PhD / Doctorate Mass Communication Full Time

Doctor of Arts

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

045007K

CRICOS provider code

00026A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$217,300 total

Per year

A$54,325/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Doctor of Arts programme offered by the University of Sydney is a rigorous and advanced course designed for those seeking to deepen their expertise in Mass Communication. Over a duration of four years, candidates will engage in extensive research, exploring significant contemporary issues and theoretical frameworks within the field. This programme typically requires the completion of a substantial thesis, which serves as a capstone project, demonstrating the candidate's research capabilities and original contributions to the discipline.

Australian qualifications, including the Doctor of Arts, are structured around credit points that are earned through units of study. In this programme, students will undertake a combination of research-related coursework, dedicated supervision, and professional practice in the field of Mass Communication. Gaining practical experience is also integral to the learning process, with opportunities available for work-integrated learning or professional placement that enhances real-world understanding and skills.

The Doctor of Arts is ideal for professionals, researchers, and academics who have a strong foundation in communication theories and practices and wish to further refine their skills. Those who thrive in this programme often have a passion for inquiry, creativity, and critical thinking, and are motivated to engage with pressing media and communication challenges.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Academic Researcher in Communications
Media Consultant
Public Relations Specialist
Journalism Educator
Arts Administrator
Communication Policy Analyst

Graduates of the Doctor of Arts programme can find opportunities in various Australian industries, such as education, media, public relations, and arts administration. Additionally, this qualification may provide pathways for professional accreditations related to media and communication.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Arts at University of Sydney?

It typically takes 4 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$217,300 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic Researcher in CommunicationsMedia ConsultantPublic Relations SpecialistJournalism EducatorArts AdministratorCommunication Policy AnalystGraduates of the Doctor of Arts programme can find opportunities in various Australian industries, such as education, media, public rel...

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