International and Political CommunicationGlobal BA
Program starts in the fall. Review deadlines.
Learn about the intersection of communication and politics on a global scale through the International and Political Communication Global Undergraduate Program. Spend two years taking liberal arts courses and exploring Europe at Franklin University in Lugano, Switzerland, and then spend your final two years studying political communication, leadership, and social advocacy at Emerson College.
At a Glance
- Earn two degrees: an associate’s degree and a Bachelor of Arts in International and Political Communication.
- Spend two years in Lugano, Switzerland, two years in Boston, and an optional summer in Rosarito, Mexico.
- Study for a semester in Washington, D.C., and pursue internships in the halls of government, embassies, and global advocacy organizations.
Become a Leader in Global Communication, Politics, and Diplomacy
Emerson College offers a unique path to study in Europe and the US at the intersection of politics, communication, and international affairs. The dual-degree program between Emerson and Franklin University in Lugano, Switzerland gives you the chance to earn a Bachelor of Arts in International and Political Communication in Boston, as well as an associate’s degree in Lugano.
In Lugano, you’ll take foundational and liberal arts courses and immerse yourself in Swiss culture. Franklin University also offers students opportunities to travel and study in other historic European cities. During semesters in Boston and Washington, D.C., and optional global workshops in Spain and Mexico, you’ll have immersive experiences that help prepare you to be a global communication leader. You’ll gain the skills to work on political campaigns, advocate for causes you believe in, advise elected officials and nonprofit leaders, analyze public opinion, and build bridges across cultures. With your storytelling, strategy, data analysis, and leadership skills, you’ll be able to navigate today’s geopolitical and policy landscape.
Located between cities and alpine countrysides, Lugano offers you the chance to learn about Switzerland firsthand. Outside of the classroom, you’ll engage in programs at the Lugano Arte e Cultura, the city’s arts center, and experience the art and cultural festivals that take place throughout the year.
In Boston, you’ll have the opportunity to learn in a city with a rich history of political engagement, nonprofit and community advocacy, and diplomacy. Be part of this history and work on real-world political campaigns, civic engagement programs, and election polling.
The International and Political Communication global program experience culminates in the application of what you’ve learned in real-world settings. You’ll complete internships, engage with voters and candidates during major political events, undertake civic engagement projects, and connect with communications professionals. By graduation, you’ll leave with international experience, professional connections, and a portfolio of work that demonstrates your ability to navigate international politics and culture in an increasingly interconnected world.
Spend a semester in Washington, D.C., where your classroom extends into government agencies, embassies, global advocacy organizations, and cultural institutions. You’ll gain hands-on experience and build professional connections in the city where ideas become action. The program also allows you to tap into Emerson’s expansive network of alumni serving in the nation’s capital.
Barcelona: Emerson-Blanquerna Center for Global Communication
Study global communication and public relations in Barcelona through Emerson College’s exchange program with The University of Ramon Llull. You’ll visit with the founders of global communication and PR firms and leaders in international relations and politics. Every year, Emerson students help plan and produce the Emerson-Blanquerna Global Communication Summit alternating between Barcelona and Washington, DC.
Mexico: Rosarito Public Diplomacy Workshop
Study public diplomacy and civic engagement in this three-week program in Rosarito, Mexico. You’ll meet with community leaders and organizations that have created impactful grassroots programs that bridge cultural differences between Mexico and the United States. You’ll study the context behind border and immigration issues, and understand the forces that are shaping those issues today.
Learn from Experts in Global Communication
The International and Political Communication faculty are experts who have spent their careers studying how communications and politics operate on a global scale.
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