Marketing Management

Public Relations Management Certificate

QCTO Accredited
QLS Endorsed
Self-Paced
Online Course
6 to 13 weeks
10 Modules
Gain advanced skills in strategic public relations, crisis communication, and reputation management with an accredited certificate designed for a digital-first world.

Description

The Public Relations Management Certificate provides learners with the tools and skills to manage organisational reputation, communication, and stakeholder engagement in today’s fast-paced and digital-first world. Participants are introduced to the principles of PR, with a strong emphasis on integrating traditional and digital media to build and sustain trust.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical case studies and applied learning. Learners will gain competence in content creation, stakeholder engagement, digital PR strategies, event management, and media relations, while also developing advanced skills in crisis management and online reputation safeguarding.

Graduates will be able to design, implement, and evaluate PR strategies that align with organisational goals, strengthen relationships, and build trust. Accredited by the QCTO and endorsed internationally by QLS, this certificate ensures both national recognition and global credibility.

What You’ll Gain

  • Design and implement public relations strategies aligned with organisational objectives.
  • Manage crisis communication and reputation safeguarding effectively.
  • Apply digital tools and social media strategies for PR campaigns.
  • Create PR content including press releases, blogs, and campaign messaging.
  • Build strong relationships with stakeholders, editors, and media outlets.
  • Plan, execute, and evaluate PR events and initiatives.

Included in the Course

  • Dedicated learner support during office hours via WhatsApp, email, phone, and live chat.
  • Fully online delivery with no offline option.
  • Immediate and continuous access to modules, assignments, and resources upon enrolment.
  • Certification issued in both digital and physical formats upon successful completion.
  • Access to supplementary videos, templates, and PR toolkits.
Strategic PR Planning and Execution

Learn how to design comprehensive PR strategies aligned with organisational goals.

Crisis Communication and Reputation Management

Develop advanced skills in responding to crises and protecting organisational reputation.

Digital and Social Media PR

Leverage digital platforms, SEO, and influencer marketing to amplify PR impact.

Stakeholder and Media Relationship Management

Build strong communication with stakeholders and manage relationships with journalists and editors.

PR Events and Evaluation

Plan and measure events, campaigns, and PR activities using professional evaluation tools.

Public Relations Management Certificate

QCTO Accredited
QLS Endorsed
Self-Paced
Online Course
6 to 13 weeks
10 Modules
Register now to secure your place and unlock full course access. Flexible payment options are available, including affordable finance plans to suit your budget.
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Entry Requirements
  • Matric or Grade 12 qualification.
  • Mature age exemption for learners 23 years or older.
  • Proficient English literacy.
  • Reliable internet access.
  • Suitable mobile or desktop device.

Course Introduction

This short video gives you a quick overview of your course, what to expect, and how to get the best out of your learning experience.

What you can
expect to learn

Learners can expect a flexible online learning experience that combines strategic frameworks with practical applications. Through real-world case studies, event planning exercises, and media management projects, participants will develop workplace-ready PR skills.

Support is available during office hours via WhatsApp, phone, email, and live chat. Certification is awarded in both digital and physical formats, offering learners professional recognition in PR management.

Course Structure

10 Modules
6 to 13 weeks
Module
1
Introduction to Digital Public Relations

Gain an understanding of the foundations of PR, including history, principles, and the role of reputation management in digital contexts.

  • Define public relations fundamentals.
  • Explain the evolution of PR in digital environments.
  • Apply reputation management strategies.
Module
2
Managing Relationships with Stakeholders

Learn to identify and communicate effectively with key stakeholders, including government, suppliers, and community partners.

  • Identify and classify stakeholders.
  • Build communication strategies.
  • Maintain strong government and supplier relations.
Module
3
Content Creation and Management in PR

Develop skills in creating PR content across multiple formats, including press releases, blogs, and social media campaigns.

  • Write press releases and blogs.
  • Apply SEO principles to PR content.
  • Manage campaign messaging.
Module
4
Building Relationships with the Media

Learn techniques for managing relationships with editors and journalists while effectively pitching stories.

  • Pitch stories to media outlets.
  • Build strong editor relationships.
  • Plan and manage campaigns.
Module
5
Online Public Relations

Explore tools and strategies for digital PR, including SEO, email campaigns, and online content marketing.

  • Apply SEO to PR strategies.
  • Design email PR campaigns.
  • Use digital tools for online reputation management.
Module
6
Public Relations and Social Media

Leverage social media platforms for PR campaigns. Explore influencer marketing and viral content strategies.

  • Apply social media PR strategies.
  • Collaborate with influencers.
  • Create viral content.
Module
7
Crisis and Reputation Management

Learn how to evaluate crises and protect organisational reputation through structured responses and measurement.

  • Assess and manage crises.
  • Establish crisis teams and protocols.
  • Measure crisis communication outcomes.
Module
8
Evaluating Public Relations Activities and Events

Develop skills in planning and evaluating PR events and campaigns.

  • Conduct SWOT analysis for PR activities.
  • Apply AVE and online reputation management tools.
  • Evaluate campaign and event effectiveness.
Module
9
Creating a Public Relations Plan

Learn how to design comprehensive PR strategies with clear goals, objectives, and audience analysis.

  • Develop PR strategy frameworks.
  • Conduct audience segmentation.
  • Align strategies with organisational goals.
Module
10
Conflict Management

Strengthen your ability to manage conflict in PR contexts using professional communication and emotional intelligence.

  • Identify sources of conflict.
  • Apply conflict resolution techniques.
  • Use structured conflict reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are course materials provided?

A: Yes. Learners receive structured course modules, assessments, and resources. Content remains accessible for at least 24 months after enrolment for ongoing reference.

Q: Can international students enrol?

A: Yes. All courses are accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO, SA) and endorsed by the Quality Licence Scheme (QLS, UK), ensuring both national and international recognition.

Q: Does the course include practical exercises?

A: Yes. Every programme combines theory with practical assignments, case studies, and applied assessments to ensure real-world learning.

Q: Is dedicated student support available?

A: Yes. Real human support is available via WhatsApp, live chat, phone, and email in multiple languages. Response times are SLA-driven, with live channels responding within minutes.

Q: Is this course suitable for beginners?

A: Yes. Courses are designed for both entry-level learners and working professionals. An orientation module and self-paced structure support learners at all levels.

Q: What accreditation does this course offer?

A: All courses are fully accredited by QCTO (SAQA) and internationally endorsed by QLS (UK). Certificates are co-branded with Accelerate Management School and, where relevant, partner branding.

Q: What are the prerequisites for enrolment?

A: A Matric/Grade 12 (or equivalent), reliable internet access, and English proficiency are required. Some specialised courses may recommend prior work experience.

Q: What devices are required for the course?

A: The platform is mobile-first and works on smartphones, tablets, or desktops. Courses are optimised for low-data use and include offline-ready options for rural or low-bandwidth areas.

Q: Will I receive certification upon completion?

A: Yes. On successful completion, learners receive an accredited certificate in both digital and physical formats, recognised locally and internationally

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