Foundation in PR
CIPR Foundation in Public Relations
About this course
Studying for the CIPR Foundation Award will help you to understand what public relations is, and what it can achieve and equip you with some essential PR skills. Come away with a deeper understanding of the role of PR and how it relates to other communication disciplines.
Our course includes live online sessions and individual feedback on assignment topics.
Course detail
Study Support Package
Live interactive online workshops
Individual feedback on your assignment idea
Online library with all the books you need
Study Hub: our bespoke online learning centre
Networking via our LinkedIn group
Easy tutor contact
Pay monthly
Initial fee: £272 (incl. VAT)
2 monthly instalments: £250 (incl. VAT)
A one-off initial fee is taken when you enrol. Instalments are collected monthly from the date you enrolled.
How we calculate your fee
PR Academy tuition: £500 (+VAT)
CIPR fees: £172 (no VAT)
Total: £672 (+ VAT)
VAT is calculated upon enrolment and is dependent on your location and situation.
VAT inclusive fee is £772
Who is this course for?
Everyone. The course is right for you if you want a career in public relations or are already working in the industry but are looking for a first qualification.
Start your learning journey. The CIPR Foundation in PR prepares you for the post-graduate CIPR Professional PR Certificate.
Add a new skill. You may be running your own business, or be doing PR as part of another role, if so this qualification gives you the skills you need and introduces you to some of the theory.
Learning outcomes
Gain a detailed introduction to public relations: principles and practice of effective media relations, writing for the media, understanding news and use of visual imagery.
Examine the role of the professional PR practitioner, focus on ethical issues, the CIPR code of practice, and continuous professional development.
Practical application: the assessment is a portfolio of work and a discussion paper explaining your approach. If you like, you can use your own organisation as the subject.
Reviews from our graduates
Download our course brochure for all the course details including:
- Full syllabus
- Assignment details
- Reasons to study
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Discover how our courses work
Ann Pilkington, co-founder of PR Academy explains how our courses work, demonstrates our Study Hub and explains the resources and support you will receive. Also hear from members of the PR Academy alumni.
Meet your course leader Jonathan Cross
“I enjoy helping students gain what might well be their first formal public relations-specific qualification and hearing all about their fresh perspectives on communications issues and approaches.”
Hear from others
Find out what it’s like to study with PR Academy.
This course has definitely made me a better PR professional as I now feel more confident when planning and executing plans/campaigns.
Your questions answered
The CIPR Foundation Award in PR introduces the study and practice of public relations (PR). It is an introductory qualification for people who would like to work in PR. It is also suitable for those who already undertake some PR tasks and wish to consolidate their skills and understanding. The Foundation Award is the entry point to the CIPR’s suite of professional qualifications. Alternatively, it provides a basis for study at Level 4 in PR or in a related field.
The CIPR Foundation is assessed as follows:
Component 1: Candidates produce a portfolio of content for traditional and digital media to generate positive coverage for an organisation.
Component 2: Candidates produce an accompanying discussion paper showing how the portfolio of content will help deliver the objectives of the PR team in that organisation.
The two component assessments must be based around a single organisation.
It definitely can. Many of our students are studying in order to increase their confidence and boost their CV and report a new role or promotion as a result of their qualification. In PR Academy’s 2023 research into PR education, respondents were asked - if they hold a professional qualification - has it led to career progression/promotion. This is a question that PR Academy has tracked since 2013. There is a consistent report of between 74 and 85 percent that a professional qualification has led to a career progression combined with confidence that it will.
Some organisations ask for qualifications when advertising PR jobs. While a PR qualification isn't essential it improves your CV and also shows your personal commitment to the profession and continuous learning. Check out our ‘Comprehensive Guide to CIPR Qualifications’ for more information.
If you are looking for a qualification in PR, then a professional qualification is a good option because you can study while you work. The syllabi for CIPR qualifications is very practical while still underpinned by theory so you can apply what you learn straight away.
Yes they are. We have practitioners from all over the world studying with us. The CIPR is the only chartered body for public relations which adds to the recognition of the qualification around the world.
There are CIPR qualifications at all levels. If you are just starting out the Foundation in PR is for you. If you are a few years into your career the Professional PR Certificate or internal communication certificate are designed for you. For more experienced practitioners there are diploma qualifications at approximately Master's level. If you aren't sure check out our Complete Guide to CIPR Qualifications or simply get in touch for a chat.
Our CIPR, PRCA and AMEC qualifications are designed for practitioners who want to advance their career with a stronger understanding of theory leading to more strategic campaigns. Many of our students say it boosts their confidence and they go on to better jobs or promotion.
Yes, we regularly speak to practitioners who are using a qualification as a way to refresh their knowledge, get up to date with latest practice and boost their CV. A qualification can be a great reminder of how much you already know boosting your confidence to get back into the PR job market. In our 2023 research into PR education, 84% of respondents said they were doing it to increase their skills.