Communications & Digital Public Relations for Enterprise

As the business landscape becomes increasingly complex and competitive, the role of communications and public relations (PR) in industry is more important than ever. With the rapid evolution of digital media and the proliferation of social platforms, companies face new challenges in reaching and engaging target audiences. Moreover, as consumers demand more transparency, authenticity, and social responsibility from brands, influential communication and reputation management are crucial to building trust and loyalty. As a result, companies are investing more resources into building solid communications and PR strategies that integrate traditional and digital media, leverage information, and prioritise stakeholder engagement and brand advocacy.

We are delighted to launch our NEW Professional Diploma in Communications and Digital PR for Enterprise, commencing in Autumn 2023. Co-designed with practitioners and industry, our programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today's rapidly changing digital communications and PR landscape. It will equip you with the skills to develop communication and public relations strategies for enterprise. You will learn how to strategically engage with legacy media, such as print, radio and television, and cost-effectively develop online and social media content and strategies. The programme is aimed at (but not limited to) those working in the Small and Medium Enterprise sector, including already existing companies, start-ups, and social enterprise.

Stack your learning with Microcreds:
Not quite ready to commit to a full professional diploma? Consider trying a microcredential. You can stack your microcred credits towards a professional diploma at a later date. Modules listed within the Programme Content with an (M) beside them are MicroCreds and can be taken independently.

This industry-responsive programme will help organisations identify a communications narrative, access regional, national, and international media, and show you how to create low-cost yet effective digital content across various online and social media platforms.

Digital communications and public relations are constantly evolving as technology advances. The diploma equips professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to keep up with these changes and leverage new technologies. Whether you're a seasoned communications professional or just starting out, our programme is tailored to meet your needs and help you take your career to the next level. You'll gain practical insights and real-world experience that will set you and your organisation apart from competitors in your space. The programme is delivered in a flexible online format, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Plus, you'll have access to a community of like-minded professionals who are also committed to mastering the art of digital public relations.

This Professional Diploma in Communications and Digital PR for Enterprise is suitable for professionals who want to learn about digital and traditional communication, social media management, content production, crisis communication, and reputation management. It would also greatly benefit journalists, business executives, and others who wish to control their messaging and storytelling. Public Relations candidates with Arts or Business degrees would also benefit.

On completion of this NFQ Level 9 programme, you will be equipped with the in-demand skills and knowledge to apply your learning in a variety of ways, such as:

Developing effective communication strategies.
Managing brand reputation.
Effectively implementing digital marketing techniques.
Creating and managing content.
Measuring and evaluating communication outcomes.
Overall, you will be well-prepared to apply your learning in a range of settings, including corporate communications, public relations, marketing, and digital media. You will have the know-how to contribute to organisations' success in various roles and functions.

Award: Professional Diploma
Qualification: NFQ Level 9 Minor Award

Autumn Semester
Digital PR for Enterprise (M)
Future-Focused Professional Portfolio 1
Introduction to Data Communications

Spring Semester
Future-Focused Professional Portfolio 2
Identifying Communications Strategies For Enterprise (M)
Media Literacy

Content has been selected following a review of best practices in communications skillsets. Each module on the programme will include asynchronous lectures, moderated e-tivities and interactive tutorials. For example, one module consists of 3 x 15-minute asynchronous lectures and a 1-hour interactive online workshop each week for six weeks. The programme will include practical exercises and case studies to help apply the learnings in real-world scenarios. It will incorporate a problem-based learning (PBL) approach across all modules, both individually and group-based. Group-based processes will allow for closer collaboration and stronger networking opportunities among online learners.

This part-time online programme has been designed to help you build critical skills in data analysis and communication of the stories that can emerge in innovative and engaging ways. You will develop an enhanced appreciation and understanding of data and statistical literacy and visualisation, essential principles of computer programming and coding and a critical awareness of how these specialisations interact across multimedia production. It will equip you with a strengthened skillset in media that addresses current identified skills deficits in industry. It will also prepare you for the fast-changing trends in the communications industry, such as a better understanding of first-party data, more effective use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and social media insights into how audiences respond to messaging and content.

In accordance with the University's policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning, candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria may be considered.

Application Deadline: Thursday, August 17, 2023

What to Include with your Application

Qualification transcripts and certificates

A copy of your birth certificate or passport

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice. If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:

English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
AND English language competency certificate

This programme starts in September 2023 and finishes in May 2024. It is part-time and delivered online.