Learning Outcomes

A candidate for a doctoral degree is expected to demonstrate mastery of knowledge in the field of communication and to synthesize and create new knowledge, making an original and substantial contribution to the discipline in an appropriate time frame.

• Make an original and substantial contribution to the discipline: think originally and independently to develop concepts and methodologies, and identify new research opportunities within the field of communication.
• Demonstrate advanced research skills: synthesize existing knowledge; identify and access appropriate resources and other sources of relevant information; critically analyze and evaluate one’s own findings and those of others; master application of existing research methodologies, techniques, and technical skills; and communicate in a style appropriate to the field of communication.
• Demonstrate commitment to advancing the values of scholarship: keep abreast of current advances within one’s field and related areas; show commitment to personal professional development through engagement in professional societies and other knowledge transfer modes; and show a commitment to creating an environment that supports learning through teaching, collaborative inquiry, mentoring, or demonstration.
• Demonstrate professional skills: adhere to ethical standards in the discipline and listen, give, and receive feedback effectively.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in mass communication requires 72 s.h. of graduate credit. The program provides training in research methods, communication theory, and teaching skills.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, with coursework and research tailored to each student’s interests under the guidance of faculty members. The school offers several areas of strength to support graduate student research in both traditional and digital media: critical/cultural studies, digital media, global media, health communication, journalism studies, and sports media.

Students in the PhD program in mass communication must complete the following curriculum.

For a more detailed description of the PhD program, contact the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Graduate education prepares students with advanced knowledge and skills in specialized fields. At the University of Iowa, the Graduate College advocates for student-centered graduate education and supports equitable application of rules and policies across graduate programs.

Academics

University of Iowa graduate credentials are regulated by policies and requirements found in the Graduate College Manual of Rules and Regulations. This includes minimum grade-point average (GPA) requirements for academic standing and degree conferral. The Graduate College sets the minimum requirement. Individual graduate programs may establish higher GPA requirements.

Admissions

Graduate student applicants must meet admission requirements for both the Graduate College and the program to which they have applied. University of Iowa graduate admission requirements are published by the Graduate College and on the Graduate Admissions website.

Financial Support

Graduate students might be eligible for financial support. Several contingencies apply, including degree program and award type, satisfactory progress toward degree, satisfactory completion of all duties related to an appointment, and availability of funding. Graduate students should inquire directly with their program for more information about funding availability. The Graduate Student Employment Standards govern the employment relationship between the University of Iowa and all graduate teaching and research assistants in all matters except wages, which are covered by an existing collective bargaining agreement or the conditions of an applicable federal grant.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations on the Graduate College website.

Admission to the program is for fall entry.

Students in this program prepare for careers as teachers and industry researchers.

Sample Plan of Study

Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI.

Mass Communication, PhD

a

Students entering with a bachelor's degree must work with their faculty advisor to complete 30 s.h. of appropriate graduate coursework. Students entering with fewer that 30 s.h. of coursework from the master's degree must work with their faculty advisor to complete the needed appropriate graduate coursework.

b

Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.

c

Taken four times for 1 s.h. each; students should enroll every semester for first two years of study.

d

Students are required to take a total of 3 s.h. of professionalization courses; consult with faculty advisor to determine which courses best align with career goals.

e

Students are required to complete 3 s.h. of methods area, 3 s.h. of theory area, and 15 s.h. of elective coursework.

f

Work with faculty advisor to determine appropriate graduate coursework; see the General Catalog and department website for specifics.

g

Completed at the end of first year to directly assess understanding of content from two approaches courses.

h

Prior to comprehensive exam, work with faculty advisor and committee to build the proposals literature review; see the General Catalog and department website for specifics.

i

Minimum total of 4 s.h. of thesis credit required.

j

Dissertation defense.