Political Communication
Total graduates
158
2025 · 7 schools
International share
13.3%
21 international students
Bachelor's degrees
78
1.3% international
Master's degrees
80
25.0% international
Overview
Political Communication is an interdisciplinary field that explores how information, messages, and media influence political processes, public opinion, and civic engagement. This area of study merges concepts from political science, communication studies, sociology, and media studies to understand the dynamics of communication in political contexts.
Students in Political Communication programs learn about the role of media in shaping political discourse, the impact of social media on politics, and the strategies politicians and organizations use to communicate effectively with the public. They analyze various forms of communication, including speeches, advertisements, news coverage, and online content, to assess how these elements affect voter behavior and public policy.
Courses often cover topics such as political rhetoric, campaign communication, media effects, and the ethics of political communication. Students also examine the role of journalism in democracy and the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation in the digital age.
Graduates of Political Communication programs are well-equipped for careers in various fields, including political consulting, public relations, journalism, and advocacy. They possess critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that are essential for navigating the complex world of politics and media.
Overall, Political Communication is a vital area of study that contributes to our understanding of how communication shapes political landscapes and influences democratic processes, making it a relevant and impactful choice for students interested in the intersection of politics and media.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2003 to 2025, graduates grew 7,800% and the international share went from 0.0% to 13.3%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 7 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #59 | George Washington University | D.C. | 94 | 21 |
| #95 | American University | D.C. | 29 | 0 |
| #342 | Missouri State University | Missouri | 1 | 0 |
| LAC #91 | Juniata College | Pennsylvania | 1 | 0 |
| — | Emerson College | Massachusetts | 24 | 0 |
| — | Siena University | New York | 2 | 0 |
| — | Florida Southern College | Florida | 1 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Relations Specialists | 283,380 | $40.44 | $84,120 |
| Fundraisers | 111,040 | $37.12 | $77,200 |
| Public Relations Managers | 74,850 | $79.21 | $164,760 |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | 39,250 | $49.26 | $102,460 |
| Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | 29,420 | — | $90,010 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.