Requirements

Public relations director - requirements

As a public relations director, you’ll use your impressive communication skills to manage the reputation and image of your clients through publicity campaigns. Learn more about a career in public relations, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

What qualifications do you need to be a public relations director?

A degree in any subject will help but one in a relevant subject will prove most useful. Subjects to consider include:

Please note this is a beta version. We'll continue to improve our suggestions here so that we show you the most relevant subjects.

Do you need a postgraduate qualification to be a public relations director?

Although it’s not essential to do a postgraduate course, it can help develop your skills and increase your career opportunities in this competitive industry.

Examples of taught MAs and research degrees at postgraduate level include:

Advertising
Corporate communications, marketing, and public relations
Creative advertising strategy
Digital media culture
Fashion marketing management
Global journalism and public relations
International relations
Psychology of advertising

What skills do you need to be a public relations director?

As well as having excellent communication skills, you’ll need a passion for storytelling and a flexible approach when working with different people.

Hard skills usually include:

Computer software packages
Content creation
Digital communications
Knowledge of public affairs and public relations
Marketing strategy
Press releases
Research and analysis

Soft skills include:

Creativity
Innovation
Influencing and negotiating
Leadership
Management
Planning
Writing

Do you need work experience to be a public relations director?

PR is a competitive industry so it’s a good idea to have some work experience to stand out from the crowd.

Create a portfolio of work by doing things like starting your own blog or creating content on your own social media channels. Look out for volunteering opportunities like organising events for a local charity and take advantage of work placements during a degree course.

You could also join the Chartered Institute of Public Relations as a student member and build up a network of potential PR contacts.