Public relations (or corporate communications, as it is also known) is an important component of any company, whether high profile or low. Ensuring that a company is well-represented in the media, with stakeholders and through any public-facing medium, is vital for protecting reputation and integrity. Public relations programs at Ontario colleges prepare students for roles in this fast-paced, detail-oriented industry with leading-edge business and communication skills.
If you’d like to work on the front lines of a business or organization and start an exciting public relations career, here’s what you need to know. More
Public Relations Courses
Public relations programs are a unique blend of business and communications skills. From a business perspective, emphasis is placed on time management, resource management, and organization. From a communications perspective, subjects will include writing and editing, concept creation, media relations, and conflict resolution.
Students will learn to handle all public relations outlets including the media, stakeholders, government officials, and more.
General Public Relations Program Requirements
Some Ontario college public relations programs are offered at the diploma level, while others are offered as graduate certificates. For those offered at the diploma level, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent is required, including a senior English and math credit. For programs offered as graduate certificates, a university degree or college diploma is required.
Public Relations Jobs and Salaries
Under the title of Public Relations Specialist or Public Relations Manager, roles in the PR industry include writing, researching, media relations, event planning, and marketing communications. Public relations careers can take you many places – you may choose to specialize in corporate public relations or work with not-for-profit organizations, across nearly any industry. You can also choose to work with a company as a full-time employee, or operate as a contracted employee or consultant.
The average starting salary for public relations graduates is in the low- to mid-$30,000 range, but can rise quickly with experience. For contract positions where wages are calculated hourly, wages can range from $15 for entry-level employees to $45 per hour or more for highly skilled, highly experienced positions.
Ontario Colleges Offering Public Relations Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of public relations programs at Ontario colleges. Less
