The CIPR Diploma is a part-time postgraduate course that will develop your strategic PR planning and communications management skills. If you're ready to take your career to the next level, the Diploma will equip you with the knowledge, tools and techniques that you need to progress to a senior management position.
On successful completion of the Diploma, you can fast-track to become a CIPR Accredited Practitioner – a hallmark of your commitment to professional development.
Who is the course aimed at?
This course is taught and assessed at level 7 of the UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
The CIPR Diploma is suitable if you have a few years or more of PR experience and wish to underpin and develop your existing knowledge and skills.
The Diploma is also suitable if you wish to build on knowledge gained at Advanced Certificate level and progress to a position of greater responsibility.
What will I learn?
The Diploma takes an in-depth look at PR as an integral part of successful business practice.
You will examine case studies and practical PR examples and analyse strategic communications in action.
Topics include:
- PR as a management function
- theoretical approaches
- reputation management
- corporate responsibility and stakeholder theory
- issues and crisis management
- PR planning.
How and where will I study?
The CIPR Diploma is available to study face-to-face or online.
Face-to-face
The face-to-face course consists of approximately eight days class-based tuition. In addition, students are expected to spend approximately 10 to 12 hours a week on independent study over the duration of the course.
The Diploma is available at a number of study centres in the UK and overseas.
Online
The Online Diploma combines an interactive e-learning programme with two full days of lectures and workshops in central London.
Read more about the online course and view PR Academy's taster webinar to see how it works.
How much does it cost?
Course fees vary according to study mode and study centre. Refer to your chosen study centre or view the Online Diploma page for more details.
In addition to the course fees specified, CIPR membership is a course requirement and costs £145 for a 15-month membership (three months more than a standard membership subscription).
The membership subscription form is incorporated in the course application.
Do I qualify to study the Diploma?
You will qualify for the Diploma on the basis of your academic qualifications and work experience.
Check the application criteria.
New - unitised study option
If you wish to study the Diploma one module at a time, PR Academy now offers the Diploma on a unitised basis.
Apply now
Please download an application form (PDF format) and return it to the CIPR by fax, post or scanned email attachment.
Applications are processed centrally by the CIPR professional development team.
Places are offered on a first come, first-served basis and we will confirm receipt of your application within ten working days.
Places are limited so do apply early to avoid disappointment.
Overseas applicants
If you are a student based outside of the UK, please complete our dedicated overseas application form (PDF format).
