Communication and Media Studies

The world needs people who understand media and communications. As a student in the Department of Communication, Media and Film, you will develop a critical perspective on how communication, media and film represent and shape our lives. You will also gain marketable research and communication skills.

This thesis-based degree is designed for students who want to pursue a research or scholarly career. Some of our focus areas include: animation studies, Canadian cinema, communication infrastructure, digital media and social movements, internet policy, rhetoric studies, and visual culture studies. We encourage students to develop their own unique programs of study that reach beyond traditional topics and discipline boundaries.

Completing this program

• Core Courses: Students take courses in interdisciplinary approaches to communication and media studies and research methods.
• Candidacy: Students will complete both written and oral candidacy exams.
• Additional Courses: Topics may include critical media studies, communication infrastructure, environmental communication issues, media and politics and more.
• Thesis: Students will be required to submit and defend an original research thesis.

Academic careers; private sector: communication/media/film related companies, companies dependent on digital media, wifi services; public sector: non-profit organizations, government positions dependent on digital communication.

A PhD in communication and media studies is usually considered a final degree.

1. Collect your documentation

   • Check your program requirements to find out which documents and forms you will need to prepare.
   • See the program's list of required documents for submission details.
   • Prospective doctoral students with funding from the China Scholarship Council: see additional information.

2. Gather references (if required)

   • Contact past professors for potential references. We will invite your referees to complete an online reference form after you submit your application.
   • Some course-based programs do not require references, please see specific admission requirements if you are unsure.

3. Begin your application

   • Create an eID to log in. If you already have an eID, you can begin your online application. 
   • Once you begin, remember to click 'Save & Continue' often to ensure your application is saved.

4. Submit your application

   • Pay your application fee:
     • $125 for Canadians or Permanent residents
     • $145 for International Students
   • Learn about payment options here