MA Political Communication (On-Campus)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

American University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Political Communication at American University is an interdisciplinary programme jointly offered by the School of Public Affairs and the School of Communication, combining political science, strategic communication, media, and research to prepare students for careers in politics and public affairs. Students develop practical skills in political campaigning, persuasive writing, public opinion research, media relations, online advocacy, and communication strategy, making the programme suitable for aspiring political communication specialists, campaign executives, public affairs strategists, policy professionals, and political consultants.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 36 credit hours and is designed to be completed in approximately two years of full-time study. Its curriculum combines core political science and communication courses, practical institute-based training, electives, and a final capstone experience. The following year-wise structure is a suggested description of the learning progression rather than a fixed university-prescribed sequence.

Year 1 – Foundations of Political Science and Strategic Communication

Students build a strong understanding of political systems, communication theories, research methods, and strategic messaging. They study subjects such as COMM 639: Political Communication, which explores the relationship between politics and communication, COMM 640: Principles of Strategic Communication, which introduces campaign planning and audience engagement, and GOVT 620: Applied Politics and American Public Policy, which develops their understanding of political institutions and public policy. Students also strengthen their political writing and research abilities through relevant coursework.

Year 2 – Campaign Management, Specialisation and Professional Practice

Students advance their expertise through practical training, specialist electives, and applied political communication projects. Courses such as GOVT 520: Campaign Management Institute, COMM 608: Social Media Strategies and Tactics, and COMM 579: Political Advertising help students develop campaign management, digital outreach, and persuasive media skills. They complete the programme with COMM 629/GOVT 629: Capstone in Political Communication, which involves demonstrating their research, critical thinking, and writing abilities through a substantial research paper or practicum.

Focus Areas

Political Communication: Political messaging, public discourse, political institutions, media influence, and communication strategies.
Strategic Communication: Communication campaign planning, audience research, message development, public relations, and stakeholder engagement.
Campaign Management: Political campaign planning, election strategies, grassroots mobilisation, lobbying, and advocacy.
Digital and Social Media: Online advocacy, social media strategies, digital outreach, political advertising, and media engagement.
Political Research and Public Opinion: Quantitative and qualitative research, survey research, interviews, focus groups, and public opinion analysis.
Political Writing and Media Relations: Speechwriting, persuasive writing, political journalism, media relations, and crisis communication.

Learning Outcomes

Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods to political communication challenges.
Analyse political communication theories and concepts and apply them to real-world political situations.
Develop strategic communication campaigns by researching audiences, creating messages, and identifying target constituencies.
Demonstrate strong analytical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective presentation skills.
Understand the relationship between political institutions, media, public opinion, and communication.
Design effective political campaigns, advocacy strategies, and lobbying plans.
Evaluate communication strategies during political campaigns, public controversies, and national emergencies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The university does not specify a separate professional accreditation or industry certification for the MA Political Communication programme. However, its interdisciplinary curriculum combines political science, strategic communication, research, and practical campaign training to prepare students for professional roles in political consulting, public affairs, government communication, advocacy, and campaign management.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Graduate Employment: According to American University, 93% of Political Communication graduates are employed, pursuing further education, or both within six months of graduation.
Industry Preparation: The programme provides practical experience through campaign management, public affairs and advocacy institutes, and applied communication coursework.
Professional Opportunities: Graduates pursue careers in political campaigns, government, public affairs, political consulting, media relations, strategic communication, and advocacy.
Employability Rankings: No specific programme-level QS, Guardian, or subject-specific employability ranking is published on the official programme page.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At American University, the MA in Political Communication program is designed to immerse students in real-world experiences that enhance their understanding of the political landscape and communication strategies. Students gain practical skills through hands-on projects, collaborative group work, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that prepare them for successful careers in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, which is crucial for developing effective communication strategies in today’s dynamic political environment.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MA Political Communication program:

- Internships: Students have the chance to intern with leading political organizations, advocacy groups, and media outlets in Washington, D.C., providing invaluable experience and networking opportunities.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work together on real-world political communication challenges, fostering teamwork and practical problem-solving skills.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates the use of advanced digital communication tools and software, including social media analytics platforms and content management systems, to equip students with the skills needed in modern political communication.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to key political institutions, media organizations, and advocacy groups, offering firsthand insights into the workings of political communication.

- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research laboratories and resources, including the School of Communication’s Media Innovation Lab, enables students to conduct cutting-edge research in political communication.

- Libraries and Resources: The university’s extensive library system provides access to a wealth of academic journals, databases, and archives relevant to political communication research.

- Institutes and Centers: Students can engage with various institutes and centers at American University, such as the Center for Media and Social Impact, which focuses on the intersection of media, communication, and social change.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance academic knowledge but also prepare students for impactful careers in political communication.

Consider applying to the MA Political Communication program at American University to take advantage of these unique opportunities and launch your career in this exciting field!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Political Communication at American University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a dynamic political landscape. Alumni of this program often find themselves in influential roles such as Political Consultant, Communications Director, or Public Affairs Specialist. With a strong foundation in both communication strategies and political analysis, graduates are well-prepared to make a significant impact in their chosen fields:

- University Services: American University offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for political communication students. The School of Communication also hosts guest lectures and panels featuring industry leaders, providing invaluable insights and connections.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates from the School of Communication secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $60,000. Many alumni report significant salary growth as they advance in their careers.

- University–Industry Partnerships: American University has established partnerships with organizations such as the National Press Club and the American Political Science Association, offering students unique internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhance their learning.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), ensuring that the education you receive meets high standards and is recognized by employers across the industry.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the MA in Political Communication have gone on to work for major political campaigns, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MA in Political Communication, students have the option to pursue a PhD in Communication or related fields, allowing them to delve deeper into research and academia. Additionally, many graduates choose to enhance their expertise by obtaining certifications in areas such as digital marketing or public relations, further broadening their career prospects.

This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also sets the stage for lifelong learning and advancement in the ever-evolving field of political communication.