Northwestern University

Overview

The PhD in Rhetoric, Media, and Publics at Northwestern University explores the production, circulation, and contestation of meaning within media and public life. This program empowers students to enhance their research skills in rhetoric and communication while addressing critical issues surrounding ethics, power, and social change.

What you'll study

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of rhetoric and media through advanced coursework, research training, and professional development, culminating in a dissertation project.

• Core areas of study include: History and Theory, Media Theory, and the History of Media Technologies.
• Research and practice: Focus on the Practice of Public Scholarship.
• Publics and audience studies: Investigating the Making and Unmaking of Audiences and Publics.
• Dissertation: An original research project developed in collaboration with faculty, including proposal development and dissertation writing.
• Teaching and professional development: Opportunities to gain teaching experience and enhance scholarly skills, with requirements varying based on individual study plans.

Entry requirements

Applicants should possess a relevant graduate degree, typically a master’s degree, or equivalent academic preparation suitable for doctoral study. Admission decisions are based on the entire application package rather than specific GPA thresholds.

GRE: The GRE is not a requirement for this program, though submission of scores is optional. If submitted, official scores should be sent to the Northwestern University Graduate School.

English proficiency: To demonstrate proficiency, applicants must submit either TOEFL iBT or IELTS scores, with minimum score requirements set by the Graduate School.

Career prospects