Political Communication MSc

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Glasgow

Program Overview

The MSc in Political Communication at the University of Glasgow gives you a clear understanding of how media, public opinion, politics, and civil society interact in today’s world. It’s ideal for students interested in careers in public affairs, journalism, diplomacy, strategic communication, or policy work, where analyzing political messaging is key.

Curriculum Structure

Foundational Core:
You’ll start by exploring essential theories and research methods, with courses such as Media and Democracy, Political Institutions and Communication, and Research Design for Politics and International Relations. These units introduce the concepts behind political communication research and build your skills in analyzing how media shapes public engagement and political outcomes.

Optional/Applied Learning:
Next, you can choose from optional courses like Media, War and Security, Propaganda and Public Diplomacy: Authoritarian States, and The Internet and Civil Society. These options allow you to focus on areas such as digital politics, conflict communication, or global information ecosystems, letting you tailor your studies to your career goals.

Dissertation and Capstone:
Finally, you’ll complete an independent dissertation on a topic of your choice, whether that’s media bias, political messaging strategies, or public engagement metrics. This research project consolidates your learning and demonstrates your ability to conduct advanced inquiry in political communication under the guidance of expert supervisors.

Focus Areas:
Media and Democracy, Political Institutions, Research Design, Conflict and Security Communication, Digital Platforms and Civil Society

Learning Outcomes:
Develop advanced analytical skills in political messaging, evidence-based research and writing, critical understanding of media-politics interactions, and practical insight into communication strategy across international contexts

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Offered by the School of Social & Political Sciences, this MSc aligns with professional paths in politics, media, public policy, and strategic communication

Reputation (Employability & Rankings):
The University of Glasgow consistently ranks among the top 100 universities globally and is recognized for its strong research profile and international outlook, which enhances graduate employability in competitive fields

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc in Political Communication at Glasgow goes beyond lectures and essays, giving you practical experience that links what you learn in class to real-world professional skills. You’ll work closely with experienced academics and visiting practitioners, participate in collaborative group projects, and attend networking events and guest speaker sessions that bring professional insights straight into your learning. You’ll also have access to the university’s excellent campus facilities, libraries, and research resources, all designed to support your study and help you build confidence in media, policy, and communication environments.

Here are the main experiential learning opportunities you will engage with:

Practice-based learning activities that allow you to apply theories of political communication through assessments and group discussions on current global issues.
Networking opportunities with industry professionals from political organisations and communication sectors, giving insight into workplace expectations and career paths.
Alumni panels and guest speakers from public affairs, journalism, and political strategy, enhancing your understanding of real-world professional practice.
Collaborative group work in seminars and workshops that mirrors professional teamwork and communication tasks.
Careers and employability support to help you identify internships, work placements, and professional development opportunities relevant to political communication careers.
Access to the Gilmorehill campus facilities, including modern learning hubs and flexible study spaces for projects, seminars, and independent research.
Extensive library resources, including collections, study spaces, and archives that support research and informed analysis for your dissertation and professional portfolio.
Academic and research seminars across the School of Social & Political Sciences that bring cutting-edge political and communication research directly into your learning experience.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc in Political Communication are well-prepared for roles where understanding media, public opinion, and political processes is essential. Many alumni move into careers such as public affairs, journalism, policy analysis, or communications and leadership positions in non-profit organisations. This programme gives you the skills to confidently navigate and influence today’s fast-changing political and media landscape.

Career paths you might pursue include roles like Public Affairs Officer, Communications Specialist, Political Analyst, and Policy Advisor, working in government, international organisations, NGOs, or media outlets.

The University provides a range of services and opportunities to help you turn your degree into a career:

Careers and Employability support, offering one-to-one guidance, workshops, networking events, and help identifying internships and job opportunities.
Networking with industry professionals through guest speakers, alumni panels, and events that give insight into workplace realities and expand your professional connections.
Partnerships with practitioner organisations, such as the John Smith Centre, which bring real-world expertise into your learning experience.
An international cohort, allowing you to learn alongside students from around the world and build a global professional network.
Strong graduate outcomes, with alumni advancing into senior roles in charities, public affairs teams, and policy-driven organisations, demonstrating the practical value of the degree.

Further Academic Progression:
If you are interested in research or wish to deepen your academic expertise, graduates can continue into PhD programmes at the University of Glasgow or other leading universities worldwide, building on the strong research foundation developed during the MSc.