Chapman University

What you'll study

The PhD emphasises original research grounded in contemporary media theory and robust methodological training. Coursework typically covers foundational and advanced topics such as media and cultural theory, political and persuasive communication, media industries and production studies, digital and social media, visual culture, and ethics in media. Substantial training in research methods is central to the programme and normally includes qualitative approaches (ethnography, discourse analysis, interviews), quantitative methods (statistics, survey design, experimental methods) and mixed-methods strategies.

Students take seminars that foster critical engagement with scholarly literature and ongoing research, plus advanced methods courses tailored to dissertation needs. The programme culminates in a substantial, original doctoral dissertation that makes a clear contribution to knowledge in communication and media studies. Many students also gain teaching experience through supervised undergraduate teaching and may pursue applied research projects in collaboration with faculty or industry partners.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a recognised master’s degree in communication, media studies, film, journalism, cultural studies, sociology, political science or a closely related discipline. Admissions committees look for evidence of strong academic preparation and potential for research: a high-quality academic transcript, a well-developed research proposal, a scholarly writing sample, letters of recommendation from academic referees, and a curriculum vitae detailing relevant research or professional experience.

International applicants whose first language is not English are normally required to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or other accepted evidence. Candidates should be prepared to discuss research interests and fit with faculty expertise during interview or correspondence with potential supervisors. Additional requirements such as GRE scores may be requested on a case-by-case basis; applicants should consult the department for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers in academia and beyond. Common pathways include tenure-track or adjunct teaching and research positions in universities and colleges, postdoctoral fellowships, and roles in higher education administration. Outside academia, PhD holders work as senior researchers or research directors in think tanks and policy organisations, senior analysts in market and media research firms, content strategists and leaders in media organisations, and consultants on communication strategy, media literacy, and public engagement. The programme’s methodological strength also supports careers in evaluation, data analysis, and research design across public, private and non-profit sectors.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers doctoral students a supportive, small-cohort environment with close faculty mentorship and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from proximity to Los Angeles and Southern California’s media industries, which provides access to internships, industry speakers and applied research partnerships. The university's film and media resources, including facilities associated with its film and media arts programmes, allow doctoral researchers to engage with both scholarly and production-focused perspectives on media.

Chapman’s emphasis on personalised mentoring, combined with rigorous methodological training and opportunities to teach, helps prepare graduates for competitive careers in research, teaching and professional practice in media and communication.