Public Relations Certificate

Your Certificate program consists of courses designed to take you step-by-step toward understanding Public Relations.

Here's how it works: Your first course will be sent to you as soon as your enrollment has been accepted. Other courses will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have the study materials and software needed for your coursework.

System requirements: You will need access to a computer to complete this program. ICS Canada recommends the following as minimum specifications: Pentium® II or better processor, using Microsoft® Windows® XP or later, capable of running Microsoft® Office 2007. You will also need Internet access.

COM 110: Public Relations 1: Writing

• Public Relations 1 begins by introducing students to the role of public relations writers, including their ethical and legal responsibilities. Some of the general topics covered include persuasion, research skills, the public relations planning process, writing clearly and simply, and using proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Specifically, the course covers writing styles and processes for emails, memos, letters, reports, proposals, news releases, broadcasts, ad copy, material for the Internet, speeches, newsletters, brochures, magazines, and annual reports. The course concludes with an examination of how to communicate information during a crisis.
• Textbook: Public Relations Writing: Form and Style

COM 115: Public Relations 2: Strategies and Tactics

• Public Relations 2 begins with an overview of public relations, including such topics as ethics, professionalism, public relations departments and firms, research techniques, planning and evaluating a public relations program, and the communication process. The course also includes the preparation and handling of news releases, media alerts, and pitch letters. Finally, the course covers topics that affect a public relations employee: conflict management, public opinion, new technologies in public relations, corporate public relations, public relations and the government, global public relations, and public relations for nonprofit organizations.
• Textbook: Public Relations: Strategies and Tactics

Online Library and Librarian
Students of ICS Canada have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with ICS Canada.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.