The Institute of Communication Studies (ICS) is founded by the School of Journalism and Public Relations (SJPR) in 2013. The Institute is a leading research organization in the field of journalism and media studies; public relations; political and corporate communications. ICS has a twofold focus: First, to advance social sciences and to support journalism and media professionals through its academic and applied research programs; and second, to develop a network of young researchers who would work on straightening the pillars of these academic disciplines in the future. The Institute has the following main objectives: 1. ICS develops academic and applied research to enhance knowledge in the sphere of communications, media and public relations; 2. The Institute builds a base of research to be applied in the process of communications, media and public relations education; 3. ICS promotes innovative research ideas to respond to the needs of the industry; 4. The Institute encourages young professionals and students to get involved research in the field; 5. The Institute invests its resources in strengthening professional standards in the field of journalism, public relations and corporate communications; 6. By publishing the results from research on current topics and issues, the Institute contributes to the public debate and development of policies in the fields of its work activities;