Wanta has been an active researcher in political communication and media effects. Much of his research examines the agenda-setting function of the news media - how news coverage of issues influences the public's perceptions of those issues. Wanta has also conducted research in visual communication, sports journalism, Internet use and effects and negative political advertising. Among his research accomplishments are one scholarly book, seven book chapters, more than 40 journal articles and more than 60 conference papers.

In 1995, he was awarded the Krieghbaum Under-40 award from the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication for "outstanding achievement in research, teaching and public service."

Wanta served as president of AEJMC in 2006-2007.

Previously, he served on the national journalism Accrediting Council and was twice elected to the Teaching Standards Committee for AEJMC. He served as the Teaching Standards Committee chair for two years. He received his Ph.D. in 1989 from the University of Texas. He also holds a master's degree from the University of Texas and a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Wisconsin. Before entering the academic field, Wanta worked for eight years at several newspapers, including the Dallas Times Herald, Austin American-Statesman, Albuquerque Journal, Charleston (S.C.) Post Courier and Wisconsin State Journal. During his newspaper career, Wanta worked as a copy editor, page designer and feature writer. Before joining the Missouri faculty, Wanta taught at the University of Florida, University of Oregon and Southern Illinois University.

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