journalism phd

Doctoral Program

Our doctoral program is among the best programs in journalism and media in the U.S.  Led by faculty with distinguished research and publication records – many with professional journalism or media experience – our program is designed to equip students with a strong theoretical grounding and versatile research methods.  Graduates of our four-year program can go on to positions in the academy, and they also may join think tanks, advocacy and non-governmental organizations and professional associations working with information and media systems.   

We offer a far-reaching array of electives and research opportunities. The faculties’ fields of interest broadly include news and media engagement; online incivility; digital media; mis and disinformation; the digital divide and information equity; media law and policy, including the impact of Artificial Intelligence and algorithms on media; journalism and democracy; global media systems; media and representation; visual communication studies; critical data studies; social media and platform studies; media economics, among other topics.  Please look at  faculty bios  and description of research opportunities  to learn more about current projects.   

Our program incorporates many opportunities to undertake research independently or to work with groups associated with research centers, institutes or research groups. We have an excellent record of participation with the major professional associations including the Association for Education in Journalism and Media Communication ( AEJ MC ), the International Communication Association ( ICA ),  the International Association of Media and Communication Research ( IAMCR ), the Association of Internet Research ( AoIR ), as well as smaller highly focused forums such as The Research Conference on Communications, Information and Internet Policy. 

Interdisciplinary Work

Our students also participate with the many interdisciplinary  Portfolio Programs  on campus.  Moody College is home to three such programs, including the  Communication, Information and Cultural Policy  program focused on media systems, directed by some of our faculty.  Additionally, summer internships with professional or research programs are sometimes sponsored by associated research institutes.  Students have taken advantage of UT’s  Archer Program , and the multi-University COMPASS program associated with the Technology and Information Policy Institute.   

Program of Work 2023-2024

Doctoral Handbook 2023-2024

• Research Centers, Institutes and Programs
• Graduate Research
• Portfolio Programs
• Admissions Info
• Admissions FAQs
• Funding & Student Employment
• Texas One Stop

Email the JAM Grad Office

Journalism and Mass Communication, PhD

• Program description
• At a glance
• Degree requirements
• Admission requirements
• Tuition information
• Application deadlines
• Global opportunities
• Career opportunities
• Contact information

Audience Research, Broadcasting, Criticism, Cultural Studies, Journalist, Professor, Qualitative, Quantitative Reasoning, Research, Strategic Media, Technology, Television, cronkite, digital, law

If you are interested in a deeper examination of the role and influence of media and media technologies in today's increasingly complex world, this program can help you become a thought leader or educator in the fields of journalism, strategic communication and global mass communication.

The PhD program in journalism and mass communication at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is a highly individualized program that attracts seasoned media professionals transitioning to academia, as well as recent graduates of master's degree-level programs in journalism and communication, social and behavioral sciences, or the humanities.

Students have access to the resources, training and mentorship they need to answer critical questions that challenge the fields of journalism, digital and social media, strategic communication and audience studies, and global mass communication.

The program is designed around core values of inclusion, collaboration and mentoring, transdisciplinarity and original research.

Students are able to develop individual programs of study, taking coursework and drawing on knowledge and methodologies from diverse fields that have a bearing on questions within mass communication. Examples include political science, film, computer and data sciences, sociology, anthropology and more.

Within the Cronkite School, students work closely with faculty mentors and fellow students on collaborative projects, develop their own research programs, and benefit from the advice and examples of senior scholars for personalized guidance.

The ultimate goal of the program is to train scholars capable of identifying key questions, designing appropriate studies to investigate those questions, and conducting independent and impactful research. Students are exposed to a wide range of theories and methods so they can forge their own scholarly identity based on interests and aptitudes.

The Cronkite School is committed to creating an environment in which everyone feels they are represented, their experience is equitable, they are fully accepted for who they are and they are valued. The school strives daily to be a welcoming place for all members of the community, where the importance and contribution of each individual is valued and respected.

• College/school: Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Comm
• Location: Downtown Phoenix

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (18 credit hours)

Electives (18 credit hours)

Other Requirements (24 credit hours) previous master's degree or additional hours approved by the supervisory committee (24)

Research (12 credit hours)

Dissertation (12 credit hours)

Additional Curriculum Information Students should see the academic unit for an approved course list.

Students entering the program with a master's degree in journalism or mass communication or a related field must complete 60 credit hours of coursework. Students who are admitted to the program without a master's degree are required to complete an additional 24 credit hours of coursework.

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• three letters of recommendation
• personal statement of interest
• statement of research goals
• samples of scholarly work (optional)
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. TOEFL scores must be at least 100 on the internet-based test; a Duolingo score must be at least 120.

The personal statement of interest should be approximately 1,000--1,500 words and explain why the student wants to pursue a doctorate in mass communication as well as why the Cronkite School program fits their career and personal aims.

The statement of research goals should indicate at least two Cronkite research faculty members with whom the student would like to work, supported by relevant citations of the faculty members' scholarly publications.

Students should see the program website for application deadlines and admission terms. Applicants must meet all deadlines and application requirements to be considered.

The Cronkite School's doctoral committee reviews complete applications. Recommendations for admission are made to Graduate Admission Services, where the final admission decisions are made.

The Cronkite doctorate program is multicultural, with students and alumni hailing from all over the world and bringing their experiences into seminar discussions and research. There are also opportunities to work on international grant-funded research projects led by Cronkite faculty to broaden students' perspective on issues within the discipline. More information on available programs can be found on the Global Education Office website .

Graduates with a doctorate in journalism and mass communication are prepared for any of a number of career opportunities.

Professionals with expertise in mass media and communications are in high demand as universities and institutions train the next generation of media professionals. Career examples include:

• industry researcher or trainer
• media analyst
• media consultant
• university professor

Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Comm | CRONK 302 [email protected] 602-496-5555 Admission deadlines

Skip to Content

PhD: Journalism Studies

You are here.

• Share via Twitter
• Share via Facebook
• Share via LinkedIn
• Share via E-mail

Fall Application Deadlines

US applicants:  Dec. 1 International applicants:  Dec. 1

In the online application, select Journalism  as the department, Media Research & Practice  as the degree, and Journalism  as the subplan/track.

How to Apply

The PhD in Journalism Studies offered by the Department of Journalism is one of three separate and distinct tracks of the Media Research and Practice doctoral program within the College of Media, Communication and Information.

The PhD in Journalism Studies focuses on exploring the intersection of journalism, journalism practice and society. Students gain a solid foundation through coursework that explores the theories and methods that shape mass communication research. The multidisciplinary program examines not only traditional journalism, but also the ever-increasing boundaries of the industry, including user-generated content, citizen journalism, the audience’s impact on news production, the new technologies shaping practice, social media’s role in news, new quasi-journalistic outlets, etc.

Students research institutions, content, audiences and publics—and they can approach these subjects through a multitude of methodologies and theoretical lenses: sociological, psychological, historical, cultural, political, economic, legal and more. Students are encouraged to develop their own approach (both theoretical and methodological) to the study of mass communication and journalism, all while learning and collaborating with faculty who have a diverse range of specialties. An integral part of our doctoral students’ education is their participation in the department’s research and teaching missions through their assignments as research assistants, teaching assistants and graduate instructors.

The strategic communication and journalism studies tracks for the PhD are administered together by the departments of Advertising, Public Relations and Design, and Journalism. Students in both tracks are taught by and have access to the faculties of both departments. The curriculum includes an overview of mass/public communication literature with specific modules and courses dedicated to advertising, journalism and public relations. Classes also focus on areas that straddle each industry such as social media, political communication, ethics, media organizations, health communication and video games. We welcome and appreciate both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research. Graduates pursue teaching and research positions at universities as well as work in the private sector.

View Courses (  once on that page, scroll down to graduate-level information)

• Program Requirements
• Application Guidelines and Resources
• Financial Support
• Contact Graduate Advising

It is expected that a student will devote her or his full time to the doctoral program and assistantship duties during the fall and spring semesters while in the program, unless other arrangements have been made with the department.

The following is a summary of minimum requirements to earn a Ph.D. in Strategic Communication or in Journalism Studies. Students will take two semesters of Proseminar, two semesters of methods, four semesters of Doctoral Professionalization Seminar and 30 credits of electives, which must include 9 credits of advanced methods electives. Students are expected to take courses numbered at the 6000 or above levels. There are some exceptions to this in which doctoral students can receive permission to take 5000-level courses.

• Proseminar in Mass Communication (6 Credits): All doctoral students are required to enroll in JRNL/APRD 7001 in their first semester of study, and in JRNL/APRD 7003 in their second semester. These courses are designed to introduce students to the major paradigms within the field of mass communication.
• Doctoral Professionalization Seminar (4 Credits): All first- and second-year doctoral students will be required to enroll in JRNL/APRD 7004. The course, which is 1 credit each semester, prepares students for life in a doctoral program and for life after one, all while providing a sense of community amongst multiple doctoral cohorts and both departments’ faculty. 
• Methods (15 Credits): All first-year doctoral students enroll in Quantitative Research Methods in the fall, and in Qualitative Research Methods in the spring. These general courses deal with a variety of research methods used within the field. PhD students are also required to take three additional graduate level courses in the areas of research methods (9 hours). These may be taken inside or outside the departments.
• Research Design (3 hours): Doctoral students are required to take JRNL/APRD 7002 in the first semester of their second year. This class is designed to bridge the gap between theory and method. Students will design multiple studies of interest during the course.
• Area of Concentration (18 hours): Doctoral students are required to take a minimum of 18 hours of course work selected on the basis of the student’s area(s) of research interest. These courses should come from a combination of both inside and outside electives. For example, for a student interested in media effects, a combination of classes from both APRD/JRNL and psychology would make sense.
• Independent study: Ph.D. students may take a maximum of two independent study courses in their course of study, either inside APRD and JRNL or outside of those home departments. Generally, these will be taken no earlier than the third semester of the program.
• Comprehensive examinations: Each doctoral student will be required to pass comprehensive examinations, consisting of four questions, which are generally administered after the last semester in which the student takes course work. The examinations are individually tailored for each student and comprise both written and oral examinations.
• Dissertation: A minimum of thirty hours of dissertation credit, MDRP 8991, must be taken. Various restrictions apply to these hours.
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken in any one semester
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken prior to the semester in which comprehensive examinations are taken.
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken in the semester in which comprehensive examinations are taken.
• After passing comprehensive examinations, student must enroll for at least 5 dissertation credit hours (full time) or 3 dissertation credit hours (part time) each semester until graduation.

Typically students enroll for 10 dissertation hours in the semester they are taking comprehensive examinations and 10 dissertation hours each in the following fall and spring terms. Students must be aware of Graduate School rules regarding registration for dissertation hours.

Applicants to the Journalism track of the PhD program in Media Research and Practice are expected to hold the master’s degree or equivalent graduate work. In exceptional cases, applicants without a master’s degree may be considered for admission.

Completed domestic applications must be received by the program no later than Jan. 10 prior to the fall semester for which entrance is sought. International applications should be submitted by Dec. 1. Late applications may be considered under special circumstances.

Successful applications typically meet or exceed the following criteria:

Have an undergraduate cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.2 and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 in previous graduate work.

International applicants must have a TOEFL score of 625 (IBT 106).

Provide three letters of recommendation..

Provide a resume or CV that includes academic and employment experience.

Provide a writing sample that exhibits the ability to undertake the conceptual and empirical studies required of doctoral students (e.g., a chapter from a master’s thesis or graduate-level term paper).

700-word Statements of Purpose should include: 

• A description of the topic of research you're interested in studying.
• A description of why you want to pursue that topic at the University of Colorado and in this program.
• What faculty members you're interested in studying under.

Meeting these criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Because we accept relatively few new doctoral students each fall, we may have more qualified applicants than available openings.

For review and decision purposes you are required to upload an unofficial copy of your transcript(s) in the online application. We require one copy of the scanned transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution that you attended. This includes community colleges, summer sessions, and extension programs. While credits from one institution may appear on the transcript of a second institution, unofficial transcripts must be submitted from each institution, regardless of the length of attendance, and whether or not courses were completed.   Failure to list and submit transcripts from all institutions previously attended is considered to be a violation of academic ethics and may result in the cancellation of your admission or dismissal from the university.

ONLY after you are recommended for admission will you need to provide official transcripts. 

Instructions for Uploading Unofficial Transcripts to Your Application  (scroll to 'Uploading Unofficial Transcripts in the Application')

FAQ  |  Online Application  |  International Students Online Application

Student Information

Be Involved

Helpful Links

Center For Environmental Journalism  |  Center for Media, Religion and Culture

Research or teaching assistantships, including a tuition waiver and stipend, as well as fellowships, are available. PhD students may receive assistantships for a maximum of four years.

Phone: 303-492-7977

Email:  [email protected]

Campus Location: Hellems 96D

JRNL MDRP Program Handbook

Contact the Journalism graduate program

Journalism Armory  front desk (main floor) 1511 University Ave. University of Colorado Boulder UCB 478 Boulder, CO 80309-0478

 303-492-5007 

In this section: Journalism

• Department Home
• Our Mission
• 100 Years of Journalism
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Department Accreditation
• Faculty Publications/Works
• Faculty and Staff
• Our Graduate Students
• The Feldman Award
• The Nakkula Award
• Explore CMCI Academics

Apply   Visit   Donate

Thanks for your interest in CU Boulder’s College of Media, Communication and Information.  We welcome your questions or comments and will respond as quickly as possible.

Mizzou Logo

Missouri School of Journalism

University of missouri, doctoral program.

The University of Missouri was the first institution in the world to grant a doctorate degree in journalism.

A leader in journalism education and research, the School awarded the first doctor of philosophy degree in 1934. Beyond teaching and administration, our doctoral graduates add value to corporations, media entities, strategic communication firms and other organizations through their research and understanding theoretical approaches. Doctoral students:

• conduct research with world-renowned faculty ;
• collaborate with world-class scholars and professionals in journalism and strategic communication;
• gain experience as an educator alongside award-winning faculty.

Doctoral Faculty

The eight research areas of study prepare our doctoral students for careers in the academy and industry:

• Health Communications
• Journalism Studies
• Media History
• Media Law, Ethics and Policy
• Media Sociology
• Science Communication
• Strategic Communication

Selecting the right doctoral program is a major decision. At the Missouri School of Journalism, our students will have the mentorship and assistance in job placement they need. Missouri graduates are represented in colleges and universities around the world, serving as deans, chairs and professors. Recent doctoral graduates are now on the faculties of Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Michigan State, Iowa, Colorado, Louisiana State, Georgia and other accredited journalism programs.

Admission Criteria

Here is a look at our doctoral admission and graduation by year , as well as our student’s dissertations, chairs and graduate year.

Call 573-882-4852 or email us at [email protected] to talk with an adviser or schedule a campus visit.

Shop officially licensed merch at our J-School Store. All profits go toward our scholarship fund.

Share your story.

Journalism Studies, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The University of Maryland's Ph.D. in Journalism Studies is designed to prepare students for careers in university teaching, academic and industry research, and media consulting. The first two years of the program consist of coursework in theory, research methods, journalism, and an outside area of interest (such as Communications, Sociology, History, etc.). After advancing to doctoral candidacy, students then conduct research and write the dissertation.  Most successful candidates enter the program with a master's degree, but a master’s degree is not a prerequisite for admission

Advance to Candidacy: At the end of coursework, students are required to pass five comprehensive examinations: four written comprehensive exams and one oral exam. Each of the four written exams cover the following topics: theory, a cognate area, methodology, and an area of specialization. The fifth one is an oral defense of the comprehensive exams.

Post-Candidacy: Complete at least 12 credits of JOUR899 doctoral dissertation research.  Successfully defend and submit an original dissertation. 

Print Options

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

• Skip to Content
• Catalog Home
• Institution Home

University Registrar

University of missouri.

• A-Z Catalog Index

Print Options

2024-25 catalogs.

125 Jesse Hall Columbia, MO 65211 Map and directions » Phone numbers and e-mail »

• Curricula &​ Catalogs
• Course Offerings
• Degrees, Majors (Degree Programs), Emphasis Areas, Minors and Certificates
• Major and Career Exploration
• University Level Academic Degree Requirements
• College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
• College of Arts and Science
• College of Business
• College of Education and Human Development
• College of Engineering
• Graduate School
• College of Health Sciences
• Honors College

PhD in Journalism

• Addtional Certificates and Minors -​ Journalism
• School of Law
• School of Medicine
• School of Nursing
• College of Veterinary Medicine
• Program Updates Since Publication in May
• General Information
• Academic Policies
• Course Numbering
• Curriculum Designator Abbreviations
• Archived Catalogs
• School of Journalism >
• Journalism >

About the Doctorate

The objective of the doctoral program is to develop an ability to conduct independent and advanced scholarly research and to integrate this skill with a depth of scholarship in journalism and mass communication. Although it is primarily a research degree, the PhD is designed to facilitate a variety of academic aims. Students must expand their intellectual horizons, gain a theoretical framework for examining and understanding communication and refine their own communication competencies.

Degree Requirements

Doctoral study in journalism and mass communication is an interdisciplinary enterprise. The doctoral program is designed by the student in collaboration with the advisor and doctoral committee. Course selections are based on the intellectual requirements of the dissertation and the teaching areas the student wishes to pursue. No courses that focus primarily on professional skills may be counted toward the doctoral program, whether taken at the master’s or the doctoral level. Courses from journalism should compose no more than two-thirds of the total credit.

Students must develop two research tools, pass qualifying and comprehensive examinations, submit and defend a dissertation, and satisfactorily meet all other requirements of the Graduate School. Doctoral Theory and Research I ( JOURN 9000 ) , and Professional Development ( JOURN 9087 ) are required of all PhD students.

Qualifying Examination

Students are admitted to the PhD program in journalism when they have passed Doctoral Research Portfolio (qualifying examination), which must be taken the semester in which the student completes 18 hours. Graduate School regulations about comprehensive examinations, dissertations, plans of study, residency and other matters are specified in the Degree Requirements section of the catalog.

Research Method Requirements

Students are expected to take a minimum of four research methods courses during the course of their doctoral coursework. These courses include three research methods courses from within journalism with at least one being an advanced research methods course. Students are also required to take at least one research methods course from a department other than journalism. At the discretion of the student’s doctoral committee and the associate dean for graduate studies, students may substitute a course from outside the institution if it is deemed equivalent to a required research methods course offered within the school of journalism.

Doctoral students who plan to teach will participate in a teaching program. Each student’s teaching skills will be evaluated in the first year of study, at which point planning for the student’s future teaching opportunities begins. Most students will serve as teaching assistants in such classes as JOURN 1100 during their third semester in the program.

In the student’s fourth semester, he/she may have an additional teaching experience, either as a teaching assistant, co-instructor or instructor of record in a course. Depending on the student’s ability and desire, students might teach a course independently during later semesters.

Back to Top

 Doctoral Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: January 15

• Minimum Academic IELTS scores:

• Minimum TOEFL scores:

• Typical successful applicant GRE scores:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0, undergraduate, 3.5, graduate

Applicants should have demonstrated interest, education or professional experience in journalism, advertising, public relations, mass communication or a related field. A degree (bachelor’s or master’s) in one of those fields or two years of full-time professional media experience is preferred. All required information must be received before the admission review can begin. Applicants may be required to participate in an interview with the doctoral faculty as part of the review process. Students who did not write a thesis in their master’s program may be required to complete a project to demonstrate their ability to do independent research.

Deadlines for application are January 15 for fall entry. Deadlines are firm, and no applicant is considered for admission until all required information is received.

Required Application Materials

Upload the following application materials into the Graduate School's online application system:

• All required Graduate School documents
• Statement of Doctoral Objectives
• An abstract of your master’s thesis (or thesis proposal, if your thesis is not yet complete)
• Unofficial transcripts
• 3 letters of recommendation (use the online Graduate School application system)

Admission Contact Information

Journalism Graduate Studies 179 Gannett Hall Columbia, MO 65211 573-882-6194 [email protected] https://journalism.missouri.edu/degrees-programs/graduate-degrees/ph-d/

Financial Aid from the Program

Doctoral students are provided assistantship and scholarship support for a maximum of six terms (three years). Contact the department for details on this financial assistance.

Published by the University Registrar, 125 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 Phone: 573-882-7881

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

All pages in Academic Catalog.

Graduate Studies

The Story Begins Here

How to Apply

A New Standard for Journalism Education

New York University’s Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute is a pioneer in educating today’s journalists. Not confined by the traditional structure that defines most journalism schools, NYU’s degree is responsive to the industry demand for journalists who are well-versed in the subject matter they report on. Students choose their focus from eight subject areas—from cultural criticism to science and the environment.

Our small cohort size allows for a deeper, more personalized experience. And NYU’s program emphasizes the critical thinking skills so important when covering a complex, interrelated world. All of this adds up to the perfect combination of skills and mastery of content.

• Graduate Programs & Concentrations
• General Requirements
• Financial Aid
• Scholarships & Fellowships

Find Your Focus

The NYU Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute offers an online master’s degree in journalism as well as traditional graduate programs and concentrations in ten targeted areas of study.

American Journalism Online Master’s

Collaborate with classmates from around the world and workshop your stories while earning your degree at your own pace.

Business & Economic Reporting

Build your portfolio and set yourself up for career success as you report on what drives the global economy. Take journalism courses at the Journalism Institute and MBA courses at NYU’s prestigious Leonard N. Stern School of Business.

Cultural Reporting & Criticism

Learn to write in a variety of formats—from personal essays to long form narrative—in the only graduate journalism program in the country specifically designed to prepare the next generation of cultural reporters and critics.

Global & Joint Program Studies

Work toward a joint M.A. degree* in Journalism and Africana Studies, French Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Near Eastern Studies, Russian and Slavic Studies, European and Mediterranean Studies, East Asian Studies, or International Relations.

Literary Reportage

Learn how to produce beautifully written, reality-based journalism in a degree that brings together the mastery of research and reporting skills of a journalism school with the writing-intensive focus of an MFA program.

Magazine & Digital Storytelling

Focus on learning the journalistic skills necessary to report and write for both print and digital magazines as you try out every form of journalism—from timely news stories and opinion pieces to in-depth features and personal essays.

News & Documentary

Master the reporting and storytelling skills to produce short- and long-form video journalism for traditional and non-traditional media and take master’s classes with the best independent documentary filmmakers in New York City.

Podcasting & Audio Reportage

The Podcasting & Audio Reportage concentration is a 36-credit program which allows students to acquire deep skills in the audio medium, within NYU’s Journalism offerings

Reporting the Nation & New York in Multimedia

Using New York City and the United States as your laboratory, learn how to tell stories in new ways through a variety of different mediums—from traditional TV and print to audio and social media.

Science, Health & Environmental Reporting

Join others with a passion for making stories about science, health, and the environment relevant and accessible to everyone. Learn from a faculty of nationally prominent science journalists.

Studio 20: Digital First

Focus on digital innovation through project-based learning, and engage with the evolving opportunities of multimedia and interactive journalism.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Faculty

of graduate students in the Class of 2019 held internships while at NYU

of the Class of 2019 landed jobs, paid fellowships, internships, or freelance work after graduation

Faculty Who Are Invested in Your Future

The strength of NYU’s journalism program stems from the accomplishments of our faculty , who are at the top of their fields. Our professors author books on important contemporary topics. They publish in the most prestigious papers, magazines, and reviews . And they produce documentaries for major media outlets. NYU professors are much more than just mentors—they are deeply invested in their students’ success as future journalists.

On-the-Ground Experience in the Media Center of the World

NYU journalism students benefit from the dynamism of New York City, a global magnet for the best and brightest in the field. Here, you’ll find inspiration on every city street. This is where professional publishing opportunities abound: our students land some of the most competitive internships in the industry and publish in the world’s most prestigious publications , even before finishing their degrees.

*Note: Global and Joint Program Studies consists of joint programs with:

• Africana Studies (MA in Journalism and Africana Studies)
• The Center for European and Mediterranean Studies (MA in Journalism and European and Mediterranean Studies)
• The Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies (MA in Journalism and Latin American and Caribbean Studies)
• The Department of East Asian Studies (MA in Journalism and East Asian Studies)
• The Hagop Kevorkian Center for Near Eastern Studies (MA in Journalism and Near Eastern Studies)
• The Institute of French Studies (MA in Journalism and French Studies)
• The Program in International Relations (MA in Journalism and International Relations)
• Russian and Slavic Studies (MA in Journalism and Russian and Slavic Studies)

For joint degrees, you should indicate your interest when applying. You must apply to and be admitted by both participating departments.

In some cases, students are permitted to take courses from other areas of study within the Institute. The corresponding graduate program director must approve such requests.

• Student & Alumni Work
• What It’s Like To Be Here
• Our History
• Master’s of Journalism
• Concurrent Degrees
• For Undergrads
• For Mid-Career Journalists
• Costs & Funding
• News & Events
• Faculty & Lecturers
• Media Guide to Faculty Experts
• Reserve Radio & TV Studio

Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

BERKELEY IS

•  Investigative Reporting Program (IRP)
•   Student Multimedia Projects
•  Published Student Work
•  Collaborations
•   Quarterly Dean's Letter: Highlights from our prolific community .

Campaign for Berkeley Journalism

Watch our Campaign for Berkeley Journalism video, featuring Professor Shereen Marisol Meraji, about efforts to raise $54.4 million for future journalists.

Seven Berkeley Journalism alumni nominated for News & Documentary Emmy Awards

Five students contributed to one of the nominated docs.

• First Generation Fellows
• Reporters in Residence
• Johnathan Rodgers Fellows
• Bloomberg-UNC-Berkeley Business Journalism Diversity Program
•  A history of diversity Initiatives at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism

Geeta Anand plans a return to teaching after five-year term as Berkeley Journalism’s dean

Anand is the first woman of color and first woman to lead the school in its 56-year history. Her five-year term as dean ends next summer.

JoeBill Muñoz and Lucas Guilkey (’19) produce ‘The Strike’

The documentary, incubated in the Investigative Reporting Program, highlights historic uprising in a California supermax prison.

• Alumni Highlights
• Advisory Board

Featured Student

Jariel arvin ('25).

Dean's Fellow highlighted in California Magazine story about importance of fellowships for journalism students.

Featured Staff

Bernice yeung.

Managing Editor of the Investigative Reporting Program

Featured Alum

Adam solorzano ('24), programs & resources, wojcicki online journalism program.

Learn about our online minor in journalism and classes open to the public.

Business Journalism

Berkeley Journalism and Berkeley Haas join forces to improve business reporting.

Investigative Reporting Program

Committed to reporting stories that expose injustice and abuse of power

California Local News Fellowship

Two-year fellowship matching early-career journalists with California newsrooms

Sign up for our mailing list

What are you looking for?

• School Leadership
• Diversity and Inclusion
• USC Annenberg Magazine
• Commencement
• Undergraduate Majors
• Master's Programs
• PhD Program
• Graduate Applicants
• Undergraduate Applicants
• Connect and Visit
• Tuition and Financial Aid
• Faculty and Staff Resources
• Advisement and Academic Services
• International Programs
• Career Development
• Progressive Degrees
• Organizations
• USC Annenberg’s Media Center
• Student Work
• Master's Programs
• Faculty Recognition
• USC Annenberg's Media Center

Communication (PhD)

You will acquire the leading-edge theory and research methodologies you need to shape a more ethical and just world. 

Whether you seek a career in academia, the industry, or governmental and non-governmental organizations, you will become a critical educator and researcher of communication through rigorous coursework, independent and collaborative research projects, and teaching opportunities.

You will work side by side with your peers and our distinguished faculty to advance knowledge in the field while creating interdisciplinary solutions to complex societal and organizational problems. At the same time, you will build a professional network of worldwide and lifelong connections with fellow scholars and practitioners.

USC Annenberg’s location at the heart of a top-tier research university and in the dynamic city of Los Angeles provides you with the ideal setting to explore ways to inventively fuse your scholarship and expertise in communication studies with disciplines such as political science, international relations, sociology and information sciences as well as gender, media and popular culture studies.

Program Information

• Learning Objectives
• Research and Teaching
• Areas of Study
• Current Doctoral Students
• Class Profile

By the numbers

Student and faculty work.

Changing the world through better communication

Former U.S. Navy Blue Angels team member Amber Lynn Scott became interested in studying high-reliability organizations for her dissertation to make a positive impact for military and first responders.

Requiem for a meme

Alexandria Arrieta researches how the intersection of memes and music are having a profound impact on people’s communication and connection across social media.

Making social media a better tool for political activism

With his lifelong interest in politics, Alfonso Hedge realized Annenberg’s doctoral program would be the perfect place to study how grassroots political organizations use social media.

From music to AI

Event promoter and DJ Stephen Yang examines the on-the-ground practices of technologists and media professionals as they reshape the culture of production.

Jermaine Anthony Richards named 2023 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow

The merit-based program provides funding for Richards to explore his research on how transmedia storytelling animates human security politics, security cultures, and political movements.

Exploring identity through social media

Samah Sadig shares her passion for identity, expression and education — and how it all brought her to USC Annenberg.

Work on groundbreaking research with expert faculty

As innovations in information and communication technologies continue at a rapid pace, USC Annenberg remains at the forefront of efforts to explore these social, cultural, rhetorical, and organizational processes. You will work and collaborate with fellow doctoral students, our world-class faculty, and industry and public/private sector professionals to advance research and insights across a wide range of interdisciplinary areas of study. You will also have the opportunity to lead research endeavors that impact scholarship and practice across the contemporary communications landscape.

Explore the research of USC Annenberg faculty and students. View the areas of study available to our PhD students.

Get to know your fellow students

The communication doctorate program enrolls students from diverse backgrounds, nationalities and educational experiences. Connect with fellow students by viewing their profiles and get to know USC Annenberg through their eyes.

Communication (PhD) faculty

Ph.D. in Mass Communications

Our doctoral program in mass communication, jointly administered with the Department of Life Sciences Communication, is internationally recognized for our faculty and areas of research. Applicants to the Joint Ph.D. in Mass Communications may apply to one or both departments, depending on your areas of research interest. Options are:

• Mass Communications: Journalism & Mass Comm (code G630L)
• Mass Communications: Life Sciences Comm (code G630A)

The Ph.D. degree in Mass Communications provides future academics and professionals with rigorous training in theory and research with highly individualized programs that students develop in consultation with their advisors. Our Ph.D. graduates become some of the most successful researchers and leaders in the field of mass communication.   We require our students to engage in a systematic search for answers to well-formulated and substantive questions. The research process culminates in the discovery and reporting of new knowledge to others.

A doctoral dissertation in Mass Communications demonstrates a student’s ability to examine in detail an important issue in the field, using original research. Faculty members expect the dissertation to be clearly presented while conveying the student’s close familiarity with his or her research area.

The program offers several internationally recognized areas of research and teaching excellence: 

• civic and political communication
• health and environmental communications
• history of media institutions
• information technologies
• social networking and digital media
• processes and effects of mediated communication
• law and ethics of media
• international and inter-cultural communication
• public opinion
• science and risk communication
• social marketing
• journalism studies
• media ecologies
• race and media

Working closely with their advisor and committee, students draw from courses offered in departments across campus to develop a plan of study in preparation for independent and original research in their area of specialization.

Visit the Ph.D. in Mass Communications website for more information.

Visit  Ph.D. in Mass Communications  for more information.

Ph.D. Handbook (PDF)

Request more information

Undergraduate Program

The Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree is designed for industry professionals with years of work experience who wish to complete their degrees part time, both on campus and online, without disruption to their employment. Our typical student is over 30, has previously completed one or two years of college, and works full time.

Students enrolled in the Master of Liberal Arts program in Journalism will gain the writing and reporting skills necessary for success as a journalist in the digital age.

• News & Events
• Explore Medill
• Our Experts
• Medill Job Candidates
• Journalism Overview
• Master of Science in Journalism
• Bachelor of Science in Journalism
• High School Programs
• PhD and Fellowship
• IMC Overview
• IMC Full-Time Master's
• IMC Professional Master's
• IMC Certificate
• Online Short Courses
• Faculty & Staff

• Graduate Journalism
• Undergraduate Journalism
• Application Requirements
• What We Look For
• International Applicants
• Frequently Asked Questions

• Specializations and Elective Concentrations
• Exclusive Opportunities
• Career Services
• Job Outcomes
• Our Faculty
• Medill Chicago
• Life At Medill
• Class Profile
• PhD and Fellowships

We’re excited that you’re considering Medill’s full-time one-year graduate journalism program. This program gives you unique opportunities and experiences and helps prepare you to launch or accelerate your career in reporting, writing and media.  We’re here to answer any questions you have about the program and the admissions process as well as connect you with current students, alumni and faculty.

Medill reviews applications holistically to gain a deeper understanding of our applicants' experiences and ability to be successful in our program.

We look forward to introducing you to the Medill community and receiving your application.

Access online application

Application deadlines

The admissions applications for Fall Quarter 2025 is now open.

2025-2026 Application Deadline and Notification Dates Applicants to Medill’s graduate journalism program can choose to apply to one of three deadlines for the 2025-2026 school year. The application review process is the same for all three rounds, and all admitted students will be considered for merit-based scholarships regardless of the round they choose. Please note that Round 1 and Round 2 applicants will be given priority consideration for the following scholarships: Dean’s scholarship, Comer, NABJ-Reuters, Sagan-ProPublica, Trienens, and Simmons.

Each deadline has a corresponding decision notification date. Decisions are not released on a rolling basis; instead, applicants who have submitted completed applications by the deadline can expect a decision by the notification date. A completed application is one that has all transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation and required essays that have been received by our office and included with your application. Applicants can view their application status by checking their application portal. Applications that are submitted but missing required elements, such as a letter of recommendation or missing transcript, will not be reviewed until all materials have been received. As a result, applications that are incomplete are not guaranteed a decision by their corresponding notification date.

Applicants must choose ONE journalism specialization on their admissions application.

Application requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• Academic transcripts
• Admissions interview
• GRE or GMAT test scores (optional)
• Test scores for English language proficiency (for international applicants )
• Work samples (optional)
• Recommendations
• Application fee

Learn more about application requirements

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The diversity of students, faculty and staff at the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications has been a source of innovation, excellence and leadership throughout our history. Today Medill continues its commitment to creating an inclusive environment and to providing equity in opportunities regarding research, teaching, administration and student services. Medill is dedicated to creating a socially just community by strengthening policies, developing programs, and fostering acceptance for a broad range of communities and concepts. We aim to welcome students, staff and faculty from diverse backgrounds and support them so they may thrive in our community. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are also essential to the professional skills we teach in preparing our students for careers in media.

Medill's commitment to DEI

We're here to help. Please reach out with any questions you have.

We have 10 Journalism PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Communication & Media Studies

All locations

Institution

All Institutions

All PhD Types

All Funding

Journalism PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

A PhD in Journalism offers an exciting opportunity to delve deep into the world of communication and media studies. It allows you to explore the ever-evolving field of journalism and make a significant contribution to the industry.

What's it like to study a PhD in Journalism?

Studying a PhD in Journalism provides you with the chance to conduct in-depth research on a topic of your choice within the field of journalism. Whether you are interested in investigative journalism, digital media, or media ethics, this program allows you to explore your passion and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

During your PhD journey, you will work closely with experienced supervisors who will guide and support you throughout your research. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including media archives, digital tools, and research databases. This will enable you to conduct thorough research and produce high-quality work.

In addition to your research, you may also have the opportunity to teach undergraduate students, gaining valuable teaching experience and enhancing your academic profile. This will further develop your communication and presentation skills, which are essential for a successful career in journalism.

Entry requirements for a PhD in Journalism

To be eligible for a PhD in Journalism, you will typically need a minimum of a 2.1 Honours degree in a relevant subject, such as journalism, media studies, or communication. Some universities may also require a Master's degree in a related field. Additionally, you will need to submit a research proposal outlining your intended area of study and research methodology.

PhD in Journalism funding options

Funding for PhDs in Journalism may be available from various sources, including governments, universities and charities, business or industry. See our full guides to PhD funding for more information.

PhD in Journalism careers

A PhD in Journalism opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue academic careers as professors or researchers in universities, contributing to the development of knowledge in the field. They can also work as journalists, editors, or media consultants, bringing their expertise and research insights to the industry.

Furthermore, a PhD in Journalism equips you with advanced research and analytical skills, making you an attractive candidate for roles in market research, public relations, and communication management. The critical thinking and problem-solving abilities developed during your PhD journey will be highly valued in various sectors.

Whether you aspire to be an influential academic, a respected journalist, or a communication expert, a PhD in Journalism provides you with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to excel in your chosen career path.

Fully funded PhD Studentship in AI and Journalism

Phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Political Marketing: applied analysis of the use of marketing by campaigns, parties and governments

Self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Political Management: exploring the potential and limitations of applying HRM and organisational behaviour concepts to political offices, political advisers and politicians.

Documentary practice and knowledge co-production, glasgow school for business and society (gsbs) – self-funded phd projects.

The PhD opportunities on this programme do not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Business Research Programme

Business Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

PhD Opportunities in Communication, Media, and Film Studies

Funded phd programme (uk students only).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Social Sciences Research Programme

Social Sciences Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Research degrees in the School of Media and Communication

Funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Arts Research Programme

Arts Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University

Department of journalism studies phd with a practical element, the ethics of communicating scientific risk.

FindAPhD. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about PhD study?

Select your nearest city

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Do you want hassle-free information and advice?

Create your FindAPhD account and sign up to our newsletter:

• Find out about funding opportunities and application tips
• Receive weekly advice, student stories and the latest PhD news
• Hear about our upcoming study fairs
• Save your favourite projects, track enquiries and get personalised subject updates

Create your account

Looking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here .

Filtering Results

• MyU : For Students, Faculty, and Staff

Hubbard School

of journalism and Mass Communication

• Explore Majors
• Journalism Major
• Strategic Communication Major
• Media and Information Major
• Internships
• Mentorships
• Professional Development Funding
• Study Abroad
• Student Organizations
• Scholarships
• Student Profiles
• Internship Success Stories
• Student Work
• Major and Pre-Major Advising
• Career Services
• Mental Health & Well-Being Resources
• Why Hubbard?
• Have Questions?
• Explore Programs
• MA in Mass Communication
• PhD in Mass Communication
• Professional MA in Strategic Communication
• MA/PhD & JD in Mass Communication & Law
• MA in Health Communication
• Graduate Faculty
• Graduate Student Research
• Graduate Clubs & Organizations
• Research Opportunities
• Student Funding
• Meet Our Students
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Past Dissertations and Theses
• Student Conference Presentations
• Graduate Fellowship Recipients
• Doctoral Alumni
• Contact Graduate Student Services
• Administration
• Industry Inclusion Fellows
• Graduate Students
• Advertising & PR
• Health Communication
• Journalism Studies
• Law, Policy, Ethics & History
• Political Communication
• Silha Center
• MN Journalism Center
• Connect with the Hubbard School
• Murphy Reporter
• Meet Our Alumni
• Director's Circle
• Undergraduate Mentorships
• Meet the Alumni Society Board
• Join the Board Application
• Past Award Recipients
• Media Contact
• The Hubbard Family
• Location & Facilities
• Accreditation
• Plagiarism & Fabrication Policy
• Hubbard School Feedback
• Work at the Hubbard School
• Curriculum & Courses
• How to Apply
• Explore our Programs

The PhD program is designed to prepare independent scholars for academic careers in teaching and research in mass communication and related fields. You will build a solid foundation in the discipline through multifaceted exploration of the theories and methods that influence the shape and scope of mass communication research. You are strongly encouraged to develop your own theoretical and methodological approach to mass communication research and to interact and collaborate with our multidisciplinary faculty on cutting-edge research in mass communication in the global and multicultural context.

Application Deadline

Fall 2024 Admissions Update : Applications for Fall 2024 Admissions are no longer being accepted for the  Mass Communication M.A. and Ph.D. graduate programs .   The program will begin to accept applications for Fall 2025 admissions in September 2024 and this page will reflect our program requirements for Fall 2025 admissions.   Fall 2025 Admissions Deadline: Our program admissions deadline for the Mass Communication M.A. and Ph.D. graduate programs will be December 15, 2024. If you have additional questions about the application process, please email [email protected] .

Program Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for the PhD program, you must have completed, or be in the process of completing, a master's degree or equivalent advanced degree. 

Once you're admitted to the PhD program, you will work closely with a faculty advisor to select your dissertation field and supporting coursework. Common areas of research include:

• Advertising
• Communication law and regulation
• Health communication
• History of mass communication
• International mass communication
• Journalism studies
• Mass media structures, processes, and effects
• Political communication
• Public relations  

You do not know how strong you are until you are inspired to bring that hidden strength forward. That is the greatest strength of our graduate program: It guides you in surfacing your own individual greatest strengths—as a scholar, as a teacher, as a student and as a person. Our faculty, graduate students and staff members inspire you when you are at your most dire, lift you when you drift away and genuinely, deeply and faithfully value you every day.

Your Career Path

The typical career path for our PhD students is to take a tenure-track academic position at a university. Our PhD graduates have been placed at top-ranked universities in the U.S. and other countries, and have pursued careers at high-profile non-profit organizations, major advertising, public relations and media organizations, research firms, large corporations, and as consultants.  

Degree Requirements

All PhD students must complete a minimum of 46 graduate credits, 24 thesis credits, and a dissertation. All course work must be taken on an A-F grading basis.

The following requirements must be fulfilled to complete the Ph.D. program in mass communication:

1. Required Mass Communication Core (7 credits)

• JOUR 8001: Studies and Theories of Mass Communication (3 cr)
• One more theory course inside the HSJMC(e.g., JOUR 8514) (3 cr)
• JOUR 8009: Pro-seminar in Mass Communication (1 cr)

2. Required Methodology Core (9 credits)

• JOUR 8501: Research Methods in Mass Commucation (3 cr)
• One additional method course inside of the HSJMC (3 cr)
• One additional method course inside or outside of the HSJMC (3 cr)

3. Additional academic requirements:

• 30 additional credits of coursework. 
• 18 of the additional credits must come from HSJMC courses
• 12 of the additional credits must come from courses outside of HSJMC. This can be achieved by any combination of theory, method and topic seminar courses taken outside the HSJMC. Students are encouraged to explore freestanding graduate minors or graduate minors related to another major.

4. Doctoral thesis credits (24 credits) 5. Preliminary written examination 6. Preliminary oral examination 7. Approved dissertation 8. Final oral examination

View curriculum & courses  

Written Examination and Oral Examination

Preliminary written PhD examinations are scheduled to test mastery of the student's chosen area of study after coursework in the degree program has been completed. Written examinations cover the examinee's dissertation and supporting areas of study, including methodologies and mass communication research coursework.

Comprehensive and aimed at the highest levels of scholarship, the exams are designed to assess abilities in abstract and concrete thought, including an ability to:

• Conceptualize problems
• Create and critique research designs
• Assimilate, associate, and synthesize areas of knowledge
• Evaluate literature, research, theories, models, and methodologies
• Discern, discuss, and explain substantive issues, problems, trends, alternative perspectives, and research approaches in both general and specific areas of the field

An examination may include all or any combination of the above. Students should plan ahead and budget preparation time for the examinations. Generally, most students allow at least one semester for review, reading, thought and reflection in preparation for the examination.

Once a student passes the written preliminary examination, they proceed to the oral defense examination where they are questioned by their committee members. Once a student successfully defends both the written and oral portions of the preliminary exam, they are considered to have reached ABD – All But Dissertation – status.  

PhD Dissertation Process 

PhD students are eligible to defend their dissertation after they have passed their preliminary written and oral exams, as well having received approval of their dissertation proposal and dissertation from their committee members. PhD candidates work closely with their faculty advisors during the stages of writing their dissertation. Instructions for preparation of the dissertation (e.g.) margins are available from the Graduate School. 

A dissertation and final oral examination is required of all PhD candidates. 

Transferring Credits

With the approval of their advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the College of Liberal Arts (CLA), students may bring a limited number of credits with them from other graduate programs.

Learn more about transferring credits . 

Want to Learn More?

The Hubbard School Graduate Program is one of the best in the nation. 

Search NYU Steinhardt

Doctor of Philosophy Media, Culture, and Communication

Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach to the study of media and culture, our doctorate draws from a rich array of disciplines and theoretical frameworks. Department expertise spans the globe: the Middle East, East Asia, the Global South, Africa, and Europe. Our faculty generate some of the most original scholarship in their respective fields, creating a stimulating environment in which to pursue graduate work.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Media, Culture, and Communication

Research Focus

Alumni placements, funding for full-time phd students.

Five research areas operate as guiding frameworks for intellectual inquiry across the department: Global Communication and Media, Technology and Society, Visual Culture and Sound Studies, Media Industries and Politics, Interaction and Experience.

Your work as a doctoral student will be shaped by our faculty's commitment to:

• Engaging with theoretical concepts from a range of disciplines—media and cultural studies, visual culture, history, science and technology studies, anthropology, sociology, disability studies, sound studies, political science.
• A multi-methodological approach to research—from semiotics, global ethnography, gender and queer theory, critical race theory, qualitative and quantitative discourse analysis, to political/cultural economy, among other critical frameworks.
• A global perspective—conceiving of the global mediascape as transnational and transcultural.
• Recognizing media and technology’s long history and antecedents.

Read some sample dissertation abstracts .

After graduating, alumni join academic departments of media and communication, with placement in the social sciences and interdisciplinary humanities becoming increasingly common. MCC PhDs who graduated in the past ten years are now tenure-track or tenured professors at the University of California, Berkeley; University of Washington, Seattle; Cornell University; Stanford University; UCLA; Rutgers; Fordham; University of Michigan; George Mason University; University of North Carolina; University of Arizona; College of Charleston; Memorial University of Newfoundland; University of San Francisco; Scripps; Pratt; University of Maryland; American University of Beirut; American University of Paris, Ryerson University; Trent University; St. Joseph’s College.

Over the past decade, our PhD graduates have received numerous prestigious postdocs, including a Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Humanities in the Department of Comparative Media Studies/Writing at MIT; Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship at MIT's Center for Art, Science, and Technology; Postdoctoral Fellow, Berkman Klein Center, Harvard University; Postdoctoral Researcher, Max Planck Institute for the History of Science; Postdoctoral, Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton University; Postdoctoral Fellowship at Rice University in Technology, Culture, and Society; Research Associate, Center for Digital Humanities, Princeton University; Postdoctoral Fellow, Media, Inequality & Change Center, University of Pennsylvania.

If you are accepted as a full-time NYU Steinhardt PhD student without an alternate funding source, you are eligible for our competitive funding package, which includes a scholarship and tuition remission.  Learn more about our funding opportunities .

Graduate Leadership

Associate Professor of Media, Culture, and Communication; PhD Director

If you have additional questions about our degree, please contact us at [email protected] .

Alumni Profiles

Jacob Gaboury (PhD 2014)

Jacob is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Film & Media at the University of California, Berkeley. His dissertation "Image Objects: An Archaeology of Computer Graphics, 1965-1979" investigated the early history of computer graphics and the role they play in the move toward new forms of simulation and object oriented design.

Xiaochang Li (PhD 2017)

Xiaochang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Stanford University. Her teaching and research interests include the history of computing and information systems, AI and algorithmic culture, speech and language technology, and software/platform studies. Before joining Stanford, she was a postdoctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science in Berlin.

Hatim El-Hibri (PhD 2012)

Hatim is Assistant Professor of Film and Media Studies at George Mason University. His research examines media technologies and urban space in the Middle East. His dissertation traced the history of the visualization of Beirut, from the politics of aerial photography and mapping during the French Mandate, to the visual economy of postwar construction, to the materiality of Hizballah's live satellite television.

Liz Koslov (PhD 2017)

Liz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Urban Planning and the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability at UCLA. Previously, she was a Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow at MIT. Her research examines the cultural, political, and sociological dimensions of climate change adaptation. Her first book project, Retreat: Moving to Higher Ground in a Climate-Changed City , is under advance contract with the University of Chicago Press.

Devon Powers (PhD 2008)

Devon is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Advertising, Media & Communication at Temple University. Powers' research interests include popular music, 20th century history, and cultural intermediation – the people and processes that operate "in between" the production and consumption of culture. Powers completed a fellowship at the University of Leeds in 2014, and was recently elected Vice Chair of the Popular Communication Division of the International Communication Association.

Matthew Powers (PhD 2013)

Matthew is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Washington-Seattle. His dissertation "Humanity's Publics: NGOs, Journalism and the International Public Sphere" examined reporting roles assumed by international NGOs as legacy media outlets cut their foreign news budgets, and received the Gene Burd Outstanding Dissertation in Journalism Studies award from the International Communication Association. 

Media, Culture, and Communication

239 Greene Street, 8th floor New York, NY 10003 212-998-5191 | contact

Land Acknowledgement

Take the Next Step

Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

PhD/MPhil Journalism

Postgraduate research degree

On the PhD/MPhil, you will join our internationally renowned Journalism department, whose expertise includes editors of leading academic journals, receiving a high level of support from your supervisor.

Key information

Journalism Postgraduate research degrees PhD/MPhil course Overview

You will be joining our internationally renowned Department of Journalism , whose staff includes experienced industry professionals and leaders in media research.

External assessors and students praise the high standard of research and the support of supervisors on our research degrees. A high percentage of our research graduates publish their theses in peer-reviewed journals and books.

Our faculty has expertise in topics including:

• Law and regulation
• Practices and processes in a digital context
• Effects of/on globalisation
• Representation and democratisation
• Business and leadership
• Scholarship of teaching and learning in journalism .

We are especially interested in research proposals around journalism practices.

Our students often have the opportunity to teach, and after graduating may enter academia or return to senior roles in the media sector.

Students on graduate research programmes are initially registered for the degree of MPhil. Promotion to registration to PhD is not automatic, but contingent on the satisfactory outcome of a review process.

This normally takes place towards the end of the first year of registration for full-time candidates. The review process for part-time candidates will take place towards the end of the second year. If the outcome is satisfactory, the student will be upgraded to PhD.

The programme will conclude with submission of your research in the form of a PhD thesis. You will attend a viva voce examination in front of at least two examiners, at least one of whom will be external to City.

For full details about City, University of London's PhD programme structure, please see the Guide for Research Students .

Requirements

Entry requirements.

You should have an undergraduate degree with a second class (upper division) pass (or its equivalent) and a master’s degree in a related academic discipline.

In exceptional cases, professional qualifications and experience in the proposed research area may compensate for the lack of a Master's degree.

English requirements

For students whose first language is not English, the following qualifications will meet the English language requirement for entry to a postgraduate course of study:

• A first degree from a UK university or from the CNAA.
• A first degree from an overseas institution recognised by City as providing adequate evidence of proficiency in the English language, for example, from institutions in Australia, Canada or the USA.
• GCE O-level/GCSE English language or English literature, grade C minimum.
• Cambridge ESOL CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) at grade C or above.
• An overall score of 7.0 in the English Language Testing System (IELTS) including 7.0 in writing with a minimum of 6.0 for each other subtest.
• Other evidence of proficiency in the English language which satisfies the board of studies concerned.

For more information see our English language proficiency requirements at City.

Visa requirements

If you are not from the European Economic Area / Switzerland and you are coming to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study.

The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

• Students on courses of more than six months
• Students on courses of less than six months
• Students on a pre-sessional English language course.

For more information see our main Visa page .

Fees and funding

Full-time Home/UK: £5,110 per year

Part-time Home/UK: £2,560 per year

Full-time International: £13,630 per year

Part-time International: £6,810 per year

Fees for doctoral candidates are charged annually and cover registration, supervision and examination.

Fees are subject to review each year and may vary during your period of registration. Where applicable, fees for City's programmes will be subject to inflationary increases in each academic year of study commencing in September . Our policy for these increases is set out in our terms and conditions of study .

City has a well-established structure and processes to support your research .

Support for PhD study

Prospective students are encouraged to explore doctoral Grants and funding opportunities such as:

• Research Council studentship awards , if available.

Our bursaries are non-repayable sums of money granted by the University, usually based on need.

Our loans are repayable sums of money granted by the University or other body.

Our scholarships are when the University pays towards your Study fees. You may also be eligible for further funding.

Postgraduate Doctoral Loans

The Government has introduced a new Postgraduate Doctoral Loans scheme which can provide a loan of up to £25,000.

This will be over three years to support study for a doctoral degree.

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study. It can be used alongside any other forms of support you may be able to receive.

For more information, please see our Postgraduate Doctoral Loans page .

2020 Commonwealth Master’s PhD Scholarships

The Commonwealth Master’s PhD Scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) . These Scholarships enable talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required for sustainable development. They are aimed at those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships are for candidates from low and middle income Commonwealth countries. These scholarships will allow you to undertake full-time taught Master’s study at a UK university.

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are for candidates from less developed countries and fragile states in the Commonwealth. These scholarships for full-time doctoral study at a UK university.

Candidates are advised to read the terms and conditions carefully and to ensure they meet the full eligibility criteria as stated in the terms and conditions. For full details, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK website.

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees. Find out more about additional expenses .

Academic support

Supervision.

Each of our research students is provided with a supervisory panel, including a designated lead supervisor.

Research training is provided both within the Department and across the School of Communication & Creativity at City. Students take research modules from MSc Research Method programme that are suitable to their studies.

MA modules in Academic Practice are also available to students to provide them with relevant skills required for teaching in higher education and for overall career development. Further pedagogical skills are developed through teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for those who secure teaching role.

The Department also runs a research seminar series in which doctoral students participate actively. At each stage of the PhD process, supervisors guide students to identify their individual training needs and direct them to relevant courses offered by City.

For more information about research degree training provision, please visit the City Doctoral College .

How to apply

We accept applications on an ongoing basis for entry in late September. There is no formal application deadline, but it is advisable to apply as early as possible due to the limited availability of supervisors.

To apply online, you will need to submit the following supporting documents:

• Your research proposal (max 3 sides of A4)
• Official work e-mail addresses (not private ones) for two academic referees (or one academic and one professional referee where appropriate)
• Copies of your degree transcripts and certificates (originals or certified copies).
• Proof of your English language proficiency (if applicable).

For more information please see how to prepare your research proposal .

When this information is received the application will be assessed by the relevant academic staff. Further information or an interview may be required. The applicant will be contacted if this is the case. The outcome will be reported to the applicant as soon as is practicable.

• Full-time 30 th Sep 2024
• Part-time 30 th Sep 2024
• 30 th Sep 2024

For further application enquiries please contact our PGR enquiries team .

Find a supervisor

See our full list of academic staff and potential supervisors in Department of Journalism.

Dr Zahera Harb

• Department of Journalism

Dr Paul Lashmar

Professor Suzanne Franks

Professor of Journalism

Useful links

• Doctoral College
• School of Communication & Creativity
• Student wellbeing
• Terms and conditions

Contact details

School of communication & creativity.

[email protected]

Search this site

Journalism and communication menu, journalism and communication, communication and media studies phd program, doctoral degree in communication and media studies.

Communication and media are among the most powerful forces shaping the world today. In our Communication and Media Studies PhD program, you’ll work with some of the world’s top media and communication experts to research and contribute to this crucial field. Our school is one of the nation’s oldest accredited schools of journalism and communication, housed within an Association of American Universities R1 research institution.

Request Info

How to Apply

Doctoral Degree in    Communication and Media Studies

Launch a trailblazing career in media research.

In our doctoral program, you’re more than just a student. You’ll work as a co-author, scholar, and teacher and become part of a welcoming and inclusive community influenced by perspectives from across many disciplines and cultures around the world. You’ll also conduct impactful research that contributes to the field and your research portfolio under the guidance of SOJC faculty advisors.

Our faculty are internationally recognized experts in many mass communication and media research topics, including science, health, and environmental communication; technology and society; game studies; global media; critical/cultural approaches to communication; persuasion and media psychology; media and public life; and more.

Apply   » Degree Requirements   » Sample Schedules   » Courses   » Faculty and Staff  » Visit Us   »

Take flight with a Communication and Media Studies Doctoral Degree

Students in our media studies graduate program develop the knowledge, skill, and research portfolios to claim teaching and research posts at top universities and think tanks around the world. But their analytic and research skills set them apart in any field. 

Meet More PhD Alums

Bryce Macher ’13   is a data scientist for Hilton Innovation Lab. →

Sonia De La Cruz ’14   is a professor and documentary filmmaker. →

Erica Ciszek ’14   studies how communication affects understandings of gender. →

Take flight   with a Communication and Media Studies Doctoral Degree

Students in our media studies graduate program develop the knowledge, skill, and research portfolios to claim teaching and research posts at top universities and think tanks around the world. But their analytic and research skills set them apart in any field. A communication and media studies degree offers a solid foundation that can springboard you into academia or a career in media, government, law, or nonprofit work.

Communication and Media Studies PhD Program News

More News   »

Named for renowned journalist Eric W. Allen , who founded the SOJC over 100 years ago, Allen Hall sits at the heart of the verdant University of Oregon campus. During your studies in Eugene, you’ll enjoy expert guidance, hands-on experience with the latest technology, and opportunities for collaboration.

You'll also have access to our state-of-the-art  Experience Hub —part production studio, part research center, part hands-on learning lab—a place where students and faculty collaborate to develop innovative content and examine the media from every angle.

See a Sample PhD Schedule

Study in the Beautiful Pacific Northwest

Fully funded phd.

You bring the intellectual curiosity, we’ll take care of the tuition: Our doctoral candidates are fully funded for four consecutive years*, including health benefits and a stipend. We also offer resources for conducting research that contributes to the field while preparing you for a career in higher education or meaningful work in the public and private sectors.

*Eligibility for continued funding requires maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Learn More about Funding

Student research

Our doctoral candidates work with internationally renowned SOJC faculty experts to do groundbreaking research on today’s most pressing communication and media realities.

See More Student Work

Meet Our Faculty View All Communication and Media Studies PhD Faculty →

Whitney Phillips     Assistant Professor of Digital Platforms and Ethics

Whitney Phillips uses her research and teaching to help students and consumers of media navigate the potentially treacherous terrain of what she’s coined the “information hellscape.” The modern media landscape is fraught with political biases, implicit messages, and harmful communication, but it is also a powerful tool. So Phillips challenges and inspires her students to incorporate self-care and mindfulness into their media-consumption regimens.

Learn about Whitney’s Research

Seth Lewis     is an expert on the digital transformation of journalism. →

Gabriela Martínez     is a gender studies researcher and award-winning documentary filmmaker. →

Maxwell Foxman     researches how play manifests in nongame contexts. →

Janet Wasko     is an expert in the political economy of media and all things Disney. →

Meet Our Faculty

Whitney Phillips    Assistant Professor of Digital Platforms and Ethics

Seth Lewis    is an expert on the digital transformation of journalism. →

Gabriela Martínez    is a gender studies researcher and award-winning documentary filmmaker. →

Maxwell Foxman    researches how play manifests in nongame contexts. →

Janet Wasko    is an expert in the political economy of media and all things Disney. →

View All Communication and Media Studies PhD Faculty →

Next Steps:

Request more information   Fill out a quick form and our graduate recruiter will be in touch soon!  →

Check out campus   Schedule an in-person tour of Allen Hall or watch our virtual tour video.  →

Start your application   Ready to join us and become a Duck? Get started now.  →

School of Journalism and Mass Communication

What types of journalism are there.

Defining “journalism degree” isn’t as easy as it was in the past.

For example, it doesn’t only train students to work in a newsroom. A journalism degree also equips students with a long list of transferable skills that can prepare them for many jobs outside traditional media.

Along with many career opportunities in journalism, a journalism degree opens doors to career options in marketing, public relations, publishing, and communications roles with companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.  

“Journalism degrees are in high demand, not only in traditional journalism industries but also in other fields,” says Melissa Tully , director of the University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication . “The skills that you develop as a journalism student can really take you down a variety of career paths, in part because people are always looking for students who can write, who can clearly communicate, and who have good critical thinking skills and the ability to think on their feet. These are all hard skills and soft skills that translate to several fields.”

The best degree for journalism depends on what you want to do with it. No matter whether you want to pursue a career within traditional media or a new communication field, there’s a type of journalism degree that’s just right for you. 

“I came into college wanting to be a sports reporter covering the Chicago Cubs. And then I got a communications internship for University of Iowa Athletics as a freshman. I had no idea that something in that sort of space existed for what I could do for a job. That internship changed the course of my career. I work in social media and digital media, which existed when I was in college, but nowhere near the way that it exists right now. The job I’m in now didn’t exist when I started college, didn’t exist when I graduated, didn’t exist up until two years ago. It’s pretty cool how that has transformed.” Brandee Britt Director of social media and digital strategy for University of Iowa Athletics. BA, journalism and mass communications, sports studies, 2015, University of Iowa

What are 9 types of journalism?

College journalism programs may offer several types of journalism degrees, such as journalism and mass communication , sport media and culture , or strategic communication . They also may provide a variety of concentrations or tracks that enable you to create a more streamlined career path while acquiring knowledge and a companion set of skills to those in the main journalism curriculum. 

The type of journalism job you want will influence the type of degree you should pursue. 

Here are some of the more common types of journalism degrees, concentrations, or tracks:

News writing

Reporters are responsible for telling stories that provide the public with information relevant and important to their lives. This can include investigative journalism , which delves deeply into one topic, such as political corruption, crime, human rights abuses, or the environment.

Broadcasting and video and audio production

If you enjoy storytelling but prefer to go beyond the written word, broadcasting or video and audio production may be the way to go. Here you’ll learn to tell stories and deliver news via television, radio, podcasts, social media, and film.

Narrative writing and storytelling

This type of writing may allow you to tell longer-form stories that go beyond the traditional news story. It can often allow for more creativity and delving deeper into a topic. Following this path may lead you to write or edit for magazines or websites, or even your own book.

Nonprofit communications

Communication specialists in the nonprofit world use strategies such as storytelling, marketing, fundraising, and engagement to promote their mission. Positions in this field include nonprofit communications director, fundraiser, development director, or social media manager.

Public relations

In this field, you will work to build brand strategy, promote your clients’ events and stories, and develop a client’s public image. Roles you may consider include public relations specialist, content marketer, account executive, copywriter, social media manager, or event planner.

Sports media

If you love sports, focusing on an education in sports communication or journalism can lead to a variety of career opportunities within media, college and professional sports, and public and private recreation organizations.

Political media

The free flow of communication between politicians, news media, and the public is essential for a healthy society. Along with working as a political journalist, you also might want to consider becoming a legislative staffer, speechwriter, campaign worker, or press agent.

Photography and graphic design

Images play a crucial role in communication. Photojournalists tell stories through photos, which can be accompanied by a written component or stand on their own. Graphic designers create visual elements that communicate ideas and information.

Data analysis and audience research

Working with data to glean useful information can help you tell stories that better allow people to make informed decisions. This path may lead you into fields such as data journalism, audience analytics, marketing research, or user experience research and design.

What type of journalism pays the most?

If you simply want to look at big numbers, high-profile broadcasters are examples of some of the highest-paying jobs in the industry. The annual salaries of many well-known broadcasters — including journalism and mass communication grads such as David Muir, Robin Roberts, and Stephen A. Smith — are purported to be large enough to necessitate two commas.

While it’s good to have lofty goals, it might not be best to hold up outliers as the definition of a journalism degree salary . 

Below you’ll find salary ranges, categorized by the type of job often held by those with a journalism degree. The average annual salary is there, but we also want to show what an income looks like at various percentiles (10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th). The lower points give you an idea of where entry-level jobs might land, or what you might be paid in certain geographic regions that aren’t major media markets. (It’s not impossible to make six figures right out of college, but it’s hardly common.)

(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023)

Certain positions in digital communication, public relations, and advertising might bump you up a tax bracket, especially at the management level. Advertising managers and public relations managers see average salaries a bit north of $150K, for example; digital communication managers are not far behind that mark.

In terms of traditional journalism jobs, the average salary data above point to news analysts/reporters/journalists as the most lucrative job category — but this comes with a caveat. While that category sees an average salary just over $100K, it’s worth noting that the median average salary — the dollar amount at which there is an equal number of people earning more and less than that — is $57,500. That would indicate that the top earners in the category are seriously skewing the average salary figure.  

What degree do most journalists have?

Most journalism jobs require some type of journalism degree, which includes instruction in, among other things, conducting interviews, news writing, and media ethics.

A bachelor’s degree explores the discipline more broadly and usually takes four years to complete. If you want to further specialize in a certain area or pursue an advanced career in research or academia, or as a senior leader in an organization, you can acquire a master’s degree or doctorate.

An associate degree also may help you break into the field or be sufficient if you already have some experience.

Some journalism students also get a double major , minor, or certificate in a related or complementary field, such as communications, business, political science, or sport recreation and management.

What do journalists study in college?

Many people think that learning how to conduct an interview and write a news story are the only things taught in a journalism program. Most types of journalism degree programs will teach you how to find and report the news, but they don’t stop there. 

Along with developing professional skills, you’ll also study the historical, cultural, legal, and institutional roles that communication and media play in society. You may take classes in subjects such as visual communication and design, strategic communication, sports writing, health care or nonprofit communication, content marketing, political public relations, and video or audio production.

Modern journalism programs also continually add new courses to keep current with the revolutions and technologies changing the media landscape. For example, journalism programs are currently exploring how artificial intelligence fits into the industry and empowering their students to use AI responsibly.

Skills you may gain from a journalism degree program include:

• Developing clear, accurate, and engaging writing and oral communication skills that will allow you to create messages for different audiences and across multiple media channels.
• Developing interview skills that will allow you to gather information and develop a narrative.
• Developing strong research methods to gather information and check facts in your storytelling.
• Using a variety of digital tools  for research, writing, publishing, and broadcasting.
• Gaining legal and ethical knowledge related to free speech, libel, privacy laws, and more.
• Developing critical-thinking and problem-solving skills that will help you navigate roadblocks and difficult situations.
• Gaining an understanding of the diversity of groups (including communities defined by gender, race, ethnicity, age, religion, and sexual orientation) in a global society in relation to communications.

“A good journalism program teaches you how to write clearly and concisely. And writing well will take you far in today’s world. When I work with students majoring in sport and recreation management, I often recommend that they take a journalism class. Because if your writing skills aren’t honed, it’s going to set you back," says Brandee Britt, director of social media and digital strategy for University of Iowa Athletics. "Journalism programs also teach professionalism. Journalism is one of the few majors that actively have you go out and talk to people in the community. If you can learn how to have a conversation with people, you’ll do well.”

Related content

Can you make a living off journalism?

How do I become an investigative journalist?

What jobs can you get with a journalism degree?

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

Merrill Ph.D. Students and Faculty to be Honored, Present Research at 2024 AEJMC National Conference

COLLEGE PARK — Nine Ph.D. students from the University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism had research accepted for presentation at the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication ’s national conference, which will be held Aug. 8-11 in Philadelphia.

Additionally, Assistant Professor Christoph Mergerson and Ph.D. student Jodi McFarland Friedman will be honored at the conference. Mergerson won the Promising Professor Award from the AEJMC Mass Communication & Society Division. 

Friedman was named an AEJMC-Mass Communication & Society Division Diversity and Inclusion Career Development Fellow, and received a grant for attending the conference. 

“Merrill College is doing outstanding research on topics ranging from journalists reporting from the battlefield, to the history of American journalism, to digital tools for journalists,” said Dr. Sarah Oates , Merrill College's associate dean for research. “The AEJMC conference gives us the opportunity to showcase all the wonderful things happening at Merrill, including the insightful research being done in service of journalism, media and democracy.”

Razan Aljohani either wrote or co-authored three selections, while Mohamed Salama , Michael Sessa and Joey Mengyuan Chen each had two papers accepted.

Salama’s co-authored paper, “Shattered Lives, Unbroken Stories: Journalists' Perspectives from the Frontlines of War,” took first place in the International Communication Division’s Robert L. Stevenson Open Paper Competition.

His paper, “Law Enforcement and Lynching in the Press: America's Narrative from 1835 to 1950,” was selected to the Commission on Graduate Education’s Top Paper Refereed Research Paper Section.

Chen’s “Dancing with Shackles On: The Consulted New Woman in the Exchange of Letters in Linglong Magazine” won the Warren Price Student Paper competition award.

Merrill College’s presence at the premier journalism research event is boosted by four faculty members sharing their expertise on conference panels.

Associate Professor Rob Wells and Assistant Professor Naeemul Hassan will be panelists on the pre-conference workshop, “Using the Tools of Digital Humanities in Journalism History and Media Research.”

Mergerson will be a member of the panel, “My First Year as a Full-Time Faculty Member: Experiences and Lessons from the First-Year On the Job.” 

Associate Dean Linda Steiner will serve as a panelist on a research session from the Commission on the Status of Women/Media Ethics Division, “Lessons Learned: Creating a Guide to Best Practices for Ethical Collaborations.”

COMPLETE LIST OF PAPERS TO BE PRESENTED BY MERRILL PH.D. STUDENTS:

Razan Aljohani, “The Contribution of Saudi Female Journalists in Newspapers: Before and After Saudi Vision 2030”

Razan Aljohani, “Unveiling the Neglected: Exploring Media Depictions of Sudanese Women Amid Crisis”

Joey Mengyuan Chen, “Dancing with Shackles On: The Consulted New Woman in the Exchange of Letters in Linglong Magazine”

Joey Mengyuan Chen, “Sowing Roses in Concrete: The Resistance and Resilience of Chinese Young Feminist Social Media Practitioners” (co-authored)

Sally Farhat, “The 2005 Assassinations of Lebanese Journalists”

Diana Krovvidi, “How Ethnic Press in the US Urged the Diaspora to Preserve the Ukrainian Language (1893-1914)”

Jodi McFarland Friedman, “Truth Hurts: Lizzo, Fat-Feminism, and the Power of Gaze”

Mohamed Salama, “Shattered Lives, Unbroken Stories: Journalists' Perspectives from the Frontlines of War” (co-authored)

Mohamed Salama, “Law Enforcement and Lynching in the Press: America's Narrative from 1835 to 1950”

Michael Sessa, Razan Aljohani and Kemi Busari, “Anniversary Journalism in Action: Comparative Analysis of Russo-Ukrainian War Coverage Across Global Newspapers” (co-authored)

Michael Sessa, “Ordinary Transgender Representation in Criticized New York Times Reporting”

Gea Ujčić, “This_is_Scandalous: A Critical Technocultural Discourse Analysis of an Online Anti-harassment Campaign in Croatia”

For more information, contact: Josh Land [email protected] 301-405-1321

• Merrill College

Q&A: Meet the School of Journalism's two new professors

Josh Anderson and Zicheng Cheng are joining the University of Arizona School of Journalism faculty as assistant professors.

The University of Arizona School of Journalism is welcoming two new faculty members, Assistant Professors  Josh Anderson and  Zicheng Cheng , this fall. 

Anderson received a Ph.D. in advertising in 2024 from the University of Texas at Austin, where he previously studied biology as an undergraduate before earning a master’s degree in life sciences communication at the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

Cheng also graduated with a Ph.D. this year from Pennsylvania State University and holds a master’s degree from Boston University, both in mass communications. She is originally from China, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou. 

“We are thrilled to welcome our new faculty members to the School of Journalism. Their exceptional experience will undoubtedly enrich our program and inspire our students. We look forward to the innovative perspectives they will bring to our community,” Director  Jessica Retis said. 

Read more about the School of Journalism’s two incoming professors in the Q-and-A below:

Question : What is your main area of interest for research and which research topics are you looking forward to pursuing while at the School of Journalism?

Josh Anderson : I’m really interested in science communication and especially science journalism. The question that I'm really interested in answering with that [research] is how we can make the systems of science journalism work better for people it hasn't traditionally worked for — largely people of historically marginalized identities — and how we can adapt that to a changing media ecosystem.

The specific topic of what I'm interested in has narrowed in to climate resilience, specifically how people are adapting to a changing climate and how science journalism can cover that in southern Arizona. 

Q : How will your previous experience and research in science communication inform the ways you teach and mentor students as a professor?

J.A. : I’ve never worked as a practicing journalist, so where a lot of my ability to instruct students will come from will be from my career as a researcher working with journalists. The class I taught at the University of Wisconsin was called “Science and Storytelling” and it was about teaching students to think about how to take science information and make it understandable and interesting to their audiences when they communicate. When it comes to teaching people to be journalists who are capable of writing about science issues, one of the biggest things that they need to know is how to take that information, which is inaccessible to a lot of people, and make it more accessible. 

Secondly, journalism is in a more precarious place than it has been for a very long time in the United States and it's my belief that if we are to responsibly train people to be journalists at the university, we have to teach them survival skills and we have to teach them how to survive in this changing media ecosystem where the profit isn't there from the way we have funded journalists and journalistic institutions in the past. If you look at the research, that's especially true of science and environmental journalism. 

Q : How are you feeling about stepping into this new professor role? 

J.A. : I'm very excited and I feel extraordinarily lucky to have found a tenure-track position at an institution that I feel is a good fit for me. A lot of the people here [at the school] have similar perspectives to the way that I see the necessary steps we need to take to ensure the future of the institution of journalism.

Q : What about living in Arizona are you most excited for? 

J.A. : I’ve already found a lot of interesting things to do here, especially things to do outdoors. One of the biggest selling points during my campus visit was the beautiful view of the Santa Catalina mountains. That’s an unequivocal positive. 

Q: Which journalism-related research topics are you most interested in?

Zicheng Cheng: The first line of my research is about how people consume and engage with news, particularly on social media. The second line is about the social impact of news consumption online, which includes the impact on political attitudes, political beliefs, and political behaviors. Lately, I've been looking at the topic of journalism on TikTok and my research is about audience engagement with TikTok news content. I study the emotional valence of the news videos and how the second person camera view of a video affects the audience engagement by measuring the counts of liking, commenting, and sharing on TikTok. 

Q : How will your previous experience and research inform the ways you teach and mentor students as a professor?

Z.C. : I believe I can bring my theoretical and methodological expertise to the classroom and share this knowledge with my students. Most importantly, I hope to help them learn how to connect media communication theories with real-world practices so, for example, they can learn to understand why certain media messages and content work or don’t work for certain audiences. 

Z.C. : After being a student for pretty much all my life, transitioning now into a professor, I think, may be challenging but it's also very exciting. I just hope to share my expertise with my students, collaborate with the faculty members here, and hopefully I can work with my students on some research projects that they are interested in. 

I think this job is a very good fit for me. I love journalism, and although I am not a traditional reporter, I really enjoy researching on journalism-related topics, especially how journalism audiences perceive news content and how it might affect their cognition, behavior, attitudes, and so forth. I think journalism has a very big role in democratic society, so that's why I really enjoy what I've been researching and I hope to share that expertise with the university community and beyond. 

Z.C. : I am very excited about this new role and this new place. I have never lived in Arizona before and here is a place full of sunshine, diverse cultures, amazing food, and landscapes. As a first-generation student and now a professor, I’d really love to contribute to the diversity of this community. I’m also excited for the mild winters, which means no more shoveling snow.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation

Baylor Faculty, Graduate Students, and Alums Explore Emerging Trends in Communication Research at the 2024 AEJMC Conference

Baylor Journalism, Public Relations & New Media faculty, graduate students and recent alums will participate in various panel discussions, posters, and research presentations at the 2024 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) Conference in Philadelphia.

Among the many accolades the department is blessed to celebrate at this year’s AEJMC conference,   Baylor JPR&NM Professor and Chair Mia Moody-Ramirez, Ph.D. was elected Vice President of AEJMC, a nonprofit educational association of journalism and mass communication educators, students, and media professionals. As vice president-elect, she will become president of the organization in 2026.

Marlene Neill, Ph.D.,  Baylor JPR&NM Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, is one of eight AEJMC members selected as a 2024-25 Jennifer McGill Fellow for AEJMC's Institute for Diverse Leadership in Journalism and Communication (IDL). Assistant Professor Rosalynn Vasquez was selected as a Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver Fellow (2024).

The conference will cover topics ranging from social media to artificial intelligence teaching practices, providing a platform for scholars to delve into pressing issues and cutting-edge developments shaping the communication landscape. Research presentations and panels accepted for presentation are listed below (Baylor graduate students and faculty are in bold).

• Graduate students Lauren Combs, Raphael Roker, Lia Hood , and undergraduate student McKenna Joyce will present “Practice Analysis 2024: Essential Technology and AI Competencies in Public Relations.” The paper will be presented as part of the top paper session for the Commission on Graduate Education. Led by Dr. Marlene Neill , the students completed the research for the Universal Accreditation Board, which oversees the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR credential). 
• Moody-Ramirez and alumni Maddie Walkes and Samira Alam will present “Blackface to TikTok: An Examination of Humor and the Evolution of Blackface.”
• Graduate students Lauren Combs and Lia Hood  will present a research poster titled "The Use of Framing Theory to Decode Feminism Principles, Goals, and Perceptions in Memes." The paper, written in Moody-Ramirez’ s gender, race and media course, examines the intersection of framing theory and feminist discourse in social media and offers valuable insights into how memes communicate and perpetuate feminist ideologies.
• Moody-Ramirez , Hazel Cole (West Georgia), and Dorothy Bland (North Texas) will present “An Intersectional Approach to Examining TikTok Users’ Framing of Sha’Carri Richardson and Brittney Griner.”
• Dr. Alec Tefertiller , assistant professor,   will examine social media trends in a presentation titled “Social Media Platforms, Emotional Regulation, Emotional Intelligence, Social Capital and Life Outcomes.”
• Krishna, Cummings, Ji, Su, Vasquez , and Michelle Amazeen (Boston) will present “Predicting Health Misperceptions: The Role of eHealth Literacy and Situational Perceptions.” 
• Lindsey Maxwell (Southern Mississippi), Tefertiller , and Caroline Neese (Southern Mississippi) will present their paper titled, “It’s You and Me, There’s Nothing Like This: Parasocial Relationships, Fear of Missing Out and How Fans Consume the Products in Taylor Swift’s Media Empire," which won the top faculty paper award in the Entertainment Studies interest group.
• Lindsey Maxwell (Southern Mississippi), Tefertiller , and David Morris (South Carolina-Aiken) will present "The Structured Experience of The Eras Tour Concerts and Movie."
• Tefertiller ,  Vasquez , and Matthew Brammer , lecturer, will present "The Kids Are Alright: Examining How U.S. Public Relations Students Ethically Navigate Artificial Intelligence." This paper won the second-place teaching paper award in the Public Relations Division.

Panels include: 

• In recognition of the Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly (JMCQ) 100th anniversary, Moody-Ramirez  will serve on a panel where scholars will reflect on journalism, media effects, political communication, advertising, PR, and diversity representations. 
• Moody-Ramirez will serve on a panel examining mentoring practices in academia and the professional sphere titled "Mentoring Across Differences: Best Practices in Mentoring a Diverse Pool of Future Professionals and Academics.”
• Moody-Ramirez will participate on a panel titled “Active Learning Strategies for the Next Generation,” with Gabriel Tait, Ball State, sponsored by the Standing Committee on Teaching, during the session “Teaching Experts Are in Preparing Educators for Teaching the Next Generation.” 
• Vasquez will participate in a panel session on "Teaching Authenticity and Transparency in the Era of Generative AI."

The Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) is a nonprofit educational association of journalism and mass communication educators, students, and media professionals. The Association’s mission is to promote the highest possible standards for journalism and mass communication education, to cultivate the broadest possible range of communication research, to encourage the implementation of a multicultural society in the classroom and curriculum, and to defend and maintain freedom of communication to achieve better professional practice and a better-informed public.

Journalism, Public Relations and New Media

College of Arts & Sciences

Training the next generation of media professionals to communicate accurate, concise, and truthful content across media platforms.

Castellaw Communications Building 219 Baylor, 2nd Floor, Suite #261

One Bear Place #97353 Waco, TX 76798

• General Information
• Academics & Research
• Administration
• Gateways for ...
• About Baylor
• Give to Baylor
• Pro Futuris
• Social Media
• College of Arts & Sciences
• Diana R. Garland School of Social Work
• George W. Truett Theological Seminary
• Graduate School
• Hankamer School of Business
• Honors College
• Louise Herrington School of Nursing
• Research at Baylor University
• Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences
• School of Education
• School of Engineering & Computer Science
• School of Music
• University Libraries, Museums, and the Press
• More Academics
• Compliance, Risk and Safety
• Human Resources
• Marketing and Communications
• Office of General Counsel
• Office of the President
• Office of the Provost
• Operations, Finance & Administration
• Senior Administration
• Student Life
• University Advancement
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Baylor Law School Admissions
• Social Work Graduate Programs
• George W. Truett Theological Seminary Admissions
• Online Graduate Professional Education
• Virtual Tour
• Visit Campus
• Alumni & Friends
• Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Students
• Anonymous Reporting
• Annual Fire Safety and Security Notice
• Cost of Attendance
• Digital Privacy
• Legal Disclosures
• Mental Health Resources
• Web Accessibility

• Subscribe Now (Opens in new window)
• Air Force Times (Opens in new window)
• Marine Corps Times (Opens in new window)
• Navy Times (Opens in new window)
• Pentagon & Congress
• Defense News (Opens in new window)
• Flashpoints
• Benefits Guide (Opens in new window)
• Military Pay Center
• Military Retirement
• Military Benefits
• Discount Depot
• Gear Scout (Opens in new window)
• Military Culture
• Military Fitness
• Military Movies & Video Games
• Military Sports
• Transition Guide (Opens in new window)
• Pay It Forward (Opens in new window)
• Black Military History (Opens in new window)
• Congressional Veterans Caucus (Opens in new window)
• Military Appreciation Month (Opens in new window)
• Military History
• Vietnam Vets & Rolling Thunder (Opens in new window)
• Honor the Fallen (Opens in new window)
• Hall of Valor (Opens in new window)
• Service Members of the Year (Opens in new window)
• Create an Obituary (Opens in new window)
• Medals & Misfires
• Installation Guide (Opens in new window)
• Task Force Violent
• Battle Bracket
• CFC Givers Guide
• Photo Galleries
• Early Bird Brief
• Newsletters (Opens in new window)
• Long-Term Care Partners
• Navy Federal
• Digital Edition (Opens in new window)

Army fellowship offers paid degree, editor jobs to revitalize journals

The Army announced a new fellowship program this week to educate officers in professional writing, offering a paid graduate degree and hands-on journalism experience as part of its broader effort to enhance military writing skills.

The Maj. Gen. Edwin “Forrest” Harding Fellowship is part of The Harding Project, an initiative launched in 2023 by the Army’s top commander to enhance and encourage professional writing within the service and introduce new ideas and approaches to the modern battlespace.

Since the project’s inception, a dozen soldiers have been working to revive the Army’s branch journals and magazines, including the “Infantry,” “Armor,” “Air Defense,” and “Special Warfare” titles, which serve as the storehouse for current military debate and thought.

The fellowship will select six fellows annually to spend a year at the University of Kansas earning a graduate degree in journalism before being assigned as full-time editors of one of the Army’s branch journals for a two-year stint.

Army leaders want soldiers to write about the issues facing the force

“good writing, good thinking, doesn’t really have a rank.”.

Those editors will then bring their expertise back to their units.

“Like the observer controllers who serve at our combat training centers, these leaders will return to operational units as experts in their branches with superior communications skills,” said Gen. Gary Brito, head of the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command.

Over the past decade, some branch journals, once the go-to place for specialized military news and study, have become dormant or less frequently used. For example, the last time “Armor” magazine had an editor serving in uniform was 2006, according to officials.

The decline is partly due to a high rate of operational commitments but also a shift in how soldiers and leaders consume information, similar to trends in civilian media.

When the Harding Project launched last year, it adopted a simplified online approach. It uses its website to post easily searchable articles and blog-style posts. Users can also download a chat application to read and engage with others on their mobile device.

As part of an awareness campaign, the Army is releasing a special issue of “Military Review” in print and on a new online platform. The issue will included articles on writing techniques, running a unit writing program and how to offer respectful dissent in written forums.

The service plans to distribute 18,000 print copies of the journal to battalion-level and higher headquarters within the next month.

Maj. Emily Lopez, a civil affairs officer, was among the first crop of editors selected earlier this year. She has served as editor-in-chief of “Special Warfare” magazine since June aside Sgt. 1st Class Ben Latigue, a special forces medic.

“I think the beautiful thing about being a military editor in chief is we’re part of the connective tissue back to the force,” Lopez told Army Times.

Both she and Latigue came to the positions after operational rotations within special operations.

Editors’ duties goes beyond copyediting and spell-checking articles. One of The Harding Project’s priorities is fostering conversation and debate and garnering ideas from the force.

Lopez and Latigue have spent recent months at various primary military education events and forums, asking students about the hot topics in their fields.

Drawing on that audience feedback, they aim to bring more relevant content to readers and boost soldiers’ engagement with the journals and online writing forums.

How to apply

The Maj. Gen. Edwin “Forrest” Harding Fellowship will accept submissions through Sept. 10.

The fellowship is open to any active-duty captain, master sergeant or chief warrant officer 4 in the following branches — infantry, air defense, military intelligence, chemical corps, engineer, military police, transportation, quartermaster, ordnance, finance, civil affairs, psychological operations and special forces.

Applicants must also have graduated from the Captains Career Course, hold a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 grade point average and not have a graduate degree that was paid for by the Army.

An Army board will review submissions in late September and announced the fellows in mid-October, Lt. Col. Zachary Evans, special assistant to the Army chief of staff, told Army Times.

Application packet information is available on the Army’s Human Resources Command website .

Todd South has written about crime, courts, government and the military for multiple publications since 2004 and was named a 2014 Pulitzer finalist for a co-written project on witness intimidation. Todd is a Marine veteran of the Iraq War.

In Other News

Senators urge Pentagon to ease deadline of Wounded Knee medals review

Native american tribes, families of victims, historians and academic institutions should be allowed the time to provide input, they argued..

Kamala Harris taps Tim Walz, National Guard veteran, as running mate

Harris' running mate served in the national guard for 24 years and championed veterans' issues in congress for six terms..

JD Vance represents veterans on ballot, but some ask, ‘At what cost?’

While some veterans view vance’s nomination as a symbolic win for veterans and service members, others see his rise as a threat to democracy..

VA secretary to remain in role through end of term in January

A report tuesday suggested denis mcdonough would step down after the election, which is nov. 5..

More dogs allowed: Lufthansa reopens options for some flying to US

At least some dogs will be able to fly with their u.s.-bound owners..

UNC Hussman at AEJMC 2024 in Philadelphia

Dozens of UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media graduate students, faculty, staff and alumni are set to participate in the 107th Annual Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication Conference in Philadelphia.

UNC Hussman scholars will present authored or co-authored research and will participate in panels and other sessions. The conference is headlined, “Representation and Voice: The Future of Democracy,” and runs Aug. 8-11, following a pre-conference day Aug. 7. The school will host a breakfast Saturday morning for attending Tar Heels. They will gather on the 33rd floor of the Loews Hotel, overlooking the city.

UNC Hussman faculty and student awards and activities at AEJMC are listed below, along with some awards received by alumni. Alumni will participate in many other sessions during the conference. The full program of AEJMC sessions is available on the conference website.

Awards and honors

Students, faculty and alumni.

• Staff member Monica Hill , director of the North Carolina Scholastic Media Association, will be recognized as the 2024 recipient of the Innovative Outreach to Scholastic Journalism Award.
• Heesoo Jang ’24 (Ph.D.) was recognized as a winner of the third annual Michael Hoefges Graduate Student Research Fund.
• Brooke McKeever ’11 (Ph.D.), Robert McKeever ’12 (Ph.D.) and co-authors will be recognized for the Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly Outstanding Article Award for “From Advocacy to Activism: A Multi-Dimensional Scale of Communicative, Collective, and Combative Behaviors.”
• Jessica Gall Myrick ’13 (Ph.D.) will be recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Sharon Dunwoody Excellent Mentor Award
• Madhavi Reddi ’22 (Ph.D.) will be recognized for honorable mention in the Best Practices in Teaching Competition.
• Noelle Wilson ’24 (M.A.) and Associate Professor Amanda Reid will be recognized for the Second Place Faculty Payer Award in the Law and Policy Division.

Presentations and panels

Students (returning and newly graduated) and faculty, wednesday, aug. 7 (pre-conference).

• Professor Tori Ekstrand ’03 (Ph.D.) served on the panel “Fire in a Political Theater: The First Amendment Legacy of Donald J. Trump,” moderated by Kriste Patrow ’23 (Ph.D.)
• Heesoo Jang served on the panel “Michael Hoefges Graduate Student Research Fund Winners,” moderated by Kyla Garrett Wagner ’15 (M.A.), ’19 (Ph.D.).
• Dean Raul Reis served a panelist for the workshop session “‘…and One Third Service’: Identifying Appropriate Levels of Academic and Professional Service for Your Job,” alongside fellow panelist Diana Martinelli ’01 (Ph.D.).

Thursday, Aug. 8

• Associate Professor Deb Aikat will lead the training workshop “Digital Tools for Election Coverage.” Aikat and Chris Gentilviso ’19 (M.A.) will serve as panelists.
• Deb Aikat will moderate the panel “Fostering Freedom & Defending Democracy: Three Presidential Initiatives.”
• Associate Professor Lucinda Austin and co-authors will present “Emotional Tides and Social Anchors: Understanding Personal Network Activation in Disaster Response.”
• Lucinda Austin and Associate Professor Meredith Clark ’14 (Ph.D.), both incoming Jennifer H. McGill fellows, will participate in the workshop session “Institute for Diverse Leadership in Journalism and Communication.”
• Tori Ekstrand and Evan Ringel ’21 (M.A.), ’24 (Ph.D.) will serve on the panel “New Adventures in Academic Freedom: Threats and Responses.”
• Incoming doctoral student Clay Williams ’24 (M.A.) and Professor Rhonda Gibson will present “Navigating Politics and Scandal: News Coverage of George Santos’s Sexuality and Political Ideology.”
• Assistant Professor Xinyan (Eva) Zhao and co-author will present “Convergence and Social Media Use in Risk Perception: An Investigation on Both Central Tendency and Dispersion.”
• Xinyan (Eva) Zhao and co-authors will present “Tailoring Generative AI Chatbots for Multiethnic Communities in Disaster Preparedness Communication.”

Friday, Aug. 9

• Meredith Clark will serve as a panelist for the listening session for the Standing Committee for Research of AEJMC on the topic of generative AI, moderated by Denis Wu ’98 (Ph.D.).
• Doctoral student Daniel Johnson ’22 (M.A.) will present “Social Movement Information Related Techniques and Tactics (SMIRT Tactics) - A Concept Explication and Empirical Measure.”
• Doctoral student Shelby Lake and Xinyan (Eva) Zhao will present “Sexual Identity-related Shame as a Barrier to Mpox Prevention Among Gay and Bisexual Men.”
• Xinyan (Eva) Zhao and co-author will present “TikTok Engagement Traces Over Time and Health Risky Behaviors: A Data Linkage Approach.”
• Noelle Wilson ’24 (M.A.) and Amanda Reid will present “Standing to Sue for Data Breach: An Empirical Analysis of Post-Transunion Federal Cases (2021-2023).”

Saturday, Aug. 10

• Rhonda Gibson will present “Doubling Down: Catholic Church Framing of Its Opposition to the 2022 Respect for Marriage Act.”
• Monica Hill , Peter Bobkowski ’10 (Ph.D.) and co-authors will present “High School Journalism Field Trips: Post-Pandemic Barriers and Opportunities.”
• Associate Professor Shannon McGregor will serve on the panels “Empowering Communication Scholars: Amplifying Academic Voices on Social Media Platforms” and “Looking Back at Our Field’s Books to Look Forward.”

Sunday, Aug. 11

• Assistant Professor Shelvia Dancy and co-author will present “Disinformation Intervention Preferences in Communities of Color.”

Image on home page of Philadelphia City Hall by Aaron Parecki ( CC BY 2.0 )

Gabriel Sandoval, Associated Press Gabriel Sandoval, Associated Press

Nicholas Riccardi, Associated Press Nicholas Riccardi, Associated Press

Leave your feedback

• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-live-harris-and-walz-speak-at-campaign-event-in-arizona

WATCH: Harris and Walz speak at campaign event in Arizona

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris drew on her prosecutorial background to make her first expansive pitch on immigration to border-state voters as she and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, attracted thousands to a campaign rally in Arizona during their tour of battleground states.

Watch the event in our player above.

Harris, the former attorney general of California, reminded the crowd that she, as a law enforcement official, targeted transnational gangs, drug cartels and smugglers.

“I prosecuted them in case after case, and I won,” Harris said in front of a crowd of more than 15,000 in Glendale, a suburb of Phoenix. “So I know what I’m talking about.”

Harris promoted a border security bill that a bipartisan group of senators negotiated earlier this year, which Republican lawmakers ultimately opposed en masse at Republican nominee Donald Trump’s behest.

“Donald Trump does not want to fix this problem,” Harris said. “Be clear about that: He has no interest or desire to actually fix the problem. He talks a big game about border security, but he does not walk the walk.”

Her effort to address immigration — a political liability that has dogged Harris for most of her vice presidency — head-on in the critical battleground state is part of a broader push from her campaign to make gains in Sun Belt states that had become increasingly out of reach with Joe Biden at the top of the ticket.

WATCH: Republican mayor from border state explains why he just endorsed Harris for president

Trump and his allies, who had long hammered Biden over the influx of migrants during his term, are now shifting their attacks to Harris. Kari Lake, who is running against Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego for the open Senate seat in Arizona, bashes Gallego in a recent ad for supporting Biden’s and Harris’ “radical border agenda,” featuring repeated clips of the vice president chortling.

“It’s very easy for us to segue and switch our sights and focus on her,” said Dave Smith, Pima County’s Republican party chairman.

But Harris has been courting the state’s fast-growing Latino population and released a new ad of her own, highlighting how Harris, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, rose to the highest echelons of American politics.

And, as she has done in other campaign stops, Harris during the rally infused the theme of “freedom” throughout her remarks, especially as it came to voting rights, gun safety, LBGT rights and access to abortion.

“Arizona, ours is a fight for the future and it is a fight for freedom,” Harris said, who had walked out on the stage as Beyonce’s “Freedom” blared throughout Desert Diamond Arena.

Harris’ message on safety and gun restrictions resonated with Jen Duran, a 37-year-old mother and independent voter.

“I have an elementary school daughter who has been going to this school since she was 4, and today we got a notification that there was a lockdown drill,” Duran said. “So safety for our kids is really important.”

Phyllis Zeno, a 65-year-old grandmother from Maricopa, said she was thrilled to hear Harris’ message of unity and her policy positions, especially on affordable health care and reproductive rights.

“Her message to me, it wasn’t just hope, but renewed faith in democracy, that we can do this,” Zeno said.

Arizona is represented by Democrat Mark Kelly in the U.S. Senate, who has won two tough races in the politically divided states and whom Harris passed over as a running mate this week.

In choosing Walz over Kelly, Harris may have lost the chance to win over people like Gonzalo Leyva, a 49-year-old landscaper in Phoenix. Leyva plans to vote for Trump but says he would have backed a Harris-Kelly ticket.

“I prefer Kelly like 100 times,” said Leyva, a lifelong Democrat who became an independent at the beginning of Trump’s term in office. “I don’t think he’s that extreme like the other guys.”

In Arizona, every vote will be critical. The state is no stranger to nail-biter races, including in 2020 when Biden bested Trump by fewer than 11,000 votes. Both parties are bracing for a similar photo finish this year.

WATCH: With Harris gaining in the polls, a look at how the electoral map has changed

Harris acknowledged how tough the race will be as she and Walz toured a campaign office in North Phoenix Friday afternoon and thanked volunteers, who were making signs with sayings such as “This Mamala is Voting for Kamala” and “Kamala and the Coach.” (Walz has been a high school football coach.)

She also emphasized it during the rally.

“As exciting as this is, we cannot lose sight of a really important fact: We are definitely running as the underdog,” Harris said.

Democrats are confident Harris is in solid shape in the state even without Kelly on the ticket. The senator plans to remain a strong advocate for Harris and is already mentioned for possible Cabinet posts or other prominent roles should the vice president ascend to the Oval Office.

“What this is about is who works harder. That’s it,” Kelly said at the rally. “It is as simple as that.”

Arizona is something of a magnet for Midwesterners seeking to escape the cold. So, several observers say, Walz may still play well there. The governor himself noted that during his opening remarks for Harris, saying: “I’m like a damn snowman, I’m melting here.”

Scott Snyder, who moved to Phoenix three years ago from Detroit, wasn’t too familiar with Kelly’s background or his politics, but said Harris made the right choice with Walz.

“He reminds me a lot of my dad,” said Snyder, an electrician. “You see pictures of him out there coaching high school football. That’s something that resonates with me. You see him out there duck hunting. Same thing. That’s fairly common in Michigan, where I’m from.”

Arizona was reliably Republican until Trump’s combative approach to politics went national.

In 2016, Trump won Arizona, then quickly started feuding with the late Republican Sen. John McCain, a political icon in the state. That sparked a steady exodus of educated, moderate Republicans from the GOP and toward Democrats in top-of-the-ticket contests.

In 2018, Democrats won an open Senate race in the state, foreshadowing Kelly’s and Biden’s wins in 2020. In 2022, Kelly won again, and Democrats swept the top three statewide races for governor, attorney general and secretary of state, defeating Republican candidates who hewed to Trump’s style and his lies about fraud costing him the 2020 presidential election.

Chuck Coughlin, a Republican strategist and former McCain staffer, said the same voters who tipped the state to Democrats in the past few cycles remain lukewarm, at best, on Trump.

“Trump’s not doing anything to embrace that segment of the electorate,” he said.

Meanwhile, there was a fresh reminder of yet another liability for Harris when she was interrupted by Gaza protesters.

Harris said she has been clear that “now is the time to get a cease-fire deal” to end fighting between Israel and Hamas that has caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people in Gaza. She stressed that she and Biden “are working around the clock every day to get that cease-fire deal done and bring the hostages home.”

Harris added, “I respect your voices, but we are here to now talk about this race in 2024.”

She responded differently earlier this week when Gaza protesters interrupted her during a Detroit-area rally. She talked over the protesters.

Riccardi reported from Denver, and Kim reported from Washington. Walt Berry and Jonathan J. Cooper in Phoenix contributed to this report.

Associated Press

Support Provided By: Learn more

Educate your inbox

Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else.

Thank you. Please check your inbox to confirm.

Harris campaign continues battleground state blitz as Trump agrees to debate

Politics Aug 08