Strategic Communication and Public Relations (MSc)

Entry requirements

Students will normally possess an honours degree or equivalent from a relevant subject area (eg arts, humanities or social sciences). Students without an honours degree may be admitted to the course if they have other relevant qualifications and appropriate work experience.

International: You will be required to provide evidence of English language competence at no less than IELTS 6.5 and no individual component score below 6.0.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

The course is suitable if you:

• want to start a career in communication and PR - you can do an optional industry placement and we’ll support you in developing industry relevant knowledge and skills, help you to produce a professional portfolio, and provide you with opportunities to meet and network with current practitioners and learn from their experiences through guest talks and events;
• already work in a communication or PR role and want professional development - you can study part-time and tailor your learning to your own development needs;
• aim to progress to a research career in communication or PR - members of QMU’s teaching team are influential published authors and regularly present at conferences all over the world.

Social media, smartphones and the Internet have changed how we talk to each other, and how organisations talk to their customers, forever. Stories spread round the world in the time it takes to order a latte. Word of mouth has never been more powerful at generating interest for organisations. But how can this wave of change be harnessed? In our digital age there is a rising demand for communications professionals with the skills to plan strategic communication campaigns and drive success for businesses, charities and government organisations.

On this course you will develop the specialist skills needed to communicate effectively across a range of media and digital platforms. It’s important to understand the bigger picture, and you will study within a framework that emphasises strategic thinking and a critical stance, enabling you to make an effective, ethical and responsible contribution to your organisation.

You can tailor your learning to your career aspirations and gain practical experience – and always-valuable contacts – on an industry placement.

Why QMU?

• Professional recognition: This course is accredited by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI). The DMI accreditation shows employers that your degree and learnt skills/knowledge are up to date with the latest findings in marketing and that you have received a high quality multi-disciplined degree (see 'DMI accreditation' tab on this page for more information). It is also accredited by the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) and students can take the PRCA Online Certificate for free.
• Tailor your learning to your future career: Develop elevant knowledge, skills and learning in a rich and diverse environment.
• Placement opportunity: Many of our students find that this is a very valuable option that helps expand their learning and build personal connections.
• Staff expertise: Students learn from an academic team that includes internationally published researchers and practitioners with years of professional experience.
• Our reputation: QMU has a track record in delivering specialist communication courses recognised by professional bodies (Chartered Institute of Public Relations and the Public Relations and Communications Association)
• Convenient delivery: Flexible block-study means you can combine study with your existing work and life commitments.