Communication & Public Relations

This course aims to provide students with a well-balanced grounding in both the theoretical and practical study of communication and public relations with opportunities to explore such application within the advertising and marketing contexts. It will enable students to develop a critical understanding and expertise in the academic and professional bases of communication and public relations. It also aims to develop students’ ability to undertake primary research within the broad field of communication, with emphasis on, but not limited to public relations and advertising issues and to equip students with both the knowledge and skills which will enhance their prospects for employment, academic progression or continuing professional development. The course offers a unique and distinctive design with a broad focus on many of the elements important to a career in the communication industries.



Conversion Course

Are you looking to pivot your career or expand your expertise?



This programme provides the perfect opportunity to transfer your skills to a different sector with no need to have a background in the subject area.



Full-time students normally attend classes on 2 or 3 days per week. Part-time students normally attend classes on 1 or 2 days per week. The specific timetable will vary depending on your specialism. Classes are usually held during the day and full-time and part-time students share the same classes. Exact times vary, but each module generally involves 2-3 hours per week of class time that may be divided between lectures and seminars/ workshops/ practicals. Outside of this, you will also be expected to spend considerable time in independent study and you may also be involved in meetings with staff or with your fellow students on group projects.



Professional recognition

Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR)

Recognised by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).

Year one

• Advertising

• Public Relations and Society: Theoretical Perspectives

• Strategic Communication

• Public Relations Practice

• Dissertation

• Research Methods

• Strategic Marketing

This programme is suitable for graduates in any academic discipline as well as those already in employment who wish to enhance their existing skills. Applicants must have gained at least a 2:2 classification (Hons) in any subject from a recognized institution or an equivalent qualification.



In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Start Date: September 2025

Career options

Due to the breadth of the course, you have a range of options upon graduation across the public, private and non-profit sectors, in communication, public relations, advertising, marketing, political lobbying and internal communication. While some previous graduates choose to specialise in a particular area, our students are equipped to be communication ‘all-rounders’ able to incorporate an integrated approach to communication management. Further PhD research study is also an option.