The Public Relations and Communication Foundation is designed for anyone looking to begin or develop a career in public relations or communication. You’ll gain a comprehensive introduction to the role of PR and communication, understand how communication disciplines work together, and gain insight into how modern practitioners operate in agency and in-house environments.
Taught and assessed at a level equivalent to A-level standard, this qualification is the entry point to the CIPR’s suite of professional qualifications.
What will I learn and how will I be assessed?
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Explain how PR and communication support organisational objectives and work alongside related disciplines
- Identify and prioritise audiences, messages and channels to build effective stakeholder relationships
- Create engaging content for written, audio-visual and digital platforms, using new technologies including AI ethically and appropriately
You’ll complete two practical assessments based on a real organisation:
- A discussion paper exploring the role of ethical PR and communication in an organisational context
- A portfolio of written and multimedia content designed for specific audiences and channels
Who’s it for and what are the enrolment criteria?
This qualification is ideal if you are a school or college leaver, changing career direction, or working in a PR or communications support role.
You will typically need a minimum Grade 5 GCSE English (or equivalent). Please check with your chosen teaching centre for full enrolment criteria.
How long does it take?
Teaching centres provide approximately 15-20 hours of guided learning, alongside self-directed study.
Your teaching centre will advise on study expectations and assessment timelines.
Do I need to be a member?
When you register for a CIPR professional qualification, you’ll automatically become a CIPR Professional Student Member, giving you access to exclusive resources and benefits to support your studies and career development.
If you are already a CIPR member, you will keep your existing grade and accreditations at a reduced membership fee for the duration of your studies (included within your course fees).
CIPR qualifications count towards CIPR CPD and can lead to Accredited and Chartered PR Practitioner status.
Qualification update
This qualification was refreshed following a routine syllabus review. The updated syllabus comes into effect from 2 April 2026, ensuring it continues to reflect modern, ethical and digitally capable PR and communications practice. For additional information, please visit our frequently asked questions page.
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CIPR qualifications are accredited by the Global Alliance
