Career Guide for Public Relation Studies

Public relation management is concerned with the maintenance of mutual relations and understanding between an organization and the whole group of public related to it, which includes shareholders, government, consumers, employees and the media. Public relations specialists may arrange and direct speaking engagements, press conferences, meetings and conventions, films/videos, and fund-raising campaigns. They usually have to prepare a number of materials for these events, such as speeches and press releases, magazine articles, scripts, factsheets, pamphlets, and newsletters. They may also need to conduct interviews and speak on the telephone frequently. Business and industry use PR people to keep the public informed of their products and services. PR professionals are on great demand as every business needs to project a positive image and manage all interactions with stakeholders.

Courses and Eligibility:

The various courses offered are:

• Certificate Course in Advertising and Public Relations
• Certificate Course in Basic Public Relations
• Certificate Course in Public Relations
• Degree Course in Public Relations
• Diploma in Communication, Journalism and Public Relations
• Diploma in Public Relation
• Diploma in Public Relations and Corporate Communication
• MA Public Relations
• Master’s Degree in Journalism and Public Relations
• Postgraduate Diploma in Event Management and Public Relations
• Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism, Public Relations and Advertising
• Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations
• Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising

The criterion for admissions to a bachelor’s program is a 10+2 pass certificate in any stream. For postgraduate programs graduation in any discipline is required, preferably in the social sciences, liberal arts, or humanities. Admission to these courses is based on merit and, in some cases, entrance test scores.

Career Prospects:

Graduates can find employment in corporate and media houses. Banking, finance, insurance, investment, and export companies require the services of PR managers. Hotels, tour and travel agencies, and private consultancy firms also employ PR specialists. Another interesting aspect of this field is that PR professionals get to work closely with public figures such as politicians, CEOs, organization heads, models, and film stars to create for them public identity and image. New communications technology and more and more organizations turning to media for greater exposure have created more opportunities for PR workers. Competition will be very stiff for entry-level jobs because the field attracts many applicants. An individual with solid communication skills and related experience will have the best chance of being hired.

Remuneration:

A public relation graduate can start with an earning of Rs. 15,000–18,000 per month. An experienced professional may get Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 per month. The salary package solely depends on the nature of the employing organization.