PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Communication Arts and Sciences
PhD · Taught in en · UCAS CAS
At a glance
72 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€51k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Top 5 National RankingRhetorical Studies and Interpersonal/Small Group Communication
- Ph.D. and M.A. DegreesOffered at University Park Campus
- Dual-Title Ph.D. OptionsAvailable in African American and Diaspora Studies, Bioethics, and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
The Communication Arts and Sciences graduate program at Penn State trains students in communication science and rhetorical studies. Research focuses on how communication impacts attitudes, behavior, relationships, public life, democratic processes, and social justice. The program is highly regarded, ranking among the top five nationally for rhetorical studies and interpersonal/small group communication. The department is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, valuing a wide array of identities and perspectives to enrich knowledge creation about communication in various contexts.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
- For the Fall/Spring 2026-27 academic year, the Non-Pennsylvania Resident tuition rate for the University Park campus is $25,270 per semester, totaling $50,540 for the academic year. This rate does not include mandatory fees.
- What is the estimated annual cost of living for international students?
- The estimated annual living costs for students at the University Park campus are $18,772.
- What are the academic requirements to apply for the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
- Applicants need a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in communication studies, a minimum 3.00 junior/senior GPA, and must have completed a master's degree for PhD admission. GRE scores are also required.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
- The application deadline for PhD applicants is December 15.
- How do I apply to the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
- You can apply online through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application portal, ensuring you submit GRE scores, recommendation letters, and any other required supplemental materials.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The program content section does not specify the exact duration for the PhD program but mentions it involves qualifying and comprehensive examinations, a dissertation proposal, and a final dissertation defense.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate PreparationMinimum 12 credits in communication studies/speech communication. Deficiencies must be made up without graduate credit.
GPAMinimum 3.00 junior/senior GPA on a 4.00 scale. Exceptions may be made for students with special backgrounds.
Master's DegreeRequired before admission to the doctoral program.
GRE scores are required for admission. Applicants apply through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application.
Fees
Tuition (international)The Fall/Spring 2026-27 Non-Pennsylvania Resident tuition rate for University Park campus is $25,270 per semester. For the academic year (Fall/Spring), this totals $50,540. This rate does not include mandatory fees.
Tuition (home)The Fall/Spring 2026-27 Pennsylvania Resident tuition rate for University Park campus is $12,635 per semester. For the academic year (Fall/Spring), this totals $25,270. This rate does not include mandatory fees.
LivingEstimated annual living costs are $18,772.
Tuition and fees apply regardless of instructional mode and are not refunded if the mode changes. Rates are for the University Park campus for the 2026-27 academic year. International students are considered non-Pennsylvania residents for tuition purposes. Actual costs may vary. For specific fee breakdowns, please consult the official Penn State Tuition and Fees schedule.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationApply online through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application portal.
2. Provide GRE ScoresEnsure your Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores are submitted.
3. Meet Academic RequirementsEnsure you have the minimum undergraduate preparation (12 credits in communication studies) and a 3.00 GPA. If applying for Ph.D., you must have completed a master's degree.
4. Gather Recommendation LettersCollect letters of recommendation as required by the graduate school.
5. Submit Supplemental MaterialsProvide any other required supplemental application materials.
Accreditation
This program is part of Pennsylvania State University, an accredited institution.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
+
For the Fall/Spring 2026-27 academic year, the Non-Pennsylvania Resident tuition rate for the University Park campus is $25,270 per semester, totaling $50,540 for the academic year. This rate does not include mandatory fees.
What is the estimated annual cost of living for international students?
+
The estimated annual living costs for students at the University Park campus are $18,772.
What are the academic requirements to apply for the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
+
Applicants need a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in communication studies, a minimum 3.00 junior/senior GPA, and must have completed a master's degree for PhD admission. GRE scores are also required.
When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
+
The application deadline for PhD applicants is December 15.
How do I apply to the Communication Arts and Sciences PhD program?
+
You can apply online through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application portal, ensuring you submit GRE scores, recommendation letters, and any other required supplemental materials.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The program content section does not specify the exact duration for the PhD program but mentions it involves qualifying and comprehensive examinations, a dissertation proposal, and a final dissertation defense.