Doctor of Philosophy in Journalism

Our Department of Literature, Film and Theatre Studies offers supervision for PhD Journalism from our expert academics, covering a range of research interests, including: journalism, public communication and policy in the Middle East and North Africa, media, democracy and democratisation, propaganda, influence and censorship, war reporting, counter-terrorism, the interplay between news media, social media and politics, parliamentary reporting in developing countries and in established democracies.
As well-known and established journalists and scholars, our staff have published in reputable peer reviewed journals and flagship policy platforms as well as in renowned mainstream media organisations.

A number of our graduates have gone on to undertake successful careers as journalists.
As a research student, you will be able to establish yourself as a scholar, university lecturer, teacher, publisher, publishers editor, journalist, media analyst/advisor for governmental, policy and civil society bodies.

You will need a good Masters degree or equivalent, in a related subject. Some applicants may be accepted on the basis of an outstanding Bachelors degree. A well-developed research proposal is also essential.
You may be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

Official transcript(s), in English or a certified translation of your academic results to date, showing marks or grades, must be provided at the time you make your application. (Transcripts are not required from current or previous University of Essex students, or from students who have previously completed a degree at Colchester Institute awarded by the University of Essex).

IELTS 7.0 (6.5 in writing, with a minimum of 5.5 remaining components)
TOEFL IBT - 100 overall with minimum component scores: Listening: 17 Reading: 18 Writing: 17 Speaking: 20