Graduate Certificate in Communication (Public Sector)

Program Overview

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The Graduate Certificate in Communication (Public Sector) equips professionals with the skills to effectively communicate within the public sector, manage crises, and utilize new media. Offered via distance learning, this program combines practical skills and theoretical knowledge, focusing on local government communication and providing opportunities for networking and career advancement.

Program Outline

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Overview

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Program objectives:

To provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to:

• Effectively communicate within the public sector environment.
• Manage specific issues, events, and tasks.
• Develop strong relationships with the media.
• Plan for internal and external changes or crises.
• Utilize a variety of communication methods, including new media.
• Communicate effectively internally and externally.
• Adapt to changes in local government.

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Key features:

• Designed for experienced communications professionals.
• Focuses on local government communication.
• Provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
• Offered via SIT2LRN Distance Learning.
• Completable in 17 weeks full-time or up to three years part-time.

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Outline

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Curriculum:

• Two compulsory core papers and three electives from a list of relevant communication subjects.

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Core papers:

• BPC230 The Political Environment (15 credits): Understand the political framework of local and central government in New Zealand.
Learn about roles and responsibilities of management and governance.
• BPC350 Online and Advanced Technologies (15 credits): Understand and apply use of current and emerging web technologies for publishing effective messages in the corporate, political, and public sector environments.

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Elective papers (Choose three):

• BPC328 Advanced Media Studies (15 credits): Critically analyze the influence of culture, language, and political correctness on the contemporary media landscape and vice versa.
• BPC313 Crisis and Emergency Communication (15 credits): Identify potential crises for organizations and transform threats into opportunities.
• MGT709 Relationships, Influence, and Leadership (15 credits): Develop the ability to influence decision-makers and utilize tactics for influence.

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Assessment

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Assessment methods:

• Written assignments
• Presentations
• Reports

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Teaching

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Teaching methods:

• Blended learning approach combining facilitated online activities and independent study.
• Online platform utilizing Blackboard learning environment.
• Access to facilitator support via email.

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Faculty:

Experienced faculty with expertise in communication and public sector environments.

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Unique approaches:

• Focus on practical skills development and application.
• Integration of real-world case studies and industry examples.
• Opportunity to network with other communication professionals.

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Careers

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Potential career paths:

• Communications roles within local government.
• Public relations positions in various sectors.
• Media relations specialist.
• Event coordinator.
• Crisis communication manager.
• Policy analyst.
• Education, HR, law, media industries.

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Other:

• Fees may be eligible under SIT Zero Fees Scheme (for eligible students).
• Requires computer and internet access.
• Facilitated with email access to program facilitator within 48 hours.