Risk, Issues and Crisis Communication

Postgraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
MDIA 5001
Course ID icon
Course ID
202346
Level of study
Level of study
Postgraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course focuses on the role of strategic communication in managing situations of risk and crisis. Students will consider risk and crisis communication in local, national and international contexts and across NGO, government and corporate sectors. They will identify issues and strategies for managing crises, plan effective communication strategies and examine how new technologies and a changing media environment can influence the response of stakeholders. Students will explore the ethical and legal requirements for communication professionals in different cultural contexts. On completion, students will understand the role of strategic communication in crisis situations and how to develop crisis communication plans.

  • Ricc Essentials
  • Strategic Crisis Communication
  • Resilience & Recovery

Course learning outcomes

  • Identify and critically evaluate contemporary issues and trends in risk and crisis communication, including the impact of emerging technologies and media platforms
  • Analyse and explain the implications of crises for publics and stakeholders, drawing on key theories, concepts, and frameworks of risk and crisis communication
  • Apply theoretical knowledge of risk and crisis management to mitigate crises
  • Produce a range of risk and crisis communication materials and messages
  • Develop an evaluation plan to measure the effectiveness of crisis communication, including ethical decision-making and outcomes

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A