Colorado State University

What you'll study

The PhD emphasises original research in media and communication across a range of substantive areas such as media effects and audiences, digital media and new technologies, political and civic communication, health and risk communication, environmental communication, rhetoric and discourse, and international media systems. Coursework typically includes advanced theory in communication and media studies, quantitative methods (e.g. survey research, experimental design, statistics), qualitative methods (e.g. ethnography, interviews, discourse analysis), and specialised seminars aligned with your research interests.

Students follow a curriculum that combines core seminars, elective seminars, methodological training, independent study, and supervised research. The programme culminates in comprehensive examinations and the completion and defence of an original doctoral dissertation. Students also gain practicum experience in teaching and are encouraged to present and publish their work during the programme.

Entry requirements

• Master’s degree in communication, media studies, or a related field is typical; exceptionally strong candidates with a bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may be considered.
• Academic transcript(s) demonstrating strong performance in prior graduate coursework.
• A research statement or proposal outlining intended doctoral research interests and how they fit with the department’s strengths.
• Writing sample demonstrating scholarly ability (e.g. thesis chapter, published article, or conference paper).
• Curriculum vitae that details academic training, research experience, publications, and relevant professional work.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from faculty or professional supervisors who can speak to research and academic potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants (standard tests such as TOEFL or IELTS), where applicable.
• Some applicants may be interviewed by faculty as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

• Academic careers as faculty members in communication, media studies, journalism, or related departments, with roles in teaching, research and service.
• Research positions in think tanks, policy institutes, governmental agencies and non-governmental organisations focusing on media policy, public information and civic engagement.
• Leadership and senior research roles in media organisations, audience analytics, digital strategy, content research and communications consulting.
• Research and evaluation roles in health communication, environmental communication, risk communication and public outreach programmes.
• Opportunities in interdisciplinary teams where advanced skills in research design, data analysis and critical communication scholarship are needed.

Why study at Colorado State University

• Research-active faculty whose interests span traditional and emergent areas of media and communication, offering supervision across diverse topics.
• Strong interdisciplinary opportunities with neighbouring departments and centres—such as environmental science, health sciences and political science—useful for applied communication research.
• Access to on-campus facilities and resources that support empirical media research and teaching, including media labs, data resources and opportunities for community-engaged projects across Colorado and the Mountain West.
• A balance of rigorous methodological training and substantive topical work, with mentoring for publishing and conference participation to prepare graduates for scholarly and professional careers.
• Graduate support structures including teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and professional development that aid students in building teaching and research portfolios.