JMC Student Handbook 2009-2010.pub - Columbian College of Arts ...

Program Overview
T
he Political Communication Major is unique — a combination of
communication, journalism and political science. It's the only one
available in the heart of the nation's capital, literally just blocks from
the White House. Political communication focuses on the creation,
dissemination, processing and effects of information as a political
resource by individuals, organizations or governments.
If you choose this major, you will analyze media coverage, learn how to frame messages and communicate
strategically, and discuss the media's role domestic and international relations. You will study how political
actors and institutions influence media coverage and the effects of that coverage on public opinion, policy
and social life. Our D.C. location affords you the opportunity to take advantage of limitless internships and
other extracurricular activities.
Upon graduation, you will become part of an accomplished network of Political Communication alumni
working in government, political consulting, advocacy,
campaign management, public diplomacy, corporate public
affairs, public relations, and new media.
About SMPA
The School of Media and Public Affairs is a
recognized center for teaching and research in
political communication, journalism, global media
studies, and documentary filmmaking. Our faculty
is composed of accomplished scholars, award
winning journalists, and dedicated educators. Our
mission is to explore how ideas and information
are communicated and how the media influence
policy and politics in a democracy.
Our location in the nation's capital—just four
blocks from the White House and three blocks
from the State Department—provides our
students unequalled access and opportunity. We
bring together some of the most compelling and
influential voices in media, politics and public
affairs. Students have access to hundreds of jobs
and internships in government, news and
advocacy organizations. Our television studio,
state of the art video equipment, editing suites,
and digital media expertise provide exceptional
opportunities to learn and produce in a hands-on
environment.
The approach to everything we do at SMPA—
research, teaching, and production—stems from
the belief that theory and practice are inseparable.
Our students study with leading scholars and
award-winning journalists who bring real world
experience to the classroom. Our undergraduate
and graduate programs combine elements of
strategic communication, journalism, and political
communication, preparing our students for
distinguished careers in new and traditional media
organizations, government, politics, and business.
This handbook will provide specific information about the Political Communication major and help guide you through
your degree.
For more information, please visit our website:
http://smpa.gwu.edu
School of Media and Public Affairs Columbian College of Arts and Sciences
The George Washington University 801 22nd St. NW, Phillips Hall
805 21st St., NW, Suite 400 Washington DC 20052
Washington, DC, 20052 Phone: (202) 994-6130
Phone: (202) 994-6227 Fax: (202) 994-0854
Fax: (202) 994-580