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.

Relevant Degrees

• Master of Public Policy (MPUPP)