Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Communication

Lead the Future of Faith-Based Media and Communication

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Communication and Christian Media Studiesat Eldermont Universityis designed for scholars, media leaders, and ministry professionalsseeking to advance research, shape Christian media discourse, and influence the global conversation on faith-based communication. This program prepares graduates for academic, ministry, and media leadership roles, equipping them to analyze, develop, and refine Christian communication strategies for the digital age.

As a research-focused doctoral program, students complete their Ph.D. through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and an original dissertation, demonstrating expertise in faith-based media, ethical communication, digital evangelism, and strategic messaging.

Program Features

✅100% Online, Self-Paced Format–Study from anywhere, at your convenience.
✅Earn 30 Credits Through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)–Accelerate degree completion.
✅Dissertation-Based (30 Credits)–No coursework, only original doctoral research.
✅Faith-Based Media Leadership Training–Integrate Christian principles with media theory.
✅Complete Your Ph.D. in as Little as 90 Days–Most students complete within 6-12 months.
✅No Semester Deadlines–Students set their own pacefor degree completion.

What Will You Study?

This doctoral program provides a deep dive into Christian media, exploring theological foundations, ethical considerations, cultural impact, and leadership in faith-based communication.
Theological Foundations of Christian Communication–Biblical frameworks for media messaging.
Faith-Based Journalism & Ethical Reporting–Examining Christian ethics in modern media.
Public Relations & Crisis Communication in Ministry–Managing media narratives for Christian organizations.
Digital Evangelism & Social Media Influence–Engaging global audiences through faith-driven content.
Leadership in Christian Media Organizations–Developing sustainable, mission-driven communication strategies.

Degree Structure

The 60-credit programconsists of:
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) –30 Credits
Students can earn 30 creditsthrough PLA portfolio submission, demonstrating expertise in:
✅Professional experience in media production, journalism, or strategic communication.
✅Published works, media campaigns, or leadership in Christian broadcasting.
✅Faith-based media initiatives, nonprofit PR, or theological research in communication.
✅Letters of validation from ministry leaders, media executives, or academic mentors.
PLA enables students to accelerate degree completionbased on professional and ministry experience.
Doctoral Dissertation –30 Credits
Instead of traditional coursework, students complete a doctoral dissertation, conducting original researchon a specialized topic in Christian media and communication.

Possible Career Paths

A Ph.D. in Communication and Christian Media Studiesprepares graduates for high-level roles in academia, media leadership, and ministry-driven communication fields.

🎤University Faculty & Christian Media Researcher
📹Director of Christian Broadcasting & Media Ministries
📢 Senior Editor & Investigative Journalist for Faith-Based Publications
📽️Executive Leadership in Faith-Based Public Relations & Communications
📱Chief Digital Strategist for Christian Media Organizations
🏠︎Author & Speaker on Christian Communication Ethics
Graduates are equipped to advance research, shape industry standards, and lead global discussions on faith-driven media.

Doctoral Dissertation –Your Contribution to Christian Media Research
Students develop an original research dissertation, offering scholarly insight into Christian communication, theology, and media studies.

Examples of Thesis Topics:
📝The Ethics of Christian Journalism in the Digital Age
📝Biblical Frameworks for Media Ethics in Crisis Communication
📝Social Media Evangelism: Strategies for Global Outreach
📝Public Relations and Reputation Management in Christian Organizations
📝The Role of Faith-Based Media in Cultural Transformation

Dissertation research allows students to engage in scholarly debates, shape media policies, and impact global faith-based communication.

Admission Requirements

📌Master’s Degree (or Equivalent) from an Accredited Institution
📌Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Submission (Résumé/CV & Supporting Documents)
📌Dissertation Proposal Submission

Eldermont University has a streamlined admissions processand does not require standardized test scores.

Why Choose Eldermont University?

📖 100% Online & Self-Paced–Learn at your own pace, from anywhere.
📖 Faith-Based & Research-Driven–Integrate Christian values with media leadership expertise.
📖 Dissertation-Based Program–No traditional coursework, just meaningful research.
📖Earn Credit for Experience–Maximize PLA credits to fast-track your degree.
📖Credit for Experience–Maximize PLA credits to fast-track your doctorate.
⏳Flexible Completion Timeline–Graduate in 6-12 months, or accelerate to finish in as little as 90 days.
📖At Eldermont University, we prepare students to become thought leaders in Christian media, ethical journalism, and digital evangelism.

Take the Next Step in Your Christian Media Journey

📌Apply Now–Start your faith-driven Ph.D. programtoday
📌Request More Information–Speak with an advisor about PLA + Dissertation.
📌Explore Our Programs–See how Eldermont University equips Christian media scholars for success.

Would you like additional dissertation guidelines, research resources, or faculty insightsfor this program?