My Masters in Internal Communication Management Journey by Ulf Fensten Madsen

Why I chose the Master’s programme

As an experienced IC professional, I’ve always been curious to further strengthen my capabilities. And I thought this programme offered something which I’d not come across before. Which was how strongly it was linked to in-depth research, data, and facts which are things that resonate quite strongly with me as a person. So, this really represented an opportunity to add a different kind of solidity to my daily work as a communications partner and advisor. More generally speaking, and as a Dane, I liked the idea of doing a Master’s abroad.

A research‑driven approach to internal communication

I think all the modules in the Master’s provide eye-opening experiences and insights through all the books and journals you are introduced to. Whether you’re reading about organisational culture, influencing and consulting, organisational listening, or about leadership communications, what stood out for me is that it’s all firmly rooted in robust data. And that you are expected to base your analyses, arguments, and recommendations on equally robust data and critical thinking from day one. It’s an approach that takes internal communications from being something everybody think they know something about to being an actual science-based field of expertise.

Bringing theory into everyday practice

What I particularly liked about the teaching and the workshops you attend throughout this programme, is how they focus on applying the theory you are introduced to in your daily work. It’s a great combination of theory and lecturing, active group work, and the exchange of day-to-day experiences with your fellow students who come from a variety of different industries and cultures. When you’re not attending a workshop, it’s easy to get in contact with a tutor if you have any questions or if you are struggling with something when writing your next assignment.

How the Master’s has strengthened my practice

I think the Master’s has added depth and breadth to my capabilities as a communications advisor while also strengthening my attention to critical thinking. It’s also opened my eyes to so much interesting research and data within internal communications and taught me how insights into adjacent disciplines can add real value to our work as internal communicators. On a day-to-day level, it’s given me a clear framework for consulting while making me reflect more consciously about different ways of engaging with the different types of leaders I work with.   

My advice for future Master’s students

Two things. Firstly, I remember the induction day in Southampton quite clearly. Oli Howard, one of our tutors, spoke about the importance of being able to manage your time when doing the Master’s. There’s a lot of reading to do and you also spend a lot of time writing your assignments. So, think about when and where that fits best into your everyday life as you get going. Secondly, don’t get overwhelmed when you see the reading lists of every module. You can’t possible read everything on there. So, make sure to align with your tutors about what to prioritise and what is nice to do. Best of luck. I’m sure you won’t regret it.