What role does the media play in affecting political attitudes and behaviors—and what does it reveal about the inner workings of political institutions and systems?

For decades, politicians have used communication platforms—newspapers, radio, television, and social media—to boost public outreach, enhance their message and manage their brands in a complex media environment. Through this interdisciplinary minor, you will learn the analytical, critical thinking and leadership skills in high demand on the campaign trail, in Congress or in boardrooms, situation rooms and news desks across the country and around the world.

The Curriculum

View the 2024-2025 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Requirements for a Minor in Political Communication

  • COMM1502  Media & Society (SA) (SS)
  • POLSC1201  Introduction to American Government and Politics (SA) (SS)(SJ) OR POLSC1301  Introduction to Comparative Politics (SA) (SS) OR POLSC1401  Introduction to International Relations (SA) (SS)

MEDIA WRITING (Choose one):

  • COMM2501  Journalism 
  • COMM3501  Writing for Electronic Media 
  • COMM3801  Feature Writing

THEORIES OF POLITICAL COMMUNICATION (Choose one):

  • POLSC2207  Politics and the Media 
  • POLSC2409  The Politics of International Economic Relations 
  • POLSC3201  Congress, Representation and the Legislative Process 
  • POLSC3303  Street Democracy

POLITICAL COMMUNICATION IN PRACTICE (Choose two):

  • POLSC2211 Campaign Strategies and Electoral Politics
  • POLSC2421 Model UN
  • COMM2521 Public Relations and Persuasion (LI)
  • COMM2523 Advertising and Culture (VCI)
  • SPCH1111 Public Speaking: Voice and Diction
  • IDS4994 Internship (in Political Communication)

What can I do with a minor in political communication?

A minor in political communication can prepare you for a variety of careers that involve communication in the political sphere. Here are some potential career paths:

  • Political campaign worker: You could work on political campaigns as a campaign manager, communications director, or field organizer. Political campaigns rely heavily on effective communication to reach voters and promote their message.
  • Political journalist: You could work as a political reporter, correspondent, or analyst for a news organization. Political journalists use their communication skills to inform the public about political events and issues.
  • Public relations specialist: You could work for a political organization, advocacy group, or government agency as a public relations specialist. This role involves developing and implementing communication strategies to promote a particular message or agenda.
  • Political consultant: You could work as a political consultant, providing strategic advice and guidance to political candidates, campaigns, or organizations.
  • Government affairs specialist: You could work for a company or organization as a government affairs specialist, advocating for their interests and communicating with government officials and policymakers.

Some of the key skills that are important for success in these careers include strong communication skills, writing ability, critical thinking, research and analysis skills, knowledge of the political process, and an understanding of media and public relations strategies.

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