Course Overview

The course covers the history and development of public relations in different parts of the world and provides a theoretical framework for investigating this rapidly changing profession. You will evaluate classic and emerging PR strategies and the use of research to inform PR campaigns and measure their effectiveness and broader social impacts. You will look at successful and effective PR campaigns and the structural relationships between PR and the media. You will consider how commercial businesses and non-governmental organizations use PR techniques to advance their objectives. This course will equip you with the skills to critically analyze PR campaigns and understand the functions of publicity and managing crisis communications scenarios. You will gain the skills to research to evaluate the effectiveness of PR campaigns and how to plan and implement an effective PR campaign.

One of the great strengths of this course is that you will be taught by lecturers and support tutors who combine specialist knowledge of theory and research methods with experience in the public relations sector and its working practices. In addition, the University of Leicester is a partner of the UK Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) which means you will enjoy many benefits, including:

• free membership of the PRCA

• unlimited free access to PRCA online training courses

• access to a range of networking events, work placements, and graduate schemes

General Eligibility

A first or second-class honors degree in a relevant subject or equivalent professional qualification.

We can give special consideration to you if you have significant work experience in a relevant field. Such candidates may, for example, be asked to complete an entry assessment (typically an essay) to demonstrate their readiness for postgraduate study. Clear guidance will be provided on assessment criteria.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. If your first language is not English, you may need to prove your English ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard.