QMU taking applications for new Political Communications and Public Affairs postgraduate degree
From September 2021, Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh, will offer a new master’s level programme in Political Communications and Public Affairs.
The course focuses on the intersection of communication, media, and politics as the area of knowledge fundamental for communicators working across public, private and third-sector organisations as well as a range of economic, social or cultural sectors.
Students on the MSc, PgDip and PgCert pathways will develop communication expertise that combines strategic communication with an understanding of policy communication in the contemporary media landscape. The course offers relevant theoretical knowledge and strong vocational skills development for students who wish to enter careers in public affairs, policy communication, campaigning, or advocacy jobs.
In addition to the political knowledge and understanding that students on the course will be provided with, they will also gain the public affairs skills required to succeed in a variety of careers in the field. QMU’s well-established connections to the PR industry and close links with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) mean that students will have the advantage of being taught by those embedded in the field.
The University has a long track record of delivering vocational postgraduate qualifications in public relation and strategic communication and this new course is a specialist addition to the existing portfolio.
Dr Magda Pieczka, Programme Leader for the MSc Political Communications and Public Affairs course at QMU, said: “Our new Political Communications and Public Affairs pathway will enable students to develop communication expertise that combines strategic communication with an understanding of policy communication in the contemporary media landscape. The course offers relevant theoretical knowledge and, equally importantly, strong vocational skills for students who wish to enter careers in public affairs, policy communication, campaigning, or advocacy jobs.”
“This new programme is also highly flexible, with most teaching timetabled to take place on Fridays and Saturdays to allow both those in full-time employment and those with caring responsibilities to take part.”
To find out more about the course, including entry requirements, please visit Political Communications and Public Affairs or email mpieczka@qmu.ac.uk.
Notes to Editor
For further media enquiries, please contact Gavin McNee (Media Relations and Content Officer) at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: gmcnee@qmu.ac.uk, T: 0131 474 0000 or E: pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk.
