Are you passionate about communication and driven to become a leading scholar in the field? Florida State University’s esteemed School of Communication offers a premier Doctorate Degree In Communications, meticulously designed to propel ambitious individuals towards impactful careers in academia, research, and beyond. Our rigorous program provides a comprehensive foundation in communication theory and research, fostering independent and original scholarship. Whether your aspirations lie in research-based academic institutions, consultancy, non-profit organizations, governmental roles, or diverse communication industries, a doctorate from FSU will equip you with the expertise and credentials to excel.
Program Overview: Your Path to Becoming a Communication Scholar
At Florida State, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of communication experts. Our award-winning faculty is dedicated to guiding you through a transformative educational journey. You will collaborate with a dynamic and diverse community of scholars, specializing in cutting-edge areas such as emerging communication technologies, health and environmental communication, social media dynamics, social movements, political communication, media psychology, and strategic marketing communication.
Our doctorate degree in communications goes beyond theoretical knowledge. We provide extensive training in both instructional methodologies and rigorous research techniques. Furthermore, you will gain access to an impressive suite of resources, state-of-the-art tools, and specialized facilities, all designed to empower you to achieve your highest educational and professional aspirations. We believe in fostering a supportive and enriching environment where you can thrive and make significant contributions to the field of communication.
Deep Dive into Communication Theory and Research
The cornerstone of our doctorate degree in communications is a profound emphasis on communication theory and research. The program commences with a shared core curriculum, exposing you to a broad spectrum of philosophical, theoretical, and methodological approaches to communication scholarship. From nuanced interpretive analyses to robust empirical studies, you will gain a holistic understanding of the discipline.
A primary objective of our program is to cultivate in our students a deep knowledge and appreciation for the intricate complexities and interdependencies within communication inquiry. To achieve this, you will establish a critical, historical, and theoretical bedrock in the broader communication discipline. This strong foundation will then support your progression into more specialized and advanced studies. You will have the opportunity to delve into doctoral-level seminars, engage in directed independent studies tailored to your interests, and participate in closely supervised research experiences with leading faculty.
Our commitment extends to active mentorship. We guide our students to present their coursework findings and original scholarship at prominent national and international conferences. We also strongly encourage and support the culmination of your research efforts in publications within esteemed peer-reviewed scholarly journals, enhancing your visibility and impact within the academic community.
Want to see the groundbreaking work of our students and faculty? Explore examples of current student research here and delve into faculty research areas here.
Unparalleled Research and Teaching Opportunities & Resources
A significant advantage of pursuing your doctorate degree in communications at Florida State is the commitment to providing funded research and teaching experiences. The vast majority of our admitted doctoral students receive funded assistantships from the outset. These assistantships encompass both teaching and research responsibilities, providing invaluable practical experience and easing the financial aspects of doctoral studies. This funding structure allows you to focus on building a strong portfolio of scholarship and independent instruction, crucial for launching a successful post-graduate career.
Beyond financial support, our program provides access to a remarkable array of research facilities and cutting-edge tools. These include:
- The Social Media Lab: Equipped with advanced tools for social media content creation, data collection, sophisticated visualization techniques, and in-depth analysis.
- Two Experimental Media Psychology Labs: Featuring state-of-the-art MediaLab and DirectRT software for conducting advanced media psychology research.
- Cognition and Emotion Lab: Offering psychophysiological measurement tools to analyze cognition, emotional responses, and motivation. Learn more at http://cel.cci.fsu.edu/.
- The Interactions in Communication Contexts (ICC) Lab: Providing facilities for psychophysiological research, eye-tracking studies, and behavioral coding metrics. Explore further at The Interactions in Communication Contexts (ICC) Lab.
- PEAKS Lab (Participatory, Experientially-based Applied Knowledge for Social change): A dedicated lab focused on action research to develop evidence-based interventions for complex social challenges. Discover more at PEAKS Lab.
- Stereoscopic 3D Video and Virtual Reality Production Facilities: Access to advanced facilities for cutting-edge research in immersive media.
- Focus Group and Presentation Center: Professional spaces designed for conducting focus group research and honing presentation skills.
- Software Access: Free and remote access to essential research software including Qualtrics survey platform, SPSS statistical software, and NVivo qualitative data analysis software.
We also understand the importance of presenting your research on a broader stage. Therefore, funding is readily available to support student travel to present scholarly work at national and international conferences and media festivals. Furthermore, we are committed to developing your teaching skills. Extensive training in instructional design and effective classroom management is provided both within the School of Communication and through the esteemed Florida State University Program for Excellence in Teaching. You will also have access to regular workshops focused on innovative online course development and distance learning methodologies, ensuring you are prepared for the evolving landscape of higher education.
Diverse Career Pathways with a Doctorate in Communications
Earning a doctorate degree in communications from Florida State University opens doors to a wide spectrum of impactful career paths. As a research-focused institution, we are deeply committed to preparing graduates for successful careers as communication scholars. We place significant emphasis on developing your abilities to conduct significant, original research within your chosen area of specialization and to effectively teach communication at the university or college level.
However, the versatility of a doctorate degree in communications extends beyond academia. Depending on your individual career aspirations, graduates of our program are also highly qualified for leadership and management positions within communication or research organizations. The analytical and critical thinking skills honed in our program are also highly valued in consulting roles across media, research, and marketing sectors. Regardless of your chosen trajectory, the overarching objective of our doctorate program is to empower you to become an independent, competent, and impactful scholar, capable of making significant contributions to the field and society.
Flexible and Personalized Program Structure
We understand that each student’s academic journey is unique. Our doctorate degree in communications program is intentionally designed to be highly flexible, adapting to meet your individual needs and intellectual interests. The program structure includes:
- Coursework: 48 credit hours of graduate coursework beyond the Master’s degree, including a minimum of 12 hours in a related cognate area outside of communication.
- Teaching Experience: Supervised teaching experiences, typically including the opportunity to lead undergraduate communication courses, providing hands-on pedagogical training.
- Research Experience: Supervised research engagements, working closely with individual professors or as part of our diverse and dynamic research teams, fostering collaborative and independent research skills.
- Professional Development: Participation in an ongoing graduate research colloquium and professional development series, designed to enhance your scholarly skills and career readiness.
- Preliminary Examinations: Comprehensive preliminary examinations to be completed after coursework, ensuring a deep understanding of the field before dissertation work.
- Dissertation: An original, independent, and significant dissertation project, requiring a minimum of 24 credit hours, representing the culmination of your doctoral research.
For detailed information about specific course offerings, please visit the Ph.D. Courses page.
Tallahassee Lifestyle: Vibrant and Affordable
Choosing where to pursue your doctorate degree is also about choosing a place to live and thrive. Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, offers a vibrant yet remarkably affordable lifestyle. You will find a rich array of parks, recreational facilities, fine arts venues, performing arts centers, diverse restaurants, and exciting nightlife options. Escape the campus and discover our nearby Gulf Coast beaches, consistently ranked among the most beautiful in the United States, perfect for relaxation and recreation. Furthermore, Florida State University’s campus itself has been recognized as one of the top 10 most beautiful in the U.S. by College Magazine, providing an inspiring and enjoyable environment for your studies.
Take the Next Step: Contact Us
Ready to learn more about how a doctorate degree in communications from Florida State University can transform your future? We encourage you to reach out to Dr. Arienne Ferchaud, Assistant Professor and Director of Doctoral Studies. Contact her via email for any inquiries you may have.
Request Information
Program Courses: A Detailed Curriculum
Curriculum Overview
The successful completion of the doctorate degree in communications program at Florida State University requires between 72 and 78 graduate credit hours. This total includes a minimum of 48 coursework hours completed after your Master’s degree, plus 24 hours specifically dedicated to dissertation research and writing. The typical timeline for our doctoral program spans two to three years for coursework and preliminary examinations, followed by approximately one year focused on the dissertation. However, the exact duration can vary based on your prior academic background and the nature of your dissertation project.
Working closely with your doctoral supervisory committee, you will have the opportunity to develop a personalized program of study tailored to your specific research interests and career goals. We minimize prescriptive course requirements to maximize your flexibility in designing a program that aligns with your individual aspirations. The doctoral coursework is structured into the following key components:
| Component | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Foundation Courses | 12 |
| Primary Area of Study | 9-12 |
| Secondary Area of Study | 6 |
| Research Methods and Design | 9-12 |
| Cognate Area (Outside Communication) | 12 |
| Preliminary Examination | 0 |
| Dissertation Research | 24 |
| Total Credit Hours | 72-78 |
Foundation Courses: Building a Strong Base
To ensure all students develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse theoretical and methodological approaches within communication research, all doctoral candidates are required to complete 9 credit hours of foundation coursework, typically during their first year of studies. These courses include:
- COM5401 Analysis of Communication Theory (3 credit hours): A required course providing a deep dive into major communication theories.
- COM5312 Quantitative Research Methods in Communication (3 credit hours): A required course focusing on quantitative research methodologies in communication.
- COM 5408 Philosophy of Inquiry and Pedagogy (3 credit hours): A required course exploring the philosophical underpinnings of research and effective teaching practices.
- COM5348 Qualitative Methods in Communication Research (3 credit hours): A required course covering qualitative research methodologies in communication studies.
- COM5920 Colloquium in Communication (0 credit hours): A required, non-credit bearing colloquium to be attended each semester prior to achieving candidacy, fostering scholarly community and professional development.
Primary and Secondary Areas of Study: Specialization and Breadth
Our School of Communication offers a rich array of graduate courses across three key areas of specialization: media studies, cultural and rhetorical studies, and marketing communication. As a doctoral student, you will select one of these areas as your primary focus, completing 12-15 credit hours of advanced coursework from a designated list. You will also choose a secondary area from the remaining two, completing 6 credit hours of coursework.
To ensure depth of learning, all approved courses within these areas include a “significant writing or creative assignment.” Furthermore, to foster advanced scholarship, doctoral students are required to engage in study beyond introductory graduate levels, typically enrolling in a minimum of 6 hours of individualized study within their primary area of specialization. For detailed course descriptions, please refer to the Graduate Bulletin.
Research Methods and Design: Becoming a Research Leader
A core goal of our doctorate degree in communications program is to develop not only informed consumers of communication scholarship but also innovative creators of new knowledge. To this end, you will gain proficiency in the research methods most relevant to your intellectual pursuits. You will select from a diverse list of courses, including specialized topics courses focused on specific research methodologies. Your supervisory committee will provide expert guidance in choosing the most appropriate courses to match your research interests. Our department has recently offered methods-focused classes encompassing organizational communication assessment, survey research methodologies, media content analysis techniques, and critical analysis of contemporary public discourse, among others. Detailed course descriptions are available in the Graduate Bulletin.
Cognate Area: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
To broaden your scholarly perspective and enhance your overall program of study, you are required to pursue a cognate or minor area of study outside of the School of Communication. This requirement is fulfilled by completing 12 credit hours of courses offered by other departments within Florida State University. While not mandatory for all 12 hours to be within a single outside department, it is expected that all cognate coursework should be conceptually related, forming a coherent interdisciplinary focus. Your supervisory committee will assist you in selecting the most appropriate cognate courses to complement your communication studies.
Preliminary Examination: Assessing Scholarly Readiness
Upon completion of your coursework and with the approval of your doctoral supervisory committee, you will undertake the Doctoral Preliminary Examination. The purpose of this examination is to evaluate your readiness to embark on the original and independent scholarly work required to complete a doctoral dissertation. Successful completion of the preliminary examination formally recognizes your status as a doctoral candidate, marking a significant milestone in your journey.
Dissertation: Your Original Scholarly Contribution
Upon achieving candidacy, you will begin the dissertation process, the capstone of your doctorate degree in communications. Your dissertation is expected to be an original and independent scholarly work that makes a significant contribution to the communication discipline. It will be evaluated according to the highest standards of academic rigor and scholarly merit. The minimum dissertation credit requirement for the doctorate degree is 24 hours. With the approval of your major professor, you must enroll in Dissertation Defense during the semester in which you plan to complete your dissertation project. Successful defense of your dissertation signifies the fulfillment of all departmental requirements for the doctorate degree in communications.
Transfer Credit and Course Equivalencies
While the School of Communication does not technically accept “transfer credit” in the traditional sense, we recognize prior graduate coursework. Because our program requires a minimum of 48 course credit hours post-Master’s degree, direct “transferring” of credit is not necessary. However, previous graduate coursework may be approved as course equivalencies for one or more of our required Foundation courses. The Director of Doctoral Studies and the School Director can advise you on which prior courses might qualify as Foundation course equivalencies. The final decision on applying course equivalencies rests with your doctoral supervisory committee. To have courses considered for equivalency, you must provide course syllabi for evaluation. Discussions regarding potential course equivalencies should take place early in your program to facilitate smooth academic planning.
Admissions Information: Joining Our Doctoral Program
Application Deadlines
Doctoral Program Application Deadline: December 15
Important Note for International Applicants: International applicants are advised to adhere to earlier deadlines and fulfill additional application requirements. Applying early is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time for processing immigration paperwork and ensuring a timely review of your application, particularly concerning international documents and visa processing. Please see the section below titled “Additional requirements for international students” for a comprehensive list of requirements specific to international applicants.
Application Requirements
All applicants seeking admission to the Master’s and doctorate degree in communications programs at Florida State University’s School of Communication must meet both university-wide requirements and specific departmental requirements.
Florida State University Graduate Admission Requirements
- Online Application: Complete and submit the University Admissions Office’s Online Application Form.
- Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of $30. Your application packet will not be reviewed until the fee is paid.
- Residency Affidavit: Submit a completed Residency Affidavit. All applicants are required to complete this form online.
- Official Transcripts: Arrange for two official copies of transcripts from every college or university you have attended to be sent directly from the institutions to FSU. Student copies or unofficial transcripts are not acceptable.
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE): While the GRE is waived for the School of Communication doctoral applicants, ensure you review the most updated admission requirements on the program website.
School of Communication Graduate Admission Requirements
In addition to the university-wide requirements detailed above, all applicants to the doctorate degree in communications program must also meet the School of Communication’s specific admission requirements. There is no separate School application; your university application designates your intended program within the School of Communication. Admission to our program is highly competitive. Meeting the following requirements ensures consideration, but does not guarantee admission.
- Academic Excellence: An excellent undergraduate academic record from an accredited university, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Doctoral applicants are expected to have a minimum GPA of 3.3 in their Master’s degree coursework.
- GRE Scores: The GRE requirement is currently waived for doctoral applicants. Please verify the latest requirements when applying.
- Letters of Recommendation: Submit three strong letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your scholarly potential and suitability for doctoral-level study.
- Personal Statement: A compelling personal statement is crucial. It should clearly articulate: (1) your preparedness and academic record for success in the program; (2) how the program’s offerings align with your academic and career goals; (3) the unique contributions you will bring to the program; and (4) how you will enrich the diversity of our student body. In your statement, please address the following questions specifically:
- What are your long-term career goals? Where do you see yourself professionally in five and ten years?
- Why have you chosen to apply specifically to our doctorate degree in communications program at Florida State University?
- What specific experiences and competencies make you a strong candidate for our program? (Highlight relevant research skills, computer literacy, teaching experience, awards, publications, etc.)
- Resume or Writing Sample: A resume is required for doctoral applicants. A writing sample is also required to demonstrate your scholarly writing abilities. A writing sample is optional for Master’s program applicants.
All required documents must be submitted through the online university application system. Instructions for submitting supporting documents. (pdf 31.38 kB)
Additional Requirements for International Students:
Please refer to the FSU Office of Graduate Admissions website for detailed information on additional requirements for international students, including visa requirements, financial documentation, and English language proficiency tests.
Need More Information? We’re Here to Help
Questions about School Admission Requirements:
Natashia Hinson-Turner, Graduate Coordinator School of Communication [email protected] 850-644-5034 Suite 3100, University Center C, FSU P.O. Box 3062664 Tallahassee, FL USA 32306-2664
Questions about University Admissions Requirements:
Office of Admissions The Florida State University P.O. Box 3062400 Tallahassee, FL USA 32306-2400 admissions.fsu.edu [email protected] 850-644-6200
Questions about Communication Graduate Programs:
Betsy Crawford, Graduate Recruiter College of Communication & Information [email protected] 850-645-9661
Meet Our Esteemed Faculty
[
Bailey, Rachel L.](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/rachel-bailey/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3140
[
Bruker, Malia](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/malia-bruker/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3111 (850) 296-8246
[
Bunz, Ulla](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/ulla-bunz/)*Associate Professor, Associate Dean for Student & Academic Affairs*
[email protected] UCC 3123
[
Chapa, Sindy](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/sindy-chapa/)*Associate Professor & Director of the Hispanic Marketing Center*
[email protected] UCC 4120F (850) 645-8129
[
Clayton, Russell B.](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/russell-clayton/)*Distinguished and Endowed Provost McKenzie Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3136
[
Cortese, Juliann](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/juliann-cortese/)*Associate Professor, Director of Master’s Studies*
[email protected] UCC 3124
[
Dale, Katherine](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/katherine-r-dale/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3121
[
Ferchaud, Arienne](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/arienne-ferchaud/)*Associate Professor and Director of Doctoral Studies*
[email protected] UCC 3115
[
Graves, Brian](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/brian-graves/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3113 (850) 645-0916
[
Houck, Davis](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/davis-houck)*Fannie Lou Hamer Professor of Rhetorical Studies*
[email protected] UCC 3121 (850) 644-1607
[
Jordan Jackson, Felecia F.](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/felecia-f-jordan-jackson/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3138 (850) 644-8771
[
Lee, Jaejin](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/jaejin-lee/)*Associate Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3119
[
McDowell, Stephen D.](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/stephen-mcdowell/)*Assistant Provost John H. Phipps Professor of Communication*
[email protected] Westcott 116 D/ UCC4100 (850) 645-2306
[
Merle, Patrick](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/patrick-merle/)*Associate Professor, School Director*
[email protected] UCC 3126 (850) 644-9698
[
Nudd, Donna Marie](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/donna-nudd)*Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3127 (850) 644-8760
[
Opel, Andy](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/andrew-opel/)*Professor*
[email protected] UCC 3134 (850) 644-8768
[
Proffitt, Jennifer](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/jennifer-proffitt/)*Theodore Clevenger Professor in Communication*
[email protected] UCC 3126 (850) 644-8748
[
Waters, Richard](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/richard-waters/)
[
Wendorf Muhamad, Jessica](https://directory.cci.fsu.edu/jessica-wendorf-muhamad/%20)*Associate Professor, Director PEAKS Research Laboratory*
[email protected] UCC 4411
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the GRE required for the doctorate degree in communications application and what are the score requirements?
The GRE requirement has been waived for doctorate degree in communications applicants to the School of Communication. Please refer to the admissions section for the most up-to-date requirements.
Does the program offer assistantships or funding opportunities?
Yes, we are committed to supporting our doctoral students. All students admitted to our doctorate degree in communications program (except those with external funding) receive tuition waivers and are provided with funding through graduate assistantships for 20 hours of work per week within the program.
What is the typical program duration for the doctorate degree in communications?
The doctorate degree in communications program typically takes six to seven semesters of full-time coursework beyond the Master’s degree, followed by at least one year dedicated to dissertation research and writing. Students entering with a Master’s degree in a field other than communication may require additional time to complete the program. Doctoral candidates must fulfill all requirements for the Ph.D. degree within a maximum of 135 semester hours, including dissertation credits.
Who should I ask to write my letters of recommendation for my application?
Since our doctorate degree in communications program is designed to prepare students for careers in scholarly research, letters of recommendation are most valuable to the admissions committee when written by individuals who have had direct experience with your scholarly and/or research endeavors. Ideal recommenders are professors or mentors who can assess your research potential and academic capabilities.
I do not have a Communication background. Are there prerequisite courses required for admission?
While a background in communication is beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for admission to our doctorate degree in communications program. There are no specific prerequisites mandated for application. We welcome students from diverse academic backgrounds who demonstrate a strong passion for communication and research.
When will I receive a decision regarding funding for my application?
Funding decisions for the doctorate degree in communications program are made concurrently with admission decisions. You will be notified of your funding status at the same time you receive your admission decision.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted for international applicants and what are the minimum required scores?
The School of Communication accepts the following English language proficiency tests and minimum scores for international applicants:
| TOEFL | IELTS | Cambridge English Scale | Michigan Assessment Level | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 7 | 190 | 72 | 120 |
What is the estimated cost of the doctorate degree in communications program?
For the most current and detailed information on tuition and fees, please refer to the official Florida State University Tuition & Fees page: https://studentbusiness.fsu.edu/tuition-fees.
Is it possible to have the application fee waived?
No, unfortunately, the application fee of $30 is non-refundable and cannot be waived for any applicants.
Cutting-Edge Research Labs: Innovation Hubs
The School of Communication is home to several specialized research labs that are integral to fostering new knowledge, promoting innovation, and implementing impactful practices that benefit communities in Florida, the nation, and globally. These labs provide unique opportunities for our doctorate degree in communications students to engage in hands-on research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
COGNITION AND EMOTION LAB
Cognition and Emotion Lab
The Cognition and Emotion Lab is dedicated to exploring the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociological factors in shaping how individuals process and respond to information across diverse contexts. Our research utilizes advanced methodologies to investigate cognitive and emotional responses to various forms of media and communication.
PEAKS LAB
Peaks Lab
The PEAKS (Participatory, Experientially-based Applied Knowledge for Social Change) Lab is committed to developing evidence-based interventions for complex social issues through participatory action research. Our work focuses on creating impactful solutions to pressing social challenges through community-engaged research and innovative strategies.
ICC LAB
ICC Lab
The ICC (Interactions in Communication Contexts) Lab investigates the dynamics of human interaction and decision-making in various settings, particularly those mediated by technology. We are especially interested in understanding how messages and media are designed to influence communication goals and outcomes, utilizing methods such as psychophysiological measurement, eye-tracking, and behavioral analysis.
