MCM 496 Political Communications
This course, taught by Gov. Deval Patrick's former press secretary and current executive director of the Governor's political action committee, is an overview, explanation, and analysis of the relationship between the media and political campaigns, with particular attention to the key players. From the press secretary, to the journalist, to the pundit, to the pollster, to the candidate him or herself, students will explore the importance of these roles, and the impact they have on the political process and its outcomes. Students will hear, first-hand, stories from guest speakers who are at the center of major political campaigns and the journalists who cover them, as students learn to understand how communications determine winners and losers in modern elections. Group scenario role playing, lectures, and case studies are used in teaching.