Public Relations

This program blends public relations theory with practical experience to meet the growing demand for public relations professionals. A public relations practitioner uses the power of communication to manage perception and affect measurable change. Because of the skills they possess, public relations (PR) professionals play key leadership roles within their organizations, and are valuable contributors to strategy development.

You’ll develop the skills needed to understand a client's objectives, develop strategic plans to reach them, implement action and evaluate the results. Businesses and organizations need skilled communicators who are equally adept at speaking to their employee base, their shareholders, the media and the public at large. Some client needs are smaller, and simply require clear, concise writing skills that inform others of their message. This program will challenge and perfect your writing, speaking and strategic-thinking skills - all of which are required by the successful PR practitioner.

• NSCC's unique mentorship program matches you with a practicing PR professional throughout the year. Your mentor will evaluate your work from a real-world perspective and act as a sounding board for your thinking. Networking is crucial to this industry; your mentor will be your first important connection.


• You’ll meet a series of guest facilitators throughout the year. These guests have been chosen for their range of experience and high level of professionalism. You’ll find out from them what it is like to write speeches for high-ranking government officials, manage crisis communications and more.


• This is a very practical, hands-on program, designed to mirror the processes you'll find in any public relations or communications agency.


• At the end of the program, you’ll work a six-week internship. Through your experiences you’ll be well prepared for your first employment position within the public relations field.

As a graduate, you’re qualified to work in a wide variety of public relations roles including positions in full-service PR agencies, government and charitable organizations, corporate PR departments and freelance communications.

• College diploma or undergraduate degree from a related area, or equivalent education and work experience. Related areas include: business, arts, journalism, or other areas that involve writing for an audience.


• Applicants are required to submit an original 300-word essay on why they would like to pursue a career and education in public relations.


• Applicants must also submit a variety of writing samples that will be used to assess your writing and research skills. These samples could include business writing, academic papers, journalistic writing, or any public relations or promotional pieces you may have written. A collection of writing samples that reflect your experience in a variety of styles is of particular interest.

• Students are expected to have basic computer (word-processing) skills.