Applied Political Communication Certificate

Graduate Certificate in Applied Political Communication 

This certificate program is a joint collaboration between the Department of Political Science and the School of Communication.  Applied political communication encompasses the interaction of political figures, political interests, governmental institutions, media, and the public in their efforts to persuade and influence political power and public policy outcomes. This certificate’s interdisciplinary nature applies the fundamentals of public communication and political science to meet the specific needs and goals of political campaigns and advocacy organizations. Topics covered include campaign leadership strategies, audience analysis pertaining to specific publics, crisis communication, effective strategic messaging campaigns targeting publics through traditional communication channels, digital communication assets, and social media platforms.

The certificate is designed for students seeking preparation for careers as:

• Legislative Aides
• Political Consultants
• Campaign Managers
• Social Media or Digital Strategists
• Political Journalists
• Government Press Secretaries
• Lobbyists
• Aides in Public Affairs Organizations

Certificate Information:

• 18 credits
• Open to ANY major
• Full-time or Part-time
• Online classes available
• No residency requirement
• Real-world experience with internships
• Design course work around career interests
• Use My Degree Progress Report (My DPR) to review your academic progress to graduation

Assistantship/Scholarship Information

Not all departments offer graduate assistantships. Students should inquire with the department directly to determine assistantship availability.

Financial Aid Information

Paying for college is a vital part of the education process. It is important to be informed of the many sources of aid available. Student loans are available to degree-seeking graduate students. Information on student loans can be found through the Office of Student Financial Aid. The Office of Student Financial Aid is located in Simmons Hall.

Tuition and Fees

Current tuition and fees schedules can be found through the Office of Student Accounts.