- BA – Tocoa Falls College
- MA, Strategic Communication – High Point University
- PhD – Regent University
- University Department Strategic Communication
- Location Nido R. Qubein School of Communication 316
- Phone Number (336) 841-9623
- Email [email protected]
Matt Ritter is an Associate Professor of Strategic Communication in the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication at High Point University, where he’s taught since 2013.
Dr. Ritter brings over 20 years of experience from both industry and academia. Before teaching, he spent a decade in digital media and advertising.
His research examines how media and messaging influence public behavior. Recent projects include analyzing climate change discussions on social media and studying how different message features affect public health communication during COVID-19. He’s published 10 peer-reviewed articles on topics ranging from social media in newsrooms to the effectiveness of weather warnings. His work has appeared in journals like the American Behavioral Scientist and Southern Communication Journal.
In the classroom, Dr. Ritter teaches courses in crisis communication, social media, campaign design, and research methods. He emphasizes hands-on learning and preparing students for the rapidly changing media landscape.
Dr. Ritter is active in the community, serving on the Board of Directors and Executive Council for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Piedmont. He earned his Ph.D. in Communication from Regent University, his M.A. in Strategic Communication from High Point University, and his B.A. in Broadcasting from Toccoa Falls College.