PhD in Media Studies

The Centre for Global Media and Communication SOAS has an exciting doctoral research programme with a number of students working on an exceptionally wide range of topics, both theoretical and empirical, concerned with different aspects of communication and practices in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The programme places emphasis on the acquisition of critical theoretical skills and in-depth regional, political, social and cultural knowledge of global media in all its forms and practices in relation to these regions and their diasporas.

The Centre stresses interdisciplinarity and a non-Western centric focus on research in order to enhance de-colonial approaches to addressing the dynamics between communication, politics and culture as understood by and experienced by the peoples of the regions we study. This is reflected in the research undertaken by our graduates and our current cohort. Given the focus on interdisciplinarity, the centre draws upon expertise across SOAS and encourages students to approach other departments to enhance their experience and knowledge.

The PhD Programme is suited to researchers who wish to engage in detailed study of media in Asia or Africa and to those who wish to combine media and communication studies with other disciplines, ranging from the study of language and culture through the humanities to politics, law and international relations in the social sciences.

We consider research students as central to enhancing our reputation and encourage them to take part in research seminars and give papers at national and international conferences. Some publish in academic journals.

Graduates from the Centre for Global Media and Communications gain expertise in media, communications and film production within a global framework. Graduates develop a portfolio of transferable skills including communication skills, interpersonal skills and team work, which are highly respected by employers.

The minimum entry requirement for applying for the PhD and VRS programmes is a good UK Master's degree (or overseas equivalent), which is generally in a relevant area to the programme you are applying to.