Public Relations Courses

About Public Relations

Public relations is a catch-all term that refers to the public communication a company, government or even individual person has with the general public. In some cases, this can be very routine and simply focus on updating the public on relevant information, whilst in other cases, public relations can require an ability to control a narrative or effectively convince the public of a particular perspective. 

How to Become Qualified in Public Relations

If you’re keen to start a career in this area, having a background in writing, whether that’s through an English or Journalism degree or course, can be beneficial. Even a high grade in English Language A-Level can be a good start, as can any background in the communications industry or roles that highly value communication skills.

Specialised courses can be available with no entry requirements that can give any learner the skills they need to break into this career. Modules should give learners an understanding of how to communicate with relevant media sources, publish understandable press releases, and work effectively with media or public personnel who may want further information regarding a press release or event that concerns the person, business or body you represent. 

Higher education courses can provide learners with real-world practical skills that can be applied in the PR industry. Modules could include crisis management, how to run a successful PR campaign, managing digital media and social media and explaining strategies to stakeholders.

Whether it’s a full-time or part-time course, enrolment can help your professional development in marketing communication and PR. Being able to work on research projects will prepare you to work alongside industry professionals, whether that’s during a work placement, internship or full-time role.

For those who already have a background in media and communications, an additional postgraduate course can be a great way to build on the skills you already have and find new roles in PR without the need for additional work experience. 

Online courses can be a good option for those who prefer independent study or for those who are unable to commit to taking part in in-person lessons or seminars. For those who want to explore qualifications without taking the university route, there are many courses with accreditations that can help you get started in this field without the issues of high tuition fees or additional costs.

Career Outcomes From a Public Relations Course

PR is a wide-ranging career field, as almost every business or body needs to connect with the public in some way. With this in mind, you can explore PR officer roles working for public bodies, such as councils or governmental departments, businesses that aim to connect with the public frequently, or individuals who are keen to manage or promote their public image. 

PR professionals can work within PR agencies and support different clients in their PR goals or work in-house and be the first port-of-call for media comments. Some companies’ PR function will only be used to respond to press enquiries or to distribute company updates to the public. On the other hand, some companies will use their PR team to actively promote themselves, and this kind of PR can cross over with more traditional forms of marketing. 

Keen to kickstart your career in public relations? Explore courses today and begin your education journey.