Handbook

This course explores the central role of communication in contemporary politics from both an academic and practitioner perspective. As you develop a critical understanding of language, image and emotion in political communication, you also will learn how to strategically frame issues through values, how to use polling and other research, and how to write speeches, messages and advertisements to change minds and win votes. Grounded in an ethical and a critical understanding of the role of public relations and advertising in the political process, you will also be introduced to the roles performed by media and communications professionals in politics, government and advocacy. Via active learning in practice-based tutorials and detailed case studies, you will gain a critical understanding of the role of communications in contemporary politics and build a foundation of skills in researching, planning and executing political communications.