Public Relations
Public Relations at Western
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Public Relations at a glance …

1 year - Full time - May though April

In-class + practicum

Admission requirements: Undergraduate degree with strong writing background

$9000 + Western ancillary fees, course texts

OSAP eligible

Application deadline: January 15

 
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Diploma in Public Relations?

What are the minimum admission requirements?

When do I apply?

When will I know if my application has been accepted?

How long do I have to complete the program?

Is this program eligible for OSAP?

Can I take courses before being admitted to the program?

I have been working in a Public Relations related field for a few years. Do I still need the undergraduate degree-credit courses to apply?

Who should I contact if I need more information?


1. What is the Diploma in Public Relations?

Public relations is the art or science of communicating – bridging the gap between an organization and its public. Public relations professionals can work in large organizations, small companies, or as independent contractors. If you remember hearing about a company or organization, they have PR people working for them!

 

2. What are the minimum admission requirements?

Successful completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited university.

Please Note: This is a competitive program with limited enrollment. Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee admission into the program.

 

3. When do I apply?

The application deadline is January 15. Applicants who must apply for admission to the University first are encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible. Application forms are typically available by November.

Please Note:

Classes begin in May for the duration of one (1) year, including the practicum.

 

4. When will I know if my application has been accepted?

All decisions regarding admission to the program are communicated in writing. Admission decisions may take approximately 6-8 weeks after receipt of all application documents. Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure all pieces of both the supplemental application, as well as the OUAC application (where applicable), arrive well before the application deadline. Decisions will not be relayed over the telephone.  

 

5. How long do I have to complete the program?

The Diploma in Public Relations is structured to be completed in one calendar year (12 months). It cannot be taken part-time.

 

6. Is this program eligible for OSAP?

Yes, online OSAP applications are available at http://osap.gov.on.ca

7. Can I take courses before being admitted to the program?

No, these courses are offered only to students accepted into the Public Relations Program. Based on the competitiveness to enter the program and its one year duration, students must apply and be accepted into the program to be eligible for these courses.

 

8. I have been working in a Public Relations related field for a few years. Do I still need an undergraduate degree to apply?

Yes, an undergraduate degree is a prerequisite to apply.

9. Who should I contact if I need more information?

Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Continuing Studies office at 519 661 3658 or email post-degree@uwo.ca

 

What our students say

Joanna Magee

Joanna Magee
Diploma in Public Relations graduate

Just looking at the graduates speaks to the success of the program. Each person in my class had a job within two months of graduating. I really enjoyed it and got a great portfolio out of it in the end, which is really helpful in interviews.

Aly Robb
Diploma in Public Relations graduate

Working in PR is not like Samantha Jones, holding a clipboard outside a hot event. Oh it's so much more than that ... ... read more

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