Reference Works
Reference works are an important source for concept definitions, overview articles, and short bibliographies. They can point you towards key works in the literature on your topic.
To find reference articles in communication, start with the resources below, search the library for additional encyclopedias, handbooks, and bibliographies, or contact a librarian.
Encyclopedia of Communication Theory
Encyclopedia of Health Communication
Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition
International Encyclopedia of Journalism Studies
International Encyclopedia of Organizational Communication
Oxford Bibliographies: Cinema and Media Studies
Oxford Encyclopedia of Intergroup Communication
Sage Encyclopedia of Communication Research Methods
Encyclopedia of Public Relations
Encyclopedia of Rhetoric
Oxford Encyclopedia of Communication

With more than 300 entries, these two volumes provide a one-stop source for a comprehensive overview of communication theory, offering current descriptions of theories as well as the background issues and concepts that comprise these theories. This is the first resource to summarize, in one place, the diversity of theory in the communication field.



Includes articles on key concepts, theories, and methodologies in journalism studies

Examines a variety of phenomena ranging from traditional work on topics such as leader-follower communication, negotiation, and organizational culture, to more contemporary research examining the appropriation of communication technologies, inter-organizational networks, and hidden forms of work and organization.

Provides overviews with bibliographies for key terms, concepts, and figures in cinema and media studies


Includes articles on a wide range of methods and concepts in the field of communication

This work explores the evolution of the Public Relations field, with examples from history describing events, changing practices, and the key figures who developed and expanded the profession.


You can also search for entries on a topic of interest in our many online reference resources using the custom search below.