Abstract
This article reports findings from a national survey evaluating perceptions of doctoral program quality in mass communication. The study employed peer ratings from members of two professional associations to assess programs across ten areas, including research methodology, media effects, broadcasting, journalism, public relations, advertising, and overall quality. Results provide comparative rankings of programs, offering insight into how doctoral training in mass communication is perceived by academic peers. The analysis considers bases for evaluation such as familiarity with faculty, graduates, and publications, as well as the role of hearsay in shaping judgments. While noting limitations related to sample size and the subjective nature of quality assessments, the study affirms that peer evaluation serves as an important dimension of program review. The findings are presented as a resource for understanding the status of doctoral education in mass communication during the late 1980.
Recommended Citation
Watson, Kittie W.; Edwards, Renee; and Barker, Larry L.
(1989)
"A Rating of Doctoral Programs in Selected Areas of Mass Communication: 1987--1988,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 67, Article 4.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol67/iss1/4
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