Political Communication MSc

University of Glasgow

This Masters in Political Communication is designed to give you an advanced understanding of the interplay between politics, the media, civil society, and public opinion. The programme will help you to understand how information flows and influences contemporary societies, both domestically and internationally, across diverse platforms, structures, and systems. It is excellent preparation for employment in politics, journalism, strategic communication, diplomacy and related fields. Our courses are taught by expert staff who conduct research directly related to political communication. Each course introduces students to foundational theories, as well as the latest cutting-edge developments in the field. We provide a supportive learning environment with high levels of staff-student interaction. You will engage in active discussion of topical issues, ranging from the power of social media platforms to the nature of media biases and the effects of disinformation. MSc students will work closely with a supervisor on their dissertation – a research project of their own design – and acquire research skills and experience which employers value highly. You will develop a wide range of transferrable skills. You will learn how to convey complex ideas effectively, both verbally and in writing, and how to present convincing arguments based on careful scrutiny of research evidence. Our programme is unique in Scotland. It is one of very few political communication programmes in the UK to be taught mainly by Politics and International Relations specialists, rather than scholars of media and communication studies. Students on this programme come from dozens of different countries, including the UK. You will be part of a diverse student body in the School of Social and Political Sciences, which offers regular extracurricular events, talks by high-profile guest speakers, and activities to improve student employability.

Career prospects
Graduates of this programme will gain an advanced understanding of the connection between politics, media, civil society and public opinion, preparing you for a career across global landscapes.

Career opportunities and pathways
Past graduates of this programme have gone on to work for:

political parties
campaign groups
non-profit organisations
civil service.
They have also established successful careers in:

journalism
business
academia
public relations
government from a local to national level.
Some of our alumni have gone on to pursue a career in academia, studying PhDs at the University of Glasgow and other leading universities across the world.