Ph.D. in Communication

The tuition fee is 38,604 USD per year.

This doctoral program prepares students for research and teaching in communication. It emphasizes developing individual research identities through mentorship and collaboration, grounded in both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Focus areas include Interpersonal Communication, Health Communication, Media and Communication Technology, Family Communication, Instructional Communication, Intercultural Communication.

Students with a master's degree must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework and 18 credit hours of research, totaling at least 54 credit hours.

Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, research institutions, and health organizations, applying theory-driven research to address communication-related problems.

Applicants need a bachelor's or master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.000, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and a curriculum vitae. GRE scores are required with minimum suggested scores, though waivers are available for applicants with a graduate GPA of 3.3 or higher. An interview is also required.

The programme totals about 54 credit hours. Full-time, typical duration of three years. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 56% of applicants.

Chapman University in Orange, California, founded in 1861, offers a close-knit campus environment where small class sizes and regular faculty interaction shape the student experience. With about 10,000 students, Chapman balances strong academic programs in the arts, sciences, business and health sciences with hands-on learning, undergraduate research and studio practice. The university emphasizes mentorship and collaborative projects, helping students develop professional confidence and practical skills early in their studies.

Academically Chapman is designed for students who want immersive opportunities and clear career pathways. The curriculum blends theory and application across 88 programs, and students can pursue internships, research assistantships and industry partnerships that connect classroom learning to real-world settings. Faculty are accessible and often integrate community engagement or applied projects into coursework, which benefits students preparing for graduate study or employment.

Life on campus in Orange is active and student-centered, with a variety of clubs, cultural events and support services for international students adjusting to life in the United States. Proximity to Los Angeles expands internship and cultural options while Chapman maintains a manageable campus scale. Prospective international applicants should highlight academic fit and hands-on experience in their applications and explore Chapman resources for career advising and visa guidance to make the most of their time abroad.