Strategic Public Relations | Graduate School of Political Management

Keep Pace with a Dynamic Industry

Rafferty MasterClass — Wells Fargo Executive Vice President, Head of Communications & Brand Management Barri Rafferty holds a GSPM MasterClass

Today’s leading PR practitioners must go beyond traditional public relations methods to accomplish their communications goals. Digital communication, viral marketing, and a 24-hour news cycle have forever changed how information is shared and public opinion is impacted.

We deliver an award-winning comprehensive strategic public relations education that reflects this ever-changing communications landscape. Our students develop a usable portfolio and master the skills they need to become a leading PR professional.

Beginning in the Fall 2021 term, GSPM will provide a new learning experience that allows students to attend classes on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format on a term-by-term basis (Ex. a student can take their classes on-campus in their first fall term, then switch to online for the spring term).

The academic year is now divided into four 10-week quarterly terms: Fall, Spring 1, Spring 2, and Summer. Classes will begin earlier in the evening (at 6:10 pm ET) and meet for shorter periods to ensure maximum flexibility for students who are working professionals.

Strategic Public Relations Course Listings

Program Objectives

Upon the completion of the Masters in SPR, students will have obtained an enhanced understanding and skills in:

1. Fundamentals of effective, strategic communications

2. Best practices for writing, media relations and strategic communications (planning and implementation)

3. Leadership in strategic public relations on a sound ethical and financial basis

4. Working with management and staff/vendors to develop and manage the implementation of effective communications strategies.

Degree Requirements

Take Advantage of GW's Connections in the Nation's Capital

Our program provides you with an understanding of how politics and government impact business, technology, and communications, and it is focused on preparing students for a wide range of communications careers. Many of our students work at major PR firms or in communications roles with associations, non-profits, and corporations, and some work on Capitol Hill or in the executive branch.

Learn from Educators with Experience

Students learn from experts with experience at Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, journalism, and government. They bring deep credentials in issues and crisis management, media relations, and global public relations. The result is we provide a hands-on, practical education that teaches you how to get results on target and on a budget.

*Classes held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, 6:10 - 8:00 pm ET.

"I was weighing the pros and cons of beginning grad school now or waiting until life went 'back to normal' after the pandemic. I decided to continue along my path of beginning grad school. GSPM has shown me through a number of webinars how beneficial the GSPM connections and education can benefit someone, whether online or in person."

Brian Lyons

Strategic Public Relations, Class of 2022