PhD in Media Study
Research through art. Create through theory.
The PhD in Media Study at the University at Buffalo is an innovative doctoral program in experimental media theory and practice-led research. Designed for artist-scholars and critical media researchers, the program responds to rapid technological change and the evolving role of media in culture and society. Here, research happens both in writing and in making.
Please check back in Fall 2026 for information on whether the program will be accepting applications for admission/funding in the 2027–2028 academic year.
The Department of Media Study is nationally recognized for experimental and independent media. Faculty are award-winning artists and scholars working across film, video, sound, robotics, games, interactive fiction, documentary practice, digital poetics and critical spatial practices.
At UB, you will:
- Join a small, focused doctoral community
- Work closely with faculty whose research aligns with your interests
- Combine media production and scholarly research
- Develop hybrid conceptual and technical expertise
- Engage aesthetic, political and social questions through media
UB is a flagship public research university and a member of the AAU. You gain access to serious research infrastructure while living in an affordable, culturally vibrant city.
Degree type: Doctor of Philosophy
Field: Media Study
Program length: Designed to be completed in five to six years
This doctoral program supports practice-led and scholarly research. Most credits are earned through research and independent study, allowing you to shape your course of study around your specific trajectory.
The PhD culminates in a dissertation that includes:
- A substantial written component
- A significant and original media arts project
The relationship between writing and production must be substantial and original, though the balance between them depends on your research focus.
Funding Opportunities
Graduate education is a significant investment, and funding can play an important role in making it possible. Graduate students at the University at Buffalo have access to a range of funding options that support coursework, teaching, research and professional development. Opportunities vary by degree level and stage of study.
The PhD creates a structured yet flexible framework for advanced media research. Students:
- Take foundational coursework in media theory and research methodologies
- Develop literacy in media production
- Complete doctoral seminars focused on research strategies and publication
- Engage research ethics training
- Select directed electives that support their individual research agendas
Students work closely with a faculty advisor and later assemble a dissertation committee. Coursework includes opportunities to present and critique work in a collegial environment.
The program is well suited for:
- Artists pursuing research in academic contexts
- Media makers exploring the theoretical dimensions of their practice
- Scholars interested in moving beyond purely discursive research into practice-based inquiry
Doctoral research in Media Study may include:
- Experimental film and video
- Sound art and music technologies
- Games and virtual reality
- Interactive and computational media
- Media theory and critical studies
- Robotics and physical computing
- Digital poetics and networked media
- Documentary and socially engaged media
Because this field is interdisciplinary, research often bridges the humanities, sciences and creative practice.
Graduates of the PhD in Media Study will:
- Demonstrate the ability to work productively as artist-scholars in university, local, national and international contexts
- Master knowledge in the field and apply associated technologies to emerging media issues
- Produce a substantial written dissertation supported by strong critical research and writing
- Create a significant media arts project demonstrating advanced expertise
- Sustain artistic and scholarly productivity through publications, exhibitions and presentations
- Build professional foundations through workshops, residencies, fellowships, grant applications and commissions
- Demonstrate the ability to teach effectively at the university level
These outcomes prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, creative industries and cultural institutions.
Graduates pursue careers such as:
- University faculty and researchers
- Artist-scholars working across theory and practice
- Leaders in media arts organizations and research centers
- Independent artists with sustained exhibition and publication records
The hybrid nature of the degree prepares students for evolving roles that bridge creative production, critical inquiry and technological innovation.
If you are ready to conduct rigorous research through media practice and critical theory, the PhD in Media Study offers the mentorship, flexibility and intellectual community to support your work.
