Frequently
Asked
Questions

PhD Program Information

Q: What does enrollment typically look like for students? 

A: A description of the program can be found here and a sample enrollment plan is available here.  

Q: May I pursue a graduate certificate while completing my program?

A: Yes! The University of Michigan offers a wide range of certificates.

Q: Will I be able to complete research abroad? 

A: Yes!  Students in Communication and Media often pursue research abroad in their areas of interest and for dissertation research.  The doctoral program is structured to give students in good academic standing flexibility to spend one or two terms studying abroad after achieving candidacy and completing coursework.  Funding is available from the department and from other campus sources. 

Q: Does your program provide enrollment and placement statistics? 

A: Rackham maintains basic statistics about the department of Communication and Media. Note: you will need to select "Doctoral Program Statistics (Tableau)" and then select Communication and Media as the "Field of Study" in the bar at the top of the page. 

Advising

Q: How is advising handled? Do I need to find an advisor on my own?

A: Each student is assigned a primary and second advisor when they are admitted to the program. The ACGS and Grad Coordinator also advise on programmatic requirements and processes. Students should schedule appointments with their faculty advisors at least once per term. The ACGS will continue to be available as needed. 

Accepting or Declining Admissions Offer

Q: I want to accept/decline my admissions offer. What do I do next?

A: Follow these instructions on the Rackham website.

Not finding the information you need?  Please feel free to contact us!