Communication PhD

The Department of Communication offers graduate education leading to a doctoral degree or terminal master’s degree. The program emphasizes the scholarly study of the communication process, with coursework focusing on communication theory and research methodologies. The program prepares students to assume positions in academia, business and government.

Curriculum

Required Core (36 credits)

COM 500SEM - Proseminar in Communication Credits: 3
COM 504LEC - Research Methods Credits: 3
COM 515SEM - Communication Theories Credits: 3
COM 517SEM - Applied Theory-Testing Credits: 3
COM 518LEC - Statistics I Credits: 3
COM 519SEM - Statistics II Credits: 3
Choose 6 Courses from COM 5## or COM 6## Credits: 18

Electives and Additional Requirements (36 credits)

Successful completion of the Research Electives requirement (9 credit hours).
Successful completion of the Department Electives requirement (12 credit hours).
Successful completion of the Free Electives requirement (6-9 credit hours).
Successful completion of the Department Instructional requirement (3-6 credit hours) which may be satisfied by assumption of primary teaching responsibility for an undergraduate class or by assisting a professor teaching a course (see below).
COM 700TUT - Thesis Guidance Credits: 1 - 12 (Maximum 3 credits)
Courses are determined in consultation with your advisor.

Total Credit Hours: 72

3.0 Degree GPA required

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

1) Demonstrate an understanding of communication theories and approaches used by scholars in the field of Communication.

2) Demonstrate the ability to apply the scientific method along with the use of appropriate methods, measures, and statistical to independently conduct original research that contributes new knowledge to the study of Communication.

3) Demonstrate the ability to articulate and report on scientific research using the appropriate rhetorical principles, writing conventions, formats, and citation styles used in the field of Communication.

SED Statement

This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).