Program Overview
Colorado State University's Ph.D. in Communication program trains scholars and professionals in communication expertise, with a focus on interpersonal, film and media studies, and rhetoric and civic engagement. The program's updated requirements emphasize collaboration, transformative communication practices, and research methodologies, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and the communication industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Ph.D. in Communication program at Colorado State University aims to train scholars, teachers, and professionals to address social, political, and professional challenges using advanced expertise in communication. The program is structured around three areas of expertise:
- Interpersonal, Intercultural, and Organizational Communication: This area focuses on communication within relational systems, organizations, and national/global arenas. It explores how individuals engage as active members in various communities and how communication actions can influence citizenship.
- Film and Media Studies: This area examines the mediation of public culture through media, particularly film, television, digital discourse, and global media institutions. It emphasizes critical media literacy and understanding how mediated communication impacts individual engagement and political agency.
- Rhetoric and Civic Engagement: This area explores the role of public communication in shaping and sustaining civic culture. It draws on historical perspectives of rhetoric and its importance in democratic engagement, examining how communication contributes to civic life in the 21st century. The program emphasizes collaboration between these three areas, creating a cutting-edge doctoral program that fosters transformative communication.
Outline:
Required Courses:
- Master's Degree Credit (27 credits): Students must have earned an M.A. in Communication Studies or a related discipline. A maximum of 27 credits from the master's degree can be applied towards the Ph.D.
- Prerequisite Courses (5 credits):
- SPCM 601: History of Rhetorical Theory
- SPCM 612: Rhetorical Criticism
- SPCM 638: Communication Research Methods
- SPCM 639: Communication Theory
- SPCM 646: Media Theory
- SPCM 675: Speech Communication Pedagogy
- Required Ph.D.
- Courses (54 credits):
- SPCM 701: Seminar in Academic Writing (3 credits)
- SPCM 702: Professional Writing and Public Scholarship (3 credits)
- SPCM 712: Critical/Cultural Analysis in Communication (3 credits)
- SPCM 793: Seminar: Communications Research Methods (3 credits)
- SPCM 798: Research (6 credits)
- SPCM 799: Dissertation (12 credits)
Other:
- Effective Fall 2017: The program requirements were updated in Fall 2017.
- Collaborative Approach: The program emphasizes collaboration between the three areas of expertise, fostering a strong sense of community.
- Transformative Communication: The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to engage in transformative communication practices.
Colorado State University
Overview:
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. CSU emphasizes a sense of community and a shared energy among students, faculty, and staff, all driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSU offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover new possibilities both inside and outside the classroom. The university boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader Fort Collins community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Groundbreaking Research:
CSU is a leading research institution, with faculty and students actively engaged in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.Transformative Student Body:
The university attracts a diverse and motivated student population, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.Beautiful Location:
Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, CSU offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.Commitment to Impact:
CSU emphasizes the importance of making a positive difference in the world, encouraging students to pursue careers and research that address global challenges.Academic Programs:
CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 70 majors across nearly 300 programs. The university is particularly known for its strengths in:
Engineering:
CSU's College of Engineering is highly regarded, with programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among others.Agriculture and Natural Resources:
CSU is a leading institution in agricultural research and education, with strong programs in animal science, horticulture, and environmental science.Health Sciences:
CSU offers a variety of health-related programs, including nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences.Other:
CSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and keynote speaker series. The university also has a strong alumni network and a vibrant community in Fort Collins.
Entry Requirements:
Effective Fall 2017, students must have earned an M.A. in Communication Studies or a related discipline. A maximum of 27 credits at the master's degree level may be accepted toward the Ph.D.
