Global B.A. in International and Political Communication

During your time in the program, you will spend:

• Two years in Lugano. At Franklin, you’ll take liberal arts and foundational courses, travel to other cities as part of your curriculum, and earn an associate’s degree. Surrounded by the Swiss Alps and situated on its namesake lake, Lugano is not only breathtaking, but is also the ideal home base for the Franklin experience: a high-quality liberal arts education and an exploration of the world and its people.

• Two years in Boston. With the golden dome of the Massachusetts State House as your backdrop, here you’ll benefit from Emerson’s outstanding reputation and faculty expertise in the field of political communication, and you’ll earn a B.A. in International and Political Communication. By completing internships and getting real-world experience—such as working on political campaigns or leading award-winning diplomacy and civic engagement projects—our students go into the world prepared for success in any political career.

• One optional summer in Sydney, Australia, or Kasteel Well, The Netherlands. The program’s emphasis on exploring the political landscape on an international level includes an optional summer interim in one of these incredible locations. You will be able to deepen your knowledge in topics such as intercultural negotiation, sports communication, and global perspectives on public relations.

Emerson’s globally acclaimed Political Communication program prepares you for leadership in a political career.  Emerson Polling, recognized by many as one of the most accurate and trusted sources, provides you with the opportunity to study issues and opinions through direct analysis of the political mosaic, and you will have the opportunity to engage in public diplomacy civic engagement projects for direct and personal experience in the art of politics.

Explore the variety of viewpoints available on Franklin’s international campus and take away a new perspective on cultural differences that will enhance your studies at Emerson and ultimately your career in political leadership.

• The First Year Seminar at Franklin pairs you with a professor in your desired discipline, focuses on Franklin's unique culture and the larger Swiss community, and provides a basis for cross-cultural interactions and life in a multicultural environment.

• At Emerson you will have the chance to engage with voters and candidates in and around Boston during significant political events such as state primaries, midterm elections, and presidential elections.

• Lugano gives you access to the LAC, Lugano Arte e Cultura, the city’s new Arts Center; as well as cultural and art festivals throughout the year. Located between the urban and the alpine countryside, students see the political realities of Switzerland and Europe.

• Engaging free panels and events are found on Emerson’s Boston campus, featuring notable speakers and covering a variety of topics in politics, communication, and more.

• Franklin is a short train ride from Milan, the commercial center of northern Italy, where you will find not only another vibrant cultural center to explore, but also easy access to other major European cities.