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The best online PhD in Communication offers you a flexible higher education path that will allow you to increase your earning potential and employability without having to step foot on campus. If getting your communication PhD online sounds appealing to you, read on to find out more about the top PhD programs in the country as well as the best communication jobs you can get after earning yours.
In this guide, you’ll get an in-depth look at how you can earn your doctorate without having to put the rest of your life on hold and a breakdown of the cost, admission requirements, and other details about each program. This article will help you with your school search by giving you a detailed look at the best online PhDs in Communication in the country.
Can You Get a PhD in Communication Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Communication online. There are several institutions that offer either fully online or hybrid PhD programs for students looking for a more flexible learning format. While there are some key differences between online and on-campus programs, both of these research-based degrees typically require the completion of the same number of credit hours.
Is an Online PhD Respected?
Yes, an online PhD is respected. Any PhD earned from an accredited institution is respected and holds the same weight no matter the learning format. Online classes are of the same quality as in-person classes and are optimized for distance learning. While on-campus students may have access to more physical resources, online programs take this limitation into consideration and compensate for it. Hence, online degrees are respected by many employers today.
What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Communication?
The best online PhD program in communication is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by Indiana State University, which provides a flexible learning method. Designed for part-time and full-time students, this program only takes three years to complete at most and offers its students plenty of hands-on experience through its online courses.
Why Indiana State University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Communication
Indiana State University has the best online communication PhD program because not only is it one of the most affordable doctoral programs on our list, but it’s also one of the most flexible, allowing students to adjust their course load to best accommodate their schedules. It is also the shortest of all doctoral programs on our list, even when taken part time.
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Online PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for an online PhD in Communication are different from one school to another. That being said, you’ll typically need to submit an online application form and provide your official transcripts from any institute you’ve previously attended, a scholarly writing sample, your resume, a list of references, your GRE test scores, and a personal statement.
Online PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- An online application form
- All of your postsecondary transcripts
- A writing sample
- Your current resume
- A list of references or reference letters
- A personal statement
- Your GRE scores
Best Online PhDs in Communication: Top Degree Program Details
| School | Program | Estimated Length |
|---|---|---|
| American University | PhD in Communication | 3 years |
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | PhD in Media and Communication | 2-3 years |
| Liberty University | PhD in Communication | 3 years |
| Michigan State University | PhD in Communication | 4 years |
| Regent University | PhD in Communication | 2-3 years |
| Robert Morris University | PhD in Information Systems and Communication | 3 years |
| Texas Tech University | Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric | 4 years |
| The University of Alabama | Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences | 3-4 years |
| University of Colorado Boulder | PhD in Strategic Communication | 5 years |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Communication | 3-5 years |
Best Online PhDs in Communication: Top University Programs to Get a PhD in Communication Online
The top university programs to get a PhD in Communication online are all terminal degrees, meaning that they are the highest level of education you can get in the field. These programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to achieve their career goals and earn a high annual wage after graduating. Here’s our list of the best online PhDs in Communication.
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American University | Washington, DC
Boasting internationally-renowned faculty and being highly ranked among all schools and colleges across the country, American University is a research university that was established in 1893. Headquartered in Washington DC, The university offers flexible learning options across its various online programs specializing in numerous disciplines.
PhD in Communication
American University uses an interdisciplinary program to approach its coursework and offers its PhD students a highly-structured program that addresses political and social challenges. This three-year program teaches its students about the relationship between media, technology, and politics and how to analyze it critically.
PhD in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: Not specified, but only 5 applicants are admitted each year
- Tuition: $1,866/credit
PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- Submit a completed online application form.
- Submit an admissions essay, two letters of recommendation, and your master’s thesis.
- Submit your GRE scores.
- Provide an updated resume.
- Provide your transcripts from all previous universities and colleges attended.
- Complete an interview if requested by the program director.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania | Indiana, PA
Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) is a research institute that was established in 1875. The university offers over 140 undergraduate programs of study, 56 master’s degree programs, and 14 doctoral degree programs. Prospective students at this accredited school can choose between an in-person program, an online program, and a hybrid program in most fields of study.
PhD in Media and Communication
The media and communication studies online program at IUP is flexible, teaching students the skills they need to be able to work in communication and training for the corporate space, health and political communication, media and management, and more. Prospective students wanting to enroll in this program can adjust their course load to fit their needs.
PhD in Media and Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Program Length: Two to three years
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Tuition and Fees: $516/credit (in state); $593/credit (out of state)
PhD in Media and Communication Admission Requirements
- Create your admissions profile.
- Provide your official transcripts from all attended colleges and universities.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload your goal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
- Attend an interview if requested by the admissions faculty.
Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA
Established in 1972, Liberty University is a Christian, private, non-profit institution headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty University prides itself in providing a high-quality education at an affordable cost. One of the largest private universities in the country, Liberty University is currently home to almost 94,000 students.
PhD in Communication
The PhD in Communication degree program at Liberty University is delivered fully online. This 60-credit doctoral program in the study of communications focuses on qualitative research methods and theory, equipping you with the skills needed to become a leader in a variety of areas of business or become a researcher or a college professor.
PhD in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $595/credit
PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- Fill out and submit your online application.
- Have a minimum college GPA of 3.0.
- Pay the $50 application fee.
- Submit your official transcripts of all previously attended postsecondary institutions.
Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI
Michigan State University (MSU) was founded in 1855 and is among the top research universities in the country. With over 200 academic programs offered at its East Lansing, Michigan campus, students can choose from a wide variety of specialties among its comprehensive doctorate programs. The communication programs offered at the institute are all highly ranked.
PhD in Communication
As early as 1961, the PhD in Communication at MSU has been recognized as being one of the most prestigious in the world. The structure of this graduate degree program focuses on communication theory, quantitative methods, and teamwork, allowing students to work in behavioral research, teaching, and communication consultancy or even specialize in hospitality research.
PhD in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: 817.25/credit (in state); 1,605.75/credit (out of state)
PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- Complete the online MSU Graduate School Application and pay the application fee.
- Provide a list of three referees and their email addresses.
- Submit an academic statement and a personal statement.
- Provide a copy of your resume.
- Submit a copy of your official transcripts to the Department of Communication PhD Program.
- Submit your GRE scores (optional).
Regent University | Virginia Beach, VA
Regent University was founded in 1978 and offers 60 programs for its online school graduate students to choose from. The institute has consistently ranked among the top national universities by US News & World Report. Prospective students can choose from a wide range of programs spanning many different fields of study at Regent University.
PhD in Communication
Regent University’s PhD in Communication is offered online alongside a one-week summer residency in Virginia Beach. This graduate degree takes an interdisciplinary approach to training, scholarly writing, and research and allows students to improve their communication and research skills. Common careers for graduates of this program include working as a writer, teacher, speaker, or thought leader.
PhD in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 2-3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $950/credit
PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- Submit your application using the Regent University online application portal.
- Submit a minimum five-page scholarly or published writing sample that demonstrates your research, writing, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Submit your unofficial college transcripts.
- Complete Regent University’s Academic Background Questionnaire.
- Provide a scanned copy of a government-issued ID.
Robert Morris University | Moon Township, PA
Established in 1921, Robert Morris University (RMU) is a private institution that offers 60 bachelor’s degree programs and 35 master’s and doctoral programs. Home to approximately 4,100 students, most of which are undergraduate students, Robert Morris University’s doctoral degree in communication is one of the few PhD programs the school offers.
PhD in Information Systems and Communication
The PhD in Media and Communication at RMU is an executive-style doctor of philosophy program structured to give students the tools they need to become scholarly researchers and leaders. Through a blended learning format, the school uses an interdisciplinary approach to help students analyze the connections between technology and human communication.
PhD in Information Systems and Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $1,207/credit
PhD in Information Systems and Communication Admission Requirements
- Have a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Submit an online application.
- Submit your official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
- Provide three letters of reference and a current resume.
- Provide an academic writing sample.
- Complete an interview with the Doctoral Program Director and Doctoral Admissions Committee.
Texas Tech University | Lubbock, TX
Founded in Lubbock, Texas, in 1923, Texas Tech University is a public research institution offering degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral-level. Home to over 40,000 students, Texas Tech has produced a large number of notable alumni across a wide variety of fields of study.
Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric
The PhD in Technical Communication & Rhetoric at Texas Tech allows students to develop their knowledge of rhetoric, writing, technical communication, and composition. Students can specialize in technical communication and user-centered design, rhetorical theory and practice, composition, writing, and literacy studies.
Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $8,653/year (in state); $16,180/year (out-of-state)
Doctor of Philosophy in Technical Communication & Rhetoric Admission Requirements
- Submit an online application.
- Submit your unofficial college transcripts.
- Submit a graduate course paper or the equivalent that demonstrates your ability to develop a thesis using research and analysis.
- Submit a statement of purpose.
- Submit a copy of your resume, three letters of reference, and a signed copy of the Distance Learning Agreement.
The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL
Established in 1820, The University of Alabama has consistently produced award-winning graduates. These include sixty Goldwater Scholars, 16 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars, 37 Hollings Scholars, and 16 Boren Scholars. The school is well known for its programs in social sciences and business.
Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences
The PhD in Communication & Information Sciences at The University of Alabama prepares students to work as library professionals and leaders in information environments. This online program has a curriculum that blends scholarly research and synchronous online courses to develop well-rounded graduates.
Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 2-4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $440/credit
Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences Admission Requirements
- Have a Master’s Degree in Communications or in a related field with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Complete a graduate school application form and pay the application fee.
- Provide a statement of purpose and a copy of your resume.
- Provide the names and contact information for three academic references.
- Provide your unofficial college transcripts.
University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO
The University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and offers 124 master’s, doctoral and professional degree programs. The institute is one of the country’s top-ranked Tier 1 research institutions and is one of only 35 public research institutions in the Association of American Universities (AAU).
PhD in Strategic Communication
This program’s coursework trains students in communication theory and research, as well as strategic communication research methods. The curriculum focuses on mass communication and public communication studies, literature and academic journals, social media trends, political communication, media organizations, and video games.
PhD in Strategic Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $866.29/credit
PhD in Strategic Communication Admission Requirements
- Have a master’s degree with a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5.
- Submit an online application.
- Submit a personal statement, three letters of reference, and a scholarly writing sample.
- Submit an academic and professional resume.
- Provide the unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate courses you’ve taken.
University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND
Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university recognized for leading research in engineering, medicine, aviation, space, and unmanned aircraft systems. The university also has the largest number of fully-online students among all universities in its region.
PhD in Communication
The PhD in Communication degree program at UND teaches students about the role of communication within the global community, as well as the international and intercultural contexts surrounding it. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and the diverse nature of human communication across various cultures and systems.
PhD in Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 3-5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $660.08/credit
PhD in Communication Admission Requirements
- Create an admissions account on the school portal.
- Submit an online application and pay the application fee.
- Submit your official transcripts and GRE scores.
- Submit a statement of interest detailing your personal goals and the relevance of the Doctor of Philosophy in Communication to those goals.
- Submit an original academic paper that shows your ability to articulate and synthesize ideas.
- Provide three letters of recommendation from sources familiar with your potential as a doctoral student in communication.
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Online Communication PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Communication?
It is somewhat hard to complete an online PhD program in communication. While the curricular content can be quite complex, most online programs are structured to be flexible, meaning that students can more easily take the time they need to learn what they’re being taught. Online PhDs require hard work, dedication, and motivation to complete even more than on-campus programs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Communication Online?
It takes about two to five years to get a PhD in Communication online. The amount of time it takes you to complete your program depends heavily on whether you study part time or full time, if you have any transfer credits from other institutions, and the structure and curriculum of your chosen program. Most universities have a seven-year cap on their PhD programs.
How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Communication?
An online doctorate in communication is not very hard to get if you are able to dedicate the time and effort required. A doctorate is the highest level of formal education that is available, meaning that it will be challenging, and while an online PhD may offer more flexibility, it doesn’t make the learning aspect of it any easier. Online programs only make it easier to fit other commitments into your life while pursuing your degree.
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What Courses Are in an Online Communication PhD Program?
The courses in an online communication PhD program include Organizational Communication, Communication and Technology, Interpersonal Communication, and Health Communication, to name a few. Each program offers a different variety of introductory courses, advanced core courses, and elective courses.
Main Areas of Study in a Communication PhD Program
- Organizational communication
- Communication and technology
- Interpersonal communication
- Health communication
How Much Does Getting an Online Communication PhD Cost?
It costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Communication, on average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The actual cost of your degree is dependent on the institution you attend and whether it is private, public, or non-profit. Public universities typically cost the least to attend, and private and for-profit institutions will cost more.
How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Communication
You can pay for an online PhD program in communication by either choosing from a selection of fully-funded doctoral programs, qualifying for a scholarship, applying for financial aid, or making an arrangement for a long-term pay-off plan. Many scholarships are offered through the research departments of some schools. Make sure to research what opportunities the school you’re interested in provides.
How to Get an Online PhD for Free
You cannot get an online PhDs for free. Online PhDs all require some form of payment. The only exception is those that offer full funding. Even then, this is done through an application and selection process, and not everyone qualifies for it. If you require financial aid, your best bet is to choose one of the aforementioned methods to reduce your financial burden.
What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Communication Degree Program?
The most affordable online PhD in Communication degree program is the PhD in Media and Communication offered by the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. This program will only cost you $319 per credit, making it much less expensive than the other programs on our list, which can cost up to $1,866 per credit.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Communication: In Brief
| School | Program | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania | PhD in Media and communication | $319 per credit |
| University of Alabama | Doctorate in communication and Information Sciences | $440 per credit |
| Liberty University | PhD in Communication | $595 per credit |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Communication | $660.08 per credit |
| Michigan State University | PhD in Communication | $817.25 per credit |
Why You Should Get an Online PhD in Communication
You should get an online PhD in Communication because of the flexible and more convenient learning format it offers. Online programs give you the option to work or have time for other commitments such as your family. Online degree programs also tend to be less expensive than in-person degree programs.
Additionally, as previously mentioned, an online degree from an accredited institution is as valid as an in-person degree program. Having a PhD will increase your earning potential, allow you to work in a wider range of areas, and allow you to climb the corporate or institutional ladder more easily.
Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Communication
- Career options. Because the knowledge and skills you’ve gained during your communication degree are useful and applicable in many industries, you’ll have a wider variety of options for career paths that you can pursue.
- Career outlook. The projected job growth for the common careers available to communication PhD grads indicates that, over the next decade, there is a good chance of finding employment upon completing your doctoral degree program.
- Higher-paying jobs. Since a PhD is the highest form of formal education you can get, that gives you a leg up when searching for employment opportunities. Employers generally seek out the most qualified candidates for the jobs they are offering. With a PhD, you will be among the most qualified and will be able to negotiate for a higher salary.
- Interest in expanding knowledge. Arguably, the best reason to get a PhD is the desire to learn more about an area you have a keen interest in. If you have the privilege of pursuing a degree in a topic you are passionate about, that in itself is reason enough to do it.
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What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Communication PhD and an Online PhD in Communication?
The difference between an on-campus communication PhD and an online PhD in Communication is the learning format and flexibility that an online degree program offers to its students and isn’t available to on-campus students. Whether you choose to get your PhD in Communication online or in person, the quality of the education you are receiving won’t change.
Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences
- Flexibility. The flexibility offered by online learning is perhaps the most notable difference between an online PhD and an on-campus PhD. Online programs are specifically designed for busy professionals and generally are more conducive to part-time enrollment.
- Cost. Typically, it costs less to enroll in an online degree program than it does to attend on-campus classes because distance learning students use fewer of the university’s resources. Additionally, when you factor in costs related to travel and supplies, the total expense of studying online tends to be significantly lower.
- College options. Another aspect of not having to travel to campus is that it opens up many more options when it comes to where you can choose to study. Not being limited by distance allows you to consider schools that you might have otherwise not been able to attend.
- Study locations. Whether you choose to study from home, in a library, or any other location, your learning environment is up to you. That being said, the benefit of studying on campus is that the formal environment often makes it easier to stay focused during your communication studies.
How to Get a PhD in Communication Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get a PhD in Communication online, you need to submit an application on the school website or portal, complete all of the required coursework set by the program, get your dissertation topic approved by the program’s faculty, pass all qualifying and comprehensive exams, and finally defend and submit your dissertation.
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Step 1: Apply Online
The first step to getting your communication PhD is applying. In most cases, you’ll need to fill out an application form with your personal details and the details of the degree you want to pursue and submit any additional materials to support your application. These usually include transcripts, a resume, and letters of recommendation, among others.
Step 2: Complete All Required Courses
All doctoral students must complete a certain number of required courses throughout their PhD studies. The total number of courses you need to complete will differ from one institution to the next, but your academic advisor will be able to help you plan out your schedule in accordance with whether you are attending a program part time or full time.
Step 3: Get Your Dissertation Topic Approved
At the same time as you work through your required courses, you will also need to present a dissertation topic that will be the focus of your PhD research. After its approval by your supervisor and the program director, you’ll be able to start your research. At multiple points during your research, you’ll need to demonstrate your progress to your supervisor.
Step 4: Pass All Qualifying and Comprehensive Exams
To earn your doctoral degree in communication, you’ll need to pass qualifying and comprehensive exams. PhD faculty use these exams to ensure that their students are able to retain and use the knowledge they are gathering during their courses. Keep in mind that simply passing may not be enough. Most programs require that students maintain a minimum GPA throughout their studies.
Step 5: Defend and Submit Your Dissertation
The last thing you need to do to earn your PhD is to defend your dissertation in front of the program committee and director. If you succeed and have completed all of your coursework and maintained an acceptable GPA throughout your studies while staying in good academic standing, you will be able to apply for graduation.
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Online PhD in Communication Salary and Job Outlook
The job outlook for online PhD in Communication holders from 2020 to 2030 looks promising. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication occupations have a projected 14 percent growth. This is faster than the average projection for all occupations, which indicates that communication PhD graduates should not face many challenges in their job search.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Communication?
With an online doctorate in communication, you can explore various career paths, including sales management, technical writing, human resources management, and marketing management. In addition, you can also become a professor.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Communication
- Sales Manager
- Technical Writer
- Human Resources Manager
- Marketing Manager
- Postsecondary Teacher
Potential Careers With a Communication Degree
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What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Communication?
The average salary for an online PhD holder in communication is $74,000 per year, according to PayScale. That means that you have the potential to earn a slightly higher salary than the average American employee’s salary. The actual amount you earn will depend heavily on your location, employer, job title, and experience.
Highest-Paying Communication Jobs for PhD Grads
| Online Communication PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $133,380 |
| Human Resources Manager | $126,230 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
| Technical Writer | $78,060 |
| Public Relations Specialist | $62,800 |
Best Communication Jobs for Online PhD Holders
The best communication jobs for online PhD holders are all jobs that heavily utilize your understanding of how humans interact with one another as well as how factors such as technology and media affect this. In the following section, we break down some of the best jobs you can get with a PhD in Communication, including their salary, outlook, and the highest-paying states.
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Marketing Manager | PhD Salary: $133,380
Marketing managers work in industries such as advertising, finance, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail to execute strategies that raise consumer awareness. These strategies include promotional work that appeals to the consumers and maximizes profits and, ultimately, the company’s success.
- Salary with a Communication PhD: $133,380
- Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 316,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, Virginia
Human Resources Manager | PhD Salary: $126,230
Human resources managers play an incredibly vital role in the proper functioning of any business. HR managers are tasked with hiring new employees and serving as the liaison between a company and its employees. HR managers are charged with the important responsibility of finding the best-suited candidates who will help push the company to new highs.
- Salary with a Communication PhD: $126,230
- Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 161,700
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island
Postsecondary Teacher | PhD Salary: $79,640
Postsecondary teachers, also called professors, teach students at universities and colleges, conduct research, and publish materials related to their field of study. You can choose to be a professor in any academic subject that is related to your PhD and teach at almost any academic level, depending on your level of experience.
- Salary with a Communication PhD: $79,640
- Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Alaska, New York, District of Columbia, New Jersey
Technical Writer | PhD Salary: $78,060
The job of a technical writer is to write academic journal articles, develop product manuals that teach people how to use products, write website help sections, and write about any other informational content that requires technical knowledge. Strong academic and corporate communication skills are vital for this position.
- Salary with a Communication PhD: $78,060
- Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 52,300
- Highest-Paying States: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, District of Columbia
Public Relations Specialist | PhD Salary: $62,800
Public relations specialists work for various types of organizations including schools and professional associations and are tasked with creating media releases, attending meetings and events, delivering speeches, and, generally, creating and maintaining a good public image for those they represent.
- Salary with a Communication PhD: $62,800
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 273,300
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, California
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Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Communication Online?
Yes, it is worth it to do a PhD in Communication online if you wish to advance your knowledge and skills and work in the field of communications, retaining a significantly larger amount of flexibility than if you were enrolled in an in-person program. The variety of career options that this degree will offer you when you choose a career path is well worth the hard work.
A PhD in Communication will allow for quicker professional development when compared to the less advanced degree options within the field, allowing you to enter into higher and better-paying positions once you have graduated. With a PhD being a terminal degree in this field, you will have an incredible leg up over other candidates during your job search.
Additional Reading About Communication
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/everything-about-communications-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/communication-associate-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-online-communication-associate-degrees/
Online PhD in Communication FAQ
The most common specializations with a PhD in Communication include advanced communication theory, feminist studies, global communication, and cultural studies, to name a few. There are many specialization options you can choose from for your online PhD in Communication. In general, communications degrees can prove quite useful in different industries, so it is worth it pursuing a PhD in this field.
The degrees that you can get in communication include an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, as well as a PhD in Communication. The kind of degree you should get depends on your career goals.
Yes, there are associations and organizations you can join with careers in communication, such as the International Communication Association (ICA), the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management (GAPRCM). There are several jobs for communication degree holders.
Yes, you can get an online PhD in Communication without a master’s degree. While not as common, you can apply for a PhD in Communication with only a bachelor’s degree at certain institutions. Make sure to check your desired program’s admission requirements to see if it’s a possibility for you and look at interesting communication topics you can research during your PhD.
The post Best Online Doctorates in Communication: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salary appeared first on Career Karma.
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Ziyanda Maseko
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