MSc Politics and Communication

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc Politics and Communication at LSE gives you a deep, hands-on understanding of how politics and media intersect in shaping public life, policy debates, and democratic engagement. You’ll explore cutting-edge theories and real-world practice across political communication, media systems, and research methods, perfect for future researchers, strategists, or policy communicators.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both theory and applied research. Core courses include Theories and Concepts in Media and Communications, where you explore key frameworks for understanding media’s role in society; Political Communication in Democracies, focusing on how political actors use media to shape public debate; and a dissertation (Dissertation: Media and Communications) where you complete an independent research project. Alongside this, you’ll take research methods training such as Methods of Research in Media & Communications, and choose optional courses from within the department or across LSE to tailor your studies to your interests.

Focus areas:
Political communication, media theory, research methodologies, campaigning politics, media policy, and interdisciplinary options across government, law, and management.

Learning outcomes:
Gain advanced analytical skills to assess media’s political power; master qualitative and quantitative research methods; explain and critique communication strategies in democracies; and design independent research projects.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While this MSc is not tied to a specific external professional accreditation, it is recognized within the fields of political communication, journalism, policy research, and media analysis — supporting roles in media organisations, NGOs, government, and international institutions.

Reputation (employability rankings):
LSE is globally respected for social sciences and communications, with its Department of Media and Communications ranked first in the UK and sixth in the world for communication and media studies according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. Its central London location further connects you to media, public policy, and international networks, boosting employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At LSE, the MSc in Politics and Communication isn’t just about learning theory in the classroom — you’ll gain practical skills that prepare you to analyse, communicate, and influence in real-world political and media environments. You’ll work directly with current research methods, engage in independent research for your dissertation, and connect with world-leading academics and practitioners in the heart of London’s media and policy scene. The department regularly hosts public lectures, research seminars, and specialist events, so you’ll learn through discussion, debate, and exposure to cutting-edge work in politics and communication. LSE’s extensive academic resources support this learning at every step, whether you’re diving into data, historical archives, or contemporary media analysis.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities and facilities you’ll have access to:

Attend department events such as public lectures and specialised research seminars, where you can engage with leading scholars and media professionals.
Participate in research internships and projects through programmes like the Knowledge Exchange Internship Programme, working alongside faculty and researchers.
Benefit from LSE Careers support to explore part-time work, internships, volunteering, and placements, taking advantage of LSE’s central London location and connections in media, policy, and communication sectors.
Access the British Library of Political and Economic Science — one of the world’s largest specialist social sciences libraries — as well as other LSE libraries and archival collections to support your research and independent work.
Join a vibrant academic community with opportunities for cross-departmental interaction and networking with peers from diverse backgrounds, enriching your perspective and helping you build professional relationships.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Politics and Communication at LSE go on to build dynamic careers where communication, politics, media, and policy intersect. You could find yourself working as a political communications strategist, media analyst, public policy advisor, or research consultant, blending your academic insights with practical impact in organisations around the world:

Here’s how LSE helps you turn your degree into real-world success:
• LSE Careers provides personalised support including career coaching, one-to-one appointments, CV and interview workshops, sector-specific fairs, and access to job and internship boards to help you explore opportunities during your studies and after graduation.
• Employment outcomes for graduates in media, communications, and related social sciences show strong placement across sectors such as advertising, political marketing, government and policy, media management, and research, both in the UK and internationally.
• Median salary data from graduates in similar social science programmes indicates that many earn around the mid‑£30,000 range approximately 15 months after graduation, giving you a solid starting point in competitive industries.
• LSE’s central London location and its department’s engagement with organisations such as the BBC, UNICEF, government bodies, and global tech platforms enhance your professional network and provide pathways into industry through events, seminars, and research collaborations.
• An LSE degree carries long-term recognition and prestige. Employers around the world value its rigorous training and global outlook, opening doors in consultancy, international organisations, policy think tanks, advocacy, and beyond.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re considering continuing your studies, this MSc lays excellent groundwork for doctoral research or other advanced degrees. With its strong methodological training and emphasis on independent research through your dissertation, many graduates choose to pursue a PhD in Media and Communications, Politics, or related social sciences, building a career in academia or high-level research. LSE also offers direct pathways into its own MPhil/PhD programmes in Media and Communications for students who want to deepen their expertise and contribute to scholarly knowledge.