Diploma in Public Affairs Management
Who is this course for?
People working in public affairs in a junior role and people in other PR-related disciplines who are looking to know more about public affairs or move careers into public affairs.
Flexible learning. You want to be able to study at a time and pace that works for you.
Experienced or entry-level. The course is suitable if you are new to the field or a more experienced practitioner looking to underpin what you do with some theory, concepts and models.
Learning outcomes
Successful candidates will be able to:
- Understand key concepts in public affairs management:
Lobbying, government relations, issues management, reputation management
Differences/similarities between public affairs work at an agency and in-house
Political PR, lobbying codes, ethical practice and personal responsibilities
Parliamentary processes
Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly, Metro Mayors and Local Government processes.
- Apply communication and engagement models in a public affairs context:
Set objectives, identify issues and stakeholders
Devise strategies, messages and tactics
Engage with identified stakeholders
Write proposals, agree budgets, manage over servicing, time management and prioritisation
Communicate with confidence
Measure outputs and outcomes
This course has been developed with, and is taught by PR Academy.
What our graduates have to say
"The diploma provided an overview of the UK’s parliamentary processes, the legislative procedure and the opportunities for ethical and responsible lobbying within this. For people who are just joining the industry it is a great introduction to the key concepts, models and frameworks of public affairs and political PR." - Mary Dewar, Senior Account Executive, Field Consulting
"Completing the Diploma in Public Affairs Management has been integral to my professional development. The flexible learning structure, tutor support and online resources meant that I could fit the course around my work schedule. Being able to write the final assignment on a public affairs issue of my choice meant that I could combine my learning and development with a work related output. I definitely recommend this course to communications professionals looking to build on their public affairs skills." - Kylie Groves, Government Communications
"The PRCA Diploma in Public Affairs Management was a great course that allowed me to gain valuable insight and learn best practice for public affairs. The course covers many practical elements and is ideal for those working in PR but perhaps not directly in public affairs and who would like to have a good understanding of parliamentary processes." - Andreea Ghita, The Electoral Commission
“I would thoroughly recommend the diploma for anyone involved or looking to gain an in-depth insight into the main principles and procedures of public affairs. As well as the key knowledge gained from the experience, the support and expertise offered from the course leaders was exceptional.” - Alex Exadactylos, Terrapin Group
"I decided to enrol in the PRCA Diploma in Public Affairs Management to hone my practical skills in public affairs. The course offered great tips for engaging Ministers, MPs, and civil servants. The combination of background reading and lectures provides a solid foundation for the final assignment. Both the course lecturer and the staff at PRCA were helpful and always ready to answer a query. Stuart’s relaxed and approachable style makes digesting the course content manageable. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and appreciated the efforts made by Stuart and the PRCA team to provide a good learning environment during the COVID lockdown. For those keen to get into public affairs, I recommend this course." - Cameron Branston, Buckinghamshire Council