include an academic statement, personal statement, CV/resume, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a writing sample.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Media, Technology and Society program are well-equipped for diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, and various sectors including media, technology, healthcare, and public policy. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares students to engage with complex societal challenges, fostering innovative solutions that leverage media and technology.