Graduate Certificate in Public and Media Relations — Online
The online Graduate Certificate in Public and Media Relations prepares graduates and communication professionals to excel in the latest skills in digital platforms, tools, and techniques.
Take a Quick Look
We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
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Customize your plan
We work with you to map your path to your goal.
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Learn from experience
From real-world case studies to employer-based projects, we prepare you to manage what comes next.
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Choose your focus
Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find the classes to sharpen your specialty.
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Study anywhere, on your time
Part-time or full-time, we move at your speed, to get you where you’re going.
Overview
There is growing demand for communication professionals with digital media skills and a strategic perspective on brand and reputation management. The Graduate Certificate in Public and Media Relations will prepare communication professionals who focus on external stakeholders for the challenges of a rapidly changing industry. This program focuses on developing strategic communication plans, crafting compelling messages, and performing audience research, while preparing students with the latest skills in digital platforms, tools, and techniques, and other skills that are needed to excel in the public and media relations industry. Courses in this program also serve as a concentration in Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication.
More Details
Unique Features
- Choose from elective courses covering a range of topics on digital era skills
- Courses from this certificate can be applied toward the Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication
- Online program design provides flexibility and interactive experience for working professionals
Program Objectives
- Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to design and produce public and media relations campaigns using written materials, social media, audio, video, and web-based tools.
- Learn how to identify and anticipate audience behavior and expectations using primary and secondary research methods.
- Strategically design, implement, and evaluate campaigns that support organizational performance.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of public relations specialists and managers will grow by 12% and 13%, respectively.
Get Set With a Custom Course Plan
Please note: The following is a sample curriculum and is subject to change. Enrolled students should reference the academic catalog for current program requirements.
General Requirements
Required Courses
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 |
Elective Courses
Complete three of the following:
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 3.00 | ||
| 4.00 |
Now Let's Talk Admissions
You know where you are headed and you've seen how our program will lead you there. So let's get going. Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Application Requirements
- Online application
- Statement of purpose (500–1000 words): identifies your educational goals and expectations from the program; please be aware that the university's academic policy on plagiarism applies to your statement of purpose
- Professional resumé
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission
- English language proficiency proof: Students for whom English is not their primary language must submit one of the following:
- Official associate or bachelor's degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date
- TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, or NU Global Exam scores
International Requirements
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.
Financing Requirements
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
Cost and Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2023-2024 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:
Domestic Application Guidelines
International Application Guidelines*
*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.
Student Body Profile
Below is a look at where our communications and journalism alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
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Where They Work
- Boston Globe Media
- Fidelity Investments
- Harvard University
- TechTarget
- MIT
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What They Do
- Media and Communication
- Marketing
- Business Development
- Education
- Art and Design
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What They're Skilled At
- Social Media
- Editing
- Marketing
- Public Relations
- Public Speaking
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.