The Ph.D. in Communication Studies is mainly designed to prepare students for positions in academia, but also equips those seeking professional advancement in research-based communication industry careers. Concentrations are offered in the areas of 1) Media and Society, 2) Public Communication, and 3) Rhetoric and Politics. Based on theoretical perspectives from rhetoric, public argument, audience research, mass communication, international communication, health communication, strategic communication, and new media, the Public Communication program is engaged in the exploration of public discourse and mass-mediated environments, with the purpose of preparing students to investigate how persuasive practices are transforming culture at home and abroad.