Overview

A PhD in journalism and media studies can be completed by a full dissertation or by publication of academic articles.

For more information, click here.

Entry Requirements

The PhD is a two-year full-time or four-year part-time programme, and is completed by research. Students are expected to have secured a 70% or high.

Please note:

• PhD applications are accepted throughout the year and decisions are made quarterly
• Supervision is limited which means that places are limited.
• There is currently no funding available through the Centre for Journalism.
• Potential students are encouraged to secure funding before applying.
• PhD students are not required to be on campus to undertake this degree.

Before applying

• Arrange a meeting with the PhD coordinator to discuss your proposed topic and chosen supervisor.

Course Application Process

How to apply

• Prepare a concept note as per these guidelines.
• Prepare a brief but relevant CV.
• Secure your full academic transcript/s of all previous degrees.
• Apply with these documents online at wits.ac.za/applications.

Once your application has been received, processed, approved by the various committees and a suitable supervisor/s have been allocated for your research, the Faculty of Humanities will contact you and officially offer you a place in the PhD programme. This process can take some time so please be patient.

Once you accept the offer to study at Wits University, you will then be asked to come in and register at the faculty office. Registration marks the start of your PhD degree.

University Fees and Funding

Click here to see the current average tuition fees. The Fees site also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal.

For information about postgraduate funding opportunities, including the postgraduate merit award, click here. Please also check your School website for bursary opportunities. NRF bursaries: The National Research Foundation (NRF) offers a wide range of opportunities in terms of bursaries and fellowships to students pursuing postgraduate studies. External bursaries portal: The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.