MSc Accounting and Finance
Cardiff University’s MSc in Accounting and Finance is designed to develop advance...
MA Political Communication (Conversion)
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Cardiff University's MA in Political Communication (Conversion) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between politics, communication, and the media. The program is aimed at individuals with no formal background in political science or communication, equipping them with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work in political communication and media roles. Students will explore how political messages are crafted, communicated, and received by different audiences, and how communication strategies impact political processes. The course integrates theoretical concepts with hands-on experience to ensure graduates are ready for careers in the dynamic field of political communication.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Political Communication (Conversion) at Cardiff University covers a wide range of topics that equip students with essential skills for political communication. The program includes modules on media and politics, political rhetoric, digital communication strategies, media ethics, and public relations in the political sphere. Students will also study the role of social media in political campaigns, the influence of the press on public opinion, and the strategies used by political leaders to engage with their constituencies. The program balances academic learning with practical workshops, ensuring students gain the skills needed to work effectively in media and communication roles within political contexts.
Research Focus: Cardiff University’s MA in Political Communication emphasizes research skills that enable students to critically analyze political discourse and communication strategies. Students are encouraged to explore various political communication theories, analyze case studies of political campaigns, and evaluate the effectiveness of different media in shaping public opinion. The program supports students in conducting independent research, providing opportunities to explore topics such as electoral communication, political branding, political marketing, and the role of media in democratic processes. Cardiff’s research-driven approach ensures students develop the ability to contribute to the academic and practical understanding of political communication.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University has strong connections with media outlets, political organizations, and public relations firms, which are leveraged to provide students with real-world insights and experiences. Students of the MA in Political Communication (Conversion) engage in industry-focused activities, such as internships, guest lectures, and networking events, which help bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Through partnerships with media organizations, students gain valuable experience in political communication, working on live campaigns and projects that prepare them for careers in public relations, political consulting, or media.
Global Perspective: The MA in Political Communication (Conversion) offers a global perspective by incorporating international case studies, cross-cultural communication strategies, and an understanding of political systems from around the world. Students learn how political communication is practiced in different countries, exploring the influence of global media, transnational campaigns, and international relations on political communication. Cardiff’s diverse student body further enriches the learning experience, as students bring perspectives from various countries, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and a broader understanding of global political communication dynamics.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 7.5
Tuition Fee
£ 22700
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the MA in Political Communication (Conversion) from Cardiff University have access to a wide range of career opportunities within political, media, and communication sectors. The program equips students with the skills to work in political environments, media organizations, and public relations roles.
Political Consultant: Advise political parties, candidates, or advocacy groups on campaign strategies, media relations, and public messaging to influence public opinion and voter behavior.
Public Relations Officer: Develop and manage communication strategies for political figures, organizations, or governments, ensuring consistent and strategic messaging to the public and media.
Campaign Manager: Oversee political campaigns, managing everything from strategy and messaging to fundraising and voter outreach, aiming to ensure electoral success.
Political Journalist: Specialize in reporting on politics, analyzing policy issues, and covering elections, government activities, and international political events for newspapers, magazines, or broadcast outlets.
Media Analyst: Analyze media coverage of political events, helping political organizations and campaigns understand public perception and improve their media strategies.
Speechwriter: Write speeches for political leaders, crafting compelling narratives and messages that resonate with audiences and support political agendas.
Public Affairs Specialist: Work with governmental bodies or lobbying firms to communicate with policymakers, the public, and media, focusing on issues such as legislation, public policy, and civic engagement.
Government Relations Manager: Represent organizations in their dealings with government bodies, working to influence policy and secure favorable regulations and laws.
Political Communication Researcher: Conduct research on public opinion, political communication trends, and the effectiveness of various campaign strategies, offering valuable insights to political teams or media organizations.
Social Media Manager: Manage political figures' or organizations' social media platforms, engaging with the public, managing political campaigns, and controlling digital narratives in real-time.
