Technical Communication and Rhetoric, Ph.D.

About the Technical Communication and Rhetoric Doctoral Program

The aim of this doctoral program is to engage the students in acquiring broad knowledge of the history, theory, research, genres, and practice of technical communication and rhetoric; specialized knowledge of some aspect of communication or rhetoric; and ability to conduct independent research. The Ph.D. requires at least 60 hours of graduate courses beyond the bachelor’s degree, proficiency in research methodology, and a dissertation. The 60 hours include 45 hours in the specialization. The remaining 15 hours may be used for a minor in a field other than technical communication and rhetoric or for more courses in the specialization, including communication-related courses in other departments. A minor may be taken in one department or may consist of a cluster of courses on related topics from different departments.

The doctoral degree in technical communication and rhetoric is also available online. Application and admissions processes and degree requirements are similar to those for the on-campus degree. In addition to fulfilling all the degree requirements of the on-campus program, all distance students must attend a two-week seminar every May. Prospective students are advised to consult www.depts.ttu.edu/english/tcr for details of degree requirements and the course schedule.