Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical and practical study of political communication in international settings. Teaching covers the role of media, public diplomacy, campaigning and digital platforms in shaping political outcomes, alongside methods for analysing public opinion, media flows and strategic messaging.

• Core theory: contemporary political communication theory, comparative media systems, and the internationalisation of political discourse.
• Digital and campaign communication: social media strategy for political actors, digital campaigning techniques, microtargeting and platform governance.
• Public diplomacy and soft power: state communication, international broadcasting, and reputation management in global politics.
• Conflict, security and media: media coverage of conflict, propaganda, information operations and the communication dimensions of security policy.
• Research methods and data: qualitative and quantitative approaches to political communication research, survey design, content analysis and basic data visualisation.
• Professional practice: applied modules that simulate campaign planning, media relations, crisis communication and stakeholder engagement.
• Dissertation or consultancy project: an extended research dissertation or practice-led project allowing in-depth study of a specialist topic or real-world brief.

Modules are typically delivered through lectures, seminars, practical workshops and assessed by a combination of essays, media portfolios, presentations and the final dissertation or project.

Entry requirements

• Typically a good undergraduate degree (equivalent to a UK second-class honours, upper division / 2:1) in politics, media, international relations, journalism or a related discipline.
• Applicants with a lower-class degree may be considered if they have relevant professional experience in journalism, political organisations, NGOs, public affairs or related fields.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency; common university requirements include an English test equivalent to IELTS and comparable minimum scores across components.
• Supporting materials such as a personal statement outlining your interest in political communication, and a CV detailing any relevant experience, are normally required. References may also be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across politics, media, public affairs and international organisations. The programme prepares you for professional and research careers that require an understanding of how communication shapes policy, public opinion and international relations.

• Political communication strategist, campaign manager or press officer for political parties and candidates.
• Public affairs and government relations roles in consultancies and in-house teams.
• Communications officer or media specialist roles in international organisations, NGOs and think-tanks.
• Journalism and media analysis specialising in political reporting, investigative work or international affairs.
• Research and policy roles in academic institutions, polling organisations and research consultancies, or progression to doctoral study.

Why study at Bournemouth University

• Bournemouth University has a strong applied focus in media and communication teaching, enabling you to combine academic study with practical skills relevant to political communication careers.
• The curriculum brings together insights from politics, media studies and international relations, supported by staff with experience in research, journalism and policy practice.
• Students benefit from industry-facing opportunities such as guest lectures, workshops with practitioners and chances to work on live briefs or placement projects.
• Facilities for media production, digital research and collaborative learning support hands-on training in campaigning, media monitoring and content creation.
• The programme’s emphasis on comparative and international perspectives prepares graduates to work across different media systems and cultural contexts.