The PRII Diploma in Public Relations is the foremost Public Relations qualification in Ireland, held by one in three senior communications professionals in Ireland (PRIICensus22).
Delivered and accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Ireland (PRII), the professional body for Irish communications and public relations practitioners, the PRII Diploma in Public Relations is the longest established and most widely held Irish public relations qualification.
Format:
Part-time, online blended learning.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 06 September 2024
- Course Start Date: 23 September 2024
I did the PRII Diploma in 2021-22 and it was bang-on for what I was looking for at this point in my career. I had worked in advocacy and communications roles at a senior level for a number of years but lacked that bit of confidence around the industry or professional knowledge which I felt I lacked without a degree or specific course in communications.
While so much of PR work is instinct and experience, you do need to get a handle of the theory around the approaches and get your head outside the box you’re in on how things can be done. Spending dedicated time to hone your communications craft is worth it, in my opinion, but one of the other big values of the Diploma was connecting with others on the course through the year.
I now work in a vibrant public interest communications, public affairs and PR agency and practically apply what I have learned.
Course Structure
The PRII Diploma in Public Relations provides the knowledge, critical understanding, and skills required for entry-level and early career positions in public relations and communications organisations, as well as public relations practitioners seeking recognition for their professional attainment.
The knowledge component encompasses the theoretical and practical understanding of public relations and communication and is consistent with the objectives and values of the public relations profession.
Skills and abilities are the practical application and demonstration of this knowledge, developed through learning, reflection, practice, and experience. Add the modules here
Assessment
The course is assessed by way of project work, campaign assignments and written examination.
Entry Requirements
You must be aged over 18 and have passed a minimum of five subjects in the Leaving/Senior Certificate or hold a qualification at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications. These requirements can be waived if you have a minimum of two years of professional experience in a public relations or communications role.
Relevant work experience in PR or communications is advantageous.
How much does it cost?
2024/25 Fee:
- PRII Members: €2,375
- Non-Members €2,640
- If a Full Member of the PRII provides a letter of recommendation a discounted fee can be offered to non-members.
A non-refundable deposit of €875 is required to secure a place.
Easy Payment Plan (Interest-free)
- PRII Members: €875 deposit, plus 4 equal payments of €375
- Non-Members: €875 deposit, plus 4 equal payments of €441.25
Note: All fees must be paid in full before 28 February 2025.
Company Discount
If two or more students from the same employer undertake the Diploma course, a discount will be applied, provided that the employer pays the fees for all against the same invoice. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us for more information.
- Complete the online application form
- Submit supporting documents
- Attend an interview (if applicable)
Who gives the course?
Industry experts, PR professionals, academics, and guest lecturers all present and contribute to the course, ensuring that everything you learn is up-to-date and relevant to this dynamic and ever-changing profession.
Barbara Gormley MPRII
Gerry Mullins
Josephine O'Halloran
Aileen O’Meara
Mr Niall Quinn MPRII
Steve Rawson FPRII
What will I learn?
You will gain a complete understanding of all aspects of the industry, both academic and professional.
You will:
- develop in-depth knowledge of the role and practice of external and internal communication in any organisation
- learn how to devise, develop and implement comprehensive PR strategies
- understand how the media works and how to develop effective relationships with key players
- learn how to write and perfect all types of effective PR material
- appreciate the ethical and legal issues around public relations
- gain insight into the other professions central to the work of PR practitioners
- see how business, politics and society interact and understand the role of PR in that process
How is the course delivered?
The PRII Diploma will be delivered using a blended approach in 2024/25. This incorporates a variety of delivery methods: video lectures; live online tutorials, revision lectures and self-directed learning.
This allows participants to undertake the course remotely from anywhere around the globe.
Learning materials available to students include:
- Dedicated Diploma Portal resource webpage hosting video lessons, notes, readings and references.
- Introductory and revision lectures for each module.
- Video lectures on key module content.
- Live two-hour online seminars each week (Monday evening 6:30 – 8:30 pm) to discuss and develop upon material covered in video lectures.
I completed the PRII Diploma in Public Relations in 2020/2021. Working in a busy PR agency, I felt that I had a good understanding of the practical side of the profession, but I knew that I needed to broaden my knowledge of communications theory.
The course helped to refine my overall skill set, and has really advanced my career development. The lecturers are some of the most knowledgeable communications experts in the country, and it was a pleasure to learn from their experience.
Above all, the course helped me to develop a peer network of fellow practitioners, from a wide range of industries and backgrounds, which I have found to be a great support base.
I cannot recommend this course highly enough for people who are starting out on their PR journey, or equally for people who want to refine and add to the skills and knowledge that they already have.
