The Wits Centre for Journalism welcomes applications from potential students wishing to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD) in journalism and media studies.

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 higher average at master’s level.

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

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.
  • The current PhD coordinator is Dr Dinesh Balliah. Appointments can be arranged by mailing: andrea.gumede@wits.ac.za

 

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.

 

Key milestones once registered

 

  1. The first year of the PhD is dedicated to the preparation of the full proposal.
  2. The proposal must be presented to a committee.
  3. Ethics approval is secured through the university ethics committee.
  4. The proposal is submitted to the faculty for approval.
  5. Once approval is secured, the student can undertake research.
  6. Additional milestones are then negotiated with the supervisor/s.