Shape the future of communication research
At the University at Buffalo, our Doctoral (PhD) in Communication program challenges you to think critically, research deeply and lead with impact. You'll master advanced social science methods, learn from top scholars and prepare for careers in academia, business and government.
Learn about:
- Build a strong foundation in communication theory and research
- Learn innovative social scientific methodologies
- Gain real-world experience applying theory to practice
- Work closely with faculty who are leaders in the field
- Study in a supportive environment designed to fit your academic and career goals
Our four-year, in-person PhD program is built for students who want to explore the communication process through a scientific lens. Instead of rigid tracks, you’ll customize your path based on your research interests and work closely with faculty who are pushing the field forward.
Areas of Faculty Expertise:
- Misinformation and Society: Mass media, morality, extremism
- Digital and Social Media: Technology and well-being, social networks, computational research
- Media Representations and Social Influence: Media effects, narrative persuasion, entertainment-education
- Health Communication: Risk analysis, innovative interventions, program evaluation
- Political Communication: Political polarization, mediated public discourse
- Nonverbal Communication: Facial expressions, deception
To earn your PhD in Communication at UB, you’ll complete:
- At least 50 credit hours must be in Communication courses
- 72 total credit hours beyond your bachelor’s degree
- 36 credit hours of coursework beyond your master's degree
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Two qualifying papers, each followed by an oral defense
- A dissertation project with a final oral defense
Your coursework, qualifying papers and dissertation will be guided by faculty mentors and designed to support your research interests and career goals.
Required Core Courses (36 credits)
- Proseminar in Communication | 3 credits
- Research Methods | 3 credits
- Communication Theories | 3 credits
- Applied Theory-Testing | 3 credits
- Statistics I | 3 credits
- Statistics II | 3 credits
- Six additional 500/600-level Communication courses | 18 credits
Communication Electives (36 credits)
- Research electives | 9 credits
- Department electives | 12 credits
- Free electives | 6–9 credits
- Instructional experience | 3–6 credits
- Thesis guidance | up to 3 credits
Project or Thesis
Choose from Project or Thesis.
- Independent Study | 1-6 Credits
- Thesis Guidance 1-2 Credits (Maximum 3 credits)
If you're ready to make new discoveries, lead groundbreaking research and shape the future of communication, UB is ready for you.
Common questions from prospective PhD applicants.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply to the PhD program?
Yes. A master’s degree is required before admission. In rare cases, we admit outstanding students without a master’s. If you think you qualify, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies before submitting your application.
My master’s degree is not in communication. Can I still apply?
Yes. Many of our students have backgrounds in psychology, journalism, sociology, education, public health or computer science. Others hold a master’s degree in communication.
Are GRE scores required?
No. GRE scores are optional. Applicants with and without GRE scores are evaluated equally.
What are the language requirements for international applicants?
International students should review UB’s International admissions page for IELTS, PTE or TOEFL score requirements before applying.
Can I complete the PhD program online?
No. This is an in-person program. Some courses may occasionally be offered online, but the degree requires on-campus study.
How long does it take to earn the PhD?
Most students complete the program in about four years.
Can I transfer graduate credits from another school?
Yes. Students with a master’s degree from another institution may transfer up to 18 credits toward the 72-credit requirement.
Is funding available?
PhD Funding Opportunities
- Academic year stipends of $23,000 and a full tuition waiver for all full-time, funded PhD students on 10-month academic teaching assistant, research assistant, or graduate assistant appointments.
- UB’s stipend levels are competitive among public Association of American Universities (AAU) member institutions.
- Additional Fellowship Opportunities:
- Arthur A. Schomburg Fellowship Program: Candidates are required to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must demonstrate how they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the diversity of the student body by facilitating and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in their academic programs and campus activities. Even though financial need is not a requirement for program eligibility, applicants may utilize economic disadvantage as a basis for eligibility. This scholarship program is open to any and all prospective candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, or sex, and is consistent with all current governing federal and state nondiscrimination law. All application submissions will be assessed and evaluated in accordance with the required eligibility criteria. Students may apply for the Schomburg Fellowship on the UB graduate application for their program.
- Presidential Fellowships: To be eligible for Presidential Fellowships, candidates must meet the criteria listed on the Presidential Fellowship page. Both domestic and international students are eligible, if they meet these criteria. For any questions regarding funding for academic year 2025–2026, contact the director of graduate studies or department chair.
- Arthur A. Schomburg Fellowship Program: Candidates are required to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must demonstrate how they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the diversity of the student body by facilitating and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in their academic programs and campus activities. Even though financial need is not a requirement for program eligibility, applicants may utilize economic disadvantage as a basis for eligibility. This scholarship program is open to any and all prospective candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, or sex, and is consistent with all current governing federal and state nondiscrimination law. All application submissions will be assessed and evaluated in accordance with the required eligibility criteria. Students may apply for the Schomburg Fellowship on the UB graduate application for their program.
What if I am admitted without funding?
It is rare, but occasionally we admit PhD students without funding. If that happens, check for the latest tuition estimates. Unfunded students typically take four courses per semester to maintain full-time status.
What do students do after graduating with a PhD from UB?
Most of our graduates secure tenure-track or teaching faculty positions at colleges and universities. Others find research-oriented jobs in industry.
Have questions? We’re here to help.
