Ph.D. Degree Program
Grady College’s top-ranked Ph.D. program in mass communication is designed to prepare scholars for academic careers in teaching and research or for professional careers in industry or government. The program draws mainly on the resources and facilities of the College’s three departments: advertising/public relations, journalism, and entertainment & media studies.
The primary objective of the Ph.D. program is to develop mass communication scholars who are capable of critical thinking and independent scholarship. The degree is granted in recognition of research proficiency, breadth and soundness of scholarship, and thorough knowledge of selected aspects of mass communication and related fields. Degree requirements are fulfilled in three stages: (1) successful completion of an approved program of study; (2) the passing of written and oral comprehensive examinations; and (3) the execution and presentation of an acceptable dissertation based on independent research.
Students are encouraged to develop their own theoretical and methodological approaches to mass communication research. Some Grady Ph.D. students work within and from traditional social science models of inquiry; others adopt historical, critical theory, naturalistic, or cultural studies perspectives on mass communication phenomena.
Read more about our Ph.D. students and alumni here.
Download our Ph.D. Fact Sheets here:
- Ph.D. in Advertising and Public Relations
- Ph.D. in Entertainment and Media Studies
- Ph.D. in Journalism
- Why choose Grady College for your Ph.D.?
- Research at Grady College
Grady College Ph.D. Degree Resources
Grady College Graduate Advisory Form*
Program Planning Form: Ph.D. Program of Study*
Manual: PhD. Degree Program*
Checklist for PhD. Program.*
* All documents are in Adobe .PDF format. While most computers will read this format, if needed, you can download a free .PDF reader www.adobe.com.
How do I apply for a Grady College assistantship?
Every doctoral applicant is automatically considered for assistantship support when you complete the required Supplemental Application.
The Graduate School offers support in the form of University-wide assistantships, Regents’ Opportunity Assistantship, Out-of-State Tuition Waivers and such; however, you cannot apply for these awards, either through the Graduate School or the Grady College. Admitted and enrolled students are nominated by the Graduate Studies Office for the awards, according to the criteria and deadlines established by the Graduate School.
Direct financial aid queries to the UGA’s Financial Aid Office.
Grady is Ready For You
Are you ready for Grady? Admission is highly competitive. Familiarize yourself with eligibility criteria so you don’t miss your opportunity. You’ll be walking up Sanford Drive in no time.