The Clemson University Department of Communication now offers a doctoral program for students interested in comprehensive training across a broad range of communication and media specialties, particularly as they relate to STEM innovations.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Communication and Media program combines communication theory and research methods with individualized areas of specialization. Students receive rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative research, advanced research methods and theory construction. Through coursework, mentorship and collaboration with faculty, students explore a broad range of specialties, including health communication, strategic communication, sports communication, risk and crisis communication, organizational communication, instructional communication, media and technology, and more.
Recently approved by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, the program prepares students to design and conduct original research and succeed as leaders in an increasingly globalized, digitized and technology-driven world.
“The new Ph.D. program was intentionally designed as a pathway for students who want to pursue an advanced education in the theories, methods and practices that shape communication across the physical and digital world,” said Deanna Sellnow, chair of the Department of Communication. “The fields of communication and media are rapidly evolving, and students in the program have the opportunity to collaborate with accomplished scholars, develop innovative research and explore topics aligned with their research interests and professional goals.”
According to Ed Bowers, acting associate dean for graduate studies in the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS), the new program demonstrates the College’s commitment to graduate education by creating new and innovative opportunities for students to pursue rigorous, collaborative research and prepare for leadership in higher education and professional practice.
“Graduate education is essential to the mission of a Carnegie R1 research institution because it combines discovery and mentorship to develop the next generation of high-impact scholars and leaders,” said Bowers. “Programs like the Ph.D. in Communication and Media create an environment where students can work alongside renowned faculty to develop the skills and expertise needed to make lasting contributions to their discipline – and a positive difference in the communities they serve.”
The first cohort of students began in August 2026.
The Department of Communication is part of the University’s College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS). Established in July 2016, CBSHS is a 21st-century, land-grant college that combines work in seven disciplines – communication; nursing; parks, recreation and tourism management; political science; psychology; public health sciences; sociology, anthropology and criminal justice – to further its mission of “building people and communities” in South Carolina and beyond.
