CIPR

Public affairs is the focus of a specialist Diploma that has been launched by the CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations), with the course for 2010 starting in September in London.

Taught at Masters level, the new qualification is grounded in the latest academic thinking while offering an ultra practical approach to studying public affairs.

Says Iain Anderson, Chair of the CIPR's Government Affairs Group:

As scrutiny of government relations has never been more intense, this new Diploma provides a practical route map towards the development of real strategic skills for professionals in public affairs.

The Diploma is aimed at those who want to advance their strategic public affairs and management skills with the aim of taking on more senior roles. It will appeal to both existing public affairs professionals as well as to experienced PR people who are looking to refocus in this field. Run part-time over a six-month period, it will effectively enable people to fit in study around work or other commitments. It is the only one of its kind to be offered by a Chartered body and will be run by the PR Academy in London, one of the CIPR's longest-standing teaching centres. Ann Pilkington, PR Academy Director, says:

What sets it aside from other courses is that it focuses less on the mechanics of how various institutions work – this isn't 'inside Westminster'. Instead, it looks more at the process of policy formation and the wider corporate communications and reputational context in which public affairs operates.

Course content will focus on:

• the political landscape and public policy environment (UK and Europe)
• the art and science of lobbying and campaigning
• public affairs in the context of reputation management.

Students will be assessed on a 6000-word research project report. This will be based on an investigation into how public affairs, campaigning or communication with the electorate has been used by an organisation or political party.

For further details,, including syllabus, course dates, entry criteria and application forms, view the CIPR's Public Affairs Diploma web page or email qualifications@cipr.co.uk.

Cost

For existing CIPR members: £1270 (exc VAT)

For non-CIPR members: £1400 (exc VAT) - includes special reduced rate for first year of CIPR membership

About the PR Academy

PR Academy is the largest CIPR qualifications centre. More than 300 students now study with PR Academy each year at central London venues, online or via bespoke in house delivery. It delivers the full range of CIPR qualifications in public relations and internal communication. PR Academy initiated and developed the Public Affairs Diploma on behalf of the CIPR, having previously developed those in internal communication. For more information, visit www.pracademy.co.uk.