Master of Arts in Public Affairs and Political Communications

Program Overview

Public affairs and political communication is a specialisation within strategic communication, focussing on aspects of politics from managing election and referendum campaigns, to party branding strategies, to working for NGOs, charities and not for profit organisations on advocacy and issues-led campaigns. It’s about creating the environment where political dialogue can be fostered, and engagement between citizens and their elected representatives turns ideas to policy and action.

Our MAPAPC graduates understand not only what has to be communicated, but why – and the impact their communications have on the world around us. They operate at the intersection of political strategy, public policy and civic society using a range of tools and techniques to communicate purposefully and responsibly.

At the heart of the course is an internship in the Oireactas under the guidance of a member of the national parliament. Taking place two days a week throughout semesters one and two, students gain unparalleled experience and a head start to their careers in the political sphere.

The MAPAPC is recognised by the Public Relations Institute of Ireland, the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (UK) and the Public Relations Society of America, giving our graduates additional recognition in industry.

Program Outline

The course is structured around core concepts, practice-led modules and research leading to a dissertation on a topic of the student’s choosing on which they work with an experienced academic supervisor.

Core concepts

Practice-led modules

Research

MAPAPC graduates are highly in demand for their skills, attributes and, having completed an internship under the guidance of a member of the Oireachtas, their understanding of politics from the front line.

They have found employment in virtually every major public affairs consultancy in Ireland, in in-house departments of state and public bodies, political parties, non-governmental organisations, not for profit organisations, and commercial enterprises. Approximately 30 remain in Leinster House as advisers to current members.

A great many more are recognised leaders in specialised fields in the industry – lobbying, electoral strategy, policy formulation, campaign management – not only in Ireland but in EU-related affairs and further afield. Still others have been elected to public office at local and national level.

Applications for this course are now open

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