3 Questions to Ask If You’re Considering a Ph.D. in Communication

The decision to get a Ph.D. in Communication is a big one. Chances are, you’ve spent a lot of time and effort to get to the point you’re at right now in both your career and your education. So, the question being posed is, should you keep going?  

To help you with this decision, we’ve come up with three questions you should ask yourself. 

Question #1: What will I do with a Ph.D. in Communication?  

This isn’t an easy answer if you don’t know what types of jobs are in the communications field. There are many different specializations, such as: 

• Journalism 
• Interpersonal Communication 
• Mass Communication 
• Strategic Communication 
• Games and Interactive Media Design 
• Visual Communication 
• Sports Communication
  
  Depending on the specialization, your career with a Ph.D. in Communication could be one of leadership. For instance, you may be a senior communications specialist or senior manager of communications. Other career paths may include being a professor or consultant. 
  
  When you level up your degree, you have a better chance of leveling up in your career and opening the door to many more opportunities.
  
  It’s important to note that there’s also a level of prestige that comes along with holding a Ph.D. Holding your doctorate speaks to your commitment to knowledge and expertise in your field specialty.
  

Question #2: What do I have to do to get a Ph.D. in Communication? 

A Ph.D. program in communications involves conducting research and studying theories intensively. The program takes an average of five years to complete. When looking at different Ph.D. programs, be sure to consider the length or duration. If you’re seeking a faster way of obtaining a Ph.D., there may be an accelerated program available.  

In some programs, especially online Ph.D. programs, students need to attend outside seminars, complete additional research projects, and dedicate a certain number of hours to working as a teaching assistant. In addition, students have a set course curriculum that requires them to attend specific classes in order to graduate. Usually, these courses involve topics such as: 

• Social and Environmental Communication 
• Intercultural and International Communication 
• Research Methods  
• Theories of Media and Communication 
• Laws, Ethics and History 
• Cross-Cultural Communication 
  
  These courses are just an example of ones that you may find in your course curriculum. Each program varies slightly, so look specifically at the courses required by your program of choice.  
  
  Since many people are working full-time when deciding to pursue a higher degree, many degree programs are available fully or partially online. These online Ph.D. programs offer the same quality as those that you receive traditionally on campus, but they allow the flexibility of getting coursework completed outside of typical working hours. 
  
  In addition to online programs, some universities and colleges have evening courses available. 

Question #3: How much will I earn with a Ph.D. in Communication? 

Those with a Ph.D. in Communication may begin at a starting salary in the low to mid $70,000s. Of course, pay depends on several factors – including prior experience, business sector, and state of residence. You will likely earn less if you live and work in a rural area compared to a metropolitan one. Additionally, larger companies may pay more than smaller ones. Despite these factors, the level of pay for a candidate with a Ph.D. will generally be higher than that of a candidate with a master’s or bachelor’s degree.  

Keep in mind that most people with a Ph.D. in Communication earn more over time than those with lower-level degrees. The difference can be quite significant, which is why many people decide to pursue a Ph.D. 

Let Us Know When You Are Ready to Take Your Next Step 

If you know communication is a field you love, you’re ready to invest the time and effort, and your lifetime earning potential – or the intrinsic rewards of knowledge and respect – sound exciting, it’s time to take the next step. Regent University’s Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Communication is offered online with a one-week summer residency in Virginia Beach. You’ll receive broad interdisciplinary training in your teachings, scholarly writing and research as you explore communication studies through a Christian worldview. You can become a better communicator and scholar while making a lasting impact whether as a writer, professor, scholar, speaker, consultant, or thought leader. 

Regent University’s admissions counselors are ready to answer questions and help you work through financial aid so you can move ahead in this promising field. Whether you’re ready to take the leap, or simply want some more information, you can reach them at 800.373.5504.