MA Political and Strategic Communication

The MA in Political and Strategic Communication plays a key role in today’s increasingly turbulent world. The first decades of the 21st century witnessed an unprecedented pace of change across many domains, including politics, society, economics and technology. Communication lies at the core of this escalating complexity – and can be seen as one of the key drivers of change, including the role it can play in fuelling conflict. This programme is designed to teach you the skills and knowledge to navigate the complex world of political and strategic communication. The curriculum is tailored to the evolving demands of the digital age and its repercussions for governments, institutions, international corporations and, above all, citizens.

The MA in Political and Strategic Communication helps you develop a critical understanding of political and strategic communication while always connecting this to practical application. Through a blend of coursework, case studies and project work, in the compulsory modules, you will explore broader notions of communication and its societal and political implications, particularly within the contexts of war, conflict and crisis.

Key benefits

• Develop skills for in-depth analytical and critical thinking about international politics. Work with the latest, cutting-edge research in your field
• Contribute to a vibrant research community. Our world-renowned staff and international student body come from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds
• Work with some of the world's best academics in your field. Our Department staff publish world-leading research and offer outstanding research-led teaching and training
• Grow your networks with employers, think tanks, organisations, and policymaking bodies in the UK and globally
• Enjoy living and studying right in the heart of London beside the River Thames

Course essentials

The programme endeavours to prepare you and your fellow students to become leaders in government communication, advocacy roles and the wider field of public relations. Students will acquire insights into the dynamics of how decision-makers and media entities engage with war, conflict and security on the global stage. In addition to critically engaging with fundamental communication concepts, you will study topics such as public diplomacy and soft power; misinformation; the impact of new media on perception of conflict; the creation, dissemination and reception of conflict imagery; the influence of news reporting on government policies and NGO initiatives; and the reciprocal effects of governmental communication strategies on media and public perceptions.

Duration: One year full-time, September to September, two years part-time