Media, Campaigning and Social Change PG Diploma

Modules
The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course. For more details on course structure and modules, and how you will be taught and assessed, see the full course document.
Core modules - Semester One
CRITICAL ISSUES IN CAMPAIGNING
In this module, students will consider the factors that influence social change in the context of current campaigns around the world, and the historical development of campaign techniques and practices. They will apply a critical analysis of concepts such as power, theories of change, ethics, innovation, media representation, narrative and framing to practical scenarios and topical campaigns. This module requires students to monitor and critically evaluate practice in the UK and / or internationally.
Core modules - Semester Two
PLANNING CAMPAIGN COMMUNICATIONS
In this module students will learn how to research and plan a campaign for social change based on the theories of social change examined in semester 1. They will produce communication material such as news releases, e-alerts, tweets, infographics and / or videos to support the campaign strategy. Where possible, students work to live briefs. This is a practical, hands-on module taught through a series of workshops, visits to campaign communication teams in London-based campaigning organisations, and guest talks by leading campaigners and social change communicators.
MEDIA, ACTIVISM AND POLITICS
The module critically investigates the relationship between media, activism and politics. It offers a critical assessment of the role of media in political mobilization, social movements, dissent, wars, conflicts, elections, and political and social crises. The module looks at the impact of the internet and new means of transparency and communications on journalism and activism in a range of circumstances from secure democracies through different kinds of political systems. The module is unique in its combination of traditional academic lectures and seminars with attendance of topical events and visits to relevant exhibitions and institutions.
Optional modules
Students choose three optional modules from the following menu. You may choose to focus on practical skills, on new technologies, on diversity or development, or on media audiences and industries.
Semester One (choose two of the following):
Approaches to Social and Cultural Diversity
Global Media
Media Production
Media Management and Content Production (PR and the Media)
Political Economy of Communication
Reporting Diversity: Gender, Sexuality, Age, Disability
Social Media: Creativity, Sharing, Visibility
Technology and Communications Policy
Theories of Communication
Semester Two (choose one of the following):
Approaches to Media and Communications Research
Critical Theory of Social Media and the Internet
Development and Communications Policy
Media Audiences
Online Journalism
Reporting Diversity: Faith and Religion
Reporting Migration, Race and Ethnicity
Sociology of News
Web Production: Westminster News Online
Associated careers
This course is particularly relevant if you want to start, or to progress, a career in communications and campaigning for social change, whether in a charity or non-governmental organisation; in a public sector body; in a political party or election campaigning setting; or even in a corporate social responsibility role. It could also be a stepping-stone towards a PhD and an academic career in this growing field of study.
For more information, please contact the course enquiries team on course-enquiries@westminster.ac.uk or joint course leader Michaela O’Brien on M.Obrien2@westminster.ac.uk.
Related courses
Communication MA
Diversity and the Media MA
Media and Development MA
Public Relations MA
Social Media MA
Location
Harrow and central London
Additional costs information