Communication Science: Political Communication

Political communication addresses issues that are at the core of our democracties. It provides wide understanding of the role and significance of media, journalism and information for public opinion.

Students of the Political Communication track study the following topics: * How do the interactions between (non-)government actors, politicians, journalists and citizens take shape and what features and effects do they have? * How is the use of media changing for citizens looking for information? * Who tries to influence the news? * How powerful are the media? * How does the media's information service come into being? * What are the noticeable effects on public opinion and political behaviour? * And are the effects the same for different types of citizens in different countries? Important topics include *the emergence of weblogs and citizen journalism *increasing globalisation * agenda-setting *the framing of socially relevant issues by stakeholders, politicians, spin doctors and media. The specialisation provides a basis for editorial, policy, advisory and research positions in the media sector as well as government, politics, the civil-service and commerce. Amsterdam is a fascinating, media-saturated environment. Studying in a major European centre for media research and development provides students with a network of contacts that helps them find work after graduation.

The curriculum of the track Political Communication of the Master in Communication Science comprises two required core courses:

• Political Communication I: Journalism and the Media' (12 EC)
• Political Communication II: Citizens and Public Opinion' (12 EC)

Furthermore, students complete a method course (6 EC) during the first semester.
In the second semester, students complete two elective modules of 6 EC each and write a Master's thesis (18 EC). Students must obtain a total of 60 credits to be awarded the degree.

Previous education: The MSc Communication Science seeks students with a Bachelor or equivalent degree in Communication Science. Ideally, applicants will also have sufficient knowledge of research methodology. Grade average: Applicants of the Master's programmes are expected to have an overall grade point average (GPA) equivalent to at least: * B/3.0 (GPA US System) * a 2nd class honours / upper division British system * C (ECTS System) * 7,0 (Dutch EC-System) Additional language requirements:Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: C1IELTS overall band: 6.5TOEFL paper based: 580TOEFL computer based: 240TOEFL internet based: 92 English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 60 (Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test: 92

Scholarships / Grants:

The University of Amsterdam:
The University of Amsterdam provides a limited number of full and partial scholarships for excellent students from outside the European Economic Area. The Amsterdam Merit Scholarships have specifically been designed to offer talented, ambitious and dedicated students the opportunity to pursue a Mast
For additional information: Website

Accreditation

Accredited by: NVAO in: The Netherlands