This specialisation engages students in the communicative aspects of public policy. Students examine how actors both within and outside government seek to communicate, advocate and participate in the policy process. Particular emphasis is given to the form and nature of policy communication, persuasion, public engagement, and public talk. Students study the principles of effective policy communication, persuasion and participatory policy making including policy argumentation, rhetoric, inclusion, participation, representation and legitimacy. Through applied examples and cases students consider the practicalities, challenges and politics involved in realising these ideals in contemporary governance. Students will reflect critically on how the communicative landscape of public policy is changing in an era of digital technology and 24/7 news cycles. Electives provide a variety of courses through which students can deepen their knowledge of how actors communicate, campaign and talk in contemporary public policy.
Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate a working knowledge of key terms, concepts and ideas on the communicative and participatory aspects of public policy
Engage critically in theoretical and practical literature on policy advocacy and public engagement
Analyse communicative and participatory aspects of policy making drawing connections between theory and practice
Reflect critically on the changing communicative and participatory landscape of contemporary public policy
Demonstrate the ability to think independently, develop informed perspectives and persuasively communicate in the field of public policy
Relevant Degrees
Requirements
This specialisation requires the completion of 24 units, which must consist of:
12 units from completion of courses from the following list:
POGO8083 Policy Advocacy
POGO8136 Participating in Public Policy: Citizen Engagement and Public Talk
POLS8046 Interest Groups, Advocacy and Public Policy
12 units from completion of courses from the following list:
DIPL8044 Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
EMDV8007 Communicating for Environment and Climate Policy
HUMN8028 Digital Culture and Society - Critical Theories and Methodologies
MKTG7260 Marketing and Stakeholder Communications
This specialisation is available only to students undertaking the Master of Public Policy
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