Rhetoric and Professional Communication

Seemi Choudry
Master the art of effective communication in today's dynamic professional landscapes with Iowa State University's Rhetoric and Professional Communication graduate program. Rooted in the traditions of rhetorical theory and practice, our program prepares students to excel as strategic communicators in diverse organizational settings.
Program Homepage Program Handbook

The PhD in Rhetoric and Professional Communication focuses on the rhetorical theory, history, pedagogy, and practice of written, oral, visual, and electronic communication (WOVE) in professional communities, such as business, industry, science, and government. The degree prepares graduates for academic positions in rhetoric, in multimodal composition, and in business, professional, and technical communication, as well as for work in the private and public sectors as professional communication specialists, editors, designers, and communications managers. Candidates are required to complete 72 hours of graduate credit including a dissertation and to pass a portfolio assessment, a preliminary examination (consisting of a written comprehensive examination and a special field examination), and an oral defense of the dissertation. The English Department offers a Master of Arts in Rhetoric, Composition, and Professional Communication as well.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.8 years (Methods)

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
515-294-2477
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate understanding and application of theories, research methods, and concepts in rhetoric, professional communication, and multimodal composition
  • Use a variety of technologies and media for designing and implementing effective, audience-centered communication
  • Analyze and critique communication in a variety of organizational and public contexts
  • Synthesize multiple historical and contemporary sources within research projects
  • Design and produce scholarship that makes a significant contribution to the field

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 95
    IELTS 7
    PTE 79
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 (once per year for fall semester entry only). Early application completion is encouraged.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions