journalism phd dissertation

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Journalism & Mass Communications Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

The Impact of Follower-Influencer Relationship Stages on Consumers’ Perceptions and Behavioral Intentions in the Context of Influencer Marketing , Khalid Obaid Alharbi

The Effect of Social Media (Instagram) Use Patterns on The Cultural and Athletic Identity of Black Female Collegiate Athletes’ Body Image Dissatisfaction , Shelbretta Kar’Anna Ball

Contextualizing Search: An Analysis of the Impacts of Construal Level Theory, Mood, and Product Type on Search Engine Activity , Jackson Everitt Carter

Words Evaporate, the Images Remain: Testing Visual Warnings in the Context of Intentions to Vape Among U.S. Adults as an Expansion of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) , Carl Arland Ciccarelli

Risk Propensity in Journalists: An Analysis of Journalists’ Personality Traits and How They Direct Behavior in the Field , Ellen Katherine Dunn

Online Information-Seeking and Cancer Screening Intention: An Analysis of the Health Information National Trends Survey 2022 , Rachel Aileen Ford

Always on Display: South Carolina Civil Rights Lawyer Matthew J. Perry Jr. Expanding the Civil Sphere Through the Courts and the News Media, 1954-1963 , Christopher G. Frear

Exploring the Agenda-Setting Dynamics Between Traditional Newspapers and Twitter During Mass Shooting Event , Yujin Heo

Extreme Persuasion: Analyzing Meaning Creation and Persuasive Strategies Within Extreme Discourse on Alternative Social Media , Naomi Kathryn Lawrence

Framing Police Brutality: An Analysis of Newspaper Coverage of Walter Scott’s Murder , Shamira S. McCray

Exploring Trustworthiness Issues About Disaster-related Information Generated by Artificial Intelligence , Xin Tao

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

The Effect of Emotional Intensity, Arousal, and Valence On Online Video Ad Sharing , Chang Won Choi

“Power, Poison, Pain & Joy”: Applying a Critical Race Conceptual Model of Implicit Racial Bias to Narratives Framing Blackness in Black Sports Columns, Black Music, and Black Journalism , Christina Lauren Myers

Gatekeeping Blackness: Roles, Relationships, and Pressures of Black Television Journalists at a Time of Racial Reckoning , Denetra Walker

The Binge Viewing Index: Creating and Testing a New Measure , Larry J. Webster Jr.

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Portion of Profit Donations: CSR as Public Relations Strategy and its Relationships with Trust and Purchase Intentions , Branden Dylan Cameron Birmingham

The Role of Sexting in the Development of Romantic Relationships , Max Bretscher

Let’s Be Friends: Examining Consumer Brand Relationships Through the Lens Of Brand Personality, Engagement, and Reciprocal Altruism , Daniel D. Haun

Go with The Flow: Testing the Effects of Emotional Flow on Psychophysiological, Attitudinal, and Behavioral Changes , Chris R. Noland

Brand New: How Visual Context Shapes Initial Response To Logos and Corporate Visual Identity Systems , Robert A. Wertz

Inoculating the Public Against Misinformation: Testing The Effectiveness of “Pre-bunking” Techniques in the Context of Mental Illness and Violence , Nanlan Zhang

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Gun Violence and Advocacy Communication , Minhee Choi

The Role of Third-person Perceptions in Predicting the Public’s Support for Electronic Cigarette Advertising Regulations , Joon Kyoung Kim

Conservative Media’s Coverage of Coronavirus on YouTube: A Qualitative Analysis of Media Effects on Consumers , Michael J. Layer

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Problem Chain Recognition Effect and CSR Communication: Examining the Impact of Issue Salience and Proximity on Environmental Communication Behaviors , Nandini Bhalla

The Games Behind the Scenes: Newspaper Framing of Female African American Olympic Athletes , Martin Reece Funderburk

Effectiveness of a Brand’s Paid, Owned, and Earned Media in a Social Media Environment , Anan Wan

Providing Prevention Education About Child Sexual Abuse to Parents: Testing Media Effects on Knowledge, Behavioral Intentions and Outcomes , Jane Long Weatherred

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Creating an Online Social Movement in Socially Conservative Societies: A Case Study of Manshoor Blog Using Frame Alignment Process , Noura Abdullah Al-Duaijani

How S. C. Daily Newspapers Framed the Removal of the Confederate Flag from the State House Grounds in 2015 Through Letters to the Editor and Editorials , Thomas Craig Anderson

Breaking The Silence: Extending Theory To Address The Underutilization Of Mental Health Services Among Chinese Immigrants In The United States , Jo-Yun Queenie Li

Fandom In Politics: Scale Development And Validation , Won-Ki Moon

Fatal Force: A Conversation With Journalists Who Cover Deadly, Highly-Publicized Police Shootings , Denetra Walker

Domestic Extension Of Public Diplomacy: Media Competition For Credibility, Dependency And Activation Of Publics , Yicheng Zhu

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Hydraulic Fracturing In the United States: A Framing Analysis , Kenneth Stephen Cardell Jr.

Network vs. Netflix: A Comparative Content Analysis of Demographics Across Prime-Time Television and Netflix Original Programming , James Corfield

Framing Marijuana: A Study of How us Newspapers Frame Marijuana Legalization Stories and Framing Effects of Marijuana Stories , Hwalbin Kim

The Allure of Isis: Examining the Underlying Mechanisms that Helped the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria , Alexander Luchsinger

International Twitter Comments About 2016 U.S. Presidential Candidates Trump And Clinton: Agenda-Building Analysis In The U.S., U.K., Brazil, Russia, India and China , Jane O’Boyle

Is That Online Review Fake News? How Sponsorship Disclosure Influences Reader Credibility , Mark W. Tatge

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Measuring Strategic Communications , Jeffrey A. Ranta

Public Perceptions Of Genetically Modified Food On Social Media: A Content Analysis Of Youtube Comments On Videos , Nanlan Zhang

Toward A Situational Technology Acceptance Model: Combining the Situational Theory of Problem Solving and Technology Acceptance Model to Promote Mobile Donations for Nonprofit Organizations , Yue Zheng

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Promoting HPV Vaccination for Male Young Adults: Effects of Social Influence , Wan Chi Leung

Redneckaissance: Honey Boo Boo, Tumblr, and the Stereotype of Poor White Trash , Ashley F. Miller

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Conflicted Union: Culture, Economics and European Union Media Policy , Daphney Pernola Barr

Beating Down the Fear: The Civil Sphere and Political Change in South Carolina, 1940-1962 , Sid Bedingfield

The State v. Perry: Comparative Newspaper Coverage of South Carolina's Most Prominent Civil Rights Lawyer , Christopher G. Frear

(MASCOT) NATION: EXAMINING UNIVERSITY ENGAGEMENT ON COLLEGE FOOTBALL TEAMS’ FACEBOOK PAGES , Matthew J. Haught

Innovation Among Georgian Journalism Educators: A Network Analysis Perspective , Ana Keshelashvili

Emotional Bond between the Creator and the Avatar: Changes in Behavioral Intentions to Engage in Alcohol-Related Traffic Risk Behaviors , Hokyung Kim

Handcuffing Speech: Federal Fraud Statutes and the Criminalization of Advertising , Carmen Maye

Social Movements, Media, and Democratization in Georgia , Maia Mikashavidze

Am I in Danger? : Predictors and Behavioral Outcomes of Public Perception of Risk Associated with Food Hazards , Sang-Hwa Oh

Parental Mediation of Adolescent Movie Viewing , Larry James Webster Jr.

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Political Advertising In Kuwait - A Functional Discourse Analysis , Jasem Alqaseer

The Westernization of Advertisements Published In Kuwaiti Newspapers From 1992 to 2012; A Content Analysis , Farah Taleb Alrefai

What Can Reader Comments to News Online Contribute to Engagement and Interactivity? A Quantitative Approach , Brett A. Borton

Exploring a paradigm shift: The New York Times' framing of sub-Saharan Africa in stories of conflict, war and development during the Cold War and post-Cold War eras, 1945-2009 , Zadok Opero Ekimwere

Mental Health On Youtube: Exploring the Potential of Interactive Media to Change Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors About Mental Health , Caroline Belser Foster

That's News to Me: An Exploratory Study of the Uses and Gratifications of Current Events On Social Media of 18-24 Year-Olds , John Vincent Karlis

Making Stewardship Meaningful For Nonprofits: Stakeholder Motivations, Attitudes, Loyalty and Behaviors , Geah N. Pressgrove

An Alternative Path: The Intellectual Legacy of James W. Carey , Matthew Ross

The Corporation in the Marketplace of Ideas: The Law and Economics of Corporate Political Speech , Matthew W. Telleen

Child Sexual Abuse In the Media: Is Institutional Failure to Blame? , Jane Long Weatherred

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

The Relationship Between Facebook Use and Religiosity Among Emerging Adults , Heidi D. Campbell

Attribute Agenda Setting, Attribtue Priming, and The Public's Evaluation of Genetically Modified (GM) Food in South Korea , Soo Yun Kim

What's Mine is Yours: An Exploratory Study of Attitudes and Conceptions About Online Personal Privacy In the Socialist Republic of Vietnam , Patrick Sharbaugh

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

How Journalists Perceive Internal and External Influence: A Qualitative Assessment of Local Television Reporters' Ethical Decision-Making , Beth Eckard Concepcion

Collective Memory of the War In Iraq: An Analysis of Letters to the Editor and Public Opinion Polls, 2003-2008 , Lisa Cash Luedeman

A Framing Analysis and Model of Barack Obama in Political Cartoons , Anthony Palmer

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Breaking Down the Fear' -- John H. Mccray, Accommodationism and theFraming of the Civil Rights Struggle in South Carolina, 1940-1948 , Sid Bedingfield

Do You See What I See?: A Comparative Content Analysis of Iraq War Photographs As Published In the New York Times and the Tehran Times , Garen Cansler

Exploring Intention to Adopt Mobile Tv Services In the U.S.: Toward A New Model With Cognitive-Based and Emotional-Based Constructs , Seoyoon Choi

Media Representations and Implications For Collective Memory: A Grounded Theory Analysis of TV News Broadcasts of Hillary Clinton From 1993-2008 , Mary Elizabeth McLaughlin

Resonance and Elaboration: the Framing Effect of Chinese Product Safety Issue Coverage , Ji Pan

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Ph.D. Program

Ph.D. students at Merrill engage in cutting-edge scholarship with renowned faculty to research the many dimensions of journalism (data journalism, multimedia, social media, gender and history, to name a few). Merrill doctoral students also tap a network of colleagues across the campus of the University of Maryland including those from information studies, communication, political science, history, sociology, psychology and public policy.

Merrill students should plan on completing their Ph.D. within four years. Our graduates now work in academia, the media or government agencies.

The Ph.D. in Journalism Studies program has three phases:

At least  36  credit hours are required, including:

• JOUR775 —  Quantitative Methods
• JOUR776 —  Qualitative Methods.
• A third methods course in or outside the College
• JOUR601 –  Theories of Journalism (or equivalent if taken for a master’s or other program)
• JOUR610 –  Seminar in Mass Media History
• JOUR800 –  Introduction to Doctoral Study
• JOUR801 –  Advanced Public Communication Theory

This includes journalism elective courses (numbered 600 or above) offered by College. Elective credit can include an independent study in or outside the College with approval by the Director of Ph.D. Studies.

• Cognate courses numbered 600 or above are taken from another department on campus or a combination of departments that relate to your research interest. If you prefer to take cognate courses from different departments you must justify in writing the relationship of those courses to your research.
• Courses numbered 400 require the permission of the Ph.D. director.

By the time you complete your courses, you should have selected an advisor plus a committee of at least three additional faculty members to complete your written and oral comprehensive exams.

After successfully completing your written comprehensive exams, you will prepare a formal proposal for unique research with guidance from your advisor. You formally present your written proposal to your dissertation committee for feedback and approval. After completing your research, the committee assembles again for the defense of your work and results.

More About Merrill's Ph.D. Program

The Philip Merrill College of Journalism is a professional school dedicated to two missions: First, to educate and train students to become leaders of the news business in print, television/radio and online journalism. Second, to prepare scholars of distinction whose published works and critiques will advance the standards and practices of journalism, and our understanding of the news media and its influence on society.

These missions are complementary; together, they embrace the larger purposes for which the American free press was created: to assist the public and its leaders to receive the kind of reliable information essential for the functioning of the democracy.

In offering a Ph.D. in Journalism Studies, the University of Maryland provides scholars and journalistic practitioners a unique opportunity to study the workings of the media and assess its effect on society in the news center of the world. Intellectual resources on the Maryland campus alone offer a rich menu for scholars at a university and a journalism college that take pride in striving for the broadest application of the indispensable principle of diversity in its students, its faculty, and its course offerings.

Among the highly regarded university programs available for Ph.D. candidates to explore are such subjects as American studies, women’s studies, information technology, public policy, sociology and a wide range of specialty areas covering the fields of business, the sciences, environmental policy, and studies relating to concerns affecting women, the family, race and minorities. In addition to these advantages, the capital area forms a unique laboratory for examining the professional functioning of journalism practiced by the most numerous and diverse domestic and foreign news organizations operating anywhere. It also presents an opportunity for scholars to take advantage of the unrivaled archival/historical resources available here through such institutions as the National Archives, the Library of Congress, the National Public Broadcasting Archives and Library of American Broadcasting (located on the University of Maryland campus), numerous museums, galleries, national “think tanks,” as well as the principal government agencies and departments, the courts, the branches of Congress with their multiple fact-gathering committees and subcommittees, and the interest groups, political consultants, and pollsters all seeking to influence the legislative process and the way issues are portrayed in the media.

With this as background, the Philip Merrill College of Journalism envisions its Ph.D. program as being focused on, but not restricted to, a broad range of general subjects for study. Among them: Media and Society. Media and the Family. Media and Minorities. Media and Gender and Ethnicity. Media and the Presidency. Media and Government and Politics. Media and the Law. Media and Science and Technology. Media and Business and the Economy. Media and Foreign Affairs. Media and Public Opinion. Media and the Military.

The College also sees its Ph.D. program as being created to fulfill the following critical needs:

• To bring together professional journalists and academic media specialists and teach them to speak the same language.  At present, each side tends to talk at cross-purposes. Too often, the journalists are so busy “doing their job” that they lack sufficient time to reflect on what that job is or should be and thus fail to assess adequately the strengths and weaknesses of contemporary journalism in order to improve its standards and ethics. At the same time, too often the academics engage in research that confirms the obvious, thus providing little practical utility, and write in language that is needlessly abstruse. Some scholars offer radical critiques of the commercial media system and the First Amendment under which it operates. Maryland’s Ph.D. program is designed to help bridge this gap between the professionals and the academics and indeed to force engagement between the practitioners and the scholars in hopes that each side will gain insights from exposure to the other.
• To provide a wide range of coursework that acquaints students with various theories of journalistic practice while emphasizing the most rigorous standards of scholastic inquiry.  At the same time, the college offers Ph.D. candidates a strong component of history, political science and social science research that makes use of the area’s resources. In furtherance of these goals, the college stresses coursework on the literature and philosophy of journalism that emphasizes the basic relationship among the media, the government and society. Essential to realizing this goal is coursework that exposes scholars to archival/historical research techniques and emphasizes scholarly research methodologies. Another strong component emphasizes the vital role of cross-cultural journalism and examines how well, or poorly, journalistic presentation of art, drama, film, books, sports, religion, and cultural manners, mores, values and attitudes affect or reflect the wider society.
• To prepare media teachers and critics who will become leaders in training and influencing future generations of journalists and whose published works will stimulate critical examination of the media.  Merrill faculty have published widely on critical elements of journalism in society, including work by Prof. Mark Feldstein on the rise of Washington’s scandal culture; Prof. Susan Moeller on terrorism and conflict coverage, Prof. Sarah Oates on the internet and social change; and Prof. Linda Steiner on women and the media.
• To prepare students to explain the American media system to the world in a way that goes beyond merely defending or criticizing it, and helps provide insight into how the media affects the formulation of foreign and domestic policy.  In furtherance of this goal, the College actively seeks to attract international scholars interested in studying the workings of the American media as well American students with a primary interest in foreign affairs and policy.

To achieve these doctoral goals, the Philip Merrill College of Journalism is committed to strive for excellence in the professional and scholarly credentials of its faculty, its scholastic standards, its coursework, and its mission to elevate the principles and practice of journalism.

Merrill College’s Ph.D. graduates find tenure/tenure-track positions and other jobs all over the U.S. and around the world.

Karin Assmann '19:  Assistant Professor, College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Georgia Saranaz Abdollahzadeh Barforoush ’17: University of British Columbia in Vancouver Ronald N. De Munbrun ’17:  Career civil service employee and Vietnam War veteran Joanna Nurmis ’17:  Press attachée, French Embassy in Estonia Stanton Paddock ’17:  Most recently with Concordia University, Montreal, Canada Saswat Pattanayak ’17:  Professional Blogger and Journalist Allissa Richardson ’17:  Associate Professor of Journalism and Communication, Director of the Charlotta Bass Journalism and Justice Lab, University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism Yacong Yuan ’17: Communication Studies Program, University of Maryland Global Campus  Rob Wells ’16:  Assistant Professor, Lemke Department of Journalism, University of Arkansas Tetyana (Tanya) Lokot ’16 : Lecturer, School of Communications, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Dublin City University in Ireland Michael Koliska ’15:  Assistant Professor, Georgetown University Robbie Morganfield ’15:  Chair, Dept. of Mass Communication, Grambling State University (2017) Merrilee Cox ’14:  Adjunct Lecturer, Philip Merrill College of Journalism Stine Eckert ’14:  Assistant Professor, Department of Communication, Wayne State University Jacqueline Incollingo ’14:  Assistant Professor of Communication, Rider University Klive Oh ’14 : Assistant Professor of Communication, Seaver College, Pepperdine University Elia Powers ’14:  Associate Professor of Journalism and New Media, Towson University Raymond McCaffrey ’14:  Ethics Ctr. Director, Lemke Department of Journalism, University of Arkansas Jing Guo ’13:  Public Opinion Research Group, World Bank, Washington, D.C. Sergei Golitsinski ’13:  Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Studies, Univ. of Northern Iowa Jeff Lemberg ’13:  Associate Professor, Department of Communication, Curry College Jessica Roberts ’13:  Assistant Professor, Department of Communication, Boise State University Kevin Swift ’13:  Department Chair-Mass Communications, Methodist University in Fayetteville, N.C. Matthew Bates ’11:  Assistant Professor of Communications, Trinity Washington University Eric Easton   ’11:  Professor of Law, University of Baltimore School of Law Sonia Pedrosa Pereira ’11:  Associate Professor, Associação Carioca de Ensino Superior in Rio de Janeiro Lane Williams ’11 (ABD):  Dept. of Communication ,  BYU-Idaho Lindsey Wotanis   ’11:  Associate Professor and Broadcast Journalism Pgm. Director, Marywood University Ira Chinoy ’10:  Associate Professor, Philip Merrill College of Journalism, University of Maryland Megan Fromm ’10:  Assistant Professor o fMass Communication, Colorado Mesa University Shuling Huang   ’10:  Associate Professor, Department of Communication and Technology of the National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan Priyanka Matanhelia ’09:  Project Manager for the Flamingo Consulting Group in Mumbai, India Wenjing Xie   ’09:  Assistant Professor of Journalism, Southern Illinois University in Carbondale Chunying Cai ’08:  Media Production Professional, Washington, D.C. Marlene Cimons ’08:  Adjunct Professor, Philip Merrill College of Journalism, UMD Ray Gamache   ’08:  Retired as Assistant professor of Mass Communication, Kings College John Kirch ’08:  Assistant Professor of journalism and new media, Towson University Paul Mihailidis ’08 : Associate Professor, Emerson College Indira Somani   ’08 : Assistant Professor, Dept. of Media, Journalism and Film, Howard University Carlos Agudelo ’07:  Universidad de Antioquia in Medellin, Colombia Natalie Hopkinson ’07:  Assistant professor in the Department of Communication, Culture and Media Studies ,  Howard University Norm Lewis ’07:  Associate Professor of Journalism, University of Florida Tracy Lucht ’07:  Assistant Professor, Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication, Iowa State University. Svetlana Markova   ’07:  Communications Office, The World Bank Jad Melki ’07:  Chairperson, Communication Arts Department, Lebanese American University Bu Zhong ’06:  Journalism Professor, Penn State University Tamara Henry ’05:  Former Adjunct Professor, Philip Merrill College of Journalism Stacy Spaulding   ’05:  Associate Professor, Towson University

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2021

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2020

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2019

• Shannon Scovel  is a 2017-2018 Fulbright Scholar from North Carolina with research interests in women’s sports and media studies. She competed as a varsity swimmer for American University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism. She received her master’s degree at the University of Stirling (UK) in gender studies. Scovel has worked as a sports journalist for Sports Illustrated, Yahoo Sports and Turner Sports and hopes to use her background to explore topics surrounding women’s representation in sports media.
• Mahfuzul Haque ’s research interests include fact-checking, misinformation, computational journalism, impacts of digital technologies on news organizations, risk communication, and climate change communication. He holds a master’s in journalism from the School of Journalism and New Media at the University of Mississippi. He was a journalist in Bangladesh, worked for New Age, an English-language national daily. In more than half a decade as a journalist, he has covered environment, health, human rights, business, and the effects of climate change.
• Carolina Velloso  has a B.A. in History with high honors and an M.A. in Journalism, both from UMD. Her research interests broadly lie in U.S. media history, but she is particularly passionate about the intersection of gender, media and sports; the history of female and minority reporters; and historical media coverage of underrepresented groups. Her master’s thesis uncovered the careers of some of the country’s earliest women sports reporters in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Her undergraduate thesis won the university-wide Best Honors Thesis award in 2017.

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2018

• Sara Browning  comes to us from Maryland’s Department of Government and Politics. Her background is in political journalism with experience as a Washington correspondent. She is researching media history, media and politics and the role of investigative reporting in shaping history. She has produced an award winning paper on how the New York Times covered Chinese immigration, which was presented work at the conference of the American Journalism Historians Association.
• Welma Campbell Mashinini Redd  is Associate Professor of Multiplatform Production in the School of Global Journalism and Communication at Morgan State University. She received Morgan’s African Heritage Award for the documentary, “Botswana: An African Jewel,” screened as the centerpiece at Morgan’s 2010 TransAfrica Day Convocation. Her research interest is free speech rights and freedom of the press in Liberia and other parts of Africa.
• Karlis Dagilis  came to Merrill College from Latvia as a Humphrey Fellow. His primary interest is data journalism. As a fellow, Karlis worked at  The Washington Post  and with Professor Dana Priest, for whom he is a research assistant.
• Robin Sundaramoorthy  has 20 years of TV news experience at the local and network levels. She has a master’s in journalism from Michigan State University. Her research interests include the social media habits of women and minorities in the U.S. and developing nations, how underserved communities around the world are using new media to tell new stories and all aspects of the Kerner Commission and its report.
• Kate Yanchulis  is a sports journalist from the Washington, D.C., area. She received her undergraduate degree from Merrill College and a master’s degree in digital media from King’s College London, and has have spent the past five years as a newspaper reporter. With her research, Yanchulis plans to explore how digital storytelling techniques have (and have not) affected sports journalism.
• Wei-Ping Li  worked as a journalist in Taiwan covering financial and legal news for several years, then attended the University of Pennsylvania Law School, where she received a Master of Laws degree in 2007. Since then, she has conducted research and provided consulting services in the field of digital rights and policy. She is also licensed as a lawyer in New York state. Her research interests include journalistic ethics, data privacy and free speech issues, particularly how democratic countries address disinformation.

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2017

• Bobbie Foster ’s research lies at the intersection between politics and digital culture, with a focus on Internet memes. Her publications include two book chapters and an award winning paper titled “The Divide between Journalists and the Audience: Perceptions of Journalism Credibility at a Statewide Level.” She holds a master’s from the University of Arkansas, where she was assistant director for the Center for Ethics in Journalism.
• Hazel Feigenblatt ‘s interests include how watchdog journalism is evolving in new media ecosystems; the uses of investigative techniques, data and multimedia storytelling; and dissemination by civic media seeking policy change. She also explores how publications interact with democratic accountability mechanisms. For 10 years, Feigenblatt covered politics and government contracts for Costa Rica’s leading newspaper, later moving to the investigation unit where she won several awards.
• Sholpan Kozhamkulova  has a background in agenda-setting and framing studies of news media in Kazakhstan. Sholpan was previously chair and assistant professor of the Media and Communications department at KIMEP University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Her most recent research focuses on the language of persuasion online. In addition, Sholpan is interested in exploring “glocal” diffusion of information/innovations in news media and social networks in today’s multimedia environment.
• Andrew Otis  was a 2013-14 Fulbright Fellow in Kolkata where he researched journalism in early India. His findings have been featured in India’s  Business Economics Magazine .  Andrew was also a 2011 Joseph P. O’Hern Scholar researching early British South African and Indian colonial newspapers in London. He’s written a book on  Hicky’s Bengal Gazette , the first newspaper printed in India.
• Sohana Nasrin  holds a master’s in journalism from the University of Oklahoma. A 2013 professional fellowship award from the U.S. State Department supported Nasrin’s to travel to the U.S. to learn the best practices in journalism and to complete a textual analysis of audience perceptions on humanitarian issues, public diplomacy through social media in Western Hemisphere countries, and critical cultural analyses of popular media. Sohana is now focusing on the social psychological aspects of online activism and users’ motivation behind slacktivism.

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2016

• Brooke Auxier  (M.A. ’12) has been a social media strategist and engagement coordinator for a leading cable network, social media journalist for a content marketing agency, digital media teacher at a public charter school and a freelance social media strategist/consultant for several businesses and organizations in D.C. She wrote her master’s thesis on how U.S. journalism and mass communications schools teach and use social media. She is interested in how social media is changing journalism its consumption. She is especially interested in how social media and social journalism have impacted crisis reporting.
• Alison Burns  worked for more than 20 years as a television and radio news reporter, and is now researching ways to improve and expand journalism education. Alison spent most of her career as a Washington correspondent for Cox Media Group’s nationwide network of TV and radio stations. Reporting from Capitol Hill, the White House and the Pentagon, Alison delivered daily live reports and covered major breaking news and historic events. She continues to freelance at Cox as a producer.
• Hoa Nguyen  is an award-wining journalist from Vietnam who came to the U.S. as a Humphrey Fellow in 2007. He holds an MSc. degree in Media and Communications Management from the University of Stirling, Scotland. His research interests include media literacy, social media, data journalism, communication strategies for climate change and mega-events, user-generated-content for TV, and viewer engagement.

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2015

• Karin Assmann , a native of Germany, has been Spiegel TV’s Washington correspondent and owner of a media production company and has won numerous awards and commendations for her documentaries and short features. Her research interests lie in the study of news values and selection and newsroom practices as well as audience participation and its impact. She earned her Master’s Degree in Political Theory at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
• Prashanth Bhat  has worked for leading international media organizations including China Central Television-America, National Geographic Channel, and Voice of America. Bhat holds an M.A. from American University in Washington, D.C. His research interests are comparative media systems, millennials and news consumption, social media and news credibility, as well as media and journalism in India.
• Denitsa Yotova , originally from Bulgaria, received her master’s in journalism and media students from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Yotova, an avid photographer, studies primarily visual media. She is fascinated with the psychological elements of photographic images and film, their historical development, as well as the social effects they produce across continents and cultures.

Ph.D. Cohort Entering 2014

• Katy June-Friesen is interested in how news media represent the identity of places and the people who live and work there. She is particularly concerned with how journalistic framing and language choices construct, reproduce, or dismantle dominant ideas about the culture and politics of U.S. regions, cities and neighborhoods, from West Baltimore to small-town Kansas. Her research draws on geography and cultural studies fields and often employs textual and discourse analysis.
• April Newton is a journalism student, professional and teacher. Inspired by the Clinton impeachment trial, she returned to school to study journalism, ultimately finishing a master’s degree at Syracuse University. Since then, she has worked as a local television news producer, winning a regional AP award, and as a freelance journalist for local publications. She has also taught communication and journalism courses at several universities. April’s research interests are in broadcast journalism, visual journalism, and online and social media and journalism.
• Allissa Richardson is an award-winning journalist and college professor.  Under her leadership, Morgan State University became the first and only historically black college in the country to offer mobile journalism courses. In spring 2012, NABJ recognized her as its Journalism Educator of the Year for her international work. In 2013, Apple, Inc., inducted Richardson into its Distinguished Educator program for her innovative uses of its products. In 2014, Harvard University selected her for its Nieman Foundation Journalism Fellowship. Richardson successfully defended her dissertation in April 2017 and is an assistant professor at University of Southern California’s  Annenberg School For Communication and Journalism .

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Fellowships & Awards

Each requires a student letter and/or faculty nomination to the Ph.D. director.

Michael Gurevitch Journalism Scholarship 

Professor Emeritus Michael Guerevitch taught at the University of Maryland’s College of Journalism from 1983 to 2008, during which time he worked on original research on how journalists grasped the practical problems of keeping the public informed. The Michael Gurevitch Journalism Scholarship is awarded to one Ph.D. journalism student.

Eligibility:  As stipulated by the donor, this award shall be used to provide annual non-renewable scholarships to a Ph.D. student at Merrill College with financial need, with a preference for an international student. Submit a letter explaining your request to the Ph.D. director before the deadline.

Professor Thomas J. Aylward Scholarship

The Professor Thomas J. Aylward Scholarship is awarded to one journalism Ph.D. student who demonstrates financial need.

Eligibility:  As stipulated by the donor, the selection is based "on a combination of potential success and financial need." This scholarship was established as a tribute to Professor Aylward, the former chair of the University of Maryland's Department of Communication Arts and Theater and former director of the Division of Radio, TV, and Film before it was separated from the college. Submit a letter explaining your request to the Ph.D. Director before the deadline.

Ray Hiebert History of Journalism Award

This award reflects the interest of Professor Ray Hiebert, founding dean of the University of Maryland College of Journalism and himself a historian. The scholarship provides an annual award to any graduate student or faculty member at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism who writes the best material on any aspect of American journalism history.

• Dr. Mabel S. Spencer Award for Excellence in Graduate Achievement
• Outstanding Graduate Assistant Awards
• Dissertation Fellowships
• Charles A. Caramello Distinguished Dissertation Award

If a conference is held in the Baltimore/Washington Metro area and no travel or hotel expenses are involved, the college will pay the REGISTRATION costs for doctoral students.

If a conference is held outside the Baltimore/Washington Metro area, the college will reimburse doctoral students up to $1,200 in registration and travel costs for students who are presenting papers or invited to speak.

If the conference involves international travel, the college will reimburse doctoral students up to $1,200 in registration and travel costs if they are presenting papers or invited to speak. In addition, the college has endowed “international graduate school travel scholarship funds” that vary every year depending on the earned income from the endowment. These scholarships may be used to supplement the regular travel allowance and will be awarded at the discretion of the Doctoral program director.  Note: The total international travel fund is never more than a few thousand dollars a year. 

For presenting original research at more than one conference annually, doctoral students will be eligible for a total annual reimbursement of up to $1,200.

The college does not have funds available for travel reimbursement for doctoral students not presenting at conferences. However, a handful of Doctoral faculty members have grants or endowed travel funds that may be used at their discretion to fund doctoral student travel.  

In addition, Doctoral students may be eligible for supplemental travel grants awarded by the Graduate School. Please see the grad school’s website for information on these grants.

Please fill out our  travel award application .

Gene Roberts Award

The Gene Roberts Award supports international travel by journalism students. Supports students with at least one research presentation at a scholarly international conference. For consideration, fill out the travel award application upon acceptance to a conference.

Hiebert Journalism International Endowed Travel Fund

The Hiebert Journalism International Endowed Travel Fund is awarded to support international travel for journalistic or research projects by journalism students. Supports students with at least one paper/research presentation at an international scholarly conference. For consideration, fill out the travel award application upon acceptance to a conference.

More travel grants are available through the UMD Graduate School .

More Merrill College Fellowship & Aid Opportunities .

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Doctorate in Journalism and Mass Communications

Program overview.

The school’s Ph.D. program offers innovative and rigorous education in research skills leading to original research and the creation of knowledge. The program of study leads to the student’s dissertation proposal and dissertation. Ph.D. students work closely with the school’s  publishing faculty members , creating original research examining real-world issues. Students take up to 46 hours, including a core of theory and research methods courses; 12 hours in a concentration in an academic unit outside of the J-School; a comprehensive exam, and then complete an acceptable dissertation. 

Since 2015, our Ph.D. graduates are employed at Chicago State University (Illinois), Hannam University (South Korea), Kuwait University (Kuwait), Intouch Solutions (Kansas), Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreeboro, Tennessee), University of Kansas (Overland Park, Kansas), University of Missouri (Columbia, Missouri), University of St. Mary (Kansas), Queens University of Charlotte (North Carolina), Washburn University (Kansas), and Weber State University (Utah).

Explore the Doctoral Program

• Ph.D. Admission
• Ph.D. Academic Deadlines
• Final Steps to Graduate
• Graduate Handbook
• If you have questions about any of our graduate programs, contact Jammie Johnson at [email protected].

Ph.D. Requirements

The Ph.D. program offers intensive rigorous education in research skills leading to the student’s dissertation proposal and dissertation. All journalism and mass communications electives have an expectation of significant original research leading to publication.

The Ph.D. program requires a total of  46 course credit hours  (7 three-hour core journalism courses and a one four-hour statistics class with a lab), a one-hour pro-seminar (JMC 901) each fall semester, a 12-hour concentration outside the journalism school plus dissertation hours, which are variable.  40 course hours  are prescribed; the others (six credits) are journalism electives. Students who hold a master’s in journalism may have the  46-hour requirement  adjusted due to prior course work (up to six credits in electives). The student completes study of appropriate research skills, designed in consultation with the faculty advisor. The student also must meet KU’s requirements for dissertation hours.

The Ph.D. student takes a  19-hour core  of interdisciplinary study of scholarly theory and methodology in mass communications and a second discipline. The program requires  9 hours  of enrichment in ethics and legal issues, grants development and administration, and university-level faculty development. The student then applies those principles to a specialized area in another discipline, such as Communications Studies, Public Administration, Political Science, Health Policy and Management, units in the School of Education or others for 9 hours of coursework. The student works with an advisor in that discipline to plan that part of the program.

Electives include JMC 840 seminars, which can be repeated. Each seminar is research-based, and requires the student to complete an original research project. Each seminar is geared to advance the student’s competency in the methodology and theory of the discipline. The student is encouraged to do publishable work building towards the dissertation and his/her research trajectory. The papers and presentations in these seminars are primary components of the student’s research portfolio. The student also will build his/her research competency in courses in the concentration in another unit. That work, too, is expected to form a part of the student’s research portfolio.

The student also must complete KU’s research skills and responsible scholarship requirement. The Ph.D. student will select theory and methodology courses appropriate to his/her proposed research trajectory, as reflected in the student’s positioning statement of research and teaching goals and interests. Training in responsible and ethical scholarship will be included in JMC 901 Introduction to Doctoral Studies .

Once admitted to candidacy, the student completes KU’s dissertation hours requirement, producing a dissertation acceptable to his/her committee.

The Ph.D. program will have an MSJ option for students who, for whatever reason, may not complete the Ph.D. Students may earn the MSJ by completing:  JMC 818, JMC 750, EPSY 710 & 711, JMC 801, JMC 802, JMC 803, a concentration of two courses  inside or outside of the school, and one additional elective. The student then must produce an acceptable thesis (enrolling in JMC 899). The MSJ student must successfully present and defend the thesis.

Financial Support

The school provides up to six semesters of financial support for Ph.D. students. The generous support package includes:

• Graduate Teaching Assistantship.
• Minimum salary of $22,650 paid bi-weekly over nine months, paid through normal university payroll with customary deductions.
• Newly admitted students will receive a $1,000 new student award.
• Assistance paying for insurance. You will receive the university’s 75% contribution toward health insurance coverage if you need it.
• 100 percent tuition waiver for fall and spring semesters.
• In their third year, doctoral students will receive a $1,000 research award.

Possible Ph.D. Concentration Areas

Health communication, women's studies, communication studies, business (2 credit hours), film and media studies, political science, explore the ph.d. program.

Scholars' Bank

Journalism and communication theses and dissertations.

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• Power Considerations as Invisible Filters of Local Involvement in Participatory Climate Adaptation: The Case of Ghana's Effutu Municipality  Koomson, Paul ( University of Oregon , 2024-01-10 ) The rising incidence and severity of environmental disasters associated with climate change and the acknowledged failure of adaptation projects to address the priority needs of marginalized and most vulnerable social groups ...
• Voting Behind Bars: Policy and Predictions of Total Enfranchisement for Incarcerated Voters in the United States  Tabor, Courtney ( University of Oregon , 2024-01-09 ) Nearly five million Americans remain disenfranchised because of their incarceration or felon status. Through this dissertation project, I study two legislative campaigns and conduct a nationwide experiment to better ...
• Representation and Exploitation of War and Conflict: Publicly Appropriable Media as Low Hanging Fruit  McLaughlin, Andrew ( University of Oregon , 2024-01-09 ) This dissertation examines the phenomenon of War Porn, a term that describes the visual destruction of bodies in conflict to elicit a visceral reaction in viewers for the purposes of titillation and entertainment. I examine ...
• A MEDIA GENEALOGY OF THE JAPANESE MOBILE PHONE, 1997–2007  St. Louis, Christopher ( University of Oregon , 2024-01-09 ) The mobile phone—in its present form, the smartphone—has become a ubiquitous part of everyday life. We use it to facilitate personal and professional communications, access entertainment media, and purchase goods and ...
• Filtered Morality: Theatrical Film Sanitization in Utah County, Utah, 1960s-1980s  Cowley, Brent ( University of Oregon , 2024-01-09 ) This dissertation examines a history of theatrical film sanitization in Utah County, Utah, primarily from the 1960s to the 1980s. Regional censorship boards throughout the Hollywood Production Code era labored to ensure ...
• Uncovering Vocational Rehabilitation Online: How the Standardization of State and Federal Government Information Can Empower the Deaf and Hard of Hearing  Deering, Charlotte Chère ( University of Oregon , 2023-06 ) Resources are often lacking or difficult to find for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) in the United States. The DHH fall behind in mainstream schools without assistive services and often turn to State Vocational ...
• Actualization through Activism: Transgender Media Making in Central Appalachia  Banks, Beck ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) Using ethnographic methods, this dissertation explores transgender media makers and their works in Central Appalachia. It employs audience studies, queer/trans migration, and queer rurality to understand the drive of these ...
• Who's In?: A Political Economic Analysis of the College Football Playoff  Eichner, Matthew ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) The purpose of this dissertation was to examine the CFP and its media presence through a political economic lens. For the political economic scholar, the CFP as an entry point into studying media and sport is a natural ...
• Life Among the Ruins: An Examination of Monument and Power in the Abandoned Game Star Wars: Galaxies  Hansen, Jared ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) In the genre of Massively Multiplayer Online video games are titles that have been abandoned by their developers. These cloud-based games are inaccessible and disappear when shut down unless new servers are launched. Such ...
• Gender-Power Relations in International Development Discourse and Practice: The Case of USAID in Post-Ebola Liberia  Amevor, Elinam ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) Liberia became the United States’ priority in the fight against the Ebola epidemic in West Africa between 2014 and 2015. After the epidemic was officially declared over in May 2015, the U.S. Agency for International ...
• Twitch Streamers and the Platformization of Cultural Production: Understanding Complementary Labor in the Creative Economy  Harris, Brandon ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) Twitch and other social media platforms allow a handful of content creators to act as social media influencers who perform complementary labor that advances their careers while also creating monetary and social value for ...
• Never the Twain Shall Mix: AIDS Patients’ Rejection of Antiretroviral Drugs in Favor of Christian Holy Water in Ethiopia  Beyene, Gubae ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) The laity in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church have always tapped into holy water as a therapeutic for health issues. A fundamental article of faith within the Church, this treatment necessitates total devotion on the part of ...
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• Silence and Banalization: An Analysis of History Writing About Computing  Hamid, Sarah ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-26 ) Myth, hype, and industry-captured historiography depict this moment as a unique and unprecedented confrontation with computational power and the devastating effects it has on vulnerablized communities. But automated decision ...
• Journalists Doing Video: Evolving Professional Values in Response to Video Work  Nicolosi, Michelle ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-04 ) Much of the research examining how newspaper journalists respond to changing labor practices finds that journalists are terrible at change. Ryfe’s influential study of newsrooms undergoing change found that journalists ...
• The Effects of Narrative- Versus Science-oriented Messages on Parents’ Attitude Towards MMR Vaccine: The Moderation of Conspiracy Beliefs in Vaccination  Wongphotiphan, Thipkanok ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-04 ) Research background: Vaccine hesitancy is ranked as a top ten global health threat by the WHO. One of the most skeptical childhood vaccines is MMR vaccine. Having a high level of conspiracy beliefs is one of the strongest ...
• Whose Future? Whose Facts?: A Critical Case Study of News Literacy Education in the United States  Guldin, Rachel ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-04 ) In the wake of the 2016 and 2020 U.S. presidential elections and the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing public attention has been paid to the ability of citizens to use and understand news media, information, and digital ...
• ShakeAlert in Oregon: Applying the Situational Theory of Publics to Understand Earthquake-Related Beliefs, Communication Behaviors, and the Formation of Stakeholders  Morgoch, Meredith ( University of Oregon , 2022-10-04 ) Common regional hazards in Oregon include wildfires and earthquakes. These hazards vary in severity and have the potential to cause damage to persons or communities in the state. Earthquakes range from small to significant ...
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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. 

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School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Doctor of philosophy in mass communication.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Mass Communication requires a minimum of 72 s.h. of graduate credit. The program provides training in research methods, communication theory, and teaching skills. Students in this program prepare for careers as professors, teachers and industry researchers.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, with coursework and research tailored to each student’s interests under the guidance of faculty members. The school offers several areas of strength to support graduate student research:

• critical and cultural studies 
• sports media
• global media
• health communication
• journalism studies
• digital media

Students who enter the Ph.D. program with a completed relevant master’s degree at the time of enrollment can transfer up to 30 hours of graduate credit from academic courses, including up to 3 credit hours for the thesis. Students who will have not completed a relevant master’s degree by the time of enrollment should apply for our M.A. program. M.A. students who complete their degree requirements and successfully pass the qualifying exam will be considered for admission to the Ph.D. program.

For more information, refer to the Graduate Student Handbook or Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more about SJMC graduate programs. In addition, listed below are the general categories of coursework required to earn the degree; for more specific information on courses, curriculum, and requirements of the Doctor of Philosophy in mass communication, visit the UI General Catalog . Don’t find an answer to your question? Email it to us at [email protected] .

Important Deadlines

Application Deadline : January 1st (for Fall admission)

Admission decisions are based on prior academic performance, letters of reference, and the applicant's statement about background and purpose. Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the  Manual of Rules and Regulations of the Graduate College  on the Graduate College website. For more information, see the  Graduate Admissions Process  page.

Comprehensive Examination

In the third year, each doctoral student completes and defends a dissertation proposal, which serves as their comprehensive exam. The dissertation proposal must indicate clearly the logical steps necessary for the completion of the project and suggest a plan of action. Generally, a dissertation proposal will include these areas: Introduction, Context for the Study, Conceptual/Theoretical Foundation, Research Questions, Research Methods, Bibliography, Chapter Outline, and Tentative Timeline. Once written, the student is required to present the dissertation proposal to the Communication and Media Colloquium. Following the Communication and Media Colloquium presentation, an oral examination will be conducted by the student’s committee, usually within two weeks of the completion of the written proposal.

Dissertation

Students who are enrolled in the Ph.D. program are required to complete a scholarly dissertation. The dissertation committee is composed of at least four faculty members. At least three must be members of the University of Iowa tenure-track faculty, at least two must be members of SJMC (which may include faculty with 0% appointments), and at least one must come from outside the department. By special request, the program may request permission from the Graduate College to replace one committee member with a recognized scholar of professorial rank from another academic institution. Changes to committee membership are often necessary, and can be made at various stages in a student’s program, but should always be done in close consultation with their advisor and/or the Director of Graduate Studies.

NOTE :  Any research which involves "human subjects" must be reviewed by the University of Iowa  Institutional Review Board (IRB)  prior to the initiation of the project.  Proof of the determination/review process must also be submitted to the International Studies Program before the international experience proposal can be approved. For all questions contact the IRB at (319) 335-6465; or complete the  IRB Determination Form  to find out if your research meets the definition of human subjects research.

PhD in Mass Communication (General Catalog)

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.

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PhD: Journalism Studies

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Fall Application Deadlines

US applicants:  Jan. 15 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

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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 

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2024-2025 Academic Bulletin

Journalism and mass communications, ph.d..

The Ph.D. in journalism and mass communications prepares students for teaching and research careers in higher education and for research and management positions with mass communications organizations.

The doctoral program in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications is small and selective, permitting students a considerable degree of flexibility in tailoring courses and areas of study to fit their special needs and career goals.

The doctoral core requirements, listed below, are designed to equip the student with a strong background in quantitative and qualitative social science research methods and design, communications theory, ethical perspectives, historical and legal research methods, and teaching methods. Required courses include the basic doctoral core, a minimum of 30 graduate hours of directed electives, and a minimum of 12 hours of dissertation credit.

Learning Outcomes

• Learning Outcome 1 (Theories): Students will demonstrate understanding of communication theories necessary to teach college-level courses and to carry out formal research. 
• Learning Outcome 2 (Subject Areas): Students will demonstrate overall understanding of specialized topics of the student s interest necessary to teach college-level courses and to carry out scholarly research. 
• Learning Outcome 1 (Teaching Knowledge and Skills): Students will demonstrate thorough knowledge of theories and practices of university-level instruction. 
• Learning Outcome 2 (Teaching Applications and Experiences): Students will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to teaching journalism and mass communications. 
• Learning Outcome 1 (Research Methods): Students will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of advanced statistics, quantitative research methodology, and qualitative research methodology appropriate for journalism and mass communications scholarship, including the application of such knowledge in their own research and the ability to correctly evaluate peer-reviewed research. 
• Learning Outcome 2 (Writing and Presenting Research): Students will demonstrate effective writing and presentation skills and the application of those skills in journalism and mass communications scholarship suitable for high-level peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. 

Admissions Requirements

An applicant for admission to the doctoral program will be evaluated on a combination of factors: applicant’s academic record (especially work done at the master’s level), English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS if international applicant), resume showing professional experience, recommendations, writing sample(s), and the applicant’s personal statement outlining reasons for applying for doctoral study and career hopes and expectations.

Preference is given to applicants with at least 3.0 GPA for undergraduate and graduate work, at least one year of experience as journalism and mass communications professionals. International applicants, in addition to the above, must present a score of at least 100 on the TOEFL exam or 7.0 on IELTS. Those with a degree from an English-speaking institution are eligible for an exemption from this requirement. More information is available in the Academic Programs section of the College of Information and Communications Website.

Doctoral students normally must have completed, or be in the final stages of, a master’s degree. In exceptional circumstances, a student with a baccalaureate degree may be admitted directly into the doctoral program, with the understanding that the student will first complete the usual requirements for the master’s degree while studying for the doctorate. In such cases, the usual doctoral requirements of 45 hours of course work beyond the master’s plus a dissertation will apply. A prior master’s degree needs not be in journalism/mass communications, although a student whose master’s degree is in another field may need additional course work.

Degree Requirements (57 Post-Master’s Degree Hours)

To earn the Ph.D. in mass communications, the student must successfully complete the following:

Qualifying Examination

A qualifying examination, administered at the beginning of the student’s program. This examination, largely diagnostic in nature, will help the faculty in planning the student’s program of study.

Course Requirements (57 Hours)

Basic doctoral core (15 hours), mass communication electives (21hours) 1.

At least 21 hours in approved mass communication electives from JOUR courses at 700/800 levels.

Courses in Another Field of Study (9 Hours) 1

At least 9 hours in another field of study, such as economics, business, political science, history, education, library science, or English; normally the three courses would be in the same academic discipline. However, for example, a student interested in modern Africa might take one course in history, one in political science, and a third in sociology with approval from the faculty.

At least 6 hours from Mass Communications Electives and Courses in Another Field of Study must be in research methods beyond core course requirements of the Ph.D. and Master’s degree programs (may include JOUR courses).

Dissertation Preparation (12 Hours minimum)

Comprehensive examination.

A comprehensive examination is based on doctoral coursework; this examination is administered in 2 parts: a 12-hour written examination (4 three-hour sets of questions taken over 5 consecutive business days) and an oral defense before the student’s comprehensive examination committee. The comprehensive exam and oral defense will cover theory, research, a third area of emphasis in mass communication and an outside area.

Residency Requirement

The University’s residency requirements apply, which means the student must be enrolled for at least 6 semester hours during 3 consecutive semesters.

Dissertation Defense

The doctoral dissertation must be successfully defended before the student’s dissertation committee.

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 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

Susan Murray

Department chair and professor of media, culture, and communication.

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. 

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Journalism Dissertation Topics – Get a Research Based Topic

Published by Owen Ingram at January 2nd, 2023 , Revised On August 11, 2023

Coming up with original journalism dissertation topics for your undergraduate, Master or PhD degree can be a very frustrating experience . In contrast to other disciplines, journalism dissertations are judged based on the interviewee’s quality of information.

A journalism dissertation must be more than just a statement of theoretical knowledge; it must be genuine and applicable.

Are you trying to find the ideal subjects for journalism research? Improve your grade in the dissertation project by using these journalistic research questions and topics.

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Unique Journalism Topics

• By depicting women as materialistic things, how does the media help perpetuate stereotyped depictions of women?
• Discuss how powerful individuals influence the freedom of media and journalist
• Talk about the main issues that journalists face when performing their jobs
• What impact has advances in science and technology had on journalism?
• How many journalists alter the idea that women are materialistic?
• Can journalism be utilized to advance disadvantaged groups in society?
• What impact do online media outlets have on journalism today?
• Do you think social media is displacing print media?
• How has technology changed the methods through which journalists communicate with their audience?
• How do well-known people affect the freedom of the press and journalists?
• Describe the difficulties faced daily by journalists working in a variety of geographical settings
• How can journalists better inform the public about current events?
• What part does the media play in lowering crime?
• Talk about how the media has a bad impact on violence
• What connection is there between media and the expansion of the fashion sector?
• What is the media’s subsequent effect on the expansion of an economy?
• What do you think about denying political media outlets a license to operate?
• Consider the effects of media on your life during the past 10 years
• Describe how media violence could be advantageous compared to the violence that is affected by society
• Examine how the media sector has changed as a result of technological development

Best Journalism Topics

• Examine the arguments against headlines employing metaphors by media outlets
• How media psychology relates to communication
• Describe how the media has influenced the music industry’s expansion
• Examine how the media has influenced advancements
• Describe the effects of biased media and why it could be harmful to society
• Examine how the media has violated people’s rights and freedoms
• Look at the Black Lives Matter movement and how the media has contributed to its growth
• Consider the impact of media on the dwindling of traditions and culture
• Why does political antagonism between political subjects and classes need to be promoted through the media?
• What part does the media play in encouraging educational activities?
• What part does the media play in raising awareness?
• Describe how readers may check the accuracy and legitimacy of news stories.
• Discuss the role of the media in a nation’s development
• Describe the influence that social media has had on how police brutality instances are reported
• What effect did the media have on the size of the Vietnam War?
• Identify if governments should have the only authority to censor journalists and news reporters
• Describe the key problems that journalism faces
• Examines if media outlets are to blame for the dissemination of unfounded rumours

Investigative Journalism Topics

• How reporters may continue to produce high-quality work without necessarily spending more
• Nigeria is a case study of how the media is assisting in the rebranding of some nations
• How powerful politicians influence some media outlets’ important choices
• An evaluation of the issues limiting information freedom in emerging nations
• How is sexual material used on the front pages of health publications to draw readers?
• How to utilise magazine covers to increase sales
• What moral distinctions exist between the invasion of privacy and investigative journalism?
• An examination of the major players in modern media organisations
• How do politicians in developing nations continue to seduce the populace with nebulous assurances about the quality of the educational system and the development of jobs?
• How call centres are using the media to fill employment and aid the unemployed in society
• Politicians lack the ideological motivation they formerly did. A careful examination of the way political parties promote their views
• Can Pakistan, Iraq, and Afghanistan repair their unfavourable reputations in the world?

Hot Journalism Topics

• Consider some of the most major upcoming shifts in journalism.
• Describe the many advantages that commercials and product promotions have for media sources.
• Why is it inappropriate for superstars and celebrities to go through media trials?
• Define stylised writing and explain if it is appropriate in the internet-dependent world of today.
• Talk about the potentially harmful effects that media may have on pupils.
• Explain why sexual stuff should no longer be broadcasted on television.
• Consider how the media shapes how social issues like racism are expressed.
• Examine the effect of new media on spending for digital learning.
• Ask if it’s possible to pursue the truth in journalism without violating the journalistic code.
• Discuss how the media affects a person’s emotional and psychological health.
• Talk about the primary difficulties that journalists face when carrying out their duties.
• What effect has science and technological progress had on journalism?
• What can reporters do to disprove the notion that women are materialistic?
• Describe how foreign enemies and rivals are presented in American media
• Do people read less about current affairs now that there’s the internet?
• Why has news reporting altered as a result of the internet?
• Examine some of the most important and expected impending advancements in journalism
• Nigeria serves as a case study for how the media helps some countries rebrand.
• A case study on the societal problem of pollution and the role of the media in addressing
• Look into the effects of the fear caused by crime reporting in the media
• Talk about how the media is used to set the agenda
• Describe the issues with how black women are portrayed in the media
• Talk about how women and their sexuality are used in advertising in the media

Journalism & Freedom of Expressions Topics

• Journalists depend on sources for their work. Should these sources be shielded from situations that can lead to a breach of confidence by the laws protecting freedom of expression?
• A principle of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution encourages a highly balanced approach to media and freedom of expression. Should the UK follow their example?
• Exist any reasons for restricting a journalist’s freedom of expression in the name of a democratic society?
• Some contend that a democratic society’s cornerstones are freedom of speech and the press. A comparison of how people in the US and the UK feel about press freedom
• Do tabloids and broadsheets have varying degrees of freedom of speech? The Times against The News of the World
• The common law grants people of the UK a restricted right to free speech. What effect does this have on journalism in the nation?
• How courts trample on journalists’ right to free speech is highlighted by the Sunday Times v. UK case. How can courts protect journalists more fully?
• Article 10 of the Human Rights Convention guarantees the right to freedom of speech. Can journalists use this law to their advantage?

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UC Media and Communication, & Journalism theses

Below is a list of Masters and PhD theses in Media and Communication (formerly Mass Communication) and Journalism (1994 - present) sorted in descending year order. Theses that are available online can be accessed by following the links below.

To browse online theses by discipline, go into the Research Repository / Arts Theses and Dissertations / scroll down left column to Thesis Discipline / and navigate to  Journalism / Media and Communication or Mass Communication .

See also: Thesis guide .

• #BringBackOurGirls : solidarity or self-interest? online feminist movements & third world women. / Emma Grace Murphy (2017).
• Locating Ourselves: An analysis and theoretical account of strategic practices of identity and connection in Aotearoa/New Zealand’s Pacific news media / Tara Ross (2017). PhD
• The shareable, the conversation, and the news : an analysis of content posted on Twitter by New Zealand news journalists and news organisations / Victoria Haggland (2017).
• Citizen satire in Malaysia and Singapore: why and how socio-political humour communicates dissent on Facebook / Khin Wee Chen (2016). more... less... Dr Donald Matheson, Supervisor.
• Shaken, not stirred : networked sensemaking of disaster in context of the Canterbury earthquakes / Martina Wengenmeir (2016)
• Trustworthy and participatory community-based disaster communication : a case study of Jalin Merapi in the 2010 Merapi eruption in Indonesia / Dwie Irmawaty Gultom (2016). more... less... PhD
• Newspaper coverage of health issues in Nigeria : the frequency of reporting malaria, HIV/AIDS and polio and the effect of seeking health information on the health behaviours of newspaper readers / Semiu Bello (2015). more... less... Supervisor: Dr Linda Jean Kenix
• How Rough Sleeping Youth Use Their Cell Phones/ Sophie Nussbaumer (2015). more... less... Dr Donald Matheson, Supervisor.
• Identity and diaspora online : a study of a Chinese network in New Zealand, by Jingnan Xu.(2015).
• Spinning media : understanding how snowboarding video producers incorporate advertising into subcultural media / Nick Maitland (2015)
• Evolving newspapers & the shaping of an extradition : Jamaica on the cusp of change / by Ghislaine Leslyn Lewis (2014)
• Finding voice through social media? : a critical analysis of women's participation in the online public sphere in India / by Sumaiya Nasir (2014)
• 'It's beyond me' : trauma, combat and the paradox of mediation / Mason Francis Head (2014)
• Quake aftermath : Christchurch journalists' collective trauma experience and the implications for their reporting / by Sean Scanlon (2014)
• “You want to capture something that will make people change” : rhetorical persuasion in The Cove, Whale Wars, and Sharkwater / by Jessica Stewart (2014)
• Restraints on reporting conflict in West Papua / Paul Bensemann (2013)
• Warning fatigue : insights from the Australian bushfire context / by Brenda Mackie (2013)
• Communication at 'just the right temperature' with social media : developing a framework for the use of social media by the New Zealand Fire Service in the promotion of fire safety to young New Zealand adults / Kimberley Ross (2012)
• Embracing LOLitics : popular culture, online political humor, and play / Geniesa Tay (2012)
• Evaluating the significance of framing in public diplomacy : a case study of American, Chinese and Vietnamese news frames / by Whitney E. Cox (2012)
• New media and old politics : the role of blogging in the 2008 Malaysian general election / by Foong Lian Hah (2012)
• Reaching the community through community radio : readjusting to the new realities : a case study investigating the changing nature of community access and participation in three community radio stations in three countries, New Zealan (2012)
• Sustainability and neoliberalisation in the political blogosphere / by Zhou Zhou (2012)
• Tiki to Mickey : the Anglo-American influence on New Zealand commercial music radio 1931-2008 / by Brendon Reilly (2011)
• The Chinese approach to Web journalism : a comparative analysis / by Jing Xin (2010)
• Going live in a convergent broadcasting newsroom : a case study of Al Jazeera English / by Shao Wei (2010)
• Hacktivism and Habermas : online protest as neo-Habermasian counterpublicity / by Tessa Jade Houghton (2010)
• New tools for training news reporters : an interactive scoring e-textbook based on online assessment / by Yevgenia Munro (2010)
• The America's Cup 2007 : the nexus of media, sport and big business / Jared Peter Grellet (2009)
• Improving news media communication of sustainability and the environment : an exploration of approaches / by Komathi Kolandai-Matchett (2009)
• Māori media : a study of the Māori "media sphere" in Aotearoa / New Zealand / by Eliana Taira (2009)
• The Mumbai terrorist attacks : how influential are citizens in crisis news reporting? / by Serene Tng (2009)
• Political communication in a multicultural New Zealand : ethnic minority media and the 2008 election / Kirsten Elizabeth Chambers (2009)
• Representations of the environment on New Zealand television / by Rowan Howard-Williams (2009)
• The soliloquy of whiteness : colonial discourse and New Zealand's settler press 1839-1873 / by Gina Maree Colvin (2009)
• Innocence lost? : the early sexualisation of tween girls in and by the media : an examination of fashion / Lorie Jane Clark (2008)
• Constructing a traitor : how New Zealand newspapers framed Russell Coutts' role in the America's Cup 2003 / by Slavko Gajevic (2007)
• Covering conflicts : the coverage of Iraq War II by The New Zealand Herald, The Dominion Post and The Press / by Ali Rafeeq (2007)
• Sex in women's magazine advertising : an analysis of the degree of sexuality in women's magazine advertising across age demographics and women's responses / Ilona P. Pawlowski (2007)
• The representation of environmental news : a comparative study of the Malaysian and New Zealand press / by Nik Norma Nik Hasan (2007)
• Brand new Zealanders : the commodification of Polynesian youth identity in bro'Town / Emma Earl (2006)
• Michael King, journalist : a study of the influence of journalism on King's later writing / by Annabel Schuler (2006)
• Not that innocent : the discursive construction of girls' sexuality in Dolly magazine / by A.M. Pyke (2006)
• The poverty of news discourse : the news coverage of poverty in New Zealand / by John Summers (2006)
• Public spaces or private places? : outdoor advertising and the commercialisation of public space in Christchurch, New Zealand / by Jennifer Rose Molina (2006)
• With pad and pencil : old stereotypes in a new form? : a comparison of the image of the journalist in the movies from 1930-1949 and 1990-2004 / by Wibke Ehlers (2006)
• "The desert is now being flooded" : a study of the emergence of Chinese-language media in New Zealand / by Lin Yang (2005)
• Beyond consensus? : New Zealand journalists and the appeal of 'professionalism' as a model for occupational reform / by Nadia Elsaka (2004)
• Does ownership matter? : concentration of ownership and its editorial implications in the New Zealand daily newspaper market / by Anna Starke (2004)
• Everybody's a comedian (or a journalist?) : investigating claims for personal publishing on the internet as 'journalism' and as a new form of public sphere / by Benjamin Joseph Allan (2004)
• The misunderstanding between the church and the news media with special focus on how the church in Canterbury has been portrayed in the daily newspapers / by Kay M. Knowles (2004)
• Privacy : the parameters for broadcasters and their implications for journalistic practice in New Zealand / by Chiew Kung Wong (2004)
• Women in the workplace : a look at public radio journalists of New Zealand and the Philippines / by Marie Angelie C. Villapando (2004)
• Foreign news in New Zealand's metropolitan press / by Eliana G. Taira (2003)
• Interactive journalism : a study of interactivity of online newspapers in the United States, New Zealand and the Maldives / by Ali Rafeeq (2003)
• Verification and balance in science news : how the New Zealand mass media report scientific claims / by Laura A. Sessions (2003)
• Cross-systems : journalists' training in two settings of free press / by Ricky G. Abaleña (2002)
• The politics of voluntary restraint : the evolution of print media codes of ethics in Britain and New Zealand / by Nadia Elsaka (2001)
• The depiction of women : a study of lead stories in three New Zealand women's magazines / by Victoria A. Rhiannon (1999)
• An analysis of some news reports about mental health and mental illness / by J.M. Taylor (1998)
• Radio New Zealand, past, present and future : the evolution of the public broadcaster since 1989 : a case study / by Toni M. Snook (1998)
• The role of the press in maintaining social ideology / by Tim C. Aitken (1998)
• The role of community newspapers in information dissemination : a study of two Christchurch community newspapers / by Ahmed Zaki Nafiz (1996)
• Broadcasting standards in New Zealand : the Broadcasting Standards Authority : policy, action, and repercussions / by Sara L. Clemens (1995)
• The media and New Zealand's developing relationship with Asia / by Peter R. Burdon (1995)
• Public relations in central government in New Zealand / by Suzanne G. Walker (1994)
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Columbia University Libraries

Master's projects and theses.

Columbia University Libraries maintains copies of projects, theses, and dissertations deposited with the library by students at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Dissertations are available electronically via  Academic Commons  and  ProQuest dissertations & theses global .

Master's projects and theses are available in print at the Journalism Library and Lehman Libray. Electronic access is negotiated on a case-by-case basis under the guidance of the copyright owner/author. Projects and theses are compiled and bound semi-annually. Bound volumes are arranged alphabetically by graduating class and publication type. The Journalism Library retains the most recent four years, Projects deposited more that four years ago may be found on the lower level of  Lehman Library . Bound volumes do not circulate—they must be read at the library. Reproduction all or part of a project or thesis via scanning or photographing is prohibited, unless permission has been given by the copyright holder/author.

Projects with media or data components are available at the Journalism Library Reserves Collection and circulate for 2 days. Projects from earlier years may be requested at the Lehman Library Reserves Desk. To request a radio or television project, you must know the author's name and year of graduation.

If you are an alum and would like a copy of your printed master's project, please email the Journalism Library with your name, year you graduated, format and title of your project or theses. Copies are only available by the request of the author. Requests for projects with audio, video, or digital components are governed by the policies and fees established by P reservation & Digital Conversion Division of Columbia University Libraries.

Download the Finding Aid <2 Years

All Master's Projects are housed in Columbia University Libraries. To locate a specific project:

1. Open  Excel finding aid  and find the project in the list. Instructions provided in the spreadsheet. 2. Write down the Binding Information associated with the project 3. Call or visit the Journalism Library or Lehman Library to access the project. Please note that access policies for Columbia University Libraries vary. See:  Accessing the Libraries

Search by author, title, or advisor

Use the integrated search feature of the library website to search for projects by author, title or advisor.

Browse Index by Year and Program

Do you want to a list of all the projects that were submited in a single year?  Browse the complete list of the library's holdings by year and degree program using the dropdown menus below.

M.S. Projects

M.a. theses, documentary and pt, historical projects.

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Journalism and Communication

Application options include:

Course Overview

Our MPhil/PhD programme in Journalism and Communication invites you to submit a proposal for research on the journalistic and communicative dimensions of agenda-setting, cities, conflict, ethics, media ownership, mis- and disinformation, professional ideologies, race and related topics.

An MPhil/PhD is an advanced postgraduate research degree that requires original research and the submission of a substantial dissertation. The MPhil thesis is not more than 60,000 words; the PhD thesis is not more than 100,000 words. This programme also welcomes practice-based PhD theses, the requirements for which vary according to the nature of the research and should be discussed with the admissions tutors. Both the MPhil and the PhD are assessed by a viva voce examination.

We offer an exceptionally stimulating environment , where your journalism and communication research will flourish in a wider interdisciplinary context. We have critically engaged research clusters working on cultural policy, creative labour, curatorial practice, digital aesthetics, digital politics, essay film, film exhibition, journalism and democracy, media reform, mediated spaces and television studies.

Our aim is to offer a programme of seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops and reading groups that not only help you build your research skills, but generate a sense of intellectual community, based on dialogue and mutual support. You will also be offered training sessions at all levels of the College, including at the  Birkbeck Graduate Research School (BGRS).

At Birkbeck, you are initially registered on an MPhil and you upgrade to a PhD after satisfactory progress in the first year or two (full time). You need to find a suitable academic supervisor at Birkbeck, who can offer the requisite expertise to guide and support you through your research. Find out more about undertaking a research degree at Birkbeck .

Key information

Journalism and communication mphil/phd: 7 years part-time, on campus, starting 2023-24.

• October 2023
• January 2024

Journalism and Communication MPhil/PhD: 4 years full-time, on campus, starting 2023-24

Journalism and communication mphil/phd: 7 years part-time, on campus, starting 2024-25.

• October 2024
• January 2025

Journalism and Communication MPhil/PhD: 4 years full-time, on campus, starting 2024-25

Find another course:

• This MPhil/PhD in  Journalism and Communication is offered as part of a range of competitively awarded PhD studentships funded by support from UK Research and Innovation, charities, government and external partners.
• The award-winning  Birkbeck Cinema  is central to our research culture. The 70-seat cinema is equipped with 35mm and state-of-the-art DCP projection. Our  Birkbeck Institute for the Moving Image  (BIMI) runs a busy, intellectually stimulating programme of events, including conferences, screenings and film-related events of all kinds, including at our cinema.
• You will have the opportunity to participate in and attend the  Essay Film Festival , jointly run by BIMI and the  Institute of Contemporary Arts  (ICA), with free admission to events hosted at Birkbeck. You will also be able to take advantage of practical film-making opportunities offered through the  Derek Jarman Lab .
• The Vasari Research Centre for Art and Technology integrates a wide range of digital culture research at Birkbeck, while making available equipment and systems to students, interns and academics. In addition, the  Birkbeck Interdisciplinary Research in Media and Culture (BIRMAC) provides a unique space for reflective critical inquiry on media and culture, where researchers from different disciplines can gather and participate in a sustained intellectual conversation in a truly interdisciplinary context.
• As well as the Birkbeck Library , you will have access to the nearby Senate House Library , various libraries of the University of London colleges, the British Library , as well as other specialist collections and institutions in central London, including the British Film Institute library.
• Birkbeck was ranked as one of the top four universities in the UK for its Art and Design research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework. Birkbeck’s research excellence overall was  confirmed in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework  with 83% of our research rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

Entry Requirements

A good degree in journalism, media, communication, cultural studies, or other related areas in the social sciences, humanities or political science. Depending on your background and research experience, a BA might be sufficient. Generally we recommend that you apply with a good MA degree.

You will also need to submit a specific indication of research interests with your application, and a 2000-word proposal.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this programme is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement,  we offer pre-sessional English courses, foundation programmes and language support services  to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Visit the International section of our website to find out more about our  English language entry requirements and relevant requirements by country .

Visa and funding requirements

If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa.

The visa you apply for varies according to the length of your course:

• Courses of more than six months' duration: Student visa
• Courses of less than six months' duration: Standard Visitor visa

International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. If you are living in the UK on a Student visa, you will not be eligible to enrol as a student on Birkbeck's part-time courses (with the exception of some modules).

For full information, read our visa information for international students page .

Please also visit the international section of our website to find out more about relevant visa and funding requirements by country .

Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.

Journalism and Communication MPhil/PhD: 7 years part-time or 4 years full-time, on campus, starting in academic year 2023-24 or 2024-25

Academic year 2023–24, starting october 2023, january 2024, april 2024.

Part-time home students: £2,500 per year Full-time home students: £4,712 per year Part-time international students : £7,165 per year Full-time international students: £14,175 per year

Academic year 2024–25, starting October 2024, January 2025, April 2025

Part-time home students: £2,539 per year Full-time home students: £4,786 per year Part-time international students : £7,525 per year Full-time international students: £14,885 per year

Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. For more information, please see the College Fees Policy .

If you’ve studied at Birkbeck before and successfully completed an award with us, take advantage of our Lifelong Learning Guarantee to gain a discount on the tuition fee of this course.

Fees and finance

PhD students resident in England can apply for government loans of over £26,000 to cover the cost of tuition fees, maintenance and other study-related costs.

Flexible finance: pay your fees in monthly instalments at no extra cost . Enrol early to spread your costs and reduce your monthly payments.

We offer a range of studentships and funding options to support your research.

Discover the financial support available to you to help with your studies at Birkbeck.

International scholarships

We provide a range of scholarships for eligible international students, including our Global Future Scholarship. Discover if you are eligible for a scholarship .

Our research culture

Our research encompasses journalism, film and television, artistic practice and arts management, and digital media, culture and design . Our work is critically engaged, challenging conventional assumptions about the functions and influence of media and culture, scrutinising institutions, organisations and work practices in the creative industries, and rethinking what media can mean and do.

We place particular emphasis on practice-based research, in which ideas and issues are investigated through activities such as creative film-making and digital design. The research of our academic staff is thoroughly interdisciplinary, and incorporates both historical research and contemporary explorations of our rapidly changing media landscapes.

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework for Art and Design research Birkbeck was ranked 4th nationally with world-leading achievements for environment (90%), impact (67%) and outputs (65%).

We work with a wide range of partners, including the  V&A , the  Institute of Contemporary Arts ,  University of Pittsburgh ,  BFI ,  Science and Media Museum ,  Lux Cinema ,  Tate Britain ,  Media Reform Coalition ,  Action on Armed Violence  and  Electra , and the facilities available to staff and students include the  Vasari Research Centre , the  Birkbeck Cinema , the  Peltz Gallery  and the  Derek Jarman Lab .

Teaching opportunities

As part of our commitment to professional development, you have the opportunity to gain experience in teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There is also a 10-week lecture series, Teaching in the Arts, which is designed to prepare students for teaching humanities in higher education.

Follow these steps to apply to an MPhil/PhD research degree at Birkbeck:

1. Check that you meet the entry requirements, including English language requirements, as described on this page.

2. Find a potential supervisor for your MPhil/PhD research. You can look at the Find a Supervisor area on this page for an overview, or  search our Experts’ Database  or  browse our staff pages  for more in-depth information. You may also find it helpful to  view the research projects of our current students .

3. Contact the academic member of staff - or the department they teach in - for an informal discussion about your research interests and to establish if they are willing and able to supervise your research. (Please note: finding a potential supervisor does not guarantee admission to the research degree, as this decision is made using your whole application.)  Find out more about the supervisory relationship and how your supervisor will support your research .

4. Draft a research proposal of up to 2000 words (excluding references). This needs to demonstrate your knowledge of the field, the specific research questions you wish to pursue, and how your ideas will lead to the creation of new knowledge and understanding.  Find out more about writing a research proposal .

5. Apply directly to Birkbeck, using the online application link on this page. If your research proposal meets our entry criteria, and we have an appropriate academic to supervise you, we will invite you for an interview, in person or by telephone. All research students are initially registered on an MPhil and then upgrade to a PhD after making sufficient progress.

Find out more about the application process, writing a research proposal and the timeframe .

Application deadlines and interviews

You can apply throughout the year for commencement in October or the following January.

If you wish to apply for funding, you will need to apply by certain deadlines. Consult the websites of relevant bodies for details.

Apply for your course

Apply for your course using the apply now button in the key information section .

Finding a supervisor

A critical factor when applying for postgraduate study in journalism and communication is the correlation between the applicant’s intellectual and research interests and those of one or more potential supervisors.

Find out more about the research interests of our  academic staff  and their areas of research.

Related courses

• Film and Screen Media (MPhil/PhD)
• Cultural Policy and Management (MPhil/PhD)
• Digital Culture and Communication (MPhil/PhD)

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Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University

AIU’s Doctor of Journalism (Ph.D.) goal is to provide students with a unique and unrepeatable foundation and professional skills necessary to conduct groundbreaking research. The program helps students initiate, contribute to, and pursue a research program in their chosen areas of inquiry. The Journalism program is designed to advance the professional development of experienced journalism graduates and professionals in the journalism arena by extending their knowledge and equipping them with broad research and process journalism skills, enabling them to make an essential leadership contribution to their chosen fields.

AIU’s PhD in Journalism goes one step further by allowing students to study and research multiple essential areas of computer science to develop a unique foundation of practical knowledge and computer science theory.

Your AIU Distance Learning Doctorate program in Journalism will be a custom-made program designed just for you by you and your advisor. This flexibility to meet your needs is rare in other distance learning programs. We offer one of the best doctoral programs in Journalism that only requires some students to study the same subjects and use the same books and other learning materials as every other student. Instead, our online Doctoral programs are designed just for you. AIU’s journalism research methods are individually designed to meet your needs and help you to reach your professional and personal goals. 

Core Courses & Topics in Journalism

As a doctoral candidate, you will engage in an andragogy-driven curriculum that combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing you to contribute significantly to the field. The following is a glimpse into the core courses and topics that will shape your intellectual exploration, ensuring a transformative experience as you become a thought leader in journalism and media studies.

• Intellectual Property
• Strategic Communication Planning
• Media Ethics
• Communication Research Methods
• Literary Journalism
• Telecommunication Policy
• Press and the Constitution
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Advertising and Public Relations
• International Mass Communication

Orientation Courses

AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism program welcomes you with a comprehensive orientation curriculum to lay a solid foundation for your academic journey. These journalism dissertation topics and orientation courses are crafted to acquaint you with the unique features of our program, ensuring a seamless transition into the doctoral study environment. Our holistic orientation curriculum aims to foster a sense of community among fellow doctoral candidates and faculty, providing a collaborative space where you can begin to shape your academic identity and research interests. Embrace these foundational media and communication studies courses as the initial stepping stones on your path to excellence in journalism scholarship at AIU.

• Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
• Organization Theory (Portfolio)
• Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
• Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
• Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
• Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
• Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
• Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)

Research Projects in Journalism

The Doctorate in Journalism program at AIU offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for aspiring scholars seeking to contribute significantly to journalism. Our research projects are designed to push the boundaries of knowledge in journalism, media studies, and communication. Doctoral candidates engage in cutting-edge research that explores the evolving landscape of journalism in the context of rapidly advancing technologies, the digital revolution, and the changing nature of news consumption.

Whether investigating the impact of artificial intelligence on news production, analyzing the dynamics of misinformation in the digital age, or exploring human rights and the intersection of journalism and social justice, students are encouraged to pursue innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.

• Doctoral Dissertation Project
• MBM900 Doctoral Proposal
• MBM902 Doctoral Dissertation (15,000 words)

Publication: AIU’s Journalism Doctorate urges grads to share their research through papers, on public platforms, or in esteemed global journals. Embrace advanced reporting, mastering innovative methods. Our ethos? Ethical journalism — integrity, accuracy, and fairness guide graduates toward impactful and principled practice.

Are You Ready for AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism?

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AIU Offers the Outstanding Student Experience

Enrolling in AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism offers a dynamic and personalized student experience. Our program stands out for its emphasis on tailored learning, allowing students to shape their academic journey in collaboration with dedicated advisors. With a focus on advanced reporting techniques and ethical journalism, students delve into cutting-edge methodologies and tools.

The interactive online format fosters a vibrant community, facilitating networking with fellow professionals globally. AIU’s commitment to individualized education ensures that each student receives the support needed to excel in research, publication, and leadership within the ever-evolving landscape of journalism. Joining our Doctorate in Journalism program at AIU promises an enriching support system and transformative educational journey tailored to your unique aspirations.

Community & Social

AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism cultivates a vibrant online community through its Virtual Campus, Mobile APP, and collaborative tools like MYAIU, AIUTV , and AIULINK. Despite its online nature, the program offers dynamic engagement through symposiums, conferences, webinars, and competitions. With a University of One philosophy, AIU provides a technologically advanced infrastructure, including AIULink for social connections, Merlin Media Center for academic content, and the AIU Campus APP for on-the-go access. This interconnected community , supported by comprehensive resources like the AIU Online Library , positions the program as a leader in distance learning, offering a holistic educational experience for professionals.

Within this innovative environment, students explore cutting-edge themes such as Digital Journalism Trends, engage in Investigative Journalism Research, and navigate the complexities of Media Policy and Regulation. The program’s commitment to technology, collaboration, and a wealth of resources makes it an exemplary choice for those seeking a forward-thinking and impactful education in journalism. Platforms like MYAIU grant access to academic materials and facilitate global dialogue, fostering a positive attitude and happiness within the AIU family.

Contact Us Today!

We understand how busy adults do not have time to go back to school. Now, it’s possible to earn your degree in the comfort of your own home and still have time for yourself and your family. The Admissions office is here to help you, for additional information or to see if you qualify for admissions please contact us. If you are ready to apply please submit your Online Application and paste your resume and any additional comments/questions in the area provided.

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Academic Resources

AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism provides an enriched learning experience through the Virtual Campus, integrating over 25 unique community engagement, growth, and inspiration tools. Newly introduced is a Virtual Reality 3D immersive experience, enhancing the sense of community at Atlantic International University. Students benefit from many academic resources , with the AIU Online library offering access to 260,000 books and over 30 million peer-reviewed articles. The Merlin Media Center further complements learning with over 105,000 AIU-created academic resources.

Virtual Campus

Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device. 

My AIU Elements

MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.

AIU TV & Radio

The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.

AIU Campus Mundi

AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.

Graduation Ceremony

Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.

Symposiums & Webinars

In the AIU Doctorate in Journalism program, symposiums and conference days are dynamic platforms for students to spotlight their expertise. These events provide opportunities for presenting original research and offer a global stage where students can share their knowledge with an international audience, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas in journalism.

Live Classes

In AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism program, students experience the unique advantage of participating in two live classes daily, fostering real-time engagement and interaction. These live sessions, facilitated by expert faculty, provide an immersive learning environment where students can actively discuss, debate, and delve into the latest trends and challenges in journalism. The dual live class format ensures a dynamic and responsive educational experience, allowing students to benefit from immediate feedback, collaborative discussions, and the opportunity to connect with both faculty and fellow students in a vibrant virtual setting . This innovative approach enhances the overall learning experience, enabling students to stay connected, informed, and actively involved in the evolving landscape of journalism.

Special Projects

The doctorate in Journalism program at Atlantic International University recognizes the importance of fostering innovation and specialization through special projects. These projects give students a unique opportunity to apply advanced journalistic skills to real-world scenarios, addressing contemporary challenges and contributing to the field’s evolution. Whether investigative reporting, multimedia storytelling, or exploring emerging trends, special projects allow students to deepen their expertise and make a tangible impact. The program encourages students to pursue projects aligned with their passions, ensuring a customized and meaningful academic journey that prepares them to lead in the dynamic landscape of journalism.

Enjoy the Doctorate Experience at AIU

Register with us now, career center.

The Doctorate in Journalism program at AIU’s Career Center is designed to empower aspiring scholars and industry professionals to reach the pinnacle of their careers in the dynamic field of journalism. Our program is committed to fostering advanced research skills, critical thinking, and cutting-edge expertise in journalism.

With a focus on artificial intelligence and its impact on the media landscape, our doctoral candidates engage in interdisciplinary studies that bridge the realms of journalism and technology. The Career Center provides a supportive environment for students to explore diverse career paths, equipping them with the tools to excel in academia, media organizations, research institutions, and beyond. Through mentorship, networking opportunities, and collaboration with industry leaders, AIU’s Doctorate in Journalism program prepares graduates to lead and innovate in the rapidly evolving world of journalism, contributing to advancing knowledge and transforming media practices.

Job Opportunities

Embark on a transformative journey in academia with the opportunity to shape the future of journalism education at AIU. As a faculty member in the Doctorate in Journalism program, you will be pivotal in guiding aspiring scholars through advanced research, cutting-edge exploration of artificial intelligence in media, and preparation for impactful careers.

Join a dynamic team committed to excellence in teaching, research, and industry engagement, and contribute to the evolution of journalism education in the digital age. Suppose you are passionate about the intersection of journalism and technology and possess a Ph.D. in Journalism or a related field. In that case, we invite you to join our innovative and collaborative academic community.

Teaching and Mentoring

Deliver high-quality lectures, seminars, and workshops to doctoral students in journalism. Provide individualized mentorship to guide students through their research projects and dissertation development. Foster a collaborative, engaging learning environment that encourages critical thinking and academic excellence.

Research and Publication

• Conduct original research in the field of journalism, with a focus on artificial intelligence and its impact on media.
• Publish scholarly articles, research papers and contribute to academic journals to enhance the program’s reputation and visibility.
• Stay abreast of emerging journalism, media, and technology trends to update and enhance the curriculum continually.

Curriculum Development

• Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of the Doctorate in Journalism curriculum.
• Integrate innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring that the program remains at the forefront of advancements in journalism and technology.

Advisory Role

• Serve as an academic advisor to doctoral candidates, assisting them in navigating program requirements and career development.
• Participate in thesis and dissertation committees, providing constructive feedback and guidance.
• Industry Engagement
• Establish connections with industry professionals, media organizations, and research institutions.
• Facilitate partnerships and collaborations that provide students with real-world exposure and opportunities.

Professional Development

• Engage in continuous professional development to stay current with journalism, AI, and education developments.
• Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance personal expertise and contribute to the academic community.
• Committee Participation
• Serve on departmental and university committees, contributing to decision-making processes and fostering community within the academic institution.

Community Outreach

• Actively participate in outreach activities, promoting the Doctorate in Journalism program to potential students, industry partners, and the wider community.
• Represent AIU at academic conferences and events.

Tools in Journalism Professionals

Journalists often rely on a variety of tools to enhance their research, reporting, and storytelling capabilities. Here is a list of some of the best tools for journalism:

Writing and Editing

• Microsoft Word or Google Docs : Standard word processors for drafting and editing articles.
• Grammarly : Helps in proofreading and grammar checking to ensure polished writing.

Research and Information Gathering

• Google Search and Alerts : Essential for initial research and staying updated on news topics.
• Evernote or OneNote : Note-taking tools to organize and keep track of research findings.
• Pocket : Save articles, videos, and other content for later reference.

Interviews and Transcription

• Otter.ai or Rev : Automated transcription services for converting audio interviews into text.
• Zoom or Skype : Conduct remote interviews and virtual meetings.

Data Visualization

• Tableau or Google Data Studio : Create interactive and visually appealing data visualizations for stories.
• Infogram or Canva : Design infographics to enhance data-driven narratives.

Social Media and Monitoring

• Hootsuite or Buffer : Schedule and manage social media posts for story promotion.
• TweetDeck : Monitor Twitter for breaking news and trends.

Collaboration and Communication

• Slack or Microsoft Teams : Facilitate communication within editorial teams.
• Trello or Asana : Project management tools for organizing tasks and deadlines.

Digital Security

• Signal or Telegram : Encrypted messaging apps for secure communication.
• Virtual Private Network (VPN): Protect online privacy and ensure secure internet connections, especially when working remotely.

Fact-Checking

• FactCheck.org or Snopes : Verify information and fact-check claims.

File Storage and Sharing

• Google Drive or Dropbox : Cloud storage for sharing and collaborating on documents.
• WeTransfer : Transfer large files securely to editors or colleagues.

Photography and Design

• Adobe Creative Cloud (including Photoshop and InDesign): Photo editing and layout design for multimedia storytelling.
• Unsplash or Canva : Access high-quality images and design templates.

Associations for Journalism Professionals

In the dynamic and ever-evolving realm of journalism, professionals with a Doctorate in Journalism play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the field through rigorous research, critical analysis, and academic excellence. To foster collaboration, provide avenues for ongoing learning, and advocate for advancing journalism scholarship, several esteemed associations offer platforms for networking, research dissemination, and professional development. These associations serve as vibrant hubs where doctoral professionals can engage with peers, share insights, and contribute to the continued evolution of journalism education and practice. Here is a curated list of associations that hold particular significance for individuals holding a Doctorate in Journalism, offering unique opportunities to stay at the forefront of industry trends, connect with like-minded scholars, and actively contribute to the field.

• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)
• International Communication Association (ICA)
• Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ)
• Association of Internet Researchers (AoIR)
• National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)
• Broadcast Education Association (BEA)
• Online News Association (ONA)
• Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE)
• Association for Computational Linguistics (ACL)
• The Society for News Design (SND)

Delve into AU’s Incredible Experience

Sign up for our magazine, doctorate in journalism requirements.

To be eligible for the Doctorate in Journalism program, applicants must possess a master’s degree in journalism or a related field from an accredited institution. Additionally, candidates should have at least five years of professional experience in journalism, showcasing a deep and sustained commitment to the practice and study of the discipline. This program is designed for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional expertise in journalism through their academic and professional endeavors. 

The combination of a master’s degree and substantial practical experience ensures that candidates entering the Doctorate in Journalism program have a solid foundation upon which they can further develop advanced research skills, contribute to the scholarly discourse in journalism, and make significant contributions to the field. The program seeks to attract individuals with a passion for journalism and a proven track record of excellence, preparing them for leadership roles in academia, research, and professional practice.

How Can You Apply?

The Doctorate in Journalism program at Atlantic International University (AIU) offers a straightforward application process designed to facilitate your academic journey. Follow these streamlined steps to embark on your Doctorate in Journalism:

Initiate Your Journey Visit the provided link to access the AIU Doctorate in Journalism application portal. This is the starting point for your academic pursuit.

Input Personal and Educational Data Carefully fill out the required fields with accurate personal and educational information. This step ensures that your application is complete and reflects your academic background.

Attach Your Resume Thoughtfully include your resume as part of the application. This document serves as a testament to your professional experience in journalism, highlighting your achievements and contributions in the field.

Review Your Application Take the time to thoroughly review all the details you’ve entered and the attached documents. Accuracy and completeness are crucial; this information will be integral to assessing your candidacy.

Submit with Confidence Once you’ve reviewed your application, submit it through the online portal. This step marks the beginning of your academic journey at AIU.

Financial Support & Scholarships

Embark on your academic journey toward a Doctorate in Journalism at Atlantic International University (AIU) with the exciting prospect of scholarships awaiting qualified applicants. Submit your inquiry today to mark the initiation of a personalized exploration, where we guide you through myriad possibilities for financial support. At AIU, we understand the significance of fostering talent and encouraging academic excellence. Our scholarship opportunities aim to recognize and support individuals with a passion for journalism, providing a pathway for them to contribute meaningfully to the field. Take the first step by expressing your interest, and let us navigate the potential avenues for scholarships that align with your academic goals. Your inquiry not only opens the door to advanced education but also positions you to benefit from the resources and opportunities AIU offers to empower your journey in journalism.

How Much Does a Doctorate in Journalism Cost Per Year?

Embark on your academic journey with the assurance of affordability at Atlantic International University (AIU). Our Doctorate in Journalism program is designed to be exceptionally accessible. Experience financial ease through a flexible monthly payment plan, prioritizing your convenience and minimizing financial stress. AIU is steadfast in its commitment to delivering outstanding education while ensuring that pursuing a doctoral degree remains achievable for aspiring journalists.

How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. in Journalism?

The duration to complete a Ph.D. program in Journalism typically ranges from 4 to 6 years, depending on program structure, research requirements, and individual progress.

How does a Doctorate in Journalism differ from a Master's degree in terms of content and approach?

A Doctorate in Journalism typically involves more advanced and specialized research, contributing new knowledge to the field. It emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and the completion of a doctoral dissertation. In contrast, a Master’s degree focuses on foundational knowledge and practical skills. It may include a thesis or capstone project but generally requires a different level of original research than a PhD.

Are there any online Doctorate programs in Journalism, and how effective are they?

Yes, there are online Doctorate programs in Journalism offered by various institutions. The effectiveness of online programs depends on factors such as accreditation, faculty expertise, and the program’s structure. Accredited online Doctorate programs can be as effective as traditional ones, providing flexibility for working professionals and utilizing advanced technologies for distance learning.

What is the significance of the dissertation in a Journalism PhD, and what are some example topics?

The dissertation in a Journalism PhD holds significance as it represents original research contributing to the academic field. It demonstrates the candidate’s ability to conduct in-depth scholarly inquiry. Example topics may include “The Impact of Social Media on News Reporting,” “Media Framing in Political Campaigns,” or “Ethical Considerations in Investigative Journalism.”

What are the latest technological and digital trends in journalism research?

Some current technological and digital trends in journalism research include artificial intelligence for content creation and analysis, immersive storytelling through virtual and augmented reality, data journalism for in-depth analysis, and the exploration of blockchain for enhanced transparency in news distribution.

How does a doctoral program in journalism prepare students for ethical challenges in the media?

A doctoral program in journalism prepares students for ethical challenges in the media by providing a solid theoretical foundation in journalism ethics, fostering critical analysis of media practices, honing research skills to study ethical issues, teaching ethical decision-making, covering media law and policy, and often incorporating elements of professional development. Graduates are equipped to contribute to the academic understanding of media ethics and navigate complex ethical dilemmas in their future roles as scholars, educators, or industry professionals.

Can a Doctorate in Journalism include international journalism studies or correspondences?

Yes, a Doctorate in Journalism can focus on international journalism studies or correspondences. Many doctoral programs offer opportunities for students to specialize in global journalism, cross-cultural communication, or international media issues, allowing them to explore and research the complexities of journalism in an international context.

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Missouri School of Journalism

University of missouri, missouri school of journalism doctoral candidate wins coveted dissertation award from american academy of advertising.

By Austin Fitzgerald

COLUMBIA, Mo. (March 18, 2024) — Evgeniia Belobrovkina , a doctoral candidate at the Missouri School of Journalism, has won the American Academy of Advertising’s (AAA) Doctoral Dissertation Grant Competition, a prestigious honor that comes with funding supporting the continuation of groundbreaking research and initiatives.

Belobrovkina is the fifth doctoral candidate from the School of Journalism to win the award since its inception in 1996 and the first in nearly a decade.

“Evgeniia’s achievement further positions the School of Journalism at the leading edge of health communication research,” said Earnest Perry, associate dean for graduate studies and research at the School. “It’s great to see more national recognition for research that improves lives and shows the industry what the future should look like.”

Building off her previous work that has earned her a Dunn Award from AAA and an Eason Award from the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), the dissertation centers around the importance of cultural competence in crafting effective health communication for public service advertisements (PSAs). In particular, it draws from interviews with strategic communicators who have been involved with domestic violence PSAs and explores their awareness of cultural competence in the context of domestic violence.

“Knowing the cultural background and views of a target audience, whether it relates to country, race, religion or something else, shows us how to create more impactful PSAs,” Belobrovkina said.

Knowing the cultural background and views of a target audience, whether it relates to country, race, religion or something else, shows us how to create more impactful PSAs. Evgeniia Belobrovkina

“This focus resonates strongly with current needs in academia and practice,” remarked Shelly Rodgers, the dissertation advisor to Belobrovkina and the Maxine Wilson Gregory Chair in Journalism Research, who has recently attained the esteemed title of Fellow of the International Communication Association. “Evgeniia’s dissertation delves into the contemporary landscape of PSA production, addressing a critical gap. Her work not only scrutinizes existing practices but also explores avenues for potential improvements.”

Belobrovkina has worked with Rodgers on published papers investigating how to increase the effectiveness of COVID-19 PSA messaging, identifying pervasive gender stereotypes in online PSAs for breast and prostate cancer (with Weilu Zhang, PhD ’22, and Ting-Hao Tsou, PhD ’23) and exploring a way to more authentically represent the advertising experiences of marginalized groups like LGBTQ+.

For Rodgers, this consistent attention to developing theoretical models and moving the industry forward while seeking to create benefits for diverse communities is a hallmark of her research agenda, which encourages behavior that benefits society, not just the organization doing the advertising. “Evgeniia’s work stands as a testament to our dedication to advancing impactful research that addresses pressing societal needs and challenges, Rodgers said.

“This recognition from AAA truly highlights her potential to make meaningful scholarly contributions in addressing real-world issues,” Rodgers said. “Her research advances our understanding of contemporary social and media landscapes and offers valuable insights that can inform industry practices and policymaking.”

Rodgers also noted that Belobrovkina’s work reflects the success of the university’s supportive and forward-thinking approach to research, embodied by Rodgers’ Maxine Gregory Chair, which supports master’s and undergraduate research through the Gregory Scholars Program on top of her work with doctoral students.

This recognition from AAA truly highlights her potential to make meaningful scholarly contributions in addressing real-world issues. Her research advances our understanding of contemporary social and media landscapes and offers valuable insights that can inform industry practices and policymaking. Shelly Rodgers

“Our commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the MU campus and pushing the boundaries of traditional journalism and strategic communication practices has provided fertile ground for innovative exploration,” Rodgers added. “Evgeniia’s achievement helps solidify our reputation as a premier hub for cutting-edge scholarship.”

In fact, Belobrovkina said that in addition to all the wisdom Rodgers was able to impart, the professor’s supportive attitude was a key factor in allowing her to build a successful dissertation.

“I am deeply honored and grateful for the unwavering support and guidance provided by Dr. Rodgers throughout my academic journey, especially as an international doctoral student. Dr. Rodgers’ mentorship has been instrumental in empowering me to navigate the challenges and opportunities in academia. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion has enriched my research and inspired me to strive for excellence in my field,” said Belobrovkina.

She also credited her dissertation committee for their support, including Drs. Jeannette Porter, Luke Capizzo, Zachary Massey, and Yerina Ranjit.

After defending her dissertation later this year, Belobrovkina plans to continue a career in academia pursuing research in prosocial advertising and hopes, one day, to create a course dedicated to her passion: the principles of public service advertising for undergraduate students.

Updated: March 19, 2024

Related Stories

• Aug 05, 2022 Gregory Scholars program offers paid research experience at Missouri School of Journalism to students from any school or college at Mizzou
• Jul 26, 2022 Missouri School of Journalism faculty, students, alumni win awards, present work at annual AEJMC conference
• Jun 28, 2022 Three Missouri School of Journalism doctoral students win coveted scholarship from American Academy of Advertising
• Mar 01, 2022 Doctoral student wins American Academy of Advertising’s Dunn Award
• Jan 06, 2022 Shelly Rodgers and the power of communication: The Missouri School of Journalism professor finding the human stories in advertising
• Sep 14, 2021 Two Missouri School of Journalism doctoral students win awards at AEJMC
• Jul 27, 2021 Missouri journalism faculty, graduate students and alumni to present at AEJMC 2021 virtual conference
• Apr 08, 2021 Shelly Rodgers named Maxine Wilson Gregory Chair in Journalism Research
• Apr 27, 2020 Shelly Rodgers receives 2020 Sandage Award for Teaching Excellence from American Academy of Advertising
• Feb 28, 2019 Advertising Scholar on Consumer Behavior to Present on Tuesday, March 19
• Jul 12, 2016 Again: Missouri Students, Faculty, Staff Celebrate 560-Plus Annual Awards and Honors
• Nov 04, 2014 Esther Thorson Discusses Ethics, TV Ads in DeFleur Lecture at Boston University
• Apr 22, 2014 Missouri Journalism Students, Faculty and Alumni Present Scholarly Research at American Academy of Advertising Conference
• Apr 08, 2014 Doctoral Student Wins 3 Awards at the American Academy of Advertising Annual Conference
• Jun 13, 2013 4 Missouri School of Journalism Professors Receive Promotions in Academic Rank
• Mar 06, 2013 Doctoral Student Heather Shoenberger Receives $2,000 Prize from the American Academy of Advertising
• Mar 28, 2012 Consumers Misunderstand 'Cruelty-Free' Labeled Products, MU, Oregon Researchers Find
• Aug 12, 2009 Strategic Communication Professor Named President of the American Academy of Advertising
• Oct 15, 2007 Cameron and Journalism Alumni Colleagues Release New Public Relations Textbook
• Aug 23, 2005 Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute Names Three to Its Executive Staff
• Jun 02, 2004 Esther Thorson Named 2004 Distinguished Educator by American Advertising Federation

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Choosing a PhD Dissertation Topic in Journalism and Mass Communication

Are you a student who studies journalism, media, & mass communication and looking to make a carrier in the media field? Is it mandatory for you to choose a dissertation or thesis work related to mass media, journalism, etc.? And are you confused on which Dissertation / Thesis to be chosen? Here in this section, we will take a look at journalism and Mass Communication, so according to your interest, you shall select your Dissertation in PhD with the help of CaseStudyHelp.Com.

What is Journalism and Mass Communication?

A project or task to get and spread information with the help of recent evolution in TV, filming, advertising, social media (public relations), theatre, radio, magazines, newspapers, etc., is considered Journalism. And so, Journalism Ethics is considered as an extensive field to study or work on, and that becomes the major reason to have access to a limited list while doing research or project while studying during UG and masters. The study that covers information spreading to huge spectators using several methods to communicate is Mass Communication. Journalism and mass communication has countless options and is huge. And so, it is advised for students to choose a simple subject rather than choosing a wide topic to avoid confusion.

Also Read : Business Research Topics Ideas Assignments for Students

However, when considering a dissertation topic, narrow it down to a specific question. Such a process makes you focused, easier, and flexible while doing the research, thesis, or Dissertation. Also, it would help if you assured that the PhD Dissertation   Topics in Mass Communication are not to be very narrow so that it consumes more time for research on related aspects or scenarios.

Course Structure

Journalism mostly includes economics, journalism, research methodology, political science, journalism history and theory of communication. Journalism focuses on social facts, media role as an agency of mediating and theoretical frameworks. Mass communication involves writing work that has a huge social impact on features & pieces of opinions that writers or journalists provide. The Mass Communication Project Topics communication is like the largest umbrella with vital choices to write about.

Course Offering

During journalism graduation (while pursuing UG or masters), it involves digital, print or electronic, approaches, which can be selected as the specialization. Out of different aspects, writing about current affairs and news in several media is mostly used in Mass Communication Ethics. This course contains the studies of human communication and how it can be publicized the information to a group of people. There are vast options of PhD Research Paper Writing in Journalism   for the students who will pick mass communication and journalism in their academic.

Best Dissertation Ideas for Journalism and Mass Communication 

As technology improves, there are more developments and differences in today’s mass communication compared with the olden days. Those days there was no printing press, so it took more time and became very challenging to convey news or information or communicate to a huge set of people. Nowadays, it has become very easy to convey messages or news or information to people, and that has become possible through media and social media on the spot when it happens.

Here is the list of Mass Communication Dissertation Topics:

Dissertation Topics Related To the Current Scenario:

• Research on impacts of media and other entertainment industries due to COVID pandemic
• Research on mass media role during Covid-19
• Research on media that it is showing the actual information or just working to advertising.
• Research about journalists and their role during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Research about the people working in media and their safety measurement

Likewise, we do have more journalism-related PhD dissertation topics around the world in various fields to do research or Dissertation; they are as follows:

• Journalism and Privacy Dissertation Topics
• Journalism and Freedom of Expression Dissertation Topics
• Media, the Artist and Censorship Dissertation Topics
• Media across Cultures Dissertation Topics
• Music, Culture, the Artist and Intellectual property
• Media in the Digital Age Dissertation Topics
• Media and Politics Dissertation Topics

Under these topics, there are so many titles to do the Dissertation for the journalism and mass communication students. Get more information on the above topic from CaseStudyHelp.Com!

Also Check Out :  The Most Relevant Controversial Topics for Essay and Debate

Choosing the Right Journalism and Mass Communication Research Topics with the Help of Casestudyhelp.Com

Selecting the journalism and mass communication topics will be the challenging part or task for the student to give their best research and need to be clear enough to convey correctly. Case Study Help provides you with the easiest way to organize your thought process. The research work needs to be not very broad as well as not too narrow; it should be moderate so that this can save your time and at the same time leaves a way to perfect completing of your project or thesis or Dissertation that leads to scoring high mark in your academic.

It would help if you were more confident and clearer enough about the selected topic so that the thesis or research comes out well with the best quality. Every student needs to keep in mind that the PhD dissertation on Journalism and mass communication doesn’t hold any theoretical knowledge limitations. The thesis needs to be more perfect with the exact information that happens in real-time.

Here are some interesting topics under the Journalism thesis from CaseStudyHelp.Com:

• What are the futures of Journalism?
• Whether the true journalism stage ended?
• Will you decide social media and blogging can be journalism’s future?
• Do you think do the media focus on publicity?
• Practicing various counties journalism culture.
• Exploring the league between British journalism and the royal family.
• Causes of journalism with the lifestyle changes of Henry Meghan
• Journalism and business – limitation of media
• Journalism purpose – notifying people on money-making.
• With shareholders interest, how is media losing its quality?
• Examine the woman journalist’s role and aspects as a media person and its drawbacks.
• Do woman journalists need to progress to particular places?

Investigative and Political Research Topics under Journalism and Mass Communication

The name investigation makes everyone’s attention and curious on it. While selecting such investigative research topics, you need to be more focused on what accurately happened and think twice before choosing the topics. Will it be that much easy to write a dissertation on investigative topics?

Firstly, you must thoroughly understand the exact purpose of investigative journalism and later figure out whether to process with investigative research or not.

Some of the Investigative Research Topics for PhD Dissertation Writing:

• Powerful politicians and media
• Image and media – how did media transform negative images of a particular country before the world?
• The media’s role is to keep an eye on politicians.
• Journalists case study – Causes of investigative journalism
• Investigative journalism’s drawback
• What are the steps taken by the media to maintain investigative journalists’ safety?
• Effects of media in the countries development.
• Impact of politics in the countries development.
• Corruption and politics – How to create a link connecting both?
• Research topics on Animation and Film Journalism

Read More:  Choose the Best Case Study Topic to Impress Your Professor

What Film Journalism is?

Film journalism is all about characterizing news and articles about movies. Also, it involves the people in the film industry and writing reviews about movies.

Here Are Some Interesting Topics on Film Journalism:

• Study of Hollywood violence – what are the effects created on youth?
• What are the race role and Hollywood religion?
• How do Arabic men show Hollywood movies?
• Bollywood versus Hollywood – effects of culture and economy.
• Do televisions popular than movies?

Structuring the Journalism and Mass Communication Thesis Topics Examples Dissertation

Though the topic plays the main role for a student to achieve score more, a perfectly structured thesis sounds good and also the research that is arranged in a good manner will give more scope for the students. Below mentioned show the structure of the Dissertation that can be presented perfectly.

• Title of the page
• Acknowledgement
• Declaration
• Abstract – summary of the research
• Content Table
• Introduction
• Literature Review
• Methodology
• Finding and Analysis

Also Read: How to Write Dissertation Writing? A Step by Step Guide

Career Prospects under Journalism and Mass Communication

By walking through the escalation of trending media, there are more chances and opportunities for the students who graduated in Journalism and Mass Communication. There are various fields in Journalism and mass communication like publishing, public relations, research institution and news media.

Those who pick PhD Dissertation Topics on journalism   as their discipline can shine in any following field.

• News agencies
• News channels
• News portals

Those who selected PhD Dissertation Topics on Mass Communication   during their academic can pursue their career in one of the following:

• Advertising agencies
• Public relations
• Corporate communication
• UN organization
• Media academics
• Communication solution Organization

Specialization Offered In Journalism and Mass Communication

There are a huge number of uncountable specializations and topics offered in Journalism and Mass Communication.

Time to know more about Journalism and Mass communication dissertation ideas:

• Broadcasting
• Public Relations
• Event Management
• Advertising

Since Journalism is a worldwide field that leaves a way to explore more with countless research topics and, it is open to selecting the opt research dissertation topics for PhD from the team of  CaseStudyHelp.Com  experts. The student needs to be stable enough to process with selected topics to achieve their goal.

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Journalism Dissertation Topics (29 Examples) For Research

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Journalism is all about gathering information and distributing it through different media channels. Many students pursuing their degree in journalism and mass communication seek journalism dissertation topics and project topics on journalism. Before worrying about writing, the students are advised to determine and find out the best journalism dissertation topics. Here, we have presented a […]

A list Of Journalism Dissertation Topics

Topic with mini-proposal (paid service).

Along with a topic, you will also get;

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• 2-3 research questions.
• Key literature resources identification.
• Suitable methodology with identification of raw sample size, and data collection method
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Guest Essay

One Way to Help a Journalism Industry in Crisis: Make J-School Free

By Graciela Mochkofsky

Ms. Mochkofsky is the dean at CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.

Many uncertainties haunt the field of journalism today — among them, how we can reach our audience, build public trust in our work, and who is going to pay for it all. But one thing is certain: as complicated and dark as the world looks today, it would be much worse if journalists were not there to report on it.

Research shows that towns that have lost sources of local news tend to suffer from lower voter turnout, less civic engagement and more government corruption. Journalists are essential just as nurses and firefighters and doctors are essential.

And to continue to have journalists, we need to make their journalism education free.

This might sound counterintuitive given the state of the industry. Shrinking revenue and decreasing subscription figures have led to a record number of newsroom jobs lost. Much of the local news industry has fallen into the hands of hedge funds focused on squeezing the last drops of revenue out of operations by decimating them. Billionaires who appeared as saviors just a few years ago have grown tired of losing money on the media organizations they bought. Public trust in the value of news is at historical lows, while a growing percentage of people are avoiding the news altogether.

Generative artificial intelligence, which is on the verge of reshaping almost everything around us, is bringing yet another technological disruption to the industry. Against this grim backdrop, authoritarian leaders are increasingly targeting journalists as political enemies both at home and abroad.

And yet there are still tens of thousands of jobs in news media in America, with exceptional journalism being produced every day. Some major organizations have even found ways to thrive in the digital age. Prominent foundation leaders have started an effort to pour hundreds of millions of philanthropic dollars into local journalism, and a movement has formed to push for federal and local legislation to direct public funding to news. An initiative to replant local news has founded dozens of nonprofit newsrooms in cities around the country. And a small but growing number of organizations are redefining the way news agendas are set, focusing on rebuilding public trust within small communities.

No matter how the news industry evolves, we will continue to need journalists. Successful business models for media are necessary, but the most crucial element for strong, independent journalism is the people who make it. Given the present stakes in the industry, our society and the world, we need mission-driven, imaginative news leaders who are not bound by the models of the past, who have the motivation and freedom to reimagine the field, and the empathy and commitment to serve the public interest, undaunted by attacks and threats.

We must also move beyond the lack of economic and demographic diversity that has long been a problem in the industry. News has too often been reported by predominantly middle-class, white, male journalists, resulting in coverage that has repeatedly missed the issues that are most important to the people receiving the news, contributing to the public’s lack of trust in the media.

In a resource-starved industry, few newsrooms can offer the type of mentoring, guidance and time that it takes to shape a great journalist. This is now primarily the responsibility of journalism schools. It is the civic duty of these schools to find and train reporters and news leaders, instill in them an ethical foundation, help develop their critical thinking skills, allow them to try and fail in a safe environment, open doors and provide a support network. (Journalism schools should also contribute research in a variety of areas, from the impact of A.I. to new business models to identifying and responding to emerging threats.)

But the cost of a journalism education has become an insurmountable barrier for exactly the kind of people we need the most. And those who, with great effort, manage to overcome that barrier, carry a weight that could limit their professional options.

Reporters burdened with debt are less likely to take professional risks and more likely to abandon the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median reporter salary in America is less than $56,000 a year, or about $27 per hour. In low-income areas, where news deserts are more prevalent, annual salaries can be as low as $20,000. A Wall Street Journal report about the debt-to-income ratio of alumni of 16 journalism masters programs found that many graduates leave with debts that exceed their postgraduate income.

As the dean of the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York, I can tell you that half measures won’t solve this quandary. My school was founded in 2006 as a public alternative to elite journalism schools in the city and it remains one of the most affordable in the nation.

Our in-state students pay about a quarter of the cost of an equivalent degree from top-tier schools with which we successfully compete. This year alone, 90 percent of our students are on scholarships, and a record 25 percent are attending tuition-free. We also waived the $75 application fee this admission cycle and saw an increase of more than 40 percent in our applicant pool.

Thanks to these policies, we have succeeded where the media industry keeps failing. Over 50 percent of our students are people of color and from underserved communities. Many couldn’t have attended our school if we hadn’t offered significant scholarship support. But that’s not enough. Though we rank as one of the journalism schools with higher-medium-income and lower-median-debt alumni, our students still don’t graduate fully debt-free.

This is why this year, we began a campaign to go fully tuition-free by 2027. While other schools might face different financial challenges, we hope that many more will follow us.

We need journalists whose only obligations are to the facts and the society they serve, not to lenders; who are concerned with the public interest, not with interest rates; who can make risky decisions and take the difficult path if that’s what the mission requires, free of financial burden. Journalism schools can help achieve that. In tough times, it is natural to mourn the past or lament the present, but what we really need is bold action.

Graciela Mochkofsky is the dean at CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. She is the author, most recently, of “ The Prophet of the Andes: An Unlikely Journey to the Promised Land .”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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• Entrepreneurial Journalism

Media innovators and pioneers join the eighth cohort of the Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program

• By Newmark J-School Staff
• Published on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024 at 9:10 am

Award-winning writers, audio journalists, documentarians, and multimedia journalists make up the eighth cohort of the Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program (EJCP) at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY. These 22 journalism entrepreneurs are from 13 countries, nations, states or administrative regions around the world. They’ll embark on a 100-day journey to hone their skills and knowledge, aimed at fortifying and expanding their niche journalism ventures. 

The virtual program, which kicks off March 19, includes live workshops, mentorship, and hands-on project learning tailored for independent journalists developing newsletters, podcasts, local platforms, and other specialized news products. 

“We selected this remarkable group of disrupters from around the world because they wowed us with what they’ve accomplished and with the intensity of their focus on building impactful and sustainable ventures,” said Jeremy Caplan, the EJCP’s program director. 

“It can be isolating to be an entrepreneurial journalist working independently,” Caplan said. “So we’re excited to assemble this super cohort to provide mutual inspiration and support. The journalism ecosystem needs their new ideas and perspectives.”

Since the online entrepreneurial program launched in 2020, 193 creators from more than 50 countries around the world have completed the program and gone on to establish thriving ventures, win awards, and obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars in grant funding to grow their projects. Some were featured in a recent series of case studies . 

Previous scholarship support for this program has been provided by the Meta Journalism Project, Substack, The European Press Prize, Media Lab Bayern, LION, FJUM, Swapstack, the Center for Community Media at the Newmark J-School, the Tow-Knight Center for Entrepreneurial Journalism at the Newmark J-School, the Center for Cooperative Media, the New Jersey Information Consortium, and the Military Veterans in Journalism.

Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program Cohort #8

Golda Arthur Current location: New York, New York, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Golda Arthur is an award-winning audio producer and journalist. Over the course of her 20 year career in journalism, she’s worked on breaking news, produced long-form documentaries, and led teams of creative people on deadline. She has reported, edited and produced audio for the BBC, the CBC, Vox Media, and Marketplace. As an independent producer, her company, RadioGold Productions, works with mission-driven organizations to create innovative podcasts that connect deeply with listeners. She teaches audio reporting at Columbia University, and skills-based workshops for podcasting online. She lives in Queens, New York.

Bradford Betz Current location: Anaheim, California, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: He/him

Bradford Betz is a multimedia media journalist based in Anaheim, California. For the last six and a half years he’s written for Fox News Digital and FOX Business covering national and international news. Last year he joined the board of directors for Regimes Museum, a non-profit educational institution for which he has been producing a podcast series titled “Perspectives on Tyranny.” Bradford holds a B.A. in Radio-TV-Film from California State University Fullerton and an M.S. in Digital Audience Strategy. 

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Stephanie Blanchard Current location: Barrington, Rhode Island, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Stephanie Afonso Blanchard is a writer and editor who is inspired by creative entrepreneurs and wants to tell their stories. In 2021, she founded Artisan Joy, a magazine and media outlet. She believes that Artisan Joy’s role in the media is to champion the creative economy by bringing awareness to the work of artists, designers, makers, artisans and others who sell their creative goods or services through interview journalism.

Amy Bushatz Current location: Palmer, Alaska, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Amy Bushatz is an experienced journalist based in Palmer, Alaska where she is working to launch the nonprofit Mat-Su Sentinel, a nonpartisan news website. The former Executive Editor of Military.com, Amy’s work in local journalism is driven by the vital role of consistent news reporting in maintaining healthy communities. Amy is a graduate of the George W. Bush Institute’s Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program and holds a Master of Arts in Public Leadership from the University of San Francisco. 

Janet Cacelin Current location: Sacramento, California, United States Country of origin: Mexico Pronouns: She/her

Janet Cacelin is a Mexican journalist specializing in the production and editing of multimedia content. She worked as an assistant editor in the digital newsroom of Univision News, focusing on Latino audiences in the United States. In 2021, she was part of the award-winning team recognized by the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) in the Environmental Journalism category. At the end of February 2024, she moved to Sacramento, California. She enjoys practicing yoga and taking long walks with her dog, Miles.

Runako Celina Current location: London, United Kingdom Country of origin: United Kingdom Pronouns: She/her

Runako Celina is an award-winning investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker, and reporter committed to storytelling through the lens of two of her biggest interests: journalism and genealogy. She presently works for the BBC where she blends Open Source Investigative techniques, social media and traditional documentary formats to bring compelling human stories to new audiences. Runako speaks fluent Mandarin and holds a MSc in International Politics & African Studies from Peking University and a MA in Investigative Journalism from City University of London. When she’s not sniffing out her next story Runako is helping families like her own build their knowledge of who they are via hidden family history. 

Cassie M Chew Current location: Washington, D.C., United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Cassie M Chew specializes in stories on healthcare, science, education, and technology policy.  Prior to forays in freelance journalism, Cassie worked as a digital editor for Medill News Service, a reporter and video producer for PBS NewsHour, and as a staff reporter for Bloomberg News. She studied business reporting, feature writing and digital media production at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She holds memberships with the Association of Health Care Journalists and the IDA B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting.

Audrey Cordova Rampant Current location: Lima, Peru Country of origin: Peru & France Pronouns: She/her

Audrey Cordova is a French-Peruvian freelance journalist, documentary filmmaker, producer, and photographer with 14 years of experience between France, Spain and Peru. As the daughter of a Peruvian migrant in France and a French mother, she decided to work in journalism to change narratives about how the Global South has been represented from its territories or Europe. Based now in Lima, Peru— her work is focused on issues related to social justice, human rights, and the environment. She has been a producer for Discovery+ Emmy award-nominated documentaries En la línea México and HBOMAX Dossier Chapecó, and field producer for the BBC, Channel 4, France Télévisions, DW, Vice News, Al-Jazeera English. Today, she runs PUEBLO FILMS, an independent documentary production organization in Peru, where she aims to create a space for investigative documentaries from a gender and decolonial perspective, and a space for women in filmmaking.  

Anja Herberth Current location: Vienna, Austria Country of origin: Austria Pronouns: She/her

Anja Herberth has been active in management and communications consulting for over 20 years. She started supporting transformation processes with her own agency owl lab in 2013 and has also worked as a press spokesperson for politics. She is currently working on the development of the end consumer online medium smartbuildingscompass.com. Her goal: Taking people along in the changes in living, building and renovation. More about Anja Herberth on her homepage owllab.at.

Pallav Jain Current location: Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, India Country of origin: India Pronouns: They/them

Pallav Jain is the co-founder of Ground Report – hyperlocal environment-focused media portal– aims to nurture grassroot journalists in environmental reporting. Therefore, fostering discourse on climate change from a rural perspective. In 2017, they completed a PG Diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi. In 2022, they left their five-year long job at NDTV India to bring environment reports from the margins of India to the forefront. They continue their work with a dedicated team of five people. They have been awarded with prestigious grants, and fellowships. Ground Report was also selected as one of the ten organizations in Google News Initiatives Startups Labs 2023, under their leadership.

Sarah Jones Current location: New York, New York, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Sarah Jones is an Emmy Award–winning journalist and the creator of “Seen & Heard.” She has more than a decade of experience and films, edits, writes, produces, and reports her own pieces. She is also the host of a news podcast for kids called ‘Sarah Jones Breaks It Down,’ which was highlighted by Apple Podcasts as a back to school essential. Sarah is the author of ‘A Kids Book About War’ and is one of the top twenty North American Young Leaders chosen by Friends of Europe. She received the Women Economic Forum’s highest honor on International Women’s Day 2018 in the Hague when she was named one of their “Women of the Decade” in News & Social Engagement. In 2014 she was voted Best Journalist in Social Media by a panel of industry leaders at the Sixth Annual Shorty Awards. Sarah is also an International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) fellow and a two-time International Reporting Project (IRP) Fellow. She founded the international moment of silence and online event to help remember fallen journalists with co-partners like the Committee to Protect Journalists and the UN Foundation’s Plus Social Good. Sarah Jones is a graduate of City University London’s International Broadcast Journalism master’s program, which she received with merit.

Emma Lehman Current location: Los Angeles, California, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Emma Lehman is an independent podcast producer and audio journalist. She produces, writes, and hosts Gooned, an Ambie-nominated limited series podcast now available on all platforms, and is also the creator of the Texas Twiggy podcast, released in 2022. She graduated from UCLA in 2022 with a B.A. in English and minors in Global Studies and Professional Writing. She also runs Los Audio, a newsletter about podcasting, radio, and other audio events in Los Angeles. She is a member of The Podcast Academy’s Education and Outreach Committee, and participates in plenty of radio, podcast, and audio groups.

Antoinette Ludowyk Current location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Country of origin: Sri Lanka Pronouns: She/her

Antoinette is a communications specialist turned journalist and media entrepreneur passionate about creating content that’s impactful and engages audiences. The co-founder of Echelon media, the publisher of Echelon print magazine and a digital news platform www.economynext.com, her vision is to build the most impactful digital media company by embracing technology and creative storytelling to reach and connect with audiences that cut across all age groups. Her latest venture is Neon Media, a local language platform dedicated to reaching and connecting with millennials and Gen Z through in-depth and insightful content in both textual and video storytelling formats. Her commitment extends beyond her professional endeavors. She ardently advocates for causes close to her heart, including climate change and the economic empowerment of marginalized communities. A staunch supporter of education for all, she is on a mission to make a meaningful difference through her work in the media landscape.

Chatwan Mongkol Current location: New York, New York, United States Country of origin: Thailand Pronouns: He/him

Chatwan writes a weekly Substack newsletter about student journalism called The Nutgraf (bit.ly/thenutgraf), as a passion project. He has worked at Hearst CT Newspapers in New Haven and interned at multiple newsrooms including NBCUniversal OTS, CT Public and GBH News. In 2020, he covered a pro-democracy movement in Thailand for a non-profit newsroom in Bangkok, where he grew up. He holds a journalism degree from Quinnipiac University and is pursuing a media management degree at The New School. His humor is dark.

Kate Morrissey Current location: San Diego, California, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Kate Morrissey is an immigration reporter who has been working at the San Diego-Tijuana border for more than seven years. She was the lead reporter on “Returned,” an award-winning four-part investigation into the U.S. asylum system that was published in 2020. She has a master’s degree from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She is fluent in Spanish and French and is learning Brazilian Portuguese.

Ignacio Pereyra Current location: Athens, Greece Country of origin: Argentina Pronouns: He/him

Ignacio Pereyra has been a journalist for over 20 years, and now runs a bilingual newsletter on fatherhood and masculinity. He publishes Recalculando/Recalculating on Substack to tackle his experience as a caregiver to his sons in a sexist society. His work has appeared in newspapers, magazines, and radio stations in Argentina and internationally, including: USA Today; Rolling Stone magazine; La Nación, Argentina’s second-largest newspaper; Spain’s El País and Coolt; and Bloomberg’s CityLab. For almost a decade, he was a correspondent for the Spanish-language service of DPA, the German news agency. He also worked for Patagonia’s largest newspaper, Río Negro.

Gabriel Sama Current location: Oakland, California, United States Country of origin: Mexico Pronouns: He/him

Gabriel began his career as a magazine editor in Mexico and later moved to the US to pursue a master’s in journalism at Columbia University in 2000. He worked at The Wall Street Journal in New York for 2.5 years, and in 2004, he relocated to San Antonio to launch the Rumbo chain of newspapers. In 2013, he launched the Spanish version of the tech website CNET in San Francisco. He was honored to be a Knight Fellow at Stanford in 2010 and participated in CUNY’s Executive Program in News Innovation and Leadership in 2022. Gabriel is proud to have two wonderful college-aged sons, and he has been happily married to his amazing and talented wife for 27 years.

Kouichi Shirayanagi Current location: Brooklyn, New York, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: He/him

Kouichi Shirayanagi is a copy editor and journalist who has worked for S&P Global Ratings, LinkedIn and Reuters in different capacities. His writing has also appeared in The Guardian, Vice, Bklyner, Brooklyn Paper and the New York Daily News, among other publications. He is a Coney Island, Brooklyn-based neighborhood activist who believes the best way to empower people is with useful information. He hopes to apply lessons from the CUNY Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program to create a sustainable local news venture in Coney Island. He holds an MA in journalism from the Missouri School of Journalism and a BA in economics and mathematics from the University of California Santa Cruz. 

Francesca Trianni Current location: Brooklyn, New York, United States Country of origin: Italy Pronouns: She/her

Francesca Trianni is an award-winning journalist and documentary filmmaker. Most recently, Trianni spent nearly a year investigating how toxic forever chemicals contaminate our food supply. Prior to that, Trianni directed and filmed Paradise Without People, an award-winning feature that follows two pregnant Syrian refugees as they navigate motherhood in a Greek refugee camp. Her work has been shown and exhibited in art galleries and film festivals around the world, including DOC NYC, Big Sky and the Stockholm Film Festival and has garnered numerous awards, including a World Press Photo and two Edward R. Murrow awards.

Agnes Varum Current location: Austin, Texas, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: She/her

Agnes Varnum is a community builder, event producer and consultant. As the director of events at The Texas Tribune, Agnes produced over 350 conversations and symposiums up, down and across Texas, including the annual Texas Tribune Festival. Using data and iteration, she drove audience growth and ticket revenue while presenting a best-in-class ideas event, eventually drawing about 10,000 people to the annual gathering. As deputy director of the Revenue Lab, she designed an eight-week workshop to help news organizations develop and hone their event strategies. When she’s not dreaming up event ideas, she’s exploring Austin with her family.

Gregory Warner Current location: New York, New York, United States Country of origin: United States Pronouns: He/him

Gregory Warner is a Peabody Award–winning reporter and radio host. He founded the NPR podcast Rough Translation, about how conversations happening in one place are echoing around the world. During his seven-year tenure as host, writer, and executive editor of the show, Rough Translation won numerous awards, including three from the Overseas Press Club, and was named a top ten podcast by The New York Times. Warner speaks Russian and co-reported an investigation of smuggled abortion pills to Ukraine that was named a best podcast of 2023 by Vogue Magazine. A review in Lifehacker wrote, “I often wonder how Gregory is able to find the most interesting people in the world, but then I remind myself they are everywhere, because he approaches everyone’s story with empathy and wonder. He listens.” 

Amy Zhang Current location: New York, New York, United States Country of origin: Hong Kong Pronouns : She/her

Amy Zhang is a multi-disciplinary writer and civic designer from Hong Kong, Beijing, and New York City. Previously, she was a segment producer at Netflix’s Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj, and worked in engagement and education at the National Medal of Arts winning theater company, Ping Chong + Company. For her Master’s thesis at Emerson College’s Media Design program, she prototyped a program “The LinkedThru Project”  for returning citizens to learn digital narrative tools to defeat stigma, and has designed civic interventions for communities in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Amy also created an online Asian diasporic writing community, Sandbox, where she teaches workshops for non-fiction and fiction writing.

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A Word, Please: A lot of crimes against grammar get posted on Nextdoor

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“My partner and I’s bikes were stolen,” a woman posted on my local Nextdoor.com recently.

Not familiar with Nextdoor? It’s the reason why, some years back, everyone you know in every town from coast to coast started talking about the crime wave hitting their neighborhood. The real crime was social media nudging out local news, siphoning advertising dollars away from professional journalism and toward a barrage of hysterical, context-free anecdotes about porch pirates and noises that sound like gunshots. But I digress.

Point is, a lot of folks go on this hyperlocal social media site to tell their neighbors about crimes, coyote sightings and whatnot and, when they do, they don’t always use perfect grammar. Nothing wrong with that. These aren’t doctoral dissertations. But sometimes the grammar is surprising. Revealing. Like “my partner and I’s.”

As kids, we got it drilled into our heads that “me” is often improper. “Kim and me are going to the park” was swiftly corrected by a parent or teacher saying, “It’s Kim and I, not Kim and me.” This valuable lesson about subject and object pronouns got filtered through our little kid brains and settled there as: “I” is bad. It doesn’t go with Kim or any other person. If you don’t want people to think you’re dumb, avoid “I” anytime there’s an “and” plus another person.

The result: Sentences like “The manager saw him and I” and “This is between you and I” and other “and I” structures that miss the mark of perfect grammar precisely because the speaker was trying too hard to be proper.

A lot of experts point out that these sentence structures are acceptable in casual speech. But that’s the problem. The folks using “I” this way are aiming for proper speech. They’re trying to be as grammatical as possible, and it backfires.

A Word, Please: A ‘cherished superstition’ you might not want to read about

A Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary Instagram post recently stirred controversy by stating the facts about prepositions and whether or not they can end a sentence.

March 5, 2024

Whenever it’s the object of a verb, like “saw,” or a preposition, like “between” or “with” or “to,” the most grammatical choice is “me,” not “I.”

The manager saw him and me. Thanks for meeting with her and me.

Usually you can find the right pronoun just by trying the sentence without the other person: The manager saw I, or the manager saw me? Thanks for meeting with I, or thanks for meeting with me? Adding an extra person or people doesn’t change the fact that “me” is better in these sentences.

“My partner and I’s bikes” is more complicated because now we’re talking about possessives. If you’re convinced that “I” is always proper with another person, it’s understandable that you’d have trouble handling a sentence that calls for possessives. But the solution is just as simple: Try omitting the other person.

That is, would you say: “I’s bike was stolen” or “My bike was stolen”? The answer is clear. There is no “I’s.” When you’re talking about something you possess, you use “my”: My bike was stolen.

Another matter complicating our bike-theft sentence: How do you form possessives when you’re talking about two people’s bikes? Is it “my partner’s and my bikes,” or perhaps “my partner and my bikes”? Honestly, it doesn’t matter. This is advanced stuff that your reader most certainly will not know. Frankly, even I’m a little fuzzy on the subject.

The simple rule for “shared possessives” is that if both people share a thing, add the apostrophe and S to only the final person: Hal and Betty’s house. But if each person separately owns one of the things, each gets their own apostrophe and S: Hal’s and Betty’s bikes.

According to that rule, “My partner’s and my bikes” is correct. But so is “my partner and my house,” which sounds bad to my ear. That “partner” screams for an apostrophe and S, simply because it seems weird without one. That’s why, personally, I would use “my partner’s and my house.”

Choose the one you prefer. As long as it’s not “I’s,” you’ll do fine.

June Casagrande is the author of “The Joy of Syntax: A Simple Guide to All the Grammar You Know You Should Know.” She can be reached at [email protected] .

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