Now in its third edition, this dynamic textbook blends coverage of the major theories and research methods in mass communication to enable students to apply their knowledge in today's media and communication careers. Maintaining a focus on modern professional application throughout, this text provides chronological coverage of the development and use of major theories, an overview of both quantitative and qualitative research methods, and a step-by-step guide to conducting a research project informed by this knowledge. It helps students bridge their academic coursework with professional contexts including public relations, advertising, and digital media contexts. It provides breakout boxes with definitions of key terms and theories, extended applied examples, and graphical models of key theories to offer a visualization of how the various concepts in the theory fit together. Applied Mass Communication Theory's hybrid and flexible nature make it a useful textbook for both introductory and capstone courses on mass communication and media theory and research methods, as well as courses focused on media industries and professional skills. Instructors can access an online instructor's manual, including sample exercises, test questions, and a syllabus, at www.routledge.com/9780367630362