Department of Communication Studies

Communication studies offers prospective students a wide range of unique studies, especially for graduate students. The new Media, Technology and Society PhD program combines the resources of Radio/Television/Film and Communication Studies to provide an interdisciplinary look at the historical, social and cultural dimensions of media. In addition, advanced degrees are offered in Rhetoric and Interaction and Social Influence

Several of our recent PhD graduates were honored with special recognitions for their dissertations. Toby Arquette (GC02) and Michael Pfau (GC02) received the Gerald R. Miller Outstanding Dissertation Awards from the National Communication Association. Arquette's dissertation, Social Discourse, Scientific Method, and the Digital Divide, was completed under the direction of Associate Professor James Schwoch . Pfau's dissertation, The Place of Conspiracy: The 'Slave Power' in Chase, Sumner and Lincoln, was completed under the direction of Professor David Zarefsky

In communication studies we explore the role of communication in life and work. Choosing one or possibly two of the department's six course specializations, you will learn to master the tools and techniques of effective communication. The insights and skills you'll gain will serve you in any situation professional or personal. A major in communication studies at Northwestern provides you with superb career qualifications as well as a great education.