Emerson College’s graduate certificate in Political Communication offers a strong foundation in a variety of communication techniques and formats. Students also have the opportunity to take courses focused on political, strategic, and sports communication.
About the Political Communication Certificate Program
Housed in the Department of Communication Studies in the School of Communication, this hybrid certificate program comprises 16 total credit hours and can be completed in as little as two semesters.
Curriculum
Required Courses (4 credits)
CC609 Political Communication
Explores fundamental theories, such as agenda setting, framing, and branding. The balancing of ethical implications confronting many political communication situations is discussed through case studies. Practical communication strategy is evaluated, looking at how the media works in general, including the news (hard and soft), entertainment programs, and advertising, in order to shape political perceptions, change attitudes, and effect behavior. Students are introduced to the latest in grassroots activism and mobilization efforts including mobile and online communication techniques to better shape civic life, elections, and policy decisions.
Three Additional Courses (12 credits)
Elective Course Listing
| Number | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CC608 | Public Affairs | 4 |
| CC623 | Public Diplomacy | 4 |
| CC624 | Campaign Management | 4 |
| CC604 | Strategic Planning and the Managerial Process | 4 |
| CC651 | Speech Writing, Persuasion, & Propaganda | 4 |
| CC621 | Content Development & Strategy | 4 |
| CC626 | Crisis Communication | 4 |
| CC643 | Global Communication | 4 |
| CC628 | Entrepreneurship and Creative Problem Solving | 4 |
| CC630 | Sports Communication | 4 |
| CC631 | Event Planning | 4 |
| CC632 | Sports as Soft Power | 4 |
| CC633 | Sports, Culture and Society | 4 |
| CC636 | Negotiation and Group Process | 4 |
| CC640 | User Experience Design | 4 |
| CC648 | Public Relations | 4 |
| CC646 | Research Methods & Practice | 4 |
| CC647 | Organizational Communication | 4 |
| CC652 | Emerging Communication Technology | 4 |
| CC655 | Project Management and Communication | 4 |
| CC695 | Seminar in Sports Communication | 4 |
*Class offerings are subject to change by semester.
Learn more about the program, including application instructions, on the Political Communication certificate page.