Khumalo Dakarai
Public Relations (PR) courses in South Africa are offered by various institutions, including universities, colleges, and online platforms. These courses range from diplomas to degrees and short courses.
Public Relations Courses In South Africa
1. Diploma in Public Relations
Institution: Various TVET colleges, universities of technology Duration: 3 years Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum pass in English (40-50%)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Some institutions may require a minimum APS (Admission Point Score), usually around 18-20
Course Overview:
- Fundamentals of Public Relations
- Media Studies
- Communication Skills
- Event Management
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
2. Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Communication
Institution: University of Johannesburg, Durban University of Technology, and others Duration: 3-4 years Requirements:
- NSC with Bachelor’s Pass
- Minimum of 50% in English Home Language or First Additional Language
- A minimum APS score of 22-24 (varies per institution)
Course Overview:
- Public Relations Theory and Practice
- Corporate Communication
- Media Law and Ethics
- Digital Communication
- Research Methods
3. Higher Certificate in Public Relations
Institution: Boston City Campus, IIE Varsity College Duration: 1 year Requirements:
- NSC with Higher Certificate Pass
- Minimum of 40% in English
- Some institutions may require an interview or personal statement
Course Overview:
- Introduction to Public Relations
- Communication and Writing Skills
- Media Relations
- Social Media Management
- PR Campaigns
4. Advanced Diploma in Public Relations
Institution: University of Johannesburg, Durban University of Technology Duration: 1 year (after completing a diploma) Requirements:
- Completion of a Diploma in Public Relations or equivalent qualification
- Minimum average of 60% in your final-year diploma courses
Course Overview:
- Strategic Public Relations Management
- Crisis Communication
- Investor Relations
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Leadership and Ethics in Communication
5. Short Course in Public Relations
Institution: PRISA (Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa), Damelin, or various online platforms Duration: 6 weeks to 6 months Requirements:
- No formal qualifications required in many cases
- Basic proficiency in English
- Interest in PR or communication fields
Course Overview:
- Basic Public Relations Principles
- Media Engagement
- Writing Press Releases
- Event Management
- Introduction to Digital and Social Media PR
6. Postgraduate Diploma in Communication and Public Relations
Institution: Various universities Duration: 1 year Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Communication, Public Relations, or related field
- Average of 65% or higher in final year undergraduate studies
- May require an interview or portfolio submission
Course Overview:
- Advanced Public Relations Strategies
- Crisis Communication and Management
- Media Law and Policy
- Research Project in PR
General Requirements for Public Relations Courses In South Africa:
- Proficiency in English is a common requirement.
- Institutions often ask for an NSC with specific APS scores, depending on the level of study.
- Some higher-level courses (advanced diplomas, postgraduate diplomas) require prior qualifications in PR or related fields.
- Experience in public relations or communication can be beneficial for short courses or specializations.
Make sure to verify specific requirements with the institution of interest, as they may vary slightly
Fees Of Public Relations Courses In South Africa
The fees for Public Relations courses in South Africa can vary significantly depending on the institution, the level of study (certificate, diploma, degree), and the course duration. Here’s a general overview:
- Short Courses and Certificates:
- Fees range from R5,000 to R15,000 for short-term courses (ranging from a few weeks to a few months).
- Examples: Colleges like the PRISA (Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa) offer professional development courses.
- Diplomas:
- The cost for a diploma in Public Relations can range from R15,000 to R50,000 annually.
- Example: Institutions like Damelin or Rosebank College offer diplomas in Public Relations.
- Undergraduate Degrees:
- For a three-year undergraduate degree, the tuition can range between R30,000 to R80,000 per year.
- Examples: University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Varsity College offer degree programs in Public Relations.
- Postgraduate Degrees:
- For postgraduate studies (honors or master’s), fees range from R40,000 to R100,000 per year, depending on the institution.
- Examples: Universities like University of South Africa (UNISA) and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).
Additional costs such as registration fees, study materials, and exam fees may apply. It is advisable to check with the specific institution for the most up-to-date information.
Career Opportunities Of Public Relations Courses In South Africa
Public Relations (PR) courses in South Africa open up various career opportunities across multiple industries. Here are some key roles and opportunities available for PR graduates in the country:
1. Public Relations Officer/Consultant
- Responsible for managing the public image of a company or individual.
- Key duties include drafting press releases, media liaison, crisis management, and handling publicity campaigns.
2. Corporate Communications Manager
- Overseeing internal and external communications for organizations.
- Duties involve creating strategies to communicate effectively with stakeholders, employees, and the media.
3. Media Relations Specialist
- Works closely with the media to ensure the right coverage of an organization’s activities.
- Developing media kits, organizing press conferences, and maintaining relationships with journalists are key tasks.
4. Social Media Manager
- Managing a brand’s presence on social media platforms.
- Responsibilities include content creation, community management, and engagement to enhance public perception.
5. Event Manager
- Coordinating and managing events that promote a company or its products.
- Event planning skills, media engagement, and brand communication are essential.
6. Marketing Communications Specialist
- Integrating PR strategies with marketing to promote a product or service.
- Tasks include content development, brand promotion, and managing communication across channels.
7. Crisis Communications Specialist
- Handling communication strategies during crises, mitigating damage to an organization’s reputation.
- Key responsibilities include developing crisis communication plans and working with senior leadership during emergencies.
8. Public Affairs Consultant
- Specializes in managing communications between organizations and government agencies.
- Often involves lobbying, policy influence, and managing public perception of regulatory issues.
9. Brand Manager
- Managing the overall perception and strategy of a brand.
- Responsibilities include ensuring consistent communication that aligns with the brand’s values.
10. NGO Communications Officer
- Many NGOs in South Africa hire PR professionals to manage communication with donors, the public, and the government.
- Involves campaigns, social impact storytelling, and advocacy work.
Industries for PR Professionals:
- Corporate Firms: Large businesses hire PR teams to manage both internal and external communication.
- Government and Public Sector: Managing public image, media communication, and community relations for government entities.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Promoting social causes, managing donor relations, and running awareness campaigns.
- Entertainment and Sports: Managing public relations for celebrities, athletes, and sports organizations.
- Tourism and Hospitality: Promoting tourism through public relations and media outreach.
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Conclusion
South Africa’s vibrant media and diverse industries make it a promising place for PR professionals to thrive, with increasing opportunities in digital media and corporate communications