Masters Degrees (Lobbying)

About the course

Public affairs, lobbying and political consultancy are attractive areas for many graduates. Careers in this field are either in dedicated departments within large companies or, more commonly, within specialist consultancy firms.

This programme will provide both academic and practical training to assist you in pursuing a career in these exciting professions.

Aims

Designed in conjunction with leading Public Affairs companies, the programme includes an integrated internship with a Public Affairs consultancy in either London or Brussels, which will provide graduates with significant advantages to pursue such a career.

The course offers a unique combination of advanced academic knowledge and practical experience that will provide graduates with the opportunity to develop a career in public affairs.

Course Content

The MSc consists of both compulsory and optional modules, a typical selection can be found below. Modules can vary from year to year, but these offer a good idea of what we teach.

Full-time

Compulsory modules:

Marketing Communications
International Business Ethics and Corporate Governance
Public Policy and the Challenges of Cultural Diversity
Parties and Voters in the UK
Public Policy Analysis

Optional modules:

Internship and Dissertation

Part-time

Compulsory modules:

Marketing Communications
International Business Ethics and Corporate Governance
Public Policy and the Challenges of Cultural Diversity
Parties and Voters in the UK
Public Policy Analysis

Optional modules:

Dissertation and Portfolio

Assessment

Two modes of assessment operate on this programme. Some modules are assessed by coursework and an advance notice examination, each counting for 50% of the marks. Other modules are assessed 100% by coursework.

Awards
A Master's degree is awarded if you reach the necessary standard on the taught part of the course and submit a dissertation of the required standard. The pass grade for all modules and the dissertation is 50%.

Students are normally required to pass all the required taught modules before being permitted to proceed to the dissertation. If you do not achieve the standard required, you may be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate if eligible.

Special Features

All full-time students are required to undertake an internship of at least three months with a Public Affairs employer. This is usually arranged with help from the Department of Politics and History and takes place in London or Brussels.

During the course of the placement, you and your employer will liaise with a dedicated internship tutor to ensure that appropriate progress is being made. At the end of the internship, both you and your employer will submit reports.

Outstanding students on this programme have regularly been offered further employment with their placement organisations.

Note: The internship is for full-time students only, as part-time students must be employed in the sector prior to commencing the course.

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This newly developed programme is based on our popular and successful courses in Communication, Advertising and Public Relations, Political Lobbying and Public Affairs, and Health Communication. We have updated and re-structured the course to ensure that it reflects the latest trends in contemporary theory and practice. The innovative new design incorporates a ‘Communication and Public Relations’ core with opportunities for you to specialise and study streams in advertising, political lobbying or healthcare. This means that students will study four core modules plus two taught modules in your particular specialism. This programme is a linked Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and Masters (MSc).

Key benefits

- provides you with a flexibility of choice to meet your individual and professional aims

- enables you to develop a critical understanding and expertise in communication and public relations

- ensures you have a detailed insight into advertising, political lobbying or healthcare communication

- offers a distinctive design with a focus on the key elements for a career in the communication industry

- Recognised by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).

Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/course/msc-communication-and-public-relations-ft-jn or for the part-time option visit: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/course/msc-communication-and-public-relations-pt-jn

Course detail

This programme is a linked Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and Master's (MSc). The PGDip comprises six modules. Full-time students will take three modules per semester begining each september and finishing the PGDip components by May the following year.

For an MSc award you will also undertake an individual dissertation (12,000-15,000 words). Each student is allocated a supervisor who will support thier individual research project.

Each module is weighted with credit points indicating the amount of student effort required. Full-time students are required to complete 60 credits per semester (1 credit point equates to approximately 10 student effort hours).

- Course purpose -

The course will provide you with the opportunity to develop skills, in a flexible, inclusive and accessible environment, empowering you in your progression into employment and/or further study.

- Format and assessment -

A combination of lectures, seminars, and practical classes. Outside of this, you will also be expected to spend time in independent study and you may also be involved in meetings with staff or with your fellow students on group projects.

Career options

You have a range of options upon graduation across the public, private and non-profit sectors, in communication, public relations, advertising, marketing, political lobbying and internal communication. Exposure to working professionals during the course helps students identify career choices. The broad use of "real-life" scenarios and exercises helps you develop a caree oriented perspective.Some previous graduates choose to specialise in a particular area, our students are also equipped to be communication ‘all-rounders’ able to incorporate an integrated approach to communication management. Further PhD research study is also an option.

Our past students have developed careers in regional, national and international organisations both within Communication Agencies and as Communication Professionals in a wide range of organisations.

How to apply: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/how-to-apply#pg

Why Choose Ulster University ?

1. Over 92% of our graduates are in work or further study six months after graduation.
2. We are a top UK university for providing courses with a period of work placement.
3. Our teaching and the learning experience we deliver are rated at the highest level by the Quality Assurance Agency.
4. We recruit international students from more than 100 different countries.
5. More than 4,000 students from over 50 countries have successfully completed eLearning courses at Ulster University.

Flexible payment

To help spread the cost of your studies, tuition fees can be paid back in monthly instalments while you learn. If you study for a one-year, full-time master’s, you can pay your fees up-front, in one lump sum, or in either five* or ten* equal monthly payments. If you study for a master’s on a part-time basis (e.g. over three years), you can pay each year’s fees up-front or in five or ten equal monthly payments each year. This flexibility allows you to spread the payment of your fees over each academic year. Find out more by visiting https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/postgraduate

Scholarships

A comprehensive range of financial scholarships, awards and prizes are available to undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Scholarships recognise the many ways in which our students are outstanding in their subject. Individuals may be able to apply directly or may automatically be nominated for awards. Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/scholarships

English Language Tuition

CELT offers courses and consultations in English language and study skills to Ulster University students of all subjects, levels and nationalities. Students and researchers for whom English is an additional language can access free CELT support throughout the academic year: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/international/english-language-support

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Introduction

This variant of our established MSc Strategic Public Relations & Communication Management course is delivered jointly with our partner Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain. This course provides students with a solid international perspective on strategic communication and provides an opportunity to study in both Stirling, UK, and Barcelona, Spain.
The MSc Strategic Communication & Public Relations is an interdisciplinary, advanced level course taught by established academics and practitioners. It offers a hands-on approach while at the same time providing you with the theoretical foundations necessary to practise public relations at a managerial level.
You will be offered the opportunity to attend a Public Affairs and Lobbying seminar series in Brussels, which includes visits to the European Parliament, the European Commission as well as specialist industry seminars with leading public affairs and public relations experts in Brussels.
This course is taught completely in English and students will obtain a joint MSc degree from the University of Stirling and Pompeu Fabra University. Students spend the Semester 1 at the University of Stirling and then move to Pompeu Fabra University for Semester 2. Students then decide if they would like to have their dissertation supervised by Stirling or Pompeu Fabra.

Link to MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations at Pompeu Fabra University http://www.upf.edu/masterpublicrelations/en/

Key information

- Degree type: MSc, Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma
- Study methods: Full-time
- Duration: 12 months (Stirling in semester 1 - Barcelona in semester 2 - Stirling dissertation period) 16 months (Stirling in semester 1 Barcelona in semester 2 - Barcelona dissertation period)
- Start date: September
- Course Director: Dr Alenka Jelen

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.5 with 6.0 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade B
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 60 with 56 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 90 with no subtest less than 20

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Structure and content

Students spend Semester 1 at the University of Stirling and then go to Pompeu Fabra University for Semester 2. Students then can decide to have their dissertation supervision at the University of Stirling or Pompeu Fabra University.
The course covers a range of modules including public relations and communication management theory, strategic public relations planning, public diplomacy and strategic communication, media relations, digital media, public affairs and advocacy, and research methods.

Delivery and assessment

Delivery methods include lecture, workshops and seminars.
Methods of assessment include case studies, timed assignments, essays, presentations and reports. Students also complete a 12,000-word dissertation.

Why Stirling?

- REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

- Rating
Research within Communications, Media and Culture had 70 percent of its research rated as either ‘World-leading’ or ‘Internationally Excellent’ in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise. Pompeu Fabra staff are also research active and publish internationally.

Strengths
- Academic strengths
This course provides a unique multicultural and intercultural experience for students as well as an innovative and challenging curriculum that is regularly updated. Students will develop a solid theoretical foundation as well as learn practical skills necessary for working within the public relations industry.
Students benefit from the experience and expertise of the academic research active team at Stirling and Pompeu Fabra; students are able to study in both northern and southern Europe (Scotland and Spain) and will develop an international outlook.
Students are able to attend a two-day Public Affairs and Lobbying seminar series delivered in Brussels (additional cost).

Career opportunities

This course prepares students for careers in public relations and related areas in consultancies and private sector companies, (in-house positions, such as communications officer/manager, public relations officer/manager, press officer, internal communications officer/manager) NGOS, international organisations (such as the EU, UN etc.).

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Our vision is to prepare students for European leadership roles in the private and public sector. We have designed the program to provide a comprehensive, interdisciplinary and up-to-date study of economic and political dynamics in Europe.

Studies in European private and public management, in European economics, law and politics, an intensive seminar in Brussels plus a period of practical training offer an ideal combination of theoretical knowledge, management education, practical skills and European expertise. Our unique blend of international academic expertise and application-oriented classes make this an exceptional experience.

Program

The program has been designed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date study of economic and political dynamics in Europe. Graduates from both Europe and beyond will develop an in-depth understanding of the central issues facing Europe at all levels of the economy and administration, and acquire the tools to work with European institutions. Studies in European private and public management, in European economics, law and politics, an intensive seminar in Brussels plus an optional period of practical training offer an ideal combination for acquiring theoretical knowledge, management training, practical skills and European expertise. Our unique blend of academic expertise and application-oriented classes make this an exceptional experience.

Application and Admission

Applicants must hold a German or international degree (qualified bachelor) in Public Policy/ or Management, Economics or Business, Political Science or Law or a comparable degree of the German mark “Good (2)” or ECTS grade “B”. Fluency in English is required and must be demonstrated (by students whose native language is not English) with the TOEFL exam (minimum of 220 points computer-based or 560 paper-based) or an equivalent test like the IELTS (at least 6,0). The complete application documents can be submitted anytime, students will be accepted for the winter term between January and May (non-European) or July (European) before classes start. Thus, the earlier you apply, the higher your chances to be accepted. There is a waiting list for applications which arrive after this date.

Applications must include: a registration form, a curriculum vitae, a photograph, proof of his/ her university degree, a letter of recommendation from an employer/ university teacher, an essay outlining the candidate’s interest in the programme and career goals, the address and telephone number (e-mail address, if available) to which all correspondence should be sent. Thorough knowledge of and/or interest in international, intercultural and European topics must seem convincing As far as the candidate has work experience, e.g. within international organizations and firms or in the Foreign Service, this will be considered during the selection process.

Financial Aid

The course is subject to a tuition fee (Currently: 7900,- per academic year *). If you plan to apply for financial support, please check our list of scholarship opportunities. Please keep in mind that it may take a year to apply for scholarship programmes. You may need to plan way in advance.

*plus ~ € 325 study fee per semester (includes free usage of public transportation in and around Bremen and Lower Saxony)

Careers

The curriculum provides sound preparation for careers in European and international businesses, institutions and administrations, or for further research. Graduates have a broad field of opportunity to choose from, including economic and legal adviser activities, positions in private and public management, lobbying activities, political offices and functions, and in the diplomatic service. Students from outside Europe find excellent job opportunities worldwide with companies, banks and organizations cooperating with European partners.

The international set-up of the program confronts students with the need to cope with the cultural and individual differences that arise in a multicultural setting, familiarising them with working across cultures and working in international teams. Courses in intercultural management, team building and presentations skills prepare them for international careers.

The knowledge and skills that you will gain will prove to be an excellent investment in your future!

Target Group

The Master in European Studies program has been designed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date study of economic and political dynamics in Europe. Studies in European private and public management, in European economics, law and politics, an intensive seminar in Brussels plus a period of practical training offer an ideal combination to acquire theoretical knowledge, management education, practical skills and European expertise. Tuition is provided exclusively in English. The program has been carried out since the academic year 1999/ 2000.

The degree is a 12-month, full-time program. The course begins in early October and ends in September the following year. After successful completion of the courses and the thesis, candidates will be awarded the internationally recognised academic title Master of Arts (M.A).

The course provides up to 25 places for applicants and is open to postgraduates with an academic degree in Public Policy/ or Management, Economics or Business, Political Sciences or Law. Students come from different backgrounds and benefit from opportunities to develop a European perspective and to broaden their knowledge and skills in significant aspects of European management. Due to the demanding time frame high academic standards and a very diligent work schedule are required.

The program provides sound preparation for careers in European and international businesses, institutions and administrations, or for further European research. It offers interdisciplinary training for tomorrow’s managers of European affairs. Graduates of this course will have a broad range of career opportunities to choose from, including activities as economic and legal advisers, positions in private and public management, lobbying activities, political offices and functions in the diplomatic services.

The faculty is composed of international and national university lecturers and EU practitioners. Emphasis is laid on an interdisciplinary approach in teaching and learning, group work, discussions and a lively exchange between participants. Due to the international set-up of the programme, students will be confronted with the need to cope with the cultural and individual differences that arise in a multicultural setting, familiarising them with working across cultures and working in international teams.

Application deadline: 30th June 2017

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This is an integrated multimedia journalism course that prepares you for a career in the global journalism industry by providing you with the core skills for print, broadcast, magazine and online platforms.

During the course you learn how to gather, organise, write and present information to a professional standard across a variety of platforms and to different audiences.

Key areas of study include:
-Print.
-Broadcast.
-Digital/online journalism.
-Writing and presentation skills.
-Interviewing.
-TV and radio presentation skills.
-Professional practice.
-Global journalism.
-Shorthand.

By selecting options to meet your own interests you are able to specialise in print journalism, magazine journalism, radio journalism and television journalism. You can also choose to stud: media law and regulation; public affairs; practical PR and professional experience; PR: politics and lobbying; sports journalism.

Throughout the course you gain an understanding of how your chosen area operates in Britain and internationally by examining different examples of journalistic practice. You are able to bring your own experience of journalism in your home country and gain insight into practices in Britain, Europe and the wider world. You study case-studies from regions of the world that interest you in order to compare different approaches to journalism.

Print and online journalism modules prepare you to develop the multiplatform skills to operate effectively as a news and feature journalist in any global newsroom. This means learning to develop a strong news sense, an ability to select and prioritise key facts and quotes, and writing skills for different platforms.

You also:
-Learn how to produce accurate material for publication to a given length and deadline.
-Develop an understanding of how news is consumed and how to meet the needs and expectations of a range of audiences.
-Develop both multidisciplinary and team working skills that equip you to work with people from a range of backgrounds.

Increasingly, both consumer and specialist and business-to-business magazines attract readers and consumers from across the world. The magazine journalism module develops the skills to enable you to work in one of the fastest growing areas of journalism. You learn the business of magazines – including branding and marketing and use of social media techniques – as well as how to source and write lively and creative features, edit copy and write attention-grabbing headlines and coverlines, and how to design and layout magazines.

Broadcast journalism modules develop your skills in radio and TV broadcasting, and in interviewing and presenting. You produce radio and TV packages in a dedicated TV and radio studio and two dedicated newsrooms.

Alongside practical skills, the course gives you the opportunity to study the ethical, legal and regulatory context in which journalism is practised. Theoretical content deepens your understanding and critical awareness of on-going debates about the economic and political role played by journalists and global news organisations in modern societies.

If you want to work as a journalist in the UK, you may choose to follow a National Council for the Training of Journalists pathway and sit the professional examinations necessary to gain a job in journalism in the UK market. You need an IELTS equivalent of 7.0 to follow this pathway.

Sheffield Hallam University acts as a centre for the NCTJ national examinations.

For more information, see the website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/find-a-course/ma-international-journalism

Course structure

Full time – typically 13 months.
Part time – typically 3 years.
Starts September.

Modules
Semester One core modules
-Writing for the media
-Radio journalism
-Magazine journalism
Semester One optional modules
-Sports journalism 1
-Media law and regulation 1
-Practical PR and professional experience

Semester Two core modules
-Print and online reporting
-TV journalism
-International journalism and PR
Semester Two optional modules
-Sports journalism
-Media law and regulation 2
-Public affairs
-PR: politics and lobbying

Semester Three core modules
-International journalism project

Assessment: coursework; critical evaluation; dissertation or project; a combination of practical and theoretical work.

Other admission requirements

You may also be considered if you do not hold a degree but can provide evidence of relevant professional experience. We encourage applications from UK and international candidates who:
-Have a diversity of backgrounds.
-Are considering a career in journalism.
-Show the required aptitude and potential.

We base our selection criteria on your relevant experience and potential for development. Previous experience of journalism is preferable, but not necessary.

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The CIPR Public Affairs Diploma is designed for public relations or public affairs practitioners who want to develop relevant theoretical knowledge and to strengthen their practical skills in order to become more effective and better placed to take on more senior roles. The course focuses on the role communication expertise plays in public policy processes as they are approached in the context of strategic communications and reputation management that underpin the public affairs function. The qualification is firmly rooted in practice - with regular contributions from senior practitioners - as well as clear in its interdisciplinary theoretical basis. Public Affairs Diploma students receive 20 hours of face-to-face tuition between January and May, individual supervision for the research project (course assessment), as well as extensive online resources developed to support individual study.

Teaching, learning and assessment

Twenty hours of on campus teaching comprises a variety of approaches including lectures, workshops, group work and input from senior practitioners and QMU academics. Work is set and contact maintained between teaching blocks through online discussions. Students also receive supervision support with their assignment. CIPR Public Affairs Diploma students learn alongside and MSc Strategic Communications and Public Relations students ensuring that you benefit from sharing experiences and developing a network of colleagues. Assessment is through submission of a 6,000 word research project. Support is offered with research project preparation. Further information is available on the CIPR website at http://www.cipr.co.uk/courses/public-affairs-diploma.

Teaching hours and attendance

Teaching is normally delivered in one or two day blocks three/ four times a year. Details will be available on the QMU website.

Links with industry/professional bodies

Students on the course are eligible for student membership of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and, on graduation, can upgrade their membership to full or associate status depending on professional experience.

Entry requirements:

You must have ONE of the following requirements:
- The CIPR Advanced Certificate in Public Relations;
- The CIPR Internal Communication Certificate plus one year'’s full-time employment in PR;
- A postgraduate professional qualification in a related discipline (eg CIM Diploma), plus one year’'s full-time employment (or equivalent part-time employment) in PR;
- A degree in business/marketing/management/communication studies, plus one year’'s full-time employment in PR;
- Any other UK degree plus two years full -time employment in PR;
- NCTJ Diploma plus either five years’ journalism experience or three years’ full -time employment in PR;
- Two years’ full-time employment in PR, and the CAM Advanced Diploma in Marketing Communication;
- LCCIEB 5 3rd Level subjects, including PR, Marketing, Advertising, Principles & Practice of Management, plus two
years’ experience in PR;
- Four years’ full-time employment in PR and five GCSE passes, one of which must be in English Language.

NB Restrictions on existing students apply. To check eligibility of PR role email the CIPR professional development team.

International: Those whose first language is not English must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the language - spoken and written - to an International Language Testing System (IELTS) band score of 6.5 or equivalent.

Modules

Public Policy Landscape/ Lobbying and Campaigning/ Public Affairs in the Context of Reputation Management/ Research Project

Careers

CIPR qualifications are recognised as the benchmark for professional practice in public relations by employers in the private and public sectors. Studying for the CIPR Public Affairs Diploma counts towards the CIPR’s CPD programme and becoming a CIPR Accredited Practitioner - the hallmark of your commitment to professional development.

Quick facts

- QMU is the only institution outside London to teach the CIPR Internal Communication Diploma, the CIPR Public Affairs Diploma and the CIPR Diploma.
- QMU is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).
- Our PR academics are recognised nationally and internationally for their excellence in research. These courses reflect the strength and depth of the teaching team which includes academics with extensive research and publication portfolios and PR practitioners with many years of experience at senior level in a wide range of organisations.
- CIPR Public Affairs Diploma graduates receive credits towards a MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations at QMU and towards the CIPR Diploma.
- Block teaching is a simple way of fitting your study around the demands of your job.

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Programme description

The Master of International Affairs (MIA) is an advanced 15-month programme suited to ambitious graduates looking for a launch-pad into international affairs or policy making roles.

Based within the Academy of Government at the University of Edinburgh, you’ll work alongside leading researchers and practitioners as you develop the skills necessary to critically evaluate policy issues, processes, and implementation.

This program is both practical and practice-oriented. As a student you’ll benefit from a series of talks and lectures from policy-makers working at the heart of government. You’ll gain hands on experience through a 3-month placement with a policy-focused organisation. And you’ll take part in a range of professional development workshops focused on skills such as negotiating, communicating with impact, and writing effectively.

The MIA is a recognised professional qualification. The combination of academic excellence and practical experience ensure that MIA graduates are well placed for careers in international organisations, research institutes, think tanks, consulting firms, NGOs, government, party politics, and advocacy/lobbying organizations, amongst others.

The University of Edinburgh is ranked within the world’s top 20. It is home to the Academy of Government which hosts some of the world’s leading researchers and analysts working on government at Scottish, UK, European and global levels. Their work covers key policy challenges our societies need to confront: on health, education and welfare, on the environment, energy and climate change, on international security and international development.

Programme structure

As a student on our MIA you will be taught and assessed in a variety of innovative ways. The focus is on providing a strong, practice-oriented programme. Teaching sessions are three hours and typically divided into three components: one academic-led, one student-led and one practitioner-led.

An academic lecture will build on readings, which students will be expected to have completed before class, and identify key issues for debate and discussion. The student-led hour will pick up on these themes and develop further debate either through a classroom discussion, presentations, group exercises, or practical activities/simulations. The practitioner-led hour will put the learning into practical context, using specific case studies where possible and appropriate.

The MIA is assessed through a variety of mechanisms, including written policy briefs, short policy memos, problem-solving tasks, individual and group presentations, written analytical reports, self and peer assessment, and crisis response simulations.

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This programme takes account of the perspectives and concerns of non-core states in international relations - developing countries and countries in transition or conflict, and those states marginalised in the global system. How do these states manage political relations in the international system? What impact do international regimes and international law have upon international politics? To what extent can the non-core states influence the global order? Can we identify changes to the global order from new emerging powers in the 21st century?

The programme develops critical perspectives on theory and practice in international affairs, and enables students to understand and evaluate issues in the contemporary global arena. It also develops key analytical skills associated with thinking, speaking and writing clearly and critically about contemporary international issues, and provides a firm foundation for students who wish to pursue further research leading to a PhD degree.

The programme is likely to appeal to those who have a broad interest in international relations, including those whose future employment is likely to involve the public, private and/or non-governmental sphere in an international context.

The aims of the programme are:

To provide students with an opportunity to study international relations with a particular focus on the perspectives, experience and problems facing non-core states in the international system, including developing countries, and marginal and weak states
To provide students with a grounding in the normative and explanatory theoretical frameworks used to study international politics
To enable students to develop and apply their knowledge and skills to the understanding and evaluation of international issues and how these impact upon human rights, globalisation, inequality, international crime and terrorism, security and insecurity
To explore the nature of the global governance system, the role of contemporary power politics, and the capacity of different state actors to shape this system
To enable students to develop key generic skills in critical thinking, conceptual analysis, research, and oral and written communication of information and arguments.

Assessment

Essays, written assignments, project work, presentations and a dissertation.

Career options

Possibilities of a wide range of career opportunities where an international outlook is required, for example international diplomacy, journalism and the mass media, think-tanks and research institutes, multi-national business and general management, campaign and lobbying organisations, the public sector and the Civil Service. It can also offer sound preparation for a research degree in international politics, possibly leading to an academic career.

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About the course

Taught in the heart of one of the principal institutional centres of the European Union, the two-year full-time study programme (120 ECTS) distinctively combines:

• a strong core of teaching on European Politics and Policy
• a broader interdisciplinary curriculum on European integration
• a series of practitioner-led seminars providing unique insight into the processes of European decision-making

The Master in European Governance educates experts in European public policy, providing an advanced-level training in Political Science complemented by a wider interdisciplinarity.

Aims

As a student, you will

• acquire an advanced-level knowledge of the functioning of the institutional system of the European Union, as well as of a wider range of European public policies (particularly in the areas of economic, social and environmental policy).
• benefit from a solid disciplinary grounding in Political Science complemented by an awareness of interdisciplinary research methods
• develop transferable skills (data analysis; report-writing; oral presentation, etc.)
• familiarise yourself with the working methods of the European institutions and/or of private sector firms (including internship possibilities)
• profit from the experience of a bilingual educational and working environment, situated within a wider multilingual context

Course modules

• Foundations of Research in Political Science
• International Political Economy
• Public Policy Analysis

Career

Graduates will be qualified for careers in various sectors: European institutions; national, regional and local administrations; multinational corporations; non-governmental organisations; consultancy; lobbying; journalism; education/research.

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This masters will develop your critical engagement with the theories and practices of forced migration and development studies. In-depth knowledge of both disciplines is critical to understand and explain the causes and consequences of forced migration.

Taught by internationally recognised members of staff with a range of innovative research experiences, the course is interdisciplinary. It requires the use of theoretical and methodological insights, knowledge and perspectives of different disciplines. This provides opportunities for in-depth understanding and explanation of the problem of Forced Migration and its interface with other social science disciplines, such as development studies, law, sociology, anthropology, political science and psychology.

Starting in both in September and January, this programme aims to develop your critical engagement with the theories and practices of forced migration and development studies. In-depth knowledge of both disciplines is critical to understanding and explaining the causes and consequences of forced migration, analysing, critiquing and evaluating host governments’, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees’ (UNCHR) and NGOs’ policies on protection, assistance, reception and settlement strategies, as well as the short and long-term responses of inter -governmental organisations, such as the World Bank and others.

Throughout the course, you’ll also engage in volunteering. Students have volunteered in different organisations , including the UK Refugee Council, British Red Cross, UNHCR, Chance UK, Naz Project London and Eaves in South London. These organisations provide support, advice and advocacy to asylum-seekers, including women who’ve experienced violence, such as trafficking, prostitution, domestic and sexual violence.

MSc Refugee Studies is led by Professor Gaim Kibreab, an internationally recognised expert on forced migration, resettlement, repatriation and development, conflict, environment, water resources governance, post-conflict reconstruction, gender and development, livelihoods, governance and civil society.

Modules

International Refugee Law
Asylum policy in the EU and Member States
Forced Migration and Human Rights
Forced Migration and Development
Contemporary Issues in Development
Research methods for development
Dissertation (triple module)

Study hours

Year 1 class contact time is typically 16 hours per week plus individual tutorial time and independent study. This accumulates to typically two days and two evenings a week.

Assessment

All modules apart from the dissertation are assessed by 5,000 word pieces of coursework.

Employability

The aims and outcomes of this course are designed to develop your knowledge and skills that are relevant to working with forced migrants, including asylum-seekers, refugees, IDPs, oustees and other categories of forced migrants and also for working in refugee-producing and hosting countries world-wide, inter-governmental organisations, such as the UNHCR, non-governmental orgisations, immigration lawyers, lobbying and advocacy groups. The Home Office and immigration authorities in the EU and member states are potential employers of our graduates.

Previous students have entered careers in many fields working for international organisations such as the United Nations and its constituent organisations. Through our pool of visiting lecturers and practitioners, the MSc Refugee Studies networks with activists, academics and practitioners. These networks provide students an opportunity not only to learn about job opportunities but also establish contacts that may prove to be useful in search of employment opportunities. Students’ employability is enhanced by developing their transferable and problem-solving analytical and evaluative skills. Some graduates of the MSc Refugee Studies have established their own NGOs and are serving asylum-seekers, refugees and internally displaced persons in their countries of origin.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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Aims

The MA Public Relations and Corporate Communications covers the fundamental academic principles and theories relevant to the field as well as the contemporary environmental drivers and professional practices that shape the profession in the 21st Century.

The course will focus on the design and planning of organisational change campaigns, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes and rhetorical and non-rhetorical responses and tactics to tackle issues and crises. Students will be equipped with the tools and skills needed to address different stakeholders and to approach any challenge from a strategic perspective.

This Master’s programme is taught by teaching staff and visiting lecturers with extensive professional experience and expertise. This guarantees students will have the opportunity to learn up to date techniques that are relevant to the current workplace, whether their prospective or current posts involve practicing at a local, national or an international level.

Our course is recognised by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), which means that our module content has been assessed to provide relevant skills and knowledge development towards a career in public relations or communications. Our students also currently receive free membership to the CIPR which gives them access to their online portal offering networking, career and placement advice and opportunities.

Entry requirements

A good honours degree in a relevant discipline (Media and Communication Studies, Public Relations, Marketing, Business Studies, Journalism)
A good understanding of how the media industry operates
A good standard of written and spoken English
International students should have a score of 6.0 in the IELTS test (in the written part) or equivalent in other accepted tests (e.g. Toefl, Cambridge Advanced Exam (CAE) or Cambridge Proficiency Exam (CPE)
Students must achieve a minimum of 5.5 in each component of the IELTS or similar tests.
The university will provide support to those with a score of 6.5 or below through pre-sessional courses or summer courses.

You are also encouraged to apply if you:

Have significant professional experience in any area of the media regardless of your educational qualifications.
Have a 2:2 in a relevant subject where you can provide examples of work in the media which shows your ability in the subject.

Fees and finance

2015/6 Home/EU International
Full time £5,750 £11,960
Part time £2,875

These fees are applicable for new entrants in 2015/6. Fees are for the academic year only, any subsequent years may be subject to an annual increase, usually in line with inflation.

The University also offers a postgraduate loyalty discount: If you have completed an undergraduate degree at the University of Wolverhampton, you may be eligible for a 20% discount on the first year of a taught postgraduate programme.

Employability

There are two distinct areas of public relations in which to work - in-house for an organisation, or at an agency where you will be handling a range of clients.

Public relations practitioners are responsible for the following list of activities:

Internal Communications
Media Relations
Public Affairs/Lobbying
Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility
Investor Relations or Financial Public Relations
Issues and crisis management
Business to Business relations
Events management

Proficiency in each of these and other new activities such as moderation (of digital communication channels) equip you for potential career opportunities within the public relations industry. As well as these opportunities public relations graduates may go on to assist human resources departments, activist organisations or public sector institutions with social change/social marketing campaigns

Outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

Critically analyse on-going debates relevant to the field of public relations and the media industry in general.
Produce specific situational analyses and assessments of the political, economic, social and technical factors surrounding an organisation or sector.
Draw upon academic models and frameworks for planning, implementing and delivering effective communication and managerial tactics.
Interact with culturally diverse stakeholders or constituents to negotiate positive outcomes in challenging situations for all the parties involved, following ethical and professional principles.
Apply technical knowledge of ICTs to the process of planning and managing organisational outcomes, as well as well as to the production of media content for new media/digital platforms.
Carry out academic research demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the subject and originality.

Why Wolverhampton?

You will study PR from a range of different perspectives, considering the impact of PR on society and the media. You will also learn the techniques and practices of public relations that contribute to the evolution of PR as a management discipline.

Our teaching staff comes from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. They have had considerable experience of working in PR and other media sectors of the industry. Close contact with the industry enables staff to invite guest speakers and visiting lectures who are involved in various aspects of the industry in the UK and abroad.

The course has been designed bearing in mind the needs of:

Practitioners
Professional bodies
Academics
Students new to the field

Our course is recognised by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), which means that our module content has been assessed to provide relevant skills and knowledge development towards a career in public relations or communications. Our students also currently receive free membership to the CIPR which gives them access to their online portal offering networking, career and placement advice and opportunities.

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Course Details

This course provides an in-depth analysis of government and policy making in Europe. You will study both EU institutions and the politics of member states which will allow you to develop your understanding of the relationship and interaction between them.

You will complete one core module - Politics of European Integration - then choose three option modules which, along with your chosen dissertation subject, allow you to focus on your preferred specialisms.

The programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the debates surrounding European integration and European Union activities, and how these affect national politics in member states. You will develop your ability to employ both theoretical and empirical tools in order to analyse politics in the EU. The course will develop the transferable skills you need to work effectively within a complex world where traditional concepts of national state sovereignty are called into question.

Our course will provide you with invaluable insights into the functioning of political life in the EU that will assist you in a broad range of professions, including diplomacy, government bodies, international organisations, lobbying, teaching, journalism, the media and commerce and business.

If you have any questions about this course, join us for a live online chat with academic tutors and admissions staff.

Course Structure

You must complete the 'Politics of European Integration' core module, your dissertation plus a further three optional modules from a list of approximately 20 (subject to availability):

Your choice of optional modules should relate directly to the degree (e.g. EU Enlargement, Democracy and Legitimacy in the EU, Euroscepticism), but subject to approval you may also select other politics and international relations modules, for example modules looking at diplomacy, corruption and a broad range of foreign policy issues. If you are studying for the MA, these modules will be followed by your dissertation.

Teaching and assessment methods

Teaching will be based upon use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Blackboard. This allows for a range of innovative and engaging teaching techniques to be used, such as online presentations, podcasts, interactive message boards and Wikis, as well as one to one contact through conventional channels. Modules are assessed by a traditional end of module essay and a range of online activities.

(Please note: due to regular enhancement of the University’s courses, please refer to Leicester’s own website (http://www.le.ac.uk) or/and Terms and Conditions (http://www2.le.ac.uk/legal) for the most accurate and up-to-date course information. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with this information prior to submitting an application.)

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Under which circumstances do immigrants have the right to family reunification in the country of their preference? What are the European Union’s obligations under international human rights treaties when dealing with, for example, the refugee-boat problem? And what is the role of Brussels in managing migration within the EU as well as towards Europe? This is a sample of the issues that are dealt with in the Master’s specialisation in Human Rights and Migration.

This specialisation studies legal issues relating to migration and human rights in its theoretical, operational, social and political context. The basis of the programme lies in European legislation and international human rights treaties. This is a lively field of law that constantly develops and changes. Changes in public opinion in a European member state may affect its domestic legal order, which in turn influences European laws and vice versa. This specialisation therefore also focuses on the dynamic interplay between national, European and international law, as well as on the ins and outs of the EU lawmaking process.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/europeanlaw/humanrights

Why study Human Rights and Migration at Radboud University?

- This specialisation focuses on issues of freedom of movement and immigration within the European Union; asylum and immigration appeals and remedies; as well as international human rights law.

- The Netherlands has a long-standing tradition in the field of refugee law and international human rights and with the presence of the International Court of Justice in The Hague, it’s a great country for studying this field of law.

- The staff that teaches students of this Master’s specialisation are recognised experts in the field, who have published widely in the field of European free movement of persons, asylum and immigration, European and international law and international human rights.

- You’ll study at a Law School that is rated number one in the Netherlands for student satisfaction.

- The Faculty of Law in Nijmegen was the first in the Netherlands to set up a dedicated European Law programme. It has built an international reputation in the field of European law, immigration law and private law, and is part of a large network that includes more than fifty universities in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia.

- The international mix of students gives the classes and project work a multicultural touch. This will give you the extra benefit of gaining multicultural communication skills as well as a multitude of legal and cultural perspectives in this field. By the time you receive your Master's diploma, you’ll have gained excellent skills to work in the Netherlands or in any other country.

- Students of Radboud University regularly take part in international and European Law Moot Court competitions, enabling you to put academic theory into legal practise during your studies.

- You have the option of going abroad, either for an internship or to follow additional courses as an exchange student at our academic partner institutions. This adds to your personal international experience as well as increasing your knowledge further. Our professors have a good network, and are willing to assist you in finding a position that meets your interests.

Career prospects

Graduates of this specialisation are well-qualified to take up positions in law, lobbying or consulting firms anywhere in the world. As the name of the Master’s implies, your area of expertise will be in the legal field of human rights and migration, and specifically where it applies to citizens dealing with the European Union. You’ll also have a thorough, general understanding of the internal and external markets of the European Union and the position of Europe in the world.

- Prospective employers
Prospective employers interested in your expertise include NGOs, governmental organisations including the Immigration and Naturalisation Service, and international organisations such as the European Commission, the United Nations, international courts and tribunals, lobby organisations, councils for refugees and charity foundations. There are also a number of commercial businesses with a need for legal experts with knowledge of free movement of persons in the European Union.

Our approach to this field

At Radboud University, we strive for clear practical relevance of academic knowledge.
1. Many of our lecturers are also law practitioners. We can therefore not only teach our students the black letter law, but also add our own professional experiences, indicating the strengths and challenges of certain rules, legal instruments or strategies.

2. Guest speakers are regularly invited to share their experiences, enlightening students with real-world scenarios, and providing them with tips on how to deal with cases that don’t follow the official norms.

3. In our research we are engaged in collaborative ventures in this field, such as international and European courts and tribunals as well as NGOs and councils. Therefore, we are informed of the issues that practitioners deal with in their regular work. We respond to their questions by developing research that is relevant.

4. In the Master’s programme in European Law we focus on the law in force, and in accordance with the approach of professionals, focus on justifying decisions in legal terms, in reference to legal rules, principles, and precedents. However, we don’t shy away from critically analysing those rules, principles and precedents, indicating possible alternatives and desired improvements where necessary.


See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/europeanlaw/humanrights

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Master's specialisation in Business Law

How can a company move or expand abroad? How can a company protect itself against a hostile takeover from a firm abroad? How does EU legislation influence the national business laws of member states? With the increasing level of globalisation there is a growing demand for legal experts who understand the impact of EU legislation on business entities. At Radboud University you’ll not just gain a thorough understanding of EU legislation, but also of the legal practices of enterprises that do business in and with EU member states.
You’ll investigate aspects of European and comparative company law, such as corporate restructuring, corporate mobility, formation and financing of companies, European business forms, employee involvement, corporate governance and takeover regulations. You’ll also learn to analyse both primary and secondary EU legislation, as well as the case law of the Court of Justice of the EU and the legislation of relevant jurisdictions. By the end of the programme you’ll understand the interaction of European and national law on businesses.

See the website: http://www.ru.nl/masters/europeanlaw/businesslaw

Why study Business Law at Radboud University?

- You’ll gain both a broad knowledge of the internal and external markets of the European Union and the position of Europe in the world as well as specialised knowledge in the field of Business Law.

- You’ll study at a Dutch Law School that was rated number one in the Netherlands for student satisfaction.

- The Faculty of Law in Nijmegen was the first in the Netherlands to start a European Law programme. It has built an international reputation in the field of European law, immigration law and private law and is part of a large network that includes more than fifty universities in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia.

- You’ll work together with the prestigious Business & Law Research Centre. This centre combines academic excellence with the practical expertise of major companies and law firms. The centre has been accredited by the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW).

- You’ll be taught in a stimulating, collegiate setting with small groups by internationally recognised professors of law, all specialists in their specific fields.

- The international mix of students gives the classes and project work a multicultural touch. This will give you the extra benefit of gaining multicultural communication skills as well as a multitude of cultural perspectives in this field. By the time you receive your Master's diploma, you’ll have gained excellent skills to work in the Netherlands or in any other country.

- This programme is not just geared at students from EU countries. All nations in the world trade with the EU which has rules and regulations that have to be complied with. Law students from all over the world will therefore benefit from this Master’s specialisation.

Career prospects

This Master’s specialisation is primarily designed for students who wish to pursue an international legal career in the area of corporate law. It offers a thorough and broad education in company law that includes competition law, commercial law, labour law and insolvency law. And because it’s part of the European Law programme at Radboud University, you’ll also gain a good understanding of the internal and external markets of the European Union and the position of Europe in the world.

Job positions

Graduates of Business Law can expect a wide variety of employment prospects. The vast knowledge of EU businesses and the European decision-process makes that graduates of this specialisation are well equipped for a job in law, lobbying or consulting firms anywhere in the world. You could also work for financial institutions, multinationals and listed companies as well as for governmental institutions and NGOs. Graduates can also strive for one of the few law positions within the European Commission as this Master’s will definitely gain a sound basis needed to acquire the necessary professional competences.

Our approach to this field

Master's specialisation in Business Law

At Radboud University, we strive for clear practical relevance of academic theory.
1. All of our lecturers are also in some form law practitioners. We can therefore not only teach our students the black letter law, but also add our own professional experiences, indicating the strengths and challenges of certain laws or legal instruments.

2. Guest speakers are regularly invited to share their experiences, enlightening students with real-world scenarios and providing tips about how to deal with cases that don’t follow the norm.

3. In our research we are engaged in collaborative ventures with leading law firms, banks and multinational companies. Therefore, we are informed of the issues that practitioners deal with in their regular work. We respond to their questions by developing research that is relevant for the legal and business industry.

4. In the Master’s programme in European Law we focus on the law as it stands, meeting the professional responsibility by justifying decisions in legal terms, by referencing legal rules, principles, and precedent. However, we still continue formulating both criticism and alternatives to the law as it stands.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/europeanlaw/businesslaw

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Programme description

Developed in response to the enormous political challenges facing our changing societies, this programme offers an advanced understanding of the contemporary world, drawing on insights from International Relations as well as European Studies, Comparative Politics and Regional Studies.

You’ll explore in depth key theories, issues and controversies, and have the opportunity to pursue interdisciplinary studies and develop your interests in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating community.

The programme hosts an official "Jean Monnet Module" (one of your compulsory courses), recognised by the European Commission for its interdisciplinary and student-centred approach. Guest lectures and specialised seminar series will make an important contribution to your academic programme, bringing prominent international scholars and practitioners to Edinburgh to present current research and perspectives.

You’ll also have access to the University’s Europa Institute established in 1968 to specialise in the law and politics of the European Union; its library is considered one of the best of its kind. Finally, there is also a vibrant community of students interested in international and European Politics, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to network with your peers, organise events and even work on publications in the Leviathan - the University’s own journal of Politics and International Relations.

Programme structure

Teaching will be by lectures, seminars, group work and guided independent study. You will complete two compulsory courses and four optional courses, after which you will work towards an independently researched dissertation.

As an alternative to a classic dissertation, you’ll have the option – subject to performance – of embarking on the “European Practitioner Pathway” within the programme, i.e. pursue a 6-8 week work-based project and write a practice-related report on their work placement instead.

Another highlight of the academic year will be our study trip to Brussels, where we visit multiple international organisations as well as non-governmental stakeholders and meet with practitioners. The trip includes our very popular career event at which you will have the opportunity to network with alumni of the University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh University Brussels Society) who have built successful careers in Brussels.

Career opportunities

While many graduates of this programme have gone on to further studies and academic careers, many have taken up positions in a wide range of institutions and companies.

These include NATO and the United Nations, the European Commission and Parliament, regional and national government institutions, development organisations, educational, research and think-tank organisations, banking, media, lobbying, and commercial organisations.

The transferable skills you gain in areas such as communication and research will give you an edge in the employment market, whatever your eventual career.

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