Why study with us?
Ranked 22nd in the world for arts and humanities in the 2020 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Our graduates are ranked 1st in Australia and 4th in the world for employability by the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020.
In response to COVID-19, the University of Sydney has reviewed the availability of courses to be delivered remotely for students commencing their studies in Semester 1, 2021.
This course will be available to study remotely for students commencing in Semester 1, 2021. Please note that some units of study that are not essential to completing the degree may not be available to be studied remotely.
Note: The University intends to offer as many units of study as possible in a remote as well as face-to-face learning method of delivery in Semester 1, 2021 and subject to ongoing border closures and public health orders impacting attendance on campus, in Semester 2, 2021. However, some units of study and courses require students to study in-person at the relevant University of Sydney campus/es and host locations for placements and will not be available remotely.
About this course
This degree will provide you with an understanding of public relations theory and practice at a time when new styles of management and the democratisation of workplaces demand higher proficiency in communication skills from practitioner.
You'll gain the critical and strategic thinking required to engage stakeholders in priority initiatives in a complex media environment where the boundaries between information, entertainment, image and politics are increasingly blurred. Drawing on disciplines such as organisational communication, social theory and political studies, the course reveals the role of public relations in shaping identities, dispersing power, and creating knowledge. You will graduate equipped to apply your creativity in practical ways, and be confident of making your mark in this dynamic and exciting profession.
Throughout your studies you will explore the various functions of public relations including media relations, relationship building, issues management, boundary spanning, stakeholder liaison, crisis communication and the integration of communications functions while developing essential skills in thinking, writing, speaking and working in teams.
Learning how communication in organisational settings affects the strategic decisions of all types of organisations, you will gain an understanding of the potential impact your practice can have on strategy execution, and the role you can play in contributing to a just society and profitable corporations.
The course covers corporate government, media, investor, community, political and environmental relations.
For academic requirements check the ‘Admission requirements’ section on this page.
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
NOTE: Semester 2 2020 changes:
Sem 2, 2020 application closing date: 17 August
Sem 2, 2020 start date: 24 August
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - 11 February of the commencing year
Semester 2 - 15 July of the commencing year
We strongly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible, offers are made on a rolling basis and places are limited. Separate scholarship deadlines apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 1 (March) and Semester 2 (August)
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
NOTE: Semester 2 2020 changes:
Sem 2, 2020 application closing date: 17 August
Sem 2, 2020 start date: 24 August
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - 31 January of the commencing year
Semester 2 - 30 June of the commencing year
We strongly encourage international applicants to apply as early as possible to allow time for visa and travel arrangements. Separate scholarship deadlines may apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 1 (March) and Semester 2 (August)
The Graduate Certificate in Strategic Public Relations requires the satisfactory completion of 4 units of study (24 credit points). Graduate Certificate courses may include core or compulsory units of study. Other units of study are normally chosen from the list of approved electives, or undertaken in a relevant or related field, subject to the approval of the academic coordinator.
Under normal progression, a full-time student completes prescribed units of study to the value of 24 credit points per semester. Part-time students may undertake prescribed units of study up to the value of 12 credit points per semester. You are required to attend all lectures, tutorials and other activities prescribed for your units of study.
Admission to candidature for the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Public Relations requires:
You can progress from the Graduate Certificate to a Graduate Diploma or Masters, or from a Graduate Diploma to Masters in the same subject area, after successful completion of the shorter course.
Our graduates have taken up positions as public relations advisers, media and communications officers, public affairs consultants, investment communications managers and social marketing coordinators.
