Rhetoric and Professional Communication

The PhD in Rhetoric and Professional Communication applies rhetorical theory to the practice of written, oral, and visual communication in professional communities (e.g., industry and science) and in public spaces that frame deliberation, controversy, and communal identity. 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, and an oral defense of the dissertation.

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