Communication is what connects people, cultures, and businesses today. The 21st century is shaped by globalization and technology, transforming our world into a global village. With hundreds of different mediums available for communication, people are able to easily connect with their loved ones living thousands of miles away. On the other hand, communication has become integral to the smooth running and overall success of business organizations. Businesses are constantly evolving their methods of communication both internally and externally.
If we take a look around us, information is available to us from different types of sources (TV, Radio, Internet, Billboards, and newspapers). While some businesses focus upon persuasive methods of communication to attract customers, other firms use communication to bring awareness and cause change in our society. Even managers within an organization rely on effective communication channels to delegate work and keep the workforce well-informed. The role of communication has become complex and is a main component of all societies. Individuals may now specialize in this field and prepare for challenging careers in communications. Many institutes are offering communications degree programs at undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate level.
PhD in Communications
The highest form of education one may pursue in communications is at a post-graduate degree level. This is offered by a number of schools across the nation. Students must first earn their bachelor and master's degree to be eligible for PhD study. Students who are employed full-time and cannot manage campus-based studies may choose online PhD communications degree programs. This mode of learning is flexible and allows students to create their own study schedules. The program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the role of communications between individuals, media, and businesses. Students will cover a wide range of subjects that cover all aspects of the field in detail. The program will highlight how organizations are developing effective communications strategies and what social, political, and economical factors affect strategy-making. These are examples of a few main areas covered in the program:
-
Communication research
-
Journalism and society
-
Media and communications
-
Contemporary politics
-
Contemporary organizations
Students enrolled in a communications PhD program must also conduct a research on a chosen area, and prepare a dissertation. This is a major part of the program and will help evaluate students' research skills and understanding of the field. Students may receive help from the faculty or from their committee. Students who may not be able to attend on-campus classes may choose to enroll in a PhD in communications online program. More and more schools are offering online education to help make education more accessible.
Career Prospects
A communications PhD could help lead to advanced career opportunities. Individuals could seek professorships in colleges and universities and help teach the new generation. On the other hand, one could also apply for research-oriented positions in the media industry. The career opportunities may be challenging and dynamic. Here are a few main sectors that demand highly skilled communications degree holders:
-
Advertising
-
Business and Management
-
Communication Education
-
Journalism
-
Public Relation
-
Government and Politics
-
International Relations and Negotiation
-
High Technology Industries
-
Social and Human Services
-
Law