Political Communication MSc 12 months Postgraduate Program By Brunel University of London |Top Universities
Subject Ranking

# 151-200QS Subject Rankings

Program Duration

12 monthsProgram duration

Tuitionfee

21,260 GBPTuition Fee/year

Scholarship

YesScholarships

Program overview

Main Subject

Politics

Degree

MSc

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

Communication has always been integral to politics and politics to communication but the interplay between them is changing dramatically in the social media age and as new forms of politics emerge in spaces as far afield as Trump’s America, Brexit Britain or Modi’s India. Such developments challenge at a global and national level the taken-for-granted assumptions about what is political and how we communicate it. The Political Communication MSc aims to tap into growing interest nationally and internationally in how to make sense of these developments and what they may mean for political communication professionals working in areas as diverse as election campaigns, PR and crisis communication, political satire, or journalism. The academic component of the degree aims to critically examine current developments but also locates them historically and within an internationalised curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to take practical modules or theory-practical offering the potential to upskill in different types of writing, technical competencies and presentational elements on practical modules. The academic component is grounded in a flagship module in political communication which locates current developments historically, theoretically and critically as well as nationally and internationally. Students will not only study conventional political communication topics on elections, but also learn about digital cultures, political satire and fake news. Crucially, in an age where facial recognition, AI, deep fakes and micro-behavioural targeting are creating new possibilities and challenges, students will also study international media ethics.

Program overview

Main Subject

Politics

Degree

MSc

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

Communication has always been integral to politics and politics to communication but the interplay between them is changing dramatically in the social media age and as new forms of politics emerge in spaces as far afield as Trump’s America, Brexit Britain or Modi’s India. Such developments challenge at a global and national level the taken-for-granted assumptions about what is political and how we communicate it. The Political Communication MSc aims to tap into growing interest nationally and internationally in how to make sense of these developments and what they may mean for political communication professionals working in areas as diverse as election campaigns, PR and crisis communication, political satire, or journalism. The academic component of the degree aims to critically examine current developments but also locates them historically and within an internationalised curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to take practical modules or theory-practical offering the potential to upskill in different types of writing, technical competencies and presentational elements on practical modules. The academic component is grounded in a flagship module in political communication which locates current developments historically, theoretically and critically as well as nationally and internationally. Students will not only study conventional political communication topics on elections, but also learn about digital cultures, political satire and fake news. Crucially, in an age where facial recognition, AI, deep fakes and micro-behavioural targeting are creating new possibilities and challenges, students will also study international media ethics.

Admission requirements

59+
2.8+
90+
6.5+
A 2:2 (or above) UK Honours degree, or equivalent internationally recognised qualification, in any Social Science, Arts and Humanities or Business related subjects. Other subjects and qualifications with relevant industry experience including journalism, politics and political public relations are considered on a case-by-case basis.
1 Year
Sep

Tuition fee and scholarships

Domestic Students

12,650 GBP
-

International Students

21,260 GBP
-

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More programs from the university

Brunel University of London boasts a rich heritage as a leading UK technical university, renowned for its world-class research, innovative spirit, and exceptional teaching. Attracting students from over 150 countries, Brunel fosters a vibrant international community, ranking joint 1st in the UK and 4th globally for International Outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024). Brunel's research excellence is further solidified by its 74th position out of 1,705 global institutions according to Times Higher Education's Impact Ranking 2023.

Brunel's undergraduate courses are designed to cultivate independent learners with strong critical analysis and research skills. World-renowned academics provide intellectual guidance, while stimulating seminars and tutorials foster collaborative learning and peer-to-peer engagement. Diverse teaching methods cater to individual learning styles, with lectures offering foundational knowledge and interactive sessions, encouraging a deeper understanding of concepts. Many programmes incorporate hands-on learning experiences in laboratories, clinical simulations, or studios, depending on the discipline. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, Brunel offers work placements ranging from six weeks to a full academic year. These invaluable experiences, with placements at companies including AXA Investment Managers, Dominic Levent Solicitors, Cisco, GlaxoSmithKline, Gilead, IBM, L’Oréal, Home Office, the NHS, Robert Bosch and The Walt Disney Company. They provide graduates with the real-world skills employers seek.

Over 9,000 international students from diverse backgrounds call Brunel home, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. With over 130 clubs and societies catering to various interests, cultures, and faiths, students soon become part of a vibrant community where they can connect with like-minded individuals. Brunel even guarantees on-campus accommodation for international students throughout their studies (terms and conditions apply). Brunel provides a comprehensive support network to ensure international students thrive academically and personally. This includes access to sports facilities, on-campus accommodation, the award-winning Professional Development Centre, the Brunel Language Centre, and the dynamic Students' Union. While the campus offers everything students need, London's limitless attractions, diverse cuisines, entertainment, shopping, and cultural experiences are just a short journey away.

The single-site compact campus ensures everything students need is within a comfortable 10-minute walk. Uxbridge town centre offers additional amenities including entertainment, a leisure centre and two shopping centres. Central London is just a 40-minute tube ride away, providing the perfect balance of campus life and city exploration.

Brunel's award-winning Professional Development Centre equips students with the skills and experience to excel in the job market. They guide students in their career search, help them to refine their skills for effective self-presentation, and offer personalised coaching for interviews. This exceptional support continues for up to three years after graduation, ensuring a smooth transition into the world of work.


At Brunel, we work hard to offer a well-rounded educational experience. Our expert academics are with our student every step of the way. Supporting, nurturing and inspiring them to make brilliant discoveries and develop their academic confidence.

 

Brunel is one of the UK’s foremost technical universities and is ranked in the top quarter of universities in the world and 38th in the UK by QS World University Rankings 2025.
Studying for a Master's degree at Brunel University of London offers students the opportunity to get involved in research, while being taught by academics who are at the forefront of their fields, producing world-leading research. Brunel boasts a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, where academics work together to tackle global challenges. This translates into a vibrant research environment that informs the teaching on postgraduate courses.

Brunel offers  over 100 taught Master's degrees  covering a wide range of subjects, including Business, Engineering, Design, Health and Life Sciences, Law, Psychology, Social Sciences and Sports Science. There are a variety of flexible study options available such as part-time and online programmes.

The University places a strong emphasis on both academic excellence and practical application. Students are not only expected to develop a deep understanding of their chosen field but are also encouraged to put their knowledge into practice through industry placements and collaborations. Brunel has partnerships with various organisations, allowing students to gain valuable real-world experience.

The world’s students call Brunel home with over 9,000 students from over 150 countries. In fact, it is ranked 4th globally and joint top in the UK for international outlook ( Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024). With over 130 clubs and societies catering to various interests, cultures, and faiths, students soon become part of a vibrant community where they can connect with like-minded individuals. Brunel even guarantees  on-campus accommodation  for international students throughout their studies (terms and conditions apply).

Brunel's commitment to student success is further evidenced by its award-winning  Professional Development Centre, which provides career guidance and support to postgraduate students. This support continues for up to three years after graduation. The University also boasts a large and successful alumni network, with graduates holding leadership positions in major companies and organisations around the world.

A Master's degree from BrunelUniversity of London equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to thrive in their chosen careers. By combining world-class research with practical application and a focus on professional development, Brunel offers an outstanding education that sets them apart. 

 

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