The Princeton Review cites George Washington University's definition of political communication as "the study of the flow of information through political processes; the study of who knows what, when, where and how; and how people use their information to further political goals." The field integrates research, social sciences, history and evolution of politics, rhetoric and information flow through media channels, among other components.
There is theoretically no limit to career choices with political communications, as studying components ranging from public speaking to abstract thinking lends itself to a variety of possibilities. Common careers, other than political office, include journalism; speech writing; political consulting in strategy, public relations or advertising; diplomacy and careers in government and public policy. It is also a useful area of study for postgraduate degrees.
Universities that offer political communications do so as either a separate major or as a concentration. The program is within the communications department or, as is the case of George Washington University, a separate School of Media and Public Affairs. Outside of the academic environment, there are a number of books on the topic, and organizations, such as the American Political Science Association, or APSA, that allow individual memberships or provide access to online information without joining.
Whether or not you embark on a career in political communications, the study of its components offers you benefits as a private citizen. By utilizing abstract thinking, you can analyze and better understand the psychology, history and philosophical aspects of politics. You will pay attention not only to the content of a political speech, but question and understand why the speaker chooses certain words or areas of emphasis. You will be able to separate media influences from meaningful political content and motivations.