Diploma in Media Practices Specialising in Public Relations

Public Relations (PR) is the art of strategic storytelling and relationship building, designed to weave narratives that enhance reputation. It is a dance between communication and audiences through media relations, social media, events, and community engagement. In essence public relations aims to create mutually beneficial relationships, foster trust, and ensure positive communication.

The Public Relations major offers coverage of the theory and practice of public relations in an increasingly complex world where corporate and personal brands dominate the cultural and commercial space. Learn how to organise events, plan Corporate Social Investment projects and experience the pressure of the real-world PR environment through crisis communication simulation, while developing your communication skills using current case studies drawn from the fast-paced field of public relations practice.

This diploma is offered at Boston Media House Pretoria and Sandton.

Career opportunities include, but are not limited to:

  • Social media manager
  • Content manager
  • Internal communications manager
  • Media relations manager
  • Event coordinator
  • Public relations assistant/manager
  • Publicist
  • Content strategist
  • Brand ambassador
APPLY/ENQUIRE NOW!
APPLY/ENQUIRE NOW!

Entry Requirements

A minimum requirement for admission in to the diploma is a:

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), with English as one of the subjects passed and with endorsement for admission to Diploma study; or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)), with English as one of the subjects passed and with endorsement for admission to Diploma study; or
  • Prior to 2009, Senior Certificate with English as one of the subjects passed.

Alternative Entry Requirements

A number of higher education qualifications may meet the requirements for admission into the diploma:

  • Certificate programme, NQF Level 5 (OQSF/HEQSF), minimum Credits 12; or
  • Diploma programme, NQF Level 5 (OQSF), minimum credits 240; or
  • Higher Certificate, NQF (HEQSF) Level 5, minimum credits 120; or
  • Advanced Certificate, NQF (HEQSF) Level 6, minimum credits 120; or
  • Diploma. NQF (HEQSF) Level 6, minimum credits 240 or 360; or
  • Equivalent qualification from an international higher education institution, see section on International Applicants

Personality Profile

  • Diplomatic
  • Resourceful
  • Positive
  • Strategic thinker
  • Creative
  • Communicative
  • Adaptable
Download Factsheet
Download Prospectus

  • Academic Literacy 1

  • Advertising 1

  • Creativity

  • Digital Marketing 1

  • Journalism 1

  • Photography

  • Public Relations 1

  • Radio 1

  • Television 1

  • Computer Skills

In Public Relations 1 students will develop a thorough understanding of public relations and be introduced to the technical skills needed in this industry. Learn about social skills, protocols, and the importance of interpersonal relations in the business environment. You will learn how to write for print, broadcast, and electronic media for public relations purposes.

  • Public Relations 2

  • Academic Literacy 2

  • Design Thinking

  • Media in a Digital Age

Choose one of the following:

  • Advertising 2
  • Journalism 2
  • Digital Marketing 2
  • Radio 2 and Sound Engineering
  • Television 2 and Sound Engineering

Public Relations 2 focuses on managerial public relations, exploring the scope and evolution of public relations as a field. Students will explore in-depth various stakeholder groups and delve into the intricacies of reputation management. The course illuminates the connections between public relations and the other media disciplines such as marketing, selling and advertising. Participants will gain insights into internal communication management and acquire skills in planning public relations programmes, encompassing event management across diverse sectors. The curriculum expands the media toolkit, encompassing social media proficiency, and imparts knowledge on effectively collaborating with and presenting to the media.

  • Public Relations 3

  • Entrepreneurship

  • Experiential Learning

  • Media Law

Public Relations 3 will continue to focus on the different skills and proficiencies needed to specialise in specific PR fields, for example, Sport PR, Lifestyle and Entertainment PR, Corporate PR, Exhibitions and Eventing, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sponsorship, Financial or Business PR, Medical PR, Hospitality Industry PR, and Government Relations.

BMH 3rd Year PR student Event