Graduate Diploma in Strategic Public Relations

This degree will provide you with an understanding of public relations theory and practice at a time when new styles of management and the democratisation of workplaces demand higher proficiency in communication skills from practitioner.You'll gain the critical and strategic thinking required to engage stakeholders in priority initiatives in a complex media environment where the boundaries between information, entertainment, image and politics are increasingly blurred.

Drawing on disciplines such as organisational communication, social theory and political studies, the course reveals the role of public relations in shaping identities, dispersing power, and creating knowledge.

You will graduate equipped to apply your creativity in practical ways, and be confident of making your mark in this dynamic and exciting profession.Throughout your studies you will explore the various functions of public relations including media relations, relationship building, issues management, boundary spanning, stakeholder liaison, crisis communication and the integration of communications functions while developing essential skills in thinking, writing, speaking and working in teams.Learning how communication in organisational settings affects the strategic decisions of all types of organisations, you will gain an understanding of the potential impact your practice can have on strategy execution, and the role you can play in contributing to a just society and profitable corporations.The course covers corporate government, media, investor, community, political and environmental relations.

Admission requirement

Admission to candidature for the Graduate Diploma in Strategic Public Relations requires:

• a bachelor's degree with a minimum 60% average calculated over the whole degree, from the University of Sydney, or an equivalent qualification; or
• completion of the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Public Relations with a minimum credit (65%) average, or an equivalent qualification.

You can progress from the Graduate Diploma to Masters in the same subject area, after successful completion of the shorter course.

What you'll study