University of Sunderland United Kingdom

Public Relations

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Public Relations Masters degree at the University of Sunderland is designed for ambitious professionals seeking to master the art and science of strategic communication. In today's interconnected world, effective public relations is crucial for managing reputation, engaging stakeholders, and navigating complex societal issues. This postgraduate course delves into the critical perspectives, ethical frameworks, and practical applications of PR, equipping you with the advanced knowledge to excel in diverse organisational settings. You will explore the impact of PR on social media, understand media relations, and develop a nuanced understanding of propaganda and persuasion.

You will study this Masters degree full-time on campus over one year, engaging with core modules such as Public Relations: Theory and Practice and Marketing Communications, Content and Engagement. Your learning will be hands-on, involving the construction of PR campaigns, management of media databases, and the creation of content for various platforms. The course culminates in either an extensive research-led dissertation or a practical project where you develop a real-world PR campaign for an agreed client brief. You will graduate with a sophisticated understanding of PR strategy and execution, prepared for leadership roles in agencies, corporations, and non-profit organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the foundational theories and practical applications of public relations, examining its role in marketing communications, content creation, and audience engagement. Students will delve into the ethical considerations, critical perspectives, and research methodologies essential for understanding public relations within societal contexts. The program culminates in either a comprehensive dissertation or a practical project, allowing students to apply their acquired knowledge to a specialized area of interest.

1 Core modules

Public Relations: Theory and Practice Compulsory
Marketing Communications, Content and Engagement Compulsory
Public Relations and Society: Ethics, Critical Perspectives and Research Compulsory
Public Relations: Theory and Practice 2 Compulsory

2 Optional modules (choose one)

Dissertation Elective
Practical Project Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

29% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 16,245.00 USD 22,978.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 16,245.00 USD 22,978.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 566.00 - USD 939.00
Food & Groceries USD 6,283.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 886.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 5,639.00
Estimated Total USD 9,586.00 - USD 13,694.00

Living cost estimates are based on Sunderland Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Consumer Finance & Credit ServicesData Science & AnalyticsDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringDigital Media & Online PublishingIT Support & Systems AdministrationInsurance & Risk ManagementMedia Research & AnalyticsProduct Management & UXQuality Assurance & TestingWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

EY

Sage

Why Study Public Relations at University of Sunderland

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

University of Sunderland typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Sunderland in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Public Relations at University of Sunderland

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is permitted during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, IELTS requires a minimum overall score of 6.0, with no individual score below 5.5. Alternatively, a PTE score of 59 across all sections is acceptable.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as PR Specialists, Communication Managers, Social Media Strategists, Brand Managers, and Event Coordinators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Master's course emphasizes practical and academic skills in Public Relations, blending subjects such as journalism and marketing. Students will also work on a major PR project alongside research and contextual studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Relations course has an intake in September. Applications for this Master's program typically open several months in advance.
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