PHD Programme

We offer a PhD specialising in Journalism Studies. To qualify, applicants would need to have achieved 70% or better in an media, communications or journalism Masters degree or equivalent, to have significant journalism experience and to show evidence of advanced research work (as in a Masters' dissertation or research report).

Steps to apply:

As a PhD is a demanding and long-term project, you will need to find a supervisor who can offer you specialist guidance in the topic you choose. It's a good idea, then, to take a look at the potential supervisors available in the media-related departments at Wits, do a little research on them and see which of these individuals is doing research and publishing in the areas that interest you.

Next, you will need to submit a formal application that consists of the following items:

•     The official Wits Postgraduate application form completed and signed
•     Any relevant documentation if you are a foreign student wanting to study in South Africa
•     A full academic transcript of your previous degrees
•     Brief work history / curriculum vitae
•     Either an expression of interest with a copy of your MA research report / previous research
      OR a substantial proposal as to the research you intend doing
•     A suggestion (if any) as to who you would want as a supervisor or member of your supervisory committee

Once your application has been received, processed, approved by the various committees and a suitable supervisor/s have been found for your research, the University will contact you and officially offer you a place in the Ph.D. programme. You will then be asked to come in and register and from there can begin with your doctorate. There is no date or deadline for applications as you will be working independently and can start your research at any point in the academic year.

Below are the details of the International Office and the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office should you have any questions which need to be directed to them:

International Office: (011) 717-1050.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Office: (011) 717-1071.

For more details, please contact us through our administrator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.