At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
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Language
PhD
Level
- Doctor of PhilosophyDegree Offered
- Master of ArtsDegree Offered
- Concentration in mediated communication and digital societySpecialization
- Focus on quantitative research methodsMethodology
The Communication PhD program at UC Davis focuses on the social scientific study of human communication, primarily using quantitative research methods. There is a special emphasis on mediated communication and digital society. Students will develop advanced knowledge in how individuals create, transmit, interpret, evaluate, and respond to messages in various contexts, including interpersonal, group, organizational, public, and cross-cultural settings. The program equips students with essential qualitative and quantitative research skills necessary for careers in academia and professional research, focusing on strategic social interaction, mediated communication, and the development of communication theories.
Careers
Graduates are prepared for careers in research, teaching, industry, and government. The program cultivates skills for professional research and teaching in strategic aspects of social interaction, mediated communication, and communication theory development.
- Researcher
- Professor/Lecturer
- Industry Professional
- Government Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What degree is offered in the Communication program?
- The Communication program at UC Davis offers both a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Arts (MA) degree.
- What are the application deadlines for the Communication PhD program?
- Applications for the Communication PhD program open in September and the deadline is December 1st for Fall Quarter admission.
- What are the main areas of focus within the Communication PhD program?
- The program focuses on the social scientific study of human communication, with a special emphasis on mediated communication and digital society, primarily using quantitative research methods.
- What supporting documents are required for the Communication PhD application?
- Applicants must submit transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation as part of the electronic application.
- Where can I find information on tuition, fees, and living costs for the Communication PhD program?
- Detailed information on tuition, fees, and estimated living costs for graduate students is available on the UC Davis Financial Aid website.
- What kind of careers can I pursue after completing the Communication PhD?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in research, teaching, industry, and government, cultivating skills for professional research and teaching in strategic social interaction, mediated communication, and communication theory development.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeB.S. or B.A. in a biological science with coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are recommended.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA required.
Research ExperienceDemonstrated aptitude and enthusiasm for research, including active participation in an independent research project or post-baccalaureate research experience.
For the MS program, international applicants are strongly advised to seek fellowship support from their home countries. Admission for MS students is typically only considered under special circumstances, such as government-sponsored fellowships, personal funding, or a faculty mentor's commitment of financial support. All costs for the MS program are the applicant's responsibility. Exceptional international students without financial support may be considered for admission to the PhD program.
Fees
Tuition (international)This program does not list specific international tuition amounts. For general graduate student fees and cost of attendance estimates, please refer to the UC Davis Financial Aid website.
Tuition (home)This program does not list specific domestic tuition amounts. For general graduate student fees and cost of attendance estimates, please refer to the UC Davis Financial Aid website.
LivingEstimated costs for living expenses for graduate students are available on the UC Davis Financial Aid website.
For detailed information on tuition, fees, and cost of attendance, please visit the UC Davis Financial Aid website for graduate students.
How to apply
1. Contact Potential Faculty MentorsApplicants are encouraged to contact faculty members within the Communication department whose research aligns with their interests. This helps determine lab availability and allows prospective mentors to get to know potential students.
2. Complete the Electronic ApplicationThe online application becomes available on the Graduate Studies website in September each year. Ensure all required sections are completed accurately.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents as part of the electronic application. This typically includes transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
4. Ensure Application is Complete by DeadlineAll application materials must be submitted by the stated deadline to be considered for admission.
Scholarships
Fellowship Support—
Frequently asked questions
What degree is offered in the Communication program?
+
The Communication program at UC Davis offers both a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Arts (MA) degree.
What are the application deadlines for the Communication PhD program?
+
Applications for the Communication PhD program open in September and the deadline is December 1st for Fall Quarter admission.
What are the main areas of focus within the Communication PhD program?
+
The program focuses on the social scientific study of human communication, with a special emphasis on mediated communication and digital society, primarily using quantitative research methods.
What supporting documents are required for the Communication PhD application?
+
Applicants must submit transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation as part of the electronic application.
Where can I find information on tuition, fees, and living costs for the Communication PhD program?
+
Detailed information on tuition, fees, and estimated living costs for graduate students is available on the UC Davis Financial Aid website.
What kind of careers can I pursue after completing the Communication PhD?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in research, teaching, industry, and government, cultivating skills for professional research and teaching in strategic social interaction, mediated communication, and communication theory development.