The Graduate Certificate in Communication (Public Sector) is designed for experienced communication practitioners aiming to specialise in the public sector, particularly in local government. The programme deepens students' understanding of media relations, organisational communication, change and crisis management, and the use of new and traditional media. Graduates will gain advanced abilities to plan and manage both internal and external communications in public sector contexts and to respond proactively to emerging events and challenges.

Course Content

• The Political Environment: New Zealand local and central government structures; election processes; governance and management roles; the legislative and consultative process.

• Advanced Media Studies: Impact of culture, language, and political correctness on media; analysis of the contemporary media landscape.

• Online and Advanced Technologies: Use and application of current and emerging web technologies for effective messaging in corporate, political and public sector environments.

• Crisis and Emergency Communication: Crisis identification and planning; PR practices for managing crises; evaluating outcomes; ethical and social responsibility considerations.

• Relationships, Influence and Leadership: Influencing decision makers; use of leadership tactics in communications.