University of Memphis

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in communication and media theory with rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative research methods, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation. Students customise a course of study with advisors to reflect concentrations such as media ecology and culture, political communication, health communication, digital and social media, journalism studies, strategic communication and rhetoric.

• Core topics: advanced media and communication theory, cultural and critical approaches to media, media law and ethics, and contemporary issues in mediated publics.
• Research methods: advanced quantitative methods (statistical analysis, survey and experimental design), advanced qualitative methods (ethnography, interview design, discourse and textual analysis), and mixed-methods approaches.
• Specialist seminars: topical seminars in areas such as political communication, health communication, social media and activism, media industries, visual culture, and international/multicultural media studies.
• Professional training: teaching practicum or pedagogy seminars, grant-writing and research dissemination workshops, and opportunities for collaborative projects with local media organisations.
• Doctoral milestones: completion of coursework, comprehensive/qualifying examinations or portfolio, an approved dissertation proposal, original research and dissertation defence.

Structure

The typical pathway includes several years of coursework and methods training, followed by comprehensive exams and the dissertation research phase. Students work under a faculty advisor and a dissertation committee; many take part in departmental research clusters, present at conferences and publish during their candidature. Funding through teaching or research assistantships is commonly available for competitive candidates.

Entry requirements

Competitive applicants normally hold a master’s degree in communication, media studies or a closely related discipline, though exceptional applicants with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may be considered. Applicants are expected to demonstrate readiness for doctoral-level research.

• Academic record: a strong cumulative GPA from previous graduate study (or equivalent evidence of academic preparation).
• Research preparation: a statement of research interests or proposal that identifies feasible doctoral-level questions, and a writing sample that demonstrates analytical and research skills.
• References: multiple letters of recommendation from faculty or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s research potential.
• Additional materials: CV, transcripts and, for international applicants, proof of English language proficiency as required by the university.

The department evaluates the fit between an applicant’s research interests and faculty expertise; applicants are encouraged to identify prospective supervisors in their statement of purpose.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Communication and Media Studies pursue careers in a range of sectors. Many move into tenure-track faculty positions in communication, media studies, journalism or related departments. Others take research and leadership roles in government, think tanks, non-profit organisations, public policy, media industries, audience research, strategic communication and consultancy.

• Academic careers: postdoctoral research, tenure-track teaching and research positions, interdisciplinary appointments.
• Research roles: principal investigator or research director in applied communication research, market and audience research, public opinion and media effects studies.
• Policy and advocacy: communications research for public health, education, civic engagement and regulatory policy.
• Industry roles: senior positions in content strategy, data analytics for media organisations, corporate communication, and strategic consultancy.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis provides doctoral students with access to faculty whose research spans cultural, political, industrial and technological aspects of media and communication. The campus’s location in a culturally rich city with a vibrant music, film and media scene creates opportunities for community-engaged research, partnerships with local media organisations and applied projects.

Doctoral students benefit from the university’s research resources, interdisciplinary collaboration across colleges and the chance to gain teaching experience. The department emphasises mentorship, methodological breadth and professional development to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in academia and beyond.