MA Political Communication

Program Overview

The MA in Political Communication at Leeds offers students an in-depth understanding of the ways in which media, communication strategies, and political processes intersect. The program explores the role of communication in shaping political campaigns, public policies, and democratic practices. Students will delve into topics such as political journalism, media ethics, election campaigning, political marketing, and digital communication strategies. The program also emphasizes the global dimension of political communication, enabling students to explore how communication practices differ across regions and political systems. By combining theoretical exploration with practical applications, the MA in Political Communication equips students with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary to excel in various political and media-related careers.

Curriculum: The MA in Political Communication at Leeds offers a dynamic and flexible curriculum that integrates core modules with a wide selection of optional courses. Core modules typically include Political Communication: Theory and Practice, Political Campaigning and Public Relations, Media, Politics, and Democracy, and Research Methods in Political Communication. These modules provide a solid foundation in the key areas of political communication, enabling students to critically analyze the role of media in politics, the effects of political campaigns, and the ethical dimensions of political communication. Optional modules allow students to specialize in areas such as Global Political Communication, Social Media and Political Movements, Digital Campaigning, and Media and Political Representation. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students can conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, applying the theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained throughout their studies.

Research Focus: The MA in Political Communication at Leeds is supported by the university’s strong research culture in political communication, media studies, and political science. Faculty members specialize in various areas of political communication, including election campaigns, media coverage of politics, digital media strategies, public opinion, political advertising, and political discourse. The university’s research centers and academic expertise enable students to engage with cutting-edge research, ensuring that the program reflects the latest developments and trends in political communication. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests and contribute to the field, with access to extensive resources such as archives, databases, and scholarly networks. The program’s research-driven approach fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing students to address the challenges and complexities of modern political communication.

Industry Engagement: One of the key strengths of the MA in Political Communication at Leeds is its emphasis on practical industry engagement. The program benefits from strong links with political parties, media organizations, public relations firms, think tanks, and governmental bodies, offering students valuable opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and live projects. Leeds also provides access to networking events, career fairs, and industry speakers, enabling students to connect with professionals in the field of political communication. The university’s location and reputation further enhance industry engagement, providing students with opportunities to attend political events, media briefings, and public forums. This practical exposure allows students to apply their academic learning to real-world political communication challenges and build valuable connections for their future careers.

Global Perspective: The MA in Political Communication at Leeds offers a global perspective, recognizing that political communication practices and media environments vary across different political systems and cultural contexts. The program encourages students to examine political communication on a global scale, exploring how communication strategies are adapted in different countries and regions. Topics such as global political marketing, international media systems, and cross-cultural communication are explored to help students understand the global dynamics of political discourse. The diverse student body at Leeds, along with opportunities for international study trips and collaborations, provides a rich environment for exploring the global dimensions of political communication. This global perspective ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work in a variety of international political communication settings, from election campaigns to international organizations and media outlets.