What topics are typically covered in public relations courses?

Public relations courses cover a variety of topics essential for managing an organization's communication with the public. These include the fundamentals of public relations, media relations , and strategic communication planning . Learners will explore topics such as crisis communication, social media management , and content creation . Advanced courses might cover reputation management, public relations analytics, and the use of digital tools in PR campaigns. Practical exercises and real-world case studies help learners apply these concepts to develop effective PR strategies.

How can I choose the right public relations course for my career goals?

Choosing the right public relations course depends on your current skill level and career aspirations. Beginners should look for courses that introduce the basics of public relations, including media relations , communication strategies , and content creation . Those with some experience might benefit from intermediate courses focusing on advanced PR techniques, crisis communication, and social media strategy . Advanced learners or professionals seeking specialized knowledge might consider courses on reputation management, PR analytics, or preparing for certifications like the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR). Reviewing course content, instructor expertise, and learner feedback can help ensure the course aligns with your goals.

What career opportunities can I pursue with a certificate in public relations?

A certificate in public relations can open up various career opportunities in the communications and media sectors. Common roles include public relations specialist, communications manager, social media strategist , and corporate communications advisor. These positions involve managing media relations, developing communication strategies, handling crisis situations, and maintaining a positive public image for organizations. With the growing importance of effective communication in business and public life, earning a public relations certificate can significantly enhance your career prospects and opportunities for advancement in fields such as corporate communications, media relations, marketing, and public affairs.

Top Public Relations Courses - Learn Public Relations Online

Explore the Public Relations Course Catalog

California Institute of the Arts
Ideas from the History of Graphic Design
Skills you'll gain: Graphic Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Art History, Design, Design Strategies, Typography, Branding, Advertising, Aesthetics, Creativity
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
2.5K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Infection Prevention in Nursing Homes
Skills you'll gain: Infection Control, Sterilization, Nursing Homes, Cleanliness, Sanitation, Patient Safety, Infectious Diseases, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Nursing and Patient Care, Preventative Care, Urology, Epidemiology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Yale University
The Global Financial Crisis
Skills you'll gain: Crisis Management, Financial Policy, Mortgage Loans, Financial Regulation, Public Policies, Credit Risk, Risk Management Framework, Financial Market, Consumer Lending, International Finance, Banking, Financial Analysis, Economics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
2.3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free
Yale University
Introduction to Breast Cancer
Skills you'll gain: Mammography, Oncology, Clinical Trials, Surgery, Care Management, Preventative Care, Precision Medicine, Patient Treatment, Maternal Health, Biology, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Epidemiology, Patient Education and Support, Molecular Biology, Radiation Protection, Risk Analysis
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Google
Google データアナリティクス
Skills you'll gain: Rmarkdown, Data Presentation, Data Ethics, Data Storytelling, Data Visualization, Data Cleansing, Stakeholder Communications, Analytical Skills, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Visualization Software, Data Validation, Dashboard, Ggplot2, Interviewing Skills, Data Access, Spreadsheet Software, Data Analysis, Tableau Software, Data Synthesis, Data Manipulation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
606 reviews
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
ESSEC Business School
Negotiation Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Negotiation, Contract Negotiation, Active Listening, Communication, Communication Strategies, Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Strategic Partnership, Relationship Building, Overcoming Objections, Leadership, Value Propositions, Mediation, Stakeholder Management, Decision Making
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.6K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Data Visualization
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Data Presentation, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Storytelling, Dashboard, Tableau Software, Plot (Graphics), Scatter Plots, Data Mapping, Graphing
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Democracia y decisiones públicas. Introducción al análisis de políticas públicas
Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Political Sciences, Public Policies, Public Administration, Program Evaluation, Governance, Social Studies, Media and Communications, Research Methodologies
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Digital Media and Marketing Principles
Skills you'll gain: Online Advertising, Digital Media Strategy, Digital Advertising, Digital Marketing, Marketing Communications, Marketing Strategies, Marketing, Integrated Marketing Communications, Electronic Media, Search Engine Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Media Planning, Mobile Banking, Communication, Emerging Technologies, Branding, Consumer Behaviour, Personalized Service
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
2.9K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Duke University
Data Visualization and Communication with Tableau
Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Dashboard, Tableau Software, Data Visualization, Business Analytics, Statistical Visualization, Business Process, Business Process Improvement, Presentations, Data Visualization Software, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Data Analysis, Graphing, Stakeholder Communications, Data Manipulation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Kennesaw State University
Career Discovery
Skills you'll gain: Professional Networking, LinkedIn, Mentorship, Professional Development, Interviewing Skills, Social Media, Relationship Building, Social Media Strategy, Planning, Strategic Communication, Communication, Social Skills, Adaptability, Collaboration, Business Research, Negotiation, Leadership Development, Professionalism, Lifelong Learning, Goal Setting
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
1.7K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
e-Learning Ecologies: Innovative Approaches to Teaching and Learning for the Digital Age
Skills you'll gain: Differentiated Instruction, Collaborative Software, Education Software and Technology, Pedagogy, Learning Management Systems, Digital Transformation, Emerging Technologies, Innovation, Multimedia, Digital Communications
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.5K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks