We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Erin Willis
In this course, learners are exposed to an overview of public relations principles and theories relevant to practice. You will explore the field, including the origin and trends affecting the future of the industry as well as how to land a job in public relations. This course provides a broad overview of working in public relations and how different tenets of persuasion are used in practice. The course also addresses ethical implications of public relations.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/qsgpq9/principles
Two deals to help you save
Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until July 14
Coursera Plus Annual
Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.
Up to
40%
off
Get offer
Valid until August 30
Google AI App Builder
Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind
Take
100%
off
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Defining Public Relations
In this module, you will learn the meaning of public relations and understand how different brands use strategic communication to reach target audiences with key messages that advance an organization’s goals.
Read more
Syllabus
Defining Public Relations
In this module, you will learn the meaning of public relations and understand how different brands use strategic communication to reach target audiences with key messages that advance an organization’s goals.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Emphasizes practical applications, which is common in the field
Suitable for beginners, as it introduces core concepts clearly
Covers ethical implications, which is vital in public relations practice
Provides a broad overview of the field, catering to those new to public relations
Engages learners with diverse media, including videos and discussions
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Comprehensive introduction to public relations principles
According to students, this course offers an excellent and comprehensive introduction to Public Relations, providing a solid theoretical foundation. Learners found the content, particularly the 4-step process and ethical implications, to be clear and insightful, often supported by relevant real-life scenarios. The course is highly regarded for its focus on career paths and skills needed in PR, making it invaluable for aspiring professionals. While some experienced learners desired more advanced practical application or deeper strategic insights, the consensus is that it serves as a strong starting point for understanding the field.
Ideal for new learners, but might lack depth for those with prior experience.
"For someone with some prior marketing knowledge, parts of it felt like common sense."
"Good course for beginners. It really helped me understand..."
"I was looking for more advanced insights into strategy, which wasn't really there."
"It's a good starting point for anyone new to PR, but don't expect to become an expert from this alone."
Helps understand PR job types, needed skills, and career direction.
"Excellent introduction... It covered all the essentials from defining PR to career paths."
"It really helped me understand the breadth of PR roles and what skills are needed."
"I particularly enjoyed the module on working in public relations, it gave me a clearer idea of my career direction."
Insightful coverage of ethical implications with real-life scenarios.
"The modules on... ethical implications were particularly insightful. I appreciated the real-life scenarios discussed..."
"The discussions on ethics were robust and truly made me think."
"I found the ethical dilemmas section interesting..."
Provides a comprehensive and clear introduction to PR principles.
"This course provided an incredibly solid foundation in public relations."
"Excellent introduction to Public Relations. It covered all the essentials from defining PR to career paths."
"Truly exceptional course for anyone interested in PR! It provides a strong theoretical base..."
"Solid fundamental course. It breaks down complex PR concepts into understandable modules."
Some learners seek more hands-on activities and practical strategies.
"I wished there were more hands-on exercises."
"I was hoping for more practical application rather than just theory."
"Disappointed with the lack of practical examples. While the theory is there, I felt it was too academic..."
"More practical strategies would be beneficial."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Principles of Public Relations with these
activities:
Read and summarize 'Public Relations: Principles and Practices' by Anne Gregory
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of public relations principles and practices. Becoming familiar with the material will provide a strong grounding in foundational principles.
View
Strategic Public Relations Leadership...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book's introduction and first two chapters.
-
Write a one-page summary of the key concepts in each chapter.
Watch tutorials on social media marketing for public relations
Show steps
Social media is an important tool for public relations. These tutorials will provide you with valuable insights and tips for using social media effectively.
Browse courses on
Social Media Marketing
Show steps
-
Identify reputable sources for tutorials on social media marketing.
-
Select a tutorial that covers the aspects of social media marketing that are most relevant to public relations.
-
Watch the tutorial and take notes on key takeaways.
Join a peer-led study group for the course
Show steps
Study groups can provide support, motivation, and different perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of the course material.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates or find a study group online.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course material, share insights, and work on assignments together.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Compile current events related to public relations
Show steps
Keeping up with current events will provide context and allow you to see how PR theory is used in practice.
Show steps
-
Identify a reputable source for news and information on public relations and create a daily routine of checking for updates.
-
Organize the articles you find into a dedicated folder or file.
-
Review the articles regularly to identify key takeaways and trends.
Attend a workshop on public relations writing or media relations
Show steps
Workshops provide focused, hands-on learning experiences that can enhance your skills in specific areas of public relations.
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant workshops in your area.
-
Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
Write a blog post about the importance of ethics in public relations
Show steps
This assignment will enable you to delve deeper into the ethical implications of PR and express your understanding through written content.
Show steps
-
Research the ethical principles and guidelines that apply to public relations.
-
Identify real-life examples of ethical dilemmas faced by public relations professionals.
-
Formulate your own opinions on the ethical implications of these dilemmas.
-
Write a blog post that discusses the importance of ethics in public relations and provides guidance on how to navigate ethical challenges.
Read and summarize 'Public Relations: Principles and Practices' by Anne Gregory
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of public relations principles and practices. Becoming familiar with the material will provide a strong grounding in foundational principles.
View
Strategic Public Relations Leadership...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book's introduction and first two chapters.
- Write a one-page summary of the key concepts in each chapter.
Watch tutorials on social media marketing for public relations
Show steps
Social media is an important tool for public relations. These tutorials will provide you with valuable insights and tips for using social media effectively.
Browse courses on
Social Media Marketing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable sources for tutorials on social media marketing.
- Select a tutorial that covers the aspects of social media marketing that are most relevant to public relations.
- Watch the tutorial and take notes on key takeaways.
Join a peer-led study group for the course
Show steps
Study groups can provide support, motivation, and different perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates or find a study group online.
- Meet regularly to discuss course material, share insights, and work on assignments together.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Compile current events related to public relations
Show steps
Keeping up with current events will provide context and allow you to see how PR theory is used in practice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a reputable source for news and information on public relations and create a daily routine of checking for updates.
- Organize the articles you find into a dedicated folder or file.
- Review the articles regularly to identify key takeaways and trends.
Attend a workshop on public relations writing or media relations
Show steps
Workshops provide focused, hands-on learning experiences that can enhance your skills in specific areas of public relations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant workshops in your area.
- Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and learning goals.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
Write a blog post about the importance of ethics in public relations
Show steps
This assignment will enable you to delve deeper into the ethical implications of PR and express your understanding through written content.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the ethical principles and guidelines that apply to public relations.
- Identify real-life examples of ethical dilemmas faced by public relations professionals.
- Formulate your own opinions on the ethical implications of these dilemmas.
- Write a blog post that discusses the importance of ethics in public relations and provides guidance on how to navigate ethical challenges.
Career center
Learners who complete Principles of Public Relations will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Public Relations Director
Public Relations Director
Public Relations Directors create and implement public relations campaigns for their organization. They oversee all public relations activities. The Principles of Public Relations course will provide a foundation for getting into Public Relations. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Public relations manager
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers create positive relationships between an organization and its key publics. They develop and carry out public relations campaigns. This course can help you become a Public Relations Manager by teaching you about corporate social responsibility. You'll also learn about the importance of ethics, and how to work in public relations.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists are responsible for managing public relations activities for clients. This often includes work in social media, media relations, and event planning. This course will help you become a Public Relations Specialist as it teaches you the importance of ethics, and how to work in the field. You'll also learn about Corporate Social Responsibility, and how the Four-Step Process in Public Relations is used.
Corporate Communications Manager
Corporate Communications Manager
Corporate Communications Managers tell an organization's story to the public, media, customers, and employees. They carry out public relations duties to maintain the reputation of the organization. This course will provide an introduction to Corporate Communications Management as a whole. It will teach you the role ethics play in the field, and how to create public relations campaigns.
Media Relations Specialist
Media Relations Specialist
A Media Relations Specialist's job is to interact with journalists and the media to disseminate a brand's message. They create and share press releases, and organize media events. This course can help prepare you for this role by teaching you about the Four-Step Process in Public Relations, and how to define who your public is.
Account Executive
Account Executive
An Account Executive supports organizations by advising them on their interactions with the media. This is achieved through the creation of public relations campaigns. The Principles of Public Relations course can help build a foundation in this field. It will teach you how to control the flow of information between an organization and the public, including members of the media. Furthermore, it will teach you about the ethical duties that this career demands.
Public Relations Writer
Public Relations Writer
Public Relations Writers create content for use in public relations campaigns. This includes press releases, articles, and social media content. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in public relations, but it does not directly teach the skills needed for this role. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Digital Marketing Manager
Digital Marketing Manager
Digital Marketing Managers plan and execute digital marketing campaigns for their organization. This may include work in social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization. This course may be helpful for showing you the role public relations plays as part of a complete marketing campaign. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Marketing Communications Manager
Marketing Communications Manager
Marketing Communications Managers oversee the development and execution of marketing communications plans. This may include work in public relations, advertising, and social media. This course may be helpful for showing you the role public relations plays as part of a complete marketing campaign. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Marketing Director
Marketing Director
Marketing Directors oversee all marketing activities for their organization. This may include work in public relations, advertising, and social media. This course may be helpful for showing you the role public relations plays as part of a complete marketing campaign. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Event Planner
Event Planner
Event Planners plan and coordinate events for their organization. This may include work in public relations, marketing, and sales. This course may be helpful for showing you the role public relations plays as part of a complete event planning process. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writers create written content for a variety of clients. This may include work in public relations, marketing, and journalism. This course may be helpful for building a strong foundation in writing for public relations. It offers an overview of the field, including the history and future of public relations. You'll also learn about ethical implications and working in public relations.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists write and report on news stories for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. This course may be helpful as it provides an overview of the field of public relations. It will teach you about the role of public relations in society, and is a requirement for some journalism programs.
Politician
Politician
Politicians run for and hold elected office. They make and enforce laws, and develop public policy. This course may be helpful as it provides an overview of the field of public relations. It will teach you about the role of public relations in society, and how to use public relations to advance your goals.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers oversee the sales activities of their organization. They develop and implement sales strategies, and manage sales teams. This course may be helpful as it provides an overview of the field of public relations. It will teach you about the role of public relations in society, and how to use public relations to build relationships with customers.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qsgpq9/principles
Reading list
We've selected six books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Principles of Public Relations.
Provides a comprehensive overview of public relations theory and practice, covering topics such as public relations planning, campaign development, and crisis communication. It valuable resource for students and practitioners alike.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of public relations, covering topics such as public relations history, theory, research, and practice. It valuable resource for students, practitioners, and researchers alike.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of public relations theory and practice, covering topics such as public relations planning, campaign development, and crisis communication. It valuable resource for students and practitioners alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of public relations, covering topics such as public relations planning, campaign development, and crisis communication. It valuable resource for students and practitioners alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of public relations strategies and tactics, covering topics such as public relations planning, campaign development, and crisis communication. It valuable resource for students and practitioners alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of public relations strategies and tactics, covering topics such as public relations planning, campaign development, and crisis communication. It valuable resource for students and practitioners alike.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qsgpq9/principles
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Rating
4.7
Effort
Approx. 6 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Erin Willis
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
tiếng Việt
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introduction to Public Relations and the Media. It's comprised of three courses:
- The Nuts and Bolts of Public Relations
- Working with the Media
- Principles of Public Relations (viewing)
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser