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University of Pittsburgh    
2018-2019 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog 
    
 
  Oct 18, 2024
 
2018-2019 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Communication: Rhetoric and Communication, PhD


The aim of the program is to train rigorous researchers and excellent teachers. To this end it offers historical, theoretical, and critical approaches to the study of communication. The curriculum includes traditional and innovative course work drawn from four intersecting areas of emphasis: History, Theory and Criticism of Rhetoric; Media and Cultural Studies; Public Address and Argument; and Rhetoric of Science.

Requirements for the PhD


Complete plan of study within the first year of post-MA enrollment or by the end of the term when MA comps are completed

  • choose a faculty adviser
  • select a faculty committee in consultation with the adviser
  • meet with committee to discuss and/or revise the plan of study

Obtain committee signatures for approval by Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

Complete 72 course credits, including credits toward MA (up to 24 hours transfer credit)

  • Six hours from  departmental core requirements, COMMRC 2296 - PROSEMINAR  and COMMRC 3384 - TEACHING PRACTICUM  
  • With compelling reasons and approval from DGS, up to nine of required course credits can be taken outside of the department and count towards required credit.

Must maintain satisfactory progress of completing 18 credit hours a year

Successfully complete PhD Comprehensive exams, during or in the term immediately following term in which course work is completed.

  • Written exam followed about 2 weeks later by oral defense, scheduled with committee

Prepare a dissertation prospectus for approval by adviser and dissertation committee

  • Form dissertation committee, requiring 3 departmental faculty and 1 outside member
  • Submit prospectus for oral defense
  • Secure committee’s approval of prospectus) 

Complete and successfully defend a dissertation

  • Oral defense of dissertation as a culminating event in the student’s graduate program

Final submission must conform to Electronic Thesis And Dissertation (ETD) guidelines.

For any questions contact your advisor, DGS, or Graduate Administrator



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