Our PhD degree in Mass Communications is internationally recognized for our faculty and areas of research. We provide future academics and professionals with rigorous training in theory and research with highly individualized programs that students develop in consultation with their advisors. Our PhD graduates become some of the most successful researchers and leaders in the field of mass communication. We require our students to engage in a systematic search for answers to well-formulated and substantive questions. The research process culminates in the discovery and reporting of new knowledge to others.
SJMC Graduate Research Programs Virtual Open House
Hear from graduate program manager Lindsey Bliefernicht, director of graduate studies Professor Lindsay Palmer about our customizable PhD program, the department, UW-Madison and the Madison community. We will also share helpful application tips and answer remaining questions.
Research and Teaching Strengths
A doctoral dissertation in Mass Communications demonstrates a student’s ability to examine in detail an important issue in the field, using original research. Faculty members expect the dissertation to be clearly presented while conveying the student’s close familiarity with his or her research area.
The program offers several internationally recognized areas of research and teaching excellence. Working closely with their advisor and committee, students draw from courses offered in departments across campus to develop a plan of study in preparation for independent and original research in their area of specialization.
- Civic and political communication
- Health and environmental communications
- History of media institutions
- Information technologies
- Social networking and digital media
- Processes and effects of mediated communication
- Law and ethics of media
- International and inter-cultural communication
- Public opinion
- Science and risk communication
- Journalism studies
- Media ecologies
- Race and media