MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations

Program Overview

The MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations program at Queen Margaret University equips students with the knowledge and skills for a successful career in communication and public relations. Accredited by DMI and PRCA, the program emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical practices, and industry connections. Students develop specialist skills in media theory, campaign planning, and digital communications, preparing them for roles in various industries and organizations worldwide.

Program Outline

MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations at Queen Margaret University

Degree Overview:

• Objective: Equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in communication and public relations.
• Accreditation:
• Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) accredited.
• Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) accredited.
• Students can obtain the PRCA Online Certificate for free.
• Key Features:
• Focus on strategic thinking and critical analysis.
• Development of specialist skills for effective communication across various media and digital platforms.
• Emphasis on ethical and responsible communication practices.
• Opportunities for professional development and industry connections.
• Flexible study options: full-time, part-time, and placement opportunities.

Outline:

• Structure:
• Available as MSc (180 credits), PgDip (120 credits), or PgCert (60 credits).
• Single module study options for CPD.
• Content:
• Combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills development.
• Covers topics such as media theory, campaign planning, strategic communication, digital communications, public affairs, and industry-based learning.
• Course Schedule:
• Most teaching takes place on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Two semesters run from September to December and mid-January to mid-April.
• Class sizes typically range from 15 to 30 students.
• Modules:
• Core Modules:
• Media Theory and Campaigning (20 credits)
• Strategic Communication and Digital Practice (20 credits)
• Public Affairs (20 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits) or Master’s Communication Project (60 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• Digital Communications (20 credits)
• Industry-based Learning and Professional Development (20 credits)
• International Marketing (20 credits)
• Strategy and Leadership (20 credits)
• Markets, Innovation and the International Consumer (20 credits)
• Marketing and Society (20 credits)
• Leadership, Governance and Strategy: Not-for-profit (20 credits)
• Fundraising, Development and Finance (20 credits)
• Planning and Marketing Cultural Projects (20 credits)

Assessment:

• Variety of assessment methods:
• Case studies
• Essays
• Projects
• Blogs
• Proposals
• Campaign materials
• Briefing documents
• Word count range: 1,000 to 5,000 words
• Master's thesis/project: 12,000 words or project plus 5,000 words
• Portfolio development: Assessments contribute to a portfolio for job applications.

Teaching:

• Learning methods:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Face-to-face and directed learning
• Self-directed activities
• Faculty:
• Internationally published researchers
• Experienced practitioners
• Students learn alongside and network with practitioners in the field
• Unique approaches:
• Industry connections and partnerships
• Opportunities for placement or other forms of experiential learning

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Communication and Public Relations professional
• Marketing and Advertising professional
• Social Media Manager
• Content Creator
• Media Relations Specialist
• Public Affairs Officer
• Opportunities:
• Work in various industries and organizations
• Career development and advancement
• Global employment opportunities
• Graduate outcomes:
• Successful track record of achieving career aspirations
• Key communication roles in various organizations weltweit
• Professional development for existing practitioners
• Pathway to an academic career in the field

Other:

• Funded places available: PgDip Strategic Communication and Public Relations starting in September 2024.
• DMI accreditation benefits:
• Access to extensive marketing research resources
• Global industry network
• CDMA (Certified Digital Marketing Associate) accreditation upon successful completion of the program.
• Sample student handbook available: MSc Strategic Communication & Public Relations Sample Student Handbook 2021/22
• Open events available: Opportunities to meet with program staff and learn more about the program.
• Articulation routes from Canadian colleges: More information on articulation routes with Canadian institutions.