MSc / PgDip Strategic Communication and Public Relations
Equip yourself with in-demand skills , craft a professional portfolio , and forge industry connections on this flexible , forward-looking course that offers an internationally recognised postgraduate qualification .
Complex , digital and global , today ’ s world can be daunting in its scope and speed of change . Yet for communications and public relations ( PR ) professionals with the right blend of skills and the confidence to grapple with any challenge , now is a thrilling time to build a career . This highly respected course can help you turn your ambitions into a rewarding future .
Social media , smartphones and the Internet have changed how we talk to each other , and how organisations talk to their customers , forever . Stories spread round the world in the time it takes to order a latte . Word of mouth has never been more powerful at generating interest for organisations . But how can this wave of change be harnessed ? In our digital age there is a rising demand for communications professionals with the skills to plan strategic communication campaigns and drive success for businesses , charities and government organisations .
On this course you will develop the specialist skills needed to communicate effectively across a range of media and digital platforms . It ’ s important to understand the bigger picture , and you will study within a framework that emphasises strategic thinking and a critical stance , enabling you to make an effective , ethical and responsible contribution to your organisation .
You can tailor your learning to your career aspirations and gain practical experience – and always-valuable contacts – on an industry placement . You will learn from tutors who have many years of experience in communication and public relations roles and who are widely published .
The course is suitable if you :
• want to start a career in communication and PR - you can do an industry placement ( optional ) and we ’ ll support you in developing industry relevant knowledge and skills , help you to produce a professional portfolio , and provide you with opportunities to meet , work alongside and network with current practitioners ;
• already work in a communication or PR role and want professional development - you can study part-time and tailor your learning to your own development needs ;
• aim to progress to a research career in communication or PR . Members of QMU ’ s teaching team are influential published authors and regularly present at conferences all over the world .
Structure
You can opt to study for the full MSc , a PgDip or a PgCert ( see pages 100-101 for PgCert ). You can also register as an associate student to complete a single module for CPD . On completion of a single module , you may wish to complete further modules and progress your studies to a named award .
Teaching , learning and assessment
Students learn from an academic team that includes internationally published researchers and practitioners with years of professional experience . In many modules , students learn alongside and network with practitioners working in communication and public relations roles .
Teaching comprises a combination of lectures , seminars , workshops , and tutorials . Teaching involves face-to-face and directed learning as well as your own self-directed activity . Face-to-face teaching is delivered on campus .
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Core module assessments may include case studies , essays , projects , blogs , proposals , campaign materials and briefing documents of between 1,000 and 5,000 words . There is also a Dissertation ( 12,000 words ) or a Master ’ s Communication Project ( project plus 5,000 words ). Many of these assessments can contribute to a portfolio that will support your search for employment .
Teaching hours and attendance
We timetable most teaching to take place on Fridays and Saturdays to enable people in full-time work or with caring responsibilities to take part . Your specific timetable will depend on the electives you choose and whether you study full-time or part-time .
The two taught semesters run from September to December and mid- January to mid-April . Assessments are mostly due at the end of each semester . Full-time students attend classes for two semesters and then submit their Dissertation / Project in August ( for September full-time starts ) or April ( for January full-time starts ). Part-time students normally attend classes for four semesters and then complete their Dissertation / Project .
Industry links
QMU is a partner institution of the Public Relations Consultants ’ Association ( PRCA ).
Placement
As part of the course , students can choose to do 150-hours on placement or other forms of experiential learning such as a work-based project , freelance working , development of a professional portfolio , or volunteering . Many of our students find that this is a very valuable option that helps expand their learning and build personal connections . If