Doctor of Philosophy in Communication - Communication Theory and Research

The doctoral program is primarily designed for students who are interested in pursuing positions at research-based institutions within the communication discipline, especially academic positions at research universities. However, students may choose to use the degree to launch a career in research, consultancy, not-for-profit organizations, governmental affairs, or one of the various communication-related industries. Regardless of the student's chosen career path, the primary objective for all will be to become an independent and original scholar. Beginning with a common set of foundational courses, students will encounter a range of philosophical, theoretical, and methodological approaches to communication scholarship. A major goal of the program is for students to gain knowledge of and an appreciation for the complexities and interdependencies within communication inquiry. To that end, students will gain a critical, historical, and theoretical grounding in the broad communication discipline and then will pursue more advanced study through doctoral-level seminars, directed independent studies, and supervised research experiences. The program emphasis is communication theory and research.
Beginning with a common core of courses, students will encounter various philosophical, theoretical, and methodological approaches to communication scholarship, from interpretive analyses to empirical studies. A major goal of the program is for students to gain knowledge of and an appreciation for the complexities and interdependencies within the range of communication inquiry. To that end, students will gain a critical, historical, and theoretical grounding in the communication discipline that will prepare them to pursue more in-depth coursework in media studies, cultural and rhetorical studies, or marketing communication. Students will be actively mentored so that they can present the results of their coursework and scholarship at national and international conferences, culminating in publication in refereed scholarly outlets. Want to learn more See examples of current student research here.

Submit a completed Residency Affidavit. All applicants must submit this form, which is completed online.
Arrange for two copies of official transcripts to be sent from each college or university attended. These must come from the schools, student copies of unofficial transcripts are not acceptable.
Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and request scores to be sent to FSU. We will accept the general GRE test, including the verbal and quantitative sections, if it was on file with the FSU's Admissions office by January 1, 2003.
In addition to the university requirements listed above, all Communication graduate program applicants must meet the School of Communication requirements listed below. You do not need to submit a separate School application, your university application specifies a program within the School of Communication to which you are applying. Admission is competitive, meeting the following requirements does not guarantee admission, only consideration.
An excellent undergraduate academic record, from accredited universities, to include a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). In addition, doctoral applicants should have a minimum of a 3.3 in their master's degree work.
Verbal and Quantitative GRE scores.
Three letters of recommendation.
A personal statement to be evaluated for its clarity of expression, creativity and persuasiveness in arguing that (1) the applicant has the necessary record of preparation and performance to succeed in the program, (2) the applicant's goals can be served by the program's courses and experiences, (3) the program itself can benefit significantly from the applicant's talent and experiences, and (4) the applicant will enrich the diversity of students in his or her program. In making these arguments, please address the following questions specifically:
What are your career goals, that is, what do you plan to be doing in five years and in 10 years?
Why have you chosen to apply to our master's or doctoral program?
What experiences and competencies make you a strong candidate for our program (research skills, computer literacy, teaching experience, awards, etc.)?
A resume or writing sample (optional for master's students, required for doctoral students).
The School of Communication accepts the following tests and minimum scores.

TOEFL IBT- 100, IELTS- 7