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NCA's Doctoral Program Guide

About the Doctoral Program Guide

The  Doctoral Program Guide  is designed to provide timely and useful information about doctoral programs in Communication for students, prospective students, and other interested parties.

Which Programs Are Listed? Many doctoral programs are included in this guide, all of which offer a Ph.D. degree in some area or field of the Communication discipline. We began with the programs that have traditionally been ranked or evaluated as doctoral programs in Communication by other sources and added a number of new programs.   

For doctoral programs in related areas of study, visit the following:

• American Library Association's Accredited Programs page  
• American Society for Theater Research's Doctoral Program Directory  
• American Speech & Hearing Association's EdFind  
• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication's Graduate Student Info page  
• Modern Language Association's Guide to Doctoral Programs in English and Other Modern Languages  
• Public Relations Society of America's Higher Education Programs Online Directory  

What Information Can Be Found in the Guide?

All information presented in this guide is publicly available on the individual department or program website and/or in other published sources. Each university is identified by its  Carnegie Classification , its membership in the  Association of American Universities , and by the number of doctorates it has conferred from 2010 to 2019, according to the  National Science Foundation's  Survey of Earned Doctorates . The guide provides the areas of study of each program, the admissions requirements for each program, a listing of each program's graduate faculty, and contact information. In addition, we also recognize a program's recipients of NCA Awards from 2000 to the present and synthesize and report on the programs' standing in a series of different rankings/ratings, including:

• The university's 2019 ranking in the Communication & Media Studies category of the QS World University Rankings . (Note: this ranking includes 200 universities; the first 50 are individually ranked, followed by category rankings for the remainder.)
• The university's 2019-2020 ranking in the "Language, Communication, and Culture" category of the University Ranking by Academic Performance measure.  

Explanation of Areas of Study

Most doctoral programs in Communication indicate research areas or special research concentrations. Such areas are usually based on the types of research conducted by the faculty members in the program, as well as by the courses offered toward the graduate degree. 

A program is listed within a specific research area based entirely upon its self-identification of research focus. Because the identification and labeling of research foci vary so greatly across programs, this list groups and categorizes research areas according to commonly understood labels. Thus, a given doctoral program may identify its research specialty as "media economics" or "media studies" or "media effects." That program would be included in the broader category below of "Mass Communication/Media Studies."

University of Oklahoma, Gaylord College of Journalism &...

University of Michigan, Department of Communication Studies

University of Maine, Department of Communication &...

Colorado State University, Department of Communication...

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of...

George Mason University, Department of Communication

University of Colorado, Department of Communication

Howard University, Department of Communication, Culture...

University of Kentucky, College of Communication &...

University of Southern Mississippi, Department of...

University of Southern California, Annenberg School of...

Northwestern University, Department of Communication Studies

Drexel University, Department of Communication

University of Denver, Department of Communication Studies

Wayne State University, Department of Communication

Chapman University, School of Communication

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CollegeRank.net

Best College Rankings

Best PhD Communications Degrees

Quick Highlights:

• Our #1 ranked school for a PhD in communications is  Temple University , followed by  Purdue University .
• These programs prepare students for advanced careers in academia , research, and various industries.
• Many programs offer interdisciplinary study options , allowing students to combine communications with other fields.
• Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in marketing, government, education, and more.

Communication is one of the broadest areas of study that can lead to numerous well-paid and secure careers, and earning your PhD in this discipline could help you to reach the most coveted roles.

With a PhD in Communications, you’ll be ready to pursue rewarding careers in academia, research, and numerous other fields. Your strong understanding of how meaning is conveyed across different contexts, social groups, and technologies means you could also find great success in marketing careers, government organizations, and many other industries. Let us help you make a decision abut doctoral programs.

• Top PhD in English Programs
• Best Creative Writing MFA Programs

What Are the Best PhD in Communications Degrees?

At CollegeRank , we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. Please feel free to visit our dedicated methodology page for a step-by-step breakdown. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Whether you are studying communication theories, strategic communications or an interdisciplinary field, there are doctoral programs for you.

Best Communication Doctoral Programs

Temple university.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Average Net Price

Founded in 1884 as a night school for working professionals, Temple University has advanced to become one of the leading institutions in the nation, with around 40,000 students attending annually. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available at the Philadelphia campus, with a total of around 500 programs offered. 

Temple University’s top PhD in media and communication degree program integrates studies in a range of areas, including social sciences and the humanities. This doctoral program will prepare PhD students for careers in education, consulting, finance, and others. In addition to working closely with your peers, PhD students will contribute to faculty research and publications.

Courses and areas of study will cover research areas like:

• Political communication
• Laws and policies relating to the media industry
• Emerging media and technology
• Global media
• Information and communication technologies
• Strategic communication

You’ll also have access to and benefit from guest speakers and events such as Best Practices for Publishing Journal Articles. Temple University was ranked among the 100 Best Values in Public Colleges by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance in 2017.

Purdue University

West Lafayette, Indiana

Ranking highly among the nation’s most innovative universities, Purdue University was founded in 1862 and continues to celebrate its rich history and traditions to this day. Examples include the institution’s on-campus, annual Grand Prix event, in addition to the official song sung by students: “Hail Purdue”. 

PhD students may earn a non-thesis or thesis-based master’s degree in addition to their dissertation-based doctorate. This can be in one of five specializations and research areas, including:

• Health communication
• Interpersonal communication
• Organizational communication
• Media technology & society
• Public relations

What’s more, there are opportunities available for cross-discipline study. Purdue’s School of Management allows you to combine your communications program with studies in human resource management. Other options include:

• gerontology
• information security

This highly flexible doctoral program structure allows you to tailor your program to your career aspirations. 

Rutgers University

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Rutgers was established in 1766, making it the eighth oldest institution of higher education in the nation, with a study body nearly 70,000-strong. Based at the New Brunswick campus of Rutgers University, the School of Communication and Information (SC&I) was established in 1982. It has one of the top communication doctoral programs.

The top PhD in communication, information, and media at Rutgers University offers three areas of concentration:

• Communication
• Library and information science
• Media studies

The curriculum focuses on information and media organizations and their processes, policies, and technology, in addition to how these organizations and processes relate to society and individuals. 

The communication concentration focuses on research connected to five research areas: 

• Communication and technology
• Language and social interaction

Faculty members include nationally and internationally recognized experts, many having received article, book, and career awards for their research areas.

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Louisiana State University first opened its doors to students in 1860 under the name Seminary of Learning of the State of Louisiana. Programs are offered at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, and over $300 million in financial aid is given to students each year. In fact, around two-thirds of the student body graduates without student debt. 

LSU’s PhD program in communication is offered via the LSU department of communication studies. In addition to the PhD and several master’s degree options, prospective students can enroll in the M.A. to PhD fast track program, which results in both qualifications. Upon acceptance into the doctoral program, PhD students will work with the graduate committee to develop your individualized curriculum. 

The standard PhD track comprises 72 credit hours, including examinations and a dissertation; it’ll take around 4 years to complete or 7 years maximum (part-time). Through required core courses, PhD students gain a foundation in subjects such as:

• research writing
• communication theory
• strategic communication

Ohio State University

Columbus, Ohio

Prospective PhD students wishing to attend Ohio State’s doctoral program must already have a four-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. You’ll also need to evidence a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, in addition to providing transcriptions and evidencing successful completion of the GRE or GMAT. 

The coursework you’ll complete in this top communication PhD program focuses on providing a solid foundation in communication theory, in addition to how this existing knowledge can be used to generate new learning through research activity. You will have the opportunity to attend professional conferences, and you will design, plan, execute, and publish your own research findings. 

You’ll be mentored by distinguished scholars and guided in creating your own personalized program of study, emphasizing areas where your own interests meet those of the faculty. During your doctoral studies, you will also be encouraged to collaborate with world class faculty members and contribute to both journal articles and papers.

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The University of Minnesota has one of the top doctoral programs for communication. It has an annual enrollment of around 50,000 students, supported by 20,000 dedicated staff and faculty. Founded in 1851, the main campus – Twin Cities – is located on the banks of the Mississippi and is one of the only five universities in the country to boast dedicated schools for engineering, medicine, law, and veterinary studies on a single campus. 

While this communications PhD program is designed to be completed in five years, you may be able to complete the doctoral program in four years if you hold a master’s degree in communication studies. The PhD curriculum focuses on the connections between each subfield in the discipline of communication. 

Your first year of study will focus on foundation knowledge and central concepts and theory in communication. In year two, you’ll take courses related to your specific research interests and write a literature review to a publishable standard. Year three requires completion of the remaining coursework, with your final two years dedicated to dissertation work.

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Students at the University at Buffalo benefit from a huge range of opportunities outside of the classroom. Student clubs and organizations are vast, with more than 600 available to choose from. There’s also a Division I athletics program, regularly scheduled music concerts and other events, and frequent guest speakers present on a range of topics. UB has one of the best communication doctoral programs.

Coursework in this doctoral program focuses on research methodologies and the theory of communication, with students prepared to take on research-based positions in a range of industries. Unlike other doctoral programs that specialize in areas such as mass communication or speech theory, this curriculum is aligned with the faculty’s research interests. 

Graduate students are required to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework beyond the master’s program curriculum, maintaining a QPA (quality point average) of at least 3.0. You will also be expected to complete research electives, department electives, and free electives, in addition to producing two publication-quality research papers.

University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign

Champaign, Illinois

Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign today welcomes around 47,000 students annually from around the globe. It has risen to become one of the top 15 ranked public universities and was the birthplace of the first graphical web browser. UIUC also counts 29 Pulitzer Prize winners among its alumni. 

The faculty at the University of Illinois’ Institute of Communications Research (ICR) come from three academic departments:

• Advertising
• Media and cinema studies

They’re also engaged with numerous interdisciplinary activities across campus, meaning you’ll receive a broad and well-rounded program of study in this program. 

Admission to the PhD in communications and media requires that prospective students  have either a bachelor’s or master’s degree that relates to an area within the humanities, physical sciences, or social sciences. The program itself requires the completion of 64 credits of dissertation research and coursework for those who already hold a master’s degree. 

University of Oklahoma

Norman, Oklahoma

Students at the University of Oklahoma have a choice of more than 400 clubs and organizations, organized events on-campus, and broad athletic programs. With a campus located close to the welcoming community of Norman, OK, and just a half-hour outside of Oklahoma City, you’ll never be short of activities outside the lecture hall. 

This PhD communication program allows specialization in one or more areas of interest. These research areas include:

• Intercultural/international communication
• Interpersonal communication and social influence
• Political/mass communication
• Communication technology

The PhD program requires a minimum of 90 semester hours beyond the bachelor’s degree level. 

PhD students enrolling in this program are required to take a number of core courses, in addition to earning 32 hours of coursework within a concentration of their choosing. Core courses include:

• Quantitative Research Methodology
• Advanced Statistics
• Qualitative research methods
• The History and Theory of Communication
• Information and Communication Technologies
• Strategic Communication

Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

Florida State University (FSU) has been ranked a top 10 university for best value by Kiplinger’s Best College Values. It’s also known for having the highest four-year graduation rate among the state’s public universities. The institution excels in particular in the arts and sciences. 

Including 48 credit hours of graduate coursework and at least 24 hours of dissertation project work, this PhD communication program provides you with a core set of common courses that will provide a broad understanding of the field of communication, and the methodological, philosophical, and theoretical aspects of communication scholarship. 

Florida State’s doctoral program offers supervised teaching opportunities, often including teaching at an undergraduate level in communication. You’ll also gain training in essential skills such as classroom management and research skills, which would be invaluable for any future university instructors. Regular workshops are also offered, which focus on innovation in e-learning methods.

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, North Carolina

North Carolina State University at Raleigh (NC State) is part of the University of North Carolina System and was founded in 1887. The student body comprises more than 35,000 learners and the institution specializes in programs in the humanities, social sciences, and teaching and research, making it an excellent choice for communications majors. 

NC State’s communication and English department is located within the Research Triangle, a growing community and highly regarded location of innovation and research in Raleigh, North Carolina. In this program, you’ll gain both teaching and research experience, and you’ll benefit from a flexible curriculum of core elective courses and seminars. 

The communication, rhetoric, and digital media (CRDM) faculty engages with other research departments and organizations within the Research Triangle, providing a wealth of expertise and experience for you to benefit from. You’ll cover subfields including:

• new communication media
• the cultural, political, and social aspects of information technology

Indiana University – Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana

Indiana University Bloomington has over 700,000 graduate alumni who have benefited from nearly 400 study abroad programs and more than 750 student organizations. The university participates in 24 sports, with students known as Hoosiers. They also have a choice of more than 200 undergraduate programs and nationally recognized graduate programs. 

This PhD in media arts and sciences comprises 90 credits and provides a broad and customizable curriculum that can lead into many varied careers. It’s one of the top research doctoral programs in media and communication, featuring small class sizes and a leading faculty. 

As part of the admission requirements, you’ll need to have a four-year bachelor’s and two-year master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 at the master’s level. You will also need:

• recent GRE scores
• three letters of recommendation
• a statement of purpose
• a writing sample
• a copy of your curriculum vitae

The closest estimate you can get for tuition and fees at Indiana University Bloomington is by looking at the previous year’s expenses. Alternatively, you can get a reasonably accurate idea of your tuition and fees by using the university’s costs calculator on their website .

North Dakota State University

Fargo, North Dakota

Ranked within the top 100 public research universities, North Dakota State University (NDSU) features within the National Science Foundation’s top 100 for numerous areas of study, including the sciences, business, and communications. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the institution has a total enrollment of around 13,000 students. 

The NDSU doctoral degree in communication is highly competitive. You’ll enroll in:

• as many as 12 credit hours prior to completing an application
• 60 credit hours beyond master’s level
• 30 credit hours in research theory or other content within your concentration
• 15 hours relating to research methodology

You will also be expected to complete a dissertation (15 credits). 

By graduation, doctoral students have typically published two to three papers or journal articles, in addition to having presented at more than one convention. This doctoral program will also give you a solid understanding of learning and teaching, making it ideal for those looking to secure a role as a university instructor. 

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The University of Alabama was the state’s flagship university, having been founded nearly 200 years ago in 1831. Situated on a stunning 1,200-acre campus, the university boasts more than 600 student clubs and organizations, plus a broad range of opportunities for volunteering or completing an internship. 

PhD students enrolling in the PhD in Communication and Information Sciences can select from one of three signature research areas of the faculty:

• Emergent media
• Sports communication

Alternatively, you can opt to partner directly with members of the faculty, focusing on research activities pursued by these instructors. 

What’s more, you can tailor your coursework to specific areas of concentration that include:

• applied communication
• book and publishing studies
• health communication
• interpersonal communication
• media studies

There’s more information about each of these concentrations and their focus on the university’s program page. 

The University of Illinois at Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

As a freshman at the University of Illinois at Chicago, you’ll receive an introduction to campus life at orientation, and you’ll need it; located minutes from the Windy City, there’s always plenty to get involved in. More than 33,000 students attend this best value and most diverse university annually. 

For admission into the PhD in communication, you must already have a master’s degree in communication or a similar field, in addition to holding an average GPA of 3.0, or 4.0 for your final 60 semester hours. Other requirements include the need to submit GRE general scores and provide three letters of recommendation. 

You’ll choose one or more specializations in common subfields of communication, and it’s also recommended that you enroll in two courses in research techniques that are specific to your chosen specialization. After graduation, you can also choose to enroll in further concentrations to complement your degree, including:

• Black studies
• Gender and women’s studies
• Latin American and Latino studies

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, Massachusetts

Situated in Amherst, Massachusetts, UMass Amherst is regularly ranked within the top research institutions in the country. It was also recently ranked at number 26 in a list of the best national public universities by U.S. News & World Report . More than 13,000 students attend UMass Amherst annually. 

For successful completion of this doctoral program, you’ll be required to complete a minimum of 60 credits beyond the bachelor’s level, in addition to a further 6 or more credits in research tools or methodologies. You will also be expected to plan, research, and complete a dissertation project of your own choosing. 

This communication studies doctoral program offers a particularly large number of specializations to choose from—14 in total—which include unique specializations such as feminist studies and performance studies. For more information on the potential specialization options, check out this page on the university’s website. 

The per-credit rate for tuition and fees at the University of Massachusetts Amherst depends on the number of credits being taken. For example, a single credit is only marginally cheaper than two credits, as the rates work on a sliding scale. Non-residents typically pay around twice what state residents will pay.

Michigan State University

East Lansing, Michigan

Michigan State University has been welcoming students through its doors for more than 160 years. Ranked as a top public U.S. university, top 100 global university and receiving a gold sustainability rating, MSU produces highly competent graduates who have a 93% placement rate, almost 12% higher than the national average. 

According to the program page, this doctoral degree in communication is considered one of the most prestigious programs of its kind in the world. Designed to last for four years, the PhD program requires the completion of a dissertation and regularly sees graduates offered roles in research centers, government organizations, and higher education institutions across the globe. 

After completion of the core courses, doctoral students typically specialize in:

• social media
• social influence and persuasion
• communication analytics
• organizational communication

Alternatively, you can also choose to specialize in hospitality research and hospitality program teaching.

George Mason University

Fairfax, Virginia

Founded in 1972, George Mason University is a private research institution that has fast become a respected university within the state of Virginia. The student body hails from 130 different countries and totals around 37,000 students. Around $150 million in research takes place each year and 80% of graduates find employment within 6 months of graduation. 

While a master’s degree in a related field is a prerequisite for this program, it means that you can graduate with the doctorate after successful completion of just 60 credits. Otherwise, the PhD program comprises 90 credits and involves the completion of a dissertation research project. 

You’ll work alongside faculty members to develop essential research relating to health and strategic communication. You’ll study:

• the consumer-provider relationship
• crisis communication

The program-specific requirements for this PhD include:

• submission of college transcripts
• an updated resume
• three recommendation letters

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Founded in 1889, The University of New Mexico offers more than 90 undergraduate degree programs and is within the top 20 for two of its programs. Over $70 million in scholarships were awarded to students in the recent incoming freshman year, for which you may qualify after completing the FAFSA . 

This PhD program applies the study of communication and culture, and how the two interrelate. Specifically, you’ll look at media studies, health communication, and critical intercultural studies. You’ll complete coursework such as Strategic Communication and Research Methodologies totaling 36 hours, in addition to committing a further 18 hours for your dissertation project. 

Upon acceptance into the program, the world-class faculty will help you to design a program of study that closely relates to your aspirations and interests. Faculty members include award-winning instructors whose work has been recognized on both the national and international stage, so you’ll be guided well throughout your program. 

University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, Colorado

Part of the Association of American Universities (AAU), the University of Colorado Boulder was established in 1876 and has since grown to include its own natural history and art museums. Among its alumni are three U.S. Supreme Court justices, five Nobel Prize winners, and five National Medal of Science winners. 

This PhD program has been designed to follow a master’s degree, preferably within the same discipline. Assuming that you have completed a master’s within a related area, you could complete this doctoral degree in as few as 3 to 4 years. 

Through this doctoral program, you’ll gain a broad understanding of four subject areas. You’ll gain:

• a broad foundation in communication
• develop advanced knowledge of a specific specialization area and one primary research methodology
• expertise in a secondary specialization

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, North Dakota

The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883, which was six years prior to the state of North Dakota being established itself. Sitting on a 521-acre campus, the institution has more than 250 student clubs and organizations, welcomes around 13,600 students annually, and is the largest university in North Dakota. 

Comprising 90 credit hours and taking an average of 3 to 5 years to complete, this communication doctoral degree is led by a faculty with expertise in:

• interpersonal and persuasive communication
• risk and crisis communication
• communication across digital channels including social media

As part of your application, you will be expected to submit your GRE general scores. You will also need to provide a statement of goals that outlines your motivations and career aspirations, in addition to submitting an original academic paper of around 10 to 15 pages in length.

Wayne State University

Detroit, Michigan

Wayne State University heavily emphasizes diversity and inclusion among its students, or Wayne State Warriors. Multiculturalism is encouraged, with students representing more than 75 countries around the world. In fact, this university has the most diverse student body of any other institution in Michigan. 

This PhD program offers specialization in five areas:

• Democratic participation & culture
• Identity & representation
• Media, society, & culture
• Risk, crisis, & conflict
• Wellness, worklife, & relationships

You will choose either one or two areas of specialization in which to focus more of your studies and research activity. 

Throughout this doctoral program, PhD students are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits of PhD coursework; at least two-thirds of these must be gained from the department of communication. And you’ll need to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to successfully graduate from your program. 

University of Oregon

Eugene, Oregon

Situated a short distance from the Cascade Mountains and situated in the Willamette Valley, the University of Oregon comprises 9 schools and colleges and welcomes around 22,500 students annually. A third of freshmen are first-generation college students, holding an average GPA of around 3.65. 

When you enroll in this PhD communication program, you’ll work directly with the faculty as a co-author and teacher, contributing your own research alongside recognized names in the communications and media industry. Under the guidance of this R1 research institution, you’ll have expert instruction in areas like:

• global media
• journalism studies
• technology and society

This is also a fully funded research degree, meaning the institution will take care of your tuition. You’ll be funded for four consecutive years of study. Funded students receive a monthly stipend varying between $1,400 and $1,575. As part of this benefit, you’ll contribute 16 hours per week towards teaching and research activities.

New York University

New York City, New York

Founded in 1831, New York University (NYU) welcomes students from almost every state in the nation and more than 130 countries worldwide. The institution has campuses in both Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, in addition to 11 other study-abroad sites across the globe. In total, NYU has more students studying abroad than any other university in the United States. 

This heavily technology-driven doctoral program will prepare you for leadership or academic careers in the areas of research, education, and technology. You’ll employ the use of multimedia learning scenarios and conduct research into the learning processes that relate to groups and individuals that work with these environments. 

Available as a part-time or full-time program, and comprising 57 credits, this program features coursework in the areas of learning sciences and cognitive sciences. PhD students have the opportunity to work closely with preeminent scholars in this discipline, while conducting their own, original research on how technology is employed for learning purposes. 

University of Pennsylvania

Founded in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania employs a faculty nearly 5,000-strong, which helps keep class sizes low; there’s a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. Students participate in everything from clubs and organizations, to Greek society, and a student government. Penn State is also a member of the Ivy League, with many athletic pursuits available. 

According to the university’s website, the Annenberg School for Communication has been ranked for the nation’s best doctoral program due to a world-class faculty and well-designed curriculum that allows for highly individualized study. Many PhD graduates are already known nationally or internationally upon graduation. 

This communication research degree program lasts for five years and will require you to take introductory courses in both statistics and research methods, in addition to completing the core courses. You’ll need to complete a dissertation proposal and comprehensive examinations in order to progress to the dissertation phase. 

Drexel University

Drexel University is among the nation’s largest private institutions with a student body of around 25,000 learners. Comprising a 74-acre main campus, the university is located in a bustling urban city and has numerous other campuses and partnerships elsewhere. Drexel was founded in the 1890s, but began conferring degrees in 1914. 

This PhD in communication, culture, and media covers key subject areas that include:

• social justice problems
• the media’s treatment of immigrants
• political communication with a focus on war and conflict

Every admitted student takes the same five core courses, in addition to at least five courses within culture and communications. 

The remainder of your doctoral studies will comprise 10 courses geared towards your research needs and unique interests, in addition to having an option to take graduate courses offered outside of the department. You’ll also complete a dissertation and independent research and study to make up the remainder of your 90 required credits. 

Howard University

Washington, D.C.

Howard University comprises 13 schools and colleges and was founded in 1867. Students choose from programs in over 120 disciplines, with over 120,000 degrees in the arts, sciences, and humanities having been conferred to-date. As a student based on-campus, you’ll be studying on a campus that’s set in scenic natural beauty atop a hill in Northwest Washington. 

Howard University’s PhD in communication, culture, and media studies (CCMS) has a curriculum that’s centered around the emergence of communication issues in a developing multicultural and digital world. Key areas of study include competency in research methodologies and the advancement of under-served communities through social justice and multiculturalism. 

As a Howard PhD student, your studies will be focused in one of three specialization tracks:

• Media and cultural studies
• Technology, policy, and society

There are also teaching assistantship opportunities available, which you can make an application for once you have been admitted to this communication, culture, and media studies program.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

The University of Southern California (USC), a leading private research university, is known for producing a high caliber of graduates. There were more than 310 National Merit Scholars in the 2020 freshman class, and the average GPA for incoming students is around 3.70-4.00. 

Graduates from this program are thoroughly prepared for and commonly pursue careers as university instructors. Your program will see you conduct your own, original research that advances the field of communications and contributes to the ongoing success of media and governmental organizations in the public and private sector. 

PhD candidates choose from seven tracks of specialization:

• Rhetoric, politics, and publics
• Media, culture, and community
• Health communication and social dynamics
• Groups, organizations, and network
• Information, political economy, and entertainment
• Political economy of global communication
• New media and technology

Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University was founded in 1754, making it the oldest higher education institution in the state of New York. The student body comprises around 40,000 learners of varying levels, with students participating in a broad variety of athletics and arts programs. And unlike many other universities, each club has its own webpage so you can find what interests you ahead of time. 

This PhD program in communications examines the relationships between society and the media from a cultural, political, historical, technological, and social point of view. Doctoral graduates will be expected to evidence their understanding of the broad field of communications overall, while gaining a more in-depth understanding of a specific concentration area. 

You’ll produce a dissertation that comprises your own original research, and you will defend your research in front of the graduate committee. Each academic year, you will also be expected to submit progress toward your dissertation to your faculty advisers, after which they will discuss and approve the work for continuation.

Stanford University

Stanford, California

Opened in 1891, Stanford University has a total enrollment of around 16,000 students annually. Its central campus is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and the university today comprises seven schools. 

The core focus of Stanford’s communication program is on communication processes, including how they were conceived and their impact on psychology, politics, and culture. PhD candidates typically share research interests in one of three key faculty specializations:

• Media psychology
• Journalism, media, and culture

Most PhD students choose one area of emphasis from the above, while studying the other research areas at a high level. Core courses focus on areas such as:

• qualitative and quantitative research methods
• mass communication theory

Throughout your communication studies, you will develop a research specialization, including the development of research projects and time spent teaching, culminating in an examination. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a PhD in communications can open many doors for your career. You can work in research or academic settings, in advertising or business, and in sociological settings, to name a few. And with a terminal degree, you can likely earn the highest salary in your field. A degree like this offers other benefits, too: you’ll have a high-level set of skills, a detailed understanding of the principles of communication, and you’ll have the resources you need to be an effective communicator whether you’re writing or speaking. It’s a field with good growth potential, too – 8 percent or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, depending on the specific field in which you work.

The average cost of a PhD is $106,860, according to the Education Data Initiative. The cost of your communications PhD program depends on many factors, including the length of the program, the school you attend, and your residency status. The amount of financial assistance you get also affects the cost of your PhD. With grants, teaching assistantships, or both, you can significantly reduce the overall cost of your degree.

It’s common for universities to require a high GPA (e.g., 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale) for your previous college coursework, official transcripts from the universities you’ve attended in the past, and multiple letters of recommendation from professional colleagues or previous professors. It’s also standard for PhD programs in communication to require a personal statement, essay, curriculum vitae, resume, or some combination thereof. In  top communication PhD programs , you are typically asked to participate in an admissions interview in person or online.

Communications is not considered a difficult field of study, at least not compared to other areas that require a lot of math and science. However, any PhD program comes with some difficulty, considering the level of study. You will explore complex topics like global media, speech theory, and strategic communications. You will also be required to conduct original research and write a dissertation, which you must defend before your degree is conferred. Be prepared for a lot of work over the course of several years.

A PhD in communications typically takes about five years to complete, including a master’s degree along the way. If you already have a master’s degree, you can likely complete a PhD program in three or four years. The exact amount of time you need to complete your PhD in communications depends in large part on how many courses you take each semester and whether or not you already have a master’s degree.

Yes. Many communications PhD programs accept students with just a bachelor’s degree. In some cases, you will earn a master’s degree as you progress toward your PhD. In other cases, there is no master’s component; you graduate with just a PhD.

A popular career with a PhD in communications is to work as a college professor. Doing so allows you to teach and conduct research on communication topics of interest to you. Other popular choices with a PhD in communications include the following: • Art director • Editor • Graphic designer • Interpreter or translator • Photographer • Reporter • Technical writer • Author

You can earn around $80,840 per year as a PhD-level communications professor, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Starting wages are lower at about $47,000 per year. But as you gain experience and tenure, your salary can eclipse $170,000 per year. Other options and their median annual wages are as follows: • Technical writer ($79,960) • Editor ($73,080) • Interpreter or translator ($53,640) • Graphic designer ($57,990) • Writers and authors ($73,150) Your salary depends on many factors beyond your specific occupation. You stand to make more money as you gain experience. The same is true if you complete additional training, specializations, or certifications after you complete your PhD.

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Students who dream of donning a white coat can explore which schools are best for primary care and research.

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Engineers can build on their skills with advanced degrees in a wide range of specialties.

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Nurses are increasingly encouraged to earn a graduate degree to enhance their knowledge of patient care.

• # 1 Emory University (Woodruff)
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• # 3 Duke University
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Educators may find it necessary to earn a graduate degree to meet their career goals.

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If you’re interested in a profession that requires graduate school , such as law or medicine, it’s important to ensure that you’re committed to that career path before investing time, money and effort into a graduate education. U.S. News & World Report offers guidance to prospective students on how to decide whether to attend grad school and how to identify the correct type of program. The Best Graduate Schools rankings  provide data that you can use to discover schools that match your preferences.

Aspiring business executives, for example, can explore the Best Business Schools  rankings, future lawyers can refer to the Best Law Schools  rankings and medical school hopefuls can consult the Best Medical Schools  rankings. Meanwhile, individuals who plan to pursue graduate engineering degrees can check out the Best Engineering Schools  rankings, and those who wish to obtain an education-related graduate credential may want to look at the Best Education Schools  rankings. People who intend to become advanced practice registered nurses with graduate-level training in nursing can examine the Best Nursing Schools  rankings.

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Each of these rankings lists includes links to school profile pages where you can find details about the academic institutions. Website users who purchase a subscription to U.S. News Grad Compass  can gain access to school-specific information beyond what is displayed for free on school profile pages. Both paying and nonpaying readers have access to the U.S. News graduate school search tool  that allows them to find grad schools within a specific academic discipline or geographic region.

In addition to its rankings database, U.S. News also offers an abundance of advice  to prospective graduate students. Expert tips cover topics such as deciding where to apply and how to assemble a compelling application, including ways to identify a person who can write a persuasive letter of recommendation for graduate school and techniques that can be used to craft an eloquent personal statement. Plus, U.S. News offers insight into what factors matter most to graduate school admissions officers and answers common questions about the admissions process, such as how much grad schools care about where you went to college  and how to prepare for admissions interviews.

In addition, U.S. News provides advice on how to prepare for graduate school entrance exams such as the GRE , tips for winning graduate school scholarships  and other strategies to pay for graduate school . U.S. News even provides guidelines to applicants who have been admitted to multiple grad programs on how they should choose among those options. All of this advice content, plus the rankings and the grad school directory, can serve as valuable resources for individuals who dream of attending graduate school.

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2025 Best Communication & Media Studies Schools

In 2025, College Factual analyzed 575 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Communication & Media Studies Schools ranking. Combined, these schools handed out 62,855 degrees in communication & media studies to qualified students.

Jump to one of the following sections: * Degree-Level Rankings

• Best Overall Communication & Media Studies Schools List

Choosing a Great Communication & Media Studies School

You may want to choose one of the degree levels below to find the schools of most interest to you.

Communication & Media Studies Rankings by Degree Level

Since the program you select can have a significant impact on your future, we've developed a number of rankings , including this Best Communication & Media Studies Schools list, to help you choose the best school for you. You can also filter this list by location to find schools closer to you.

In addition to College Factual's rankings, you may want to take a look at College Combat , our unique tool that lets you pit your favorite schools head-to-head and compare how they rate on factors that most interest you. When you have some time, check it out - you may want to bookmark the link so you don't forget it.

More information on how we come up with our rankings can be found here: College Factual's Data Methodology .

Best Schools for Communication & Media Studies in the United States

Although we recommend filtering by degree level first, you can view the list below to see which schools give the educational experience for the communications degree levels they offer. Only those schools that rank in the top 20% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

25 Top Schools in Communications

It's difficult to beat University of Southern California if you wish to pursue a degree in communication & media studies. USC is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Los Angeles. A Best Colleges rank of #13 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means USC is a great university overall.

There were about 585 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at USC in the most recent data year. Communication & Media Studies degree recipients from University of Southern California receive an earnings boost of approximately $21,592 over the typical earnings of communication & media studies majors.

It is hard to beat Cornell University if you want to pursue a degree in communication & media studies. Cornell is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Ithaca. A Best Colleges rank of #9 out of 2,152 colleges nationwide means Cornell is a great university overall.

There were roughly 97 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Cornell in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from Cornell University receive $25,332 more than the average communications student.

Northwestern University is one of the best schools in the country for getting a degree in communication & media studies. Northwestern is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Evanston. A Best Colleges rank of #5 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means Northwestern is a great university overall.

There were roughly 93 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Northwestern in the most recent year we have data available. Communication & Media Studies degree recipients from Northwestern University earn a boost of approximately $30,429 above the typical income of communication & media studies graduates.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the finest schools in the United States for getting a degree in communication & media studies. UNC Chapel Hill is a very large public university located in the small city of Chapel Hill. A Best Colleges rank of #38 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means UNC Chapel Hill is a great university overall.

There were about 588 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UNC Chapel Hill in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill receive $6,888 more than the typical communications student.

U-M is a very large public university located in the medium-sized city of Ann Arbor. A Best Colleges rank of #22 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means U-M is a great university overall.

There were roughly 260 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at U-M in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies degree program at University of Michigan - Ann Arbor get $13,706 above the standard graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.

Located in the city of East Lansing, Michigan State is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 2nd out of 56 schools for overall quality in the state of Michigan.

There were approximately 470 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Michigan State in the most recent data year. Graduates who receive their degree from the communications program make about $36,390 in their early career salary.

Located in the suburb of Villanova, Villanova is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #34 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means Villanova is a great university overall.

There were about 170 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Villanova in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from Villanova University earn $15,444 more than the average communications student.

Located in the large city of Philadelphia, UPenn is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #2 out of 2,152 colleges nationwide means UPenn is a great university overall.

There were approximately 84 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UPenn in the most recent data year. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of Pennsylvania receive $16,172 more than the average communications grad.

Located in the city of Champaign, UIUC is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 3rd out of 85 schools for overall quality in the state of Illinois.

There were approximately 327 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UIUC in the most recent data year. Graduates who receive their degree from the communications program make about $37,808 in the first couple years of their career.

UMCP is a very large public university located in the suburb of College Park. A Best Colleges rank of #37 out of 2,152 colleges nationwide means UMCP is a great university overall.

There were approximately 368 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UMCP in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies degree program at University of Maryland - College Park get $6,846 more than the standard graduate with the same degree when they enter the workforce.

Located in the large city of Tucson, University of Arizona is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 3rd out of 26 schools for overall quality in the state of Arizona.

There were roughly 268 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at University of Arizona in the most recent data year. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of Arizona earn $6,143 more than the average communications grad.

Located in the medium-sized suburb of Santa Barbara, UCSB is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 7th out of 161 schools for overall quality in the state of California.

There were roughly 592 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UCSB in the most recent data year. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of California - Santa Barbara earn $9,748 more than the average communications graduate.

Located in the city of College Station, Texas A&M College Station is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 1st out of 115 colleges for overall quality in the state of Texas.

There were roughly 517 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Texas A&M College Station in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from Texas A&M University - College Station receive $6,445 more than the standard communications grad.

Located in the small suburb of Davis, UC Davis is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 10th out of 161 colleges for overall quality in the state of California.

There were approximately 293 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UC Davis in the most recent year we have data available. Communication & Media Studies degree recipients from University of California - Davis receive an earnings boost of about $5,719 above the average income of communication & media studies graduates.

Northeastern is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Boston. A Best Colleges rank of #33 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means Northeastern is a great university overall.

There were approximately 135 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Northeastern in the most recent data year. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies major at Northeastern University earn $13,597 more than the standard college graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.

Located in the city of Madison, UW - Madison is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 1st out of 46 schools for overall quality in the state of Wisconsin.

There were about 270 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UW - Madison in the most recent data year. After graduating, communications degree recipients typically earn about $37,286 in their early careers.

Boston College is a fairly large private not-for-profit college located in the small city of Chestnut Hill. A Best Colleges rank of #17 out of 2,152 schools nationwide means Boston College is a great college overall.

There were approximately 188 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Boston College in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies major at Boston College earn $18,312 above the typical college grad in this field shortly after graduation.

CU - Boulder is a very large public university located in the medium-sized city of Boulder. This university ranks 2nd out of 31 colleges for overall quality in the state of Colorado.

There were about 216 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at CU - Boulder in the most recent data year. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of Colorado Boulder receive $2,888 more than the average communications grad.

Located in the fringe town of Storrs, UCONN is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 3rd out of 18 colleges for overall quality in the state of Connecticut.

There were approximately 245 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UCONN in the most recent data year. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies major at University of Connecticut earn $3,623 above the average graduate in this field shortly after graduation.

Located in the city of Seattle, UW Seattle is a public university with a fairly large student population. This university ranks 1st out of 50 schools for overall quality in the state of Washington.

There were approximately 318 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UW Seattle in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies major at University of Washington - Seattle Campus get $7,788 more than the typical college grad in this field when they enter the workforce.

UC Berkeley is a very large public university located in the midsize city of Berkeley. A Best Colleges rank of #14 out of 2,152 colleges nationwide means UC Berkeley is a great university overall.

There were roughly 258 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UC Berkeley in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from University of California - Berkeley earn $6,846 more than the average communications grad.

ASU - Tempe is a very large public university located in the medium-sized city of Tempe. This university ranks 2nd out of 26 schools for overall quality in the state of Arizona.

There were approximately 407 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at ASU - Tempe in the most recent year we have data available. Communication & Media Studies degree recipients from Arizona State University - Tempe get an earnings boost of about $8,115 over the average earnings of communication & media studies graduates.

IU Bloomington is a very large public university located in the small city of Bloomington. A Best Colleges rank of #30 out of 2,152 colleges nationwide means IU Bloomington is a great university overall.

There were roughly 458 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at IU Bloomington in the most recent data year. Soon after graduating, communications degree recipients usually earn around $36,700 in their early careers.

Located in the city of Austin, UT Austin is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 2nd out of 115 colleges for overall quality in the state of Texas.

There were roughly 262 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at UT Austin in the most recent year we have data available. Degree recipients from the communication & media studies major at The University of Texas at Austin make $6,998 above the standard graduate in this field shortly after graduation.

Ohio State is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Columbus. This university ranks 1st out of 91 schools for overall quality in the state of Ohio.

There were roughly 498 communication & media studies students who graduated with this degree at Ohio State in the most recent year we have data available. Those communication & media studies students who get their degree from Ohio State University - Main Campus make $4,382 more than the standard communications student.

Rest of the Top 50 Best Communication & Media Studies Schools

Remaining Award Winners

This section shows the remainder of the schools awarded a Best Communication & Media Studies Schools badge. Showing in this list means the school was ranked in the top 20% of the 575 different United States communication & media studies schools we analyzed.

Additional Noteworthy Schools

These are some additional schools worth mentioning that are also great but just didn't quite make the cut to earn our top Best Communication & Media Studies Schools award.

Communication & Media Studies by Region

View the Best Communication & Media Studies Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Associate degrees in communications, master's degrees in communications, best value in communication & media studies, best for non-traditional students in communication & media studies, best online in communication & media studies, most popular online in communication & media studies, bachelor's degrees in communications, doctor's degrees in communications, highest paid grads in communication & media studies, best for veterans in communication & media studies, most popular in communication & media studies, most focused in communication & media studies.

View All Rankings >

Communication & Media Studies Related Rankings by Major

Communication & Media Studies is one of 5 different types of Communication & Journalism programs to choose from.

Communications Concentrations

View All Communications Focus Areas >

Most Popular Majors Related to Communications

View All Communications Related Majors >

Notes and References

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Credit for the banner image above goes to UNU-WIDER from Helsinki, Finland .

More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

Best Doctorate in Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs

A doctorate in mass communication and media studies prepares graduates to research, teach, or work in fields related to pressing communication issues. Topics span traditional media, web-based media, and social media, as it impacts areas from politics and healthcare to social justice.

Graduates with doctorates in mass communication and media studies often pursue academic research or teaching careers in communication . Some also work in corporate, government, or nonprofit positions as marketing managers, public relations specialists, or communications consultants.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for postsecondary teachers in communication was $77,560 in 2021. The number of positions is projected to grow by 12% from 2020 to 2030 . Marketing managers earn a median salary of $133,380 and employment is projected to grow by 10% in the same time period.

Whether through an on-campus or online program , a doctorate in mass communication and media studies can take 3-5 years or more to complete. Several top doctorates in mass communications are fully funded with tuition and a stipend. For others, tuition ranges from $370 to $1,870 per credit hour.

Students need to account for true program costs and time out of the workforce when deciding whether to go into debt for graduate school .

Best Accredited Doctorate in Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

American University

• Campus + Online
• In-State $49,070
• Out-of-state $49,070
• In-State $30,351
• Out-of-state $30,351
• Retention Rate 87%
• Acceptance Rate 36%
• Students Enrolled 14,318
• Institution Type Private

Clemson University

• In-State $14,118
• Out-of-state $37,110
• In-State $10,600
• Out-of-state $22,050
• Retention Rate 93%
• Acceptance Rate 51%
• Students Enrolled 25,822
• Institution Type Public

Drexel University

• In-State $52,146
• Out-of-state $52,146
• In-State $35,181
• Out-of-state $35,181
• Retention Rate 89%
• Acceptance Rate 75%
• Students Enrolled 24,205

Regent University

• In-State $17,220
• Out-of-state $17,220
• In-State $15,552
• Out-of-state $15,552
• Retention Rate 78%
• Acceptance Rate 86%
• Students Enrolled 10,365

Syracuse University

• In-State $50,616
• Out-of-state $50,616
• In-State $38,880
• Out-of-state $38,880
• Retention Rate 92%
• Acceptance Rate 44%
• Students Enrolled 22,850

Temple University

• In-State $16,080
• Out-of-state $28,992
• In-State $16,956
• Out-of-state $23,346
• Acceptance Rate 60%
• Students Enrolled 38,794

Texas Tech University

• In-State $6,744
• Out-of-state $16,704
• In-State $5,958
• Out-of-state $13,428
• Acceptance Rate 69%
• Students Enrolled 38,742

The University of Alabama

• In-State $10,780
• Out-of-state $30,250
• Acceptance Rate 83%
• Students Enrolled 38,100

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

• In-State $11,332
• Out-of-state $28,522
• In-State $11,468
• Out-of-state $29,656
• Acceptance Rate 79%
• Students Enrolled 29,460

University of Florida

• In-State $4,477
• Out-of-state $25,694
• In-State $10,770
• Out-of-state $27,335
• Retention Rate 97%
• Acceptance Rate 37%
• Students Enrolled 52,407

University of Memphis

• In-State $8,208
• Out-of-state $12,048
• In-State $9,216
• Out-of-state $12,672
• Acceptance Rate 85%
• Students Enrolled 21,685

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

• In-State $13,318
• Out-of-state $31,616
• In-State $17,580
• Out-of-state $27,204
• Acceptance Rate 57%
• Students Enrolled 51,327

University of South Carolina

• In-State $12,288
• Out-of-state $33,528
• In-State $13,737
• Out-of-state $29,760
• Students Enrolled 35,364

Featured Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How We Rank Schools

Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Doctorate in Mass Communication and Media Studies ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 13 schools that qualify for our ranking, listed in alphabetical order. The programs in our list are based on the following criteria.

• Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
• Must offer a doctorate degree program in the given subject.
• Must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.

The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mass Communication and Media Studies Programs

Is a doctorate in mass communication and media studies worth it.

A doctorate in communications is worth it for professionals who want to pursue academic research or teaching positions. A doctorate in mass communication and media studies can also open senior-level positions in government, nonprofits, or private corporations.

In terms of financial return, qualified candidates may be able to earn assistantships or full funding for the program, including tuition and a stipend for an assistantship. Graduates with a doctorate in mass communication and media studies can pursue careers in public relations or advertising, which — according to the BLS — had median salaries of $62,800 to $133,380 in 2021, respectively.

What can I do with a doctorate in mass communication and media studies?

Many students who earn a Ph.D. in mass communication and media studies pursue academic research, teachers, or professors in communication-related fields. Some graduates also use a doctorate degree to enter media-related industries such as advertising, mass media, public relations, or journalism.

Research topics related to mass communication and media studies include:

• Social media and its influence on healthcare understanding
• The politicization of sports
• What shapes environmental responsibility perceptions
• Cross-cultural comparison of Youtube ads
• Public perception of depression

A doctorate degree in mass communication and media studies prepares graduates to conduct meaningful research and to teach key topics from politics to social media.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in mass communication and media studies?

A doctorate in mass communication and media studies takes students 3-5 years or more. Requirements vary by program and institution. Programs range from 48 to 90 credits .

Some doctorates in mass communication and media studies only accept students who have already completed a master’s degree. Others accept students with a bachelor’s in communication or a related field. Previously earned graduate credits can also affect the total time to complete a degree.

Some of the fastest programs use a cohort model for a three-year curriculum that includes research and dissertation preparation.

How much money can I make with a doctorate in mass communication and media studies?

How much money graduates with a Ph.D. in mass communication and media studies can make depends on the career path, years of experience, and location. According to the BLS, the median salary for post-secondary teachers in the communication field was $77,560 in 2021 .

The top 10% of earners had a median salary of $132,720. The bottom 10% of earners had a median salary of $46,640.

Market research analysts and public relations specialists earned a median salary of $30 an hour, while marketing managers earned a median salary of over $60 an hour in 2021.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a doctorate in mass communication and media studies?

The highest paying jobs with a doctorate in mass communication and media studies include careers as a marketing manager, where the median salary was $133,380 in 2021. The top 10% of marketing managers had a median salary of $192,520.

Postsecondary teaching is one of the most common careers for doctorates in mass communication and media studies. The top 10% of postsecondary teachers in communication earned a median salary of $132,720 . The top 10% of all media and communication workers earned a median salary of $98,070 .

Feature Image: Mint Images / Mint Images RF / Getty Images

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Communications Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 363 results

MIT School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

• Cambridge, MA ·
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology ·
• Graduate School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Graduate School, CAMBRIDGE, MA.

Stanford School of Engineering

• Stanford, CA ·
• Stanford University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Stanford University, Graduate School, STANFORD, CA. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Current Master's student says The best part about coming to Stanford are the people and the ability to find a group of friends who are interested in the same things that you may be very interested in . Coming from India, there... Read 3 reviews.

Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford University, Graduate School, STANFORD, CA.

Miami University - College of Arts and Sciences

• Miami University ·
• Graduate School ·

College Of Arts & Sciences- Valparaiso University

• Valparaiso University ·
• VALPARAISO, IN

Graduate Studies at Rollins College

• Rollins College Graduate Programs ·
• WINTER PARK, FL
• · Rating 5 out of 5   1

Brown University Graduate School

• Providence, RI ·
• Brown University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   4 reviews

Brown University, Graduate School, PROVIDENCE, RI. 4 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says This is my first semester in the biotechnology program. The program manager is helpful and commutative. I have found a great lab match for my research interests. My classes are interesting. I have... Read 4 reviews.

Annenberg School for Communication

• Philadelphia, PA ·
• University of Pennsylvania ·

University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School, PHILADELPHIA, PA.

Northwestern University School of Communication

• Evanston, IL ·
• Northwestern University ·

Northwestern University, Graduate School, EVANSTON, IL.

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Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications

• · Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Northwestern University, Graduate School, EVANSTON, IL. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The excitement to be a part of the top Journalism school and being the field of Marketing and Communications is a direct connection that any IMC professional cherishes. Medill gives this chance to... Read 1 reviews.

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

• Los Angeles, CA ·
• University of Southern California ·

University of Southern California, Graduate School, LOS ANGELES, CA.

Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

University of Southern California, Graduate School, LOS ANGELES, CA. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says My program is communications management. Has been very helpful in bettering myself in learning communications in a management setting. It has also helped me in my current role as a sales trainee.... Read 1 reviews.

Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

• Ithaca, NY ·
• Cornell University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Cornell University, Graduate School, ITHACA, NY. 2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says My educational background is Msc and Bsc degree in Horticulture from Jimma University and Diploma in plant science from Agarfa TVET College. I have fourteen (14) years’ work experiences in the... Read 2 reviews.

Rackham School of Graduate Studies

• Ann Arbor, MI ·
• University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ·
• · Rating 4.86 out of 5   7 reviews

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Graduate School, ANN ARBOR, MI. 7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.9 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The Landscape Architecture program at UMich School for Environment and Sustainability is rooted in advancing sustainable design and ecological function, rather than pure aesthetics. We have some... Read 7 reviews.

School of Continuing Studies - Georgetown University

• Washington, DC ·
• Georgetown University ·
• · Rating 4.82 out of 5   28 reviews

Blue checkmark. Georgetown University, Graduate School, WASHINGTON, DC. 28 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars. Featured Review: Other says I'm almost finished with my first semester of undergraduate education at Georgetown School for Continuing Studies with an online BA in Liberal Studies. It's been a great program so far, with awesome... Read 28 reviews.

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Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service

• Nw Washington, DC ·
• · Rating 4.75 out of 5   8 reviews

Georgetown University, Graduate School, NW WASHINGTON, DC. 8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The coursework is rigorous, however, not all of the required coursework is highly engaging. Qualified and engaged professors teach the classes. Many opportunities for exploring new academic areas.... Read 8 reviews.

School of Arts and Sciences - Tufts University

• Medford, MA ·
• Tufts University ·
• · Rating 4 out of 5   4 reviews

Tufts University, Graduate School, MEDFORD, MA. 4 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience was mostly great! I felt supported by faculty and staff and became involved in student activities. It was just unfortunate that my on-campus experience was cut short due to the pandemic... Read 4 reviews.

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences

• Baltimore, MD ·
• Johns Hopkins University ·
• · Rating 4.52 out of 5   21 reviews

Johns Hopkins University, Graduate School, BALTIMORE, MD. 21 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Starting this fall, my graduate journey is set to begin on an exciting note. I’ve already connected with two professors who have proven to be incredibly supportive and kind. I can't wait to dive into... Read 21 reviews.

Wake Forest University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

• Winston-salem, NC ·
• Wake Forest University ·
• · Rating 4.73 out of 5   11 reviews

Wake Forest University, Graduate School, WINSTON-SALEM, NC. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The MA of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Wake Forest University was smooth to initiate, is CACREP accredited, and has a 95% pass rate. This program is successfully preparing me to become a... Read 11 reviews.

School of Medicine - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill, NC ·
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Graduate School, CHAPEL HILL, NC. 4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I am deeply grateful for my acceptance to UNC School of Medicine, an opportunity that has already enriched both my education and personal growth. Initially, I hesitated due to the new curriculum... Read 4 reviews.

School of Media and Journalism - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Graduate School, CHAPEL HILL, NC.

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - New York University

• New York, NY ·
• New York University ·
• · Rating 4.8 out of 5   10 reviews

Blue checkmark. New York University, Graduate School, NEW YORK, NY. 10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I am enrolled specifically in the Magazine concentration. My professors have all been helpful with helping me succeed and are willing to stay back to go over something I don't understand. There are... Read 10 reviews.

NYU School of Professional Studies

• · Rating 5 out of 5   14 reviews

Blue checkmark. New York University, Graduate School, NEW YORK, NY. 14 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Everyone, including faculty and students are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful people. The school has great curriculum; we get guest lecturers from people at top firms on a regular basis. These... Read 14 reviews.

College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences

• Blacksburg, VA ·
• Virginia Tech ·

Virginia Tech, Graduate School, BLACKSBURG, VA.

College of Journalism and Communications - University of Florida

• Gainesville, FL ·
• University of Florida ·
• · Rating 4.4 out of 5   5 reviews

Blue checkmark. University of Florida, Graduate School, GAINESVILLE, FL. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says This program is designed for students who have recently graduated or are still in school. If you have been in the workforce you will still learn a lot and gain knowledge, but temper your expectations. Read 5 reviews.

Metropolitan College - Boston University

• Boston, MA ·
• Boston University ·
• · Rating 4.69 out of 5   13 reviews

Boston University, Graduate School, BOSTON, MA. 13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Excellent guidance and resources for new students. Very responsive staff across departments. Additional supplementary instruction to ensure students have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed... Read 13 reviews.

College of Communication - Boston University

Blue checkmark. Boston University, Graduate School, BOSTON, MA. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I've only just started my graduate program but am already immensely impressed by my professors and peers. Everyone takes great care to tailor the program to your individual interests and it is... Read 3 reviews.

College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Madison, WI ·
• University of Wisconsin-Madison ·
• · Rating 4.22 out of 5   9 reviews

University of Wisconsin-Madison, Graduate School, MADISON, WI. 9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Featured Review: Alum says Aside from being really cold, UW-Madison is a great school. Needless to say, it is one of the top schools in the U.S. with a beautiful campus that has Lake Mendota and a lot of student life to enjoy.... Read 9 reviews.

Sacred Heart University

• FAIRFIELD, CT
• · Rating 4.54 out of 5   71

College of Arts & Sciences - North Dakota State University

• North Dakota State University Graduate School ·

School of Humanities and Social Sciences - Mississippi College

• Mississippi College ·
• CLINTON, MS

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