The Robert Gordon University

MSc in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs

The MSc Corporate Communication and Public Affairs course provides the practical skills and relevant academic knowledge required for a career within the Corporate Communication field.

Corporate Communication is an essential function within contemporary business environments. With 24-hour media cycles, it is important that organisations manage media enquiries professionally. Factors such as reputation and the ability to communicate in an effective and timely way with all stakeholders are recognised as critical success factors for growth and survival.

This course has been developed in direct response to employers' needs through close consultation with leading practitioners and professional bodies.

The course is delivered through a mixture of lectures, coursework, workshops, simulation, guest lectures and a four-week work placement. We work closely with industry specialists to offer a programme of events and workshops and we invite practitioners to the university to share their experiences and best practice. For example, video conferences take place with Brussels-based public affairs practitioners. These events provide key networking opportunities and you are encouraged to attend visits to local media organisations and other local events organised through the Aberdeen Communications Group which take place through the year.

Teaching is delivered through the University's online virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle.

Stage 1

• Media Industries
• Public Relations: Theory and Practice
• Comparative Public Affairs
• Marketing

Exit Award: PgCert Corporate Communication and Public Affairs

Stage 2

• Critical Approaches to Corporate Communication
• Political Communication and Public Affairs
• Fieldwork Placement
• Research Methods

Exit Award: PgDip Corporate Communication and Public Affairs

Stage 3

• Dissertation

Award: MSc Corporate Communication and Public Affairs Dissertation In Semester 2 you must present a written research proposal for submission. This will normally form the basis for the Masters level dissertation. You will work independently, but under supervision, to undertake the research and prepare the dissertation.

Distance Learning

Our supported distance learning mode of delivery allows you to study online from any location and is designed to fit in around your work commitments. You will be taught and supported by experienced industry professionals who will recreate the same challenging interactive format of the on-campus courses for those studying at a distance.

Our virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle offers students flexibility of where and when they can study, offering full and open access to tutors and other class members. Students have the benefit of being part of a group of learners with the invaluable opportunity to participate in active, group-related learning within a supportive online community setting. The online campus provides students with lectures and course materials and it also includes:

• Virtual tutorials
• Live chat
• Discussion forums - student and tutor led
• Up-to-date web technology for delivery methods
• User friendly material
• Access to our online library

As online learners, students are part of a 'virtual cohort' and the communication and interaction amongst members of the cohort is a significant aspect of the learning process.

Work Placement A four-week work placement within a Communication, Media or Marketing environment is undertaken as part of the course. Companies offering placements expect students to be creative and to come on placement with energy, enthusiasm and some creative ‘new' ideas. Students often produce work that they are then able to put into a personal portfolio.

Depending on the placement, you will work on small individual or team projects. You will also be given the chance to observe the overall running of the company, learn about different communication strategies and experience why companies adopt the strategies they do.

Accreditation

The masters degree qualification of this course* has been awarded accreditation and is approved by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and students are eligible for student membership. Recognition by the professional body is an assurance of the high professional standard and credibility of this corporate communication course.

* CIPR only applies to the Masters level (not to PgDip).

About the Department of Information Management

Information and its effective communication is a fundamental and vital activity within all areas of industry, commerce, government, education, and social life. Professionals working in this broad area provide an understanding of the ways in which information services can be used; and expertise in accessing the wide variety of information sources available; and require a firm grasp of the underlying theories and principles of management, information retrieval, and Information Technology.

The problems presented to decision makers by information overload have become increasingly significant. Selectivity and screening of information are seen as growing in importance in the fields of business management, healthcare, and public policy making. The management of the intellectual capital of the organisation has also become increasingly important. Both commercial and public organisations recognise the significance of knowledge management, enabling staff to become information literate and becoming effective learning organisations.

Information professionals provide essential expertise in our knowledge-based society. There is a growing demand for individuals with the specialised skills required to manage information effectively. The group’s courses are intended to prepare graduates for a career in a range of environments, in the commercial and public sectors. In an assessment of Information Management teaching undertaken by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, the teaching in this area was rated as excellent, with all aspects of the teaching being commended.