UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST · UNITED STATES
PhD in Communication
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The PhD program in Communication at UMass Amherst is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of communication theories and research methodologies. This program allows students to develop personalized concentrations within the broad field of communication. Graduates are prepared for academic careers in teaching and research, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as business, government, media industries, and community organizations.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 37 to 46 credits of coursework, depending on prior academic preparation. Core requirements include foundational courses in communication theory and research methods, followed by specialized courses.
- Year 1+
- Introduction to Theories of CommunicationComm 611
- Qualitative Research Methods in CommunicationComm 620
- Quantitative Research Methods in CommunicationComm 621
- Graduate ProseminarComm 801
- Communication Class (Breadth)
- Tools/Knowledge Production Courses
- Theory/Subfield Courses (incl. departmental survey)
- Dissertation
- Dissertation Credits
Careers
The PhD program prepares graduates for careers in teaching and research, with opportunities to specialize in various sectors.
- University Professor/Researcher
- Careers in business, government, media industries, and community organizations
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for the PhD in Communication?
- You need a TOEFL iBT score of 80+ (with minimum 20 in each section), IELTS 6.5+ (with minimum 6.0 in each section), or Duolingo English Test (DET) 115+. An exemption may be possible if you completed specific coursework at a U.S. university.
- How many credits are required for the PhD in Communication?
- The program requires a minimum of 37 to 46 credits of coursework, depending on your prior academic preparation.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for academic careers in teaching and research. Opportunities also exist in business, government, media industries, and community organizations.
- Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
- Detailed information on tuition and fees can be found on the UMass Amherst 'Tuition and Fees' page.
- Are there scholarships or funding opportunities available?
- Information on funding opportunities, such as assistantships and fellowships, is available through the Graduate School's 'Funding' section.
- How do I apply for the PhD in Communication?
- While specific instructions are not detailed on the program page, you should follow the general graduate admissions process for UMass Amherst, which typically includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency.
Entry requirements
TOEFL (iBT)80+ (with sub-scores no lower than 20 in each section)
IELTS6.5+ (with sub-scores no lower than 6.0 in each section)
Duolingo English Test (DET)115+
English EducationEntire secondary education (4 years) in a school where English is the primary language of instruction and the British or American curriculum is followed.
Score reports must be less than two years old. TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency. An exemption may be possible for applicants who have completed two non-ESL English composition courses and several humanities/social science courses with a B or better at a U.S. university.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university's Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university's Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page.
For detailed information on tuition and fees, please consult the UMass Amherst 'Tuition and Fees' page.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific academic and research expectations for the PhD in Communication. Consult the Graduate Handbook for detailed curriculum and degree requirements.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, GRE scores (if required), a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Ensure your English proficiency requirements are met.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the graduate application form through the UMass Amherst admissions portal by the specified deadline.
4. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically released after the application review period.
Scholarships
Assistantships, FellowshipsNot specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for the PhD in Communication?
+
You need a TOEFL iBT score of 80+ (with minimum 20 in each section), IELTS 6.5+ (with minimum 6.0 in each section), or Duolingo English Test (DET) 115+. An exemption may be possible if you completed specific coursework at a U.S. university.
How many credits are required for the PhD in Communication?
+
The program requires a minimum of 37 to 46 credits of coursework, depending on your prior academic preparation.
What are the career prospects after completing this PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for academic careers in teaching and research. Opportunities also exist in business, government, media industries, and community organizations.
Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
+
Detailed information on tuition and fees can be found on the UMass Amherst 'Tuition and Fees' page.
Are there scholarships or funding opportunities available?
+
Information on funding opportunities, such as assistantships and fellowships, is available through the Graduate School's 'Funding' section.
How do I apply for the PhD in Communication?
+
While specific instructions are not detailed on the program page, you should follow the general graduate admissions process for UMass Amherst, which typically includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency.