NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The PhD in Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media at North Carolina State University offers a rigorous academic program for students seeking to advance their knowledge in the intersection of communication, rhetorical theory, and digital technologies. This program focuses on critical analysis, research methodologies, and the development of scholarly expertise in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Students will engage with interdisciplinary approaches to understand how communication shapes and is shaped by new media and technological advancements.
Curriculum
The program requires a total of 72 credit hours, including core courses, research methods, elective focus courses, professional development, and dissertation credit hours. Prior Master's credits may be applied towards the total hour requirement with academic committee approval.
- Core Courses
- History and Theory of Media TechnologiesCRD 701
- Rhetoric and Digital MediaCRD 702
- Communication NetworksCRD 703
- Communication, Technologies, and PedagogyCRD 704
- Scholarly and Professional Paths in Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary ResearchCRD 790
- Research Methods Courses
- Verbal Data AnalysisCOM/ENG 506
- Rhetorical Criticism: Theory and PracticeCOM/ENG 516
- Critical and Interpretive Inquiry in CommunicationCOM 540
- Quantitative Research Methods in Applied CommunicationCOM 541
- Qualitative Research Methods in Applied CommunicationCOM 542
- Special Topics in CommunicationCOM 798
- Usability Studies for Technical CommunicationENG 508
- Empirical Research In CompositionENG 513
- Discourse AnalysisENG 527
- Narrative AnalysisENG 532
- Introduction to Digital HumanitiesENG 543
- Interdisciplinary Studies in EnglishENG 587
- Special Topics in English StudiesENG 798
- Elective Focus Courses
- Doctoral Supervised TeachingCRD 885
- Special Topics in CommunicationCOM 798
- Directed Readings in CommunicationCOM 810
- Special Topics in English StudiesENG 798
- Directed Readings in English StudiesENG 810
- Required Professional Development Course
- Colloquium in Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media (student must take 3 times for 3 credits total)CRD 809
- Additional Professional Development Course
- Teaching College CommunicationCOM 585
- Doctoral Supervised TeachingCRD 885
- Theory and Research In CompositionENG 511
- Required Dissertation Credit Hours
- Doctoral Dissertation ResearchCRD 895
- Research, Exams, and Dissertation
- Doctoral Dissertation ResearchCRD 895
- Directed Readings in English StudiesENG 810
- Directed Readings in CommunicationCOM 810
Careers
Graduates of the Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media PhD program are prepared for a variety of academic and professional roles. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with advanced research, analytical, and communication skills applicable to diverse fields.
- University Professor/Faculty
- Researcher
- Digital Media Specialist
- Communication Consultant
- Policy Analyst
- Archivist
- Digital Humanities Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the PhD program?
- Applicants need to submit an online application, official academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or Curriculum Vitae. International applicants must also submit English proficiency test scores.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The program requires a total of 72 credit hours, which typically translates to several years of study, including coursework, research, and dissertation.
- Where can I find information on tuition and fees for international students?
- Tuition and fees vary and are subject to change. International students should consult the official NC State Graduate School website for the most current financial information.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor/Faculty, Researcher, Digital Media Specialist, Communication Consultant, and Policy Analyst.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
- The application deadline is usually in early January for Fall admission. It is essential to check the Graduate School website for the exact date.
- Are there opportunities for professional development in teaching?
- Yes, the program includes courses like 'Doctoral Supervised Teaching' and 'Teaching College Communication' to provide pedagogical training and practical teaching experience.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree is required for admission to the PhD program. Specific undergraduate fields are not strictly defined, but a strong academic record in a related discipline is expected.
Master's DegreePrior Master's credits can be applied towards the total 72 credit hours required for the PhD, subject to approval by the academic committee.
Specific GPA requirements and standardized test scores (like GRE) are not listed on the program page. International applicants should refer to the Graduate School admissions for general English proficiency requirements and any other standardized testing mandates. It is recommended to contact the program directly for detailed admissions criteria.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the NC State Graduate School for current international tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the NC State Graduate School for current domestic tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs for graduate students in Raleigh, NC, should be obtained from the NC State Graduate School or Student Services.
Tuition and fees vary by program and are subject to change. International students may have additional fees. It is essential to consult the official NC State Graduate School website for the most up-to-date financial information.
How to apply
1. Visit the Graduate School Admissions WebsiteNavigate to the NC State Graduate School admissions page to find detailed instructions, application forms, and deadlines.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents including academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), GRE scores (check program requirements), a curriculum vitae or resume, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
3. Submit Statement of PurposeCraft a compelling statement of purpose outlining your academic background, research interests, career goals, and why you are a suitable candidate for the PhD program in Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media.
4. Complete and Submit the Online ApplicationFill out the online application form and submit all required documents by the specified deadline. Pay the application fee.
5. Await Admission DecisionThe Graduate Admissions Committee will review applications. Decisions are typically communicated within a specified timeframe after the application deadline.
Scholarships
Mathematics Department ScholarshipsVaries
Noyce Scholarships—
General NC State Scholarships—
National Scholarships—
National Graduate Fellowships—
Accreditation
North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the PhD program?
+
Applicants need to submit an online application, official academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or Curriculum Vitae. International applicants must also submit English proficiency test scores.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The program requires a total of 72 credit hours, which typically translates to several years of study, including coursework, research, and dissertation.
Where can I find information on tuition and fees for international students?
+
Tuition and fees vary and are subject to change. International students should consult the official NC State Graduate School website for the most current financial information.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor/Faculty, Researcher, Digital Media Specialist, Communication Consultant, and Policy Analyst.
When is the application deadline for the PhD program?
+
The application deadline is usually in early January for Fall admission. It is essential to check the Graduate School website for the exact date.
Are there opportunities for professional development in teaching?
+
Yes, the program includes courses like 'Doctoral Supervised Teaching' and 'Teaching College Communication' to provide pedagogical training and practical teaching experience.