University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The Media and Communication PhD is a supervised research programme in which your thesis forms the primary focus of study. You will develop and undertake an independent research project under the guidance of a supervisory team, engaging with theoretical debates and methodological approaches relevant to media, communication and related fields.

Typical research topics include, but are not limited to:

• Digital media, platforms and data politics
• Journalism studies, news production and audience reception
• Film, television and screen cultures
• Political communication, propaganda and public opinion
• Media policy, regulation and media industries
• Advertising, branding and creative industries
• Media, identity and social movements

Alongside thesis research you will normally take part in research training and professional development activities organised by the School and the University Doctoral College. Training can include research methods (qualitative, quantitative and digital methods), ethics and governance, grant-writing, public engagement, and preparation for teaching or industry placements. Progress is monitored through regular supervisory meetings, annual reviews and a final viva voce examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline (such as media, communication, sociology, cultural studies, politics, or film studies) with evidence of strong research training. Candidates with a good undergraduate degree and substantial relevant professional or research experience may also be considered.

Applications require a clear and feasible research proposal outlining research questions, theoretical framework, proposed methods and a bibliography, together with academic references, a curriculum vitae, and a sample of written academic work. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview with potential supervisors. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, in line with the University’s standard research-degree requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Media and Communication PhD programme go on to careers in academia and research, taking up postdoctoral positions and lectureships or working in research centres and think tanks. Outside higher education, PhD holders find roles in media and creative industries, journalism and investigative reporting, public relations and communications, cultural organisations and museums, policy development and government, non-governmental organisations, and consultancy.

The research training also equips graduates for roles requiring advanced analytical, project management and communication skills, including data analysis, content strategy, digital policy advising and leadership positions in industry or the public sector.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a supportive research environment with access to interdisciplinary supervision and active research groups in media and communication studies. Students benefit from links with specialised research centres, seminar series, and international collaborations that enhance scholarly networks and publication opportunities.

The University provides structured doctoral training and comprehensive researcher development through its Doctoral College, alongside excellent library and archival resources and facilities for digital scholarship. Nottingham’s strong connections with regional and national cultural and media organisations offer additional opportunities for professional engagement, placements and public-facing research activities.

Supervisors in the School are experienced in a wide range of methodologies and theoretical approaches, allowing students to shape projects that are intellectually ambitious and relevant to contemporary debates in media and communication.