A PhD in Health Communication typically focuses on how communication can be used to promote health and prevent illness. Some key topics that may be covered in a Health Communication PhD program include:
Communication and Health Behavior | This area of study looks at how different types of communication (e.g., interpersonal, mass media) can be used to promote healthy behaviors, such as exercise, healthy eating, and smoking cessation. |
Patient-Provider Communication | This area of study focuses on how communication between patients and healthcare providers can impact health outcomes. Topics may include communication about diagnosis, treatment options, and medication adherence. |
Health Campaigns and Interventions | This area of study looks at the development and implementation of health campaigns and interventions, such as public health campaigns, social marketing campaigns, and community-based interventions. |
Health Literacy | This area of study examines how communication can be used to improve health literacy, or an individual's ability to understand and use health information. |
Health Disparities | This area of study looks at how communication can be used to address health disparities or differences in health outcomes based on social and economic factors. |
A PhD in Health Communication can offer a range of highlights and benefits, including:
1 | In-Depth Knowledge | A PhD program provides students with a deep understanding of the theories and concepts that underpin health communication. This knowledge can be applied to a variety of settings, including healthcare organizations, public health agencies, and academic institutions. |
2 | Research Skills | PhD students in Health Communication develop strong research skills, including the ability to design and execute studies, analyze data, and write scholarly articles. |
3 | Interdisciplinary Approach | Health Communication is an interdisciplinary field that draws on theories and methods from communication, psychology, public health, and other fields. As a result, PhD students gain exposure to a range of perspectives and approaches. |
4 | Career Opportunities | A PhD in Health Communication can lead to a range of career opportunities, including academic positions, research positions in government or non-profit organizations, and consulting roles in healthcare organizations. |
5 | Impactful Work | Health Communication research and practice have the potential to impact the health and well-being of individuals and communities. PhD students in Health Communication have the opportunity to contribute to this important work. |
Many universities require students to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as part of their application for a PhD program in Communication Health Communication. |
Some programs may also require the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for international students. |
Admission requirements vary by university, but most PhD programs in Communication Health Communication require a master's degree in a related field, such as communication, public health, or psychology. Some programs may also consider applicants with a bachelor's degree, but they may require additional coursework. In addition, applicants typically need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample.
The duration of a PhD program in Communication Health Communication varies depending on the university and the student's progress. |
But it typically takes 4-6 years to complete. |
PhD programs in Communication Health Communication typically consider a range of factors when selecting students, including academic performance, research experience, relevant work experience, and fit with the program's research interests. |
1 | To apply for a PhD program in Communication Health Communication, prospective students should first research universities that offer this program and review their admission requirements. |
2 | Most universities have an online application system that allows students to submit their application materials electronically. |
3 | The application typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and test scores (if required). |
4 | It is important to follow the university's application guidelines closely and meet all application deadlines. |
The application form and process for a PhD program in Communication Health Communication varies by university, but most universities have an online application system. |
Prospective students typically need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and test scores. |
It is important to follow the university's application guidelines closely and meet all application deadlines. |
The application fee for a PhD in Communication Health Communication varies by university. |
But it typically ranges from Fees Notified Soon. |
Some universities may waive the application fee for students with financial need. |
1 | The salary and job opportunities for PhD graduates in Communication Health Communication vary depending on the type of job and location. |
2 | Graduates can find employment in a variety of settings, including academia, research institutes, healthcare organizations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. |
3 | According to PayScale, the average salary for a Health Communication Specialist with a PhD is around $80,000 per year. |
Some potential career opportunities for PhD graduates in Communication Health Communication include:
Academic positions, such as professors or researchers in universities or research institutes. |
Research positions in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or healthcare organizations. |
Consulting positions in healthcare organizations or public health agencies. |
Policy positions in government agencies or non-profit organizations. |
Communication or public relations positions in healthcare organizations or non-profit organizations. |
Some top colleges and universities that offer PhD programs in Communication Health Communication include:
University of Pennsylvania, Annenberg School for Communication |
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Media and Journalism |
University of Maryland, Department of Communication |
University of California, Santa Barbara, Department of Communication |
Michigan State University, Department of Communication |
PH.D. ADMISSION PROCEDURE
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Health Communication |
Program Level | Doctorate Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Year |
Eligibility | Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates ) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Rs. 3 Lakh - Rs. 4 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.