Public relations are important in the corporate world, helping corporations, organizations, and people have good reputations. In Kenya, several institutions offer courses in Public Relations that help prepare people for such promising careers.
Due to the increased demand for effective communication and crisis management, there has never been a greater need for qualified public relations professionals.
In this article, we will discuss some of the best Public relations courses in Kenya and the high-rated universities that offer them and explore some information about what is required for a Public Relations course in Kenya.
Table of contents
- Public Relations in Kenya
- Which university is best for Public Relations in Kenya?
- What are the requirements for a public relations course in Kenya?
- Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya
- 1. BA in Public Relations – University of Nairobi
- 2. BA in Communication and Public Relations – Daystar University
- 3. BSc in PR and Corporate Communication – KEMU
- 4. BA in Public Relations – Mount Kenya University
- 5. PGD in PR and Digital Media- Africa Digital Media Institute
- 6. Professional Diploma in Public Relations – Strathmore University
- 7. Diploma in PR – Kenya Institute of Mass Communication
- 8. African Nazarene University
- Online Public Relations Courses in Kenya
- How Much Does It Cost to Obtain a Public Relations Degree in Kenya?
- Schools Offering Public Relations Courses in Kenya
- FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
Public Relations in Kenya
Public relations in Kenya has contributed to the success of many organizations. The economy’s growth, along with the increasing importance of reputation management, made companies look even more for specialists who could communicate their message to the public.
Many companies need professionals to help them manage their reputations, which creates a demand for well-structured Public Relations courses in Kenya. The programs offer necessary skills like writing press releases, organizing events, and using social media to promote brands.
This influence makes public relations a career choice for many, and more companies and organizations are hiring public relations professionals.
Public relations in Kenya are not limited to corporate organizations but also extend to government institutions, nonprofit organizations, and individuals who want to build their personal brands.
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Which university is best for Public Relations in Kenya?
Public relations is highly regarded at the University of Nairobi as Kenya’s best institution. A Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from the university’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication is highly sought-after by any employer.
Other prestigious universities offering the course in Kenya include Kenyatta University, Moi University, and Daystar University. These universities combine a rich curriculum that touches all aspects of public relations, including crisis communication, media relations, and reputation management.
What are the requirements for a public relations course in Kenya?
Students seeking to study Public Relations in Kenyan universities need a certificate with at least a grade of C+ or its equivalent in KCSE. Some Universities require specific grades in some subjects, such as English and Kiswahili.
In summarized details,
- A minimum mean grade of C+ in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
- A minimum of C+ in Mathematics and English
- At least two principal passes in Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE)
- Diploma from a credited institution
A bachelor’s degree is usually required for a postgraduate course. Particular institutions sometimes consider diploma holders from a recognized college. Admission details can be obtained from respective institutions.
Some universities might also require that you sit for a qualifying entry examination or an interview for such courses. This, though, is something best confirmed by the university you intend to join.
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Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya
When choosing Public Relations Courses in Kenya, attention should be paid to the curriculum, practical experience, and reputation of the institution.
The best courses have a mix of theoretical and practical aspects while preparing students to solve real-life challenges within public relations. Here are the Public Relations Courses in Kenya;
1. BA in Public Relations – University of Nairobi
It is among the best public relations courses in Kenya. This four-year undergraduate course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to become highly competitive in the field.
The course covers areas such as communications theory, the establishment of principles for public relations, research methods, and crisis communication.
It is among the highly regarded institutions in Kenya, and the University of Nairobi’s public relations course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.
2. BA in Communication and Public Relations – Daystar University
The other leading institution offering an excellent public relations course is Daystar University. Its four-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Public Relations program is intended to provide a comprehensive approach to developing critical thinking, writing, and speaking skills in students.
This course covers topics such as public relations writing, media relations, and crisis communication. Daystar University boasts strong linkage with industries, which provides opportunities for internships and job placement.
3. BSc in PR and Corporate Communication – KEMU
Other than that, KEMU, or Kenya Methodist University, is another institution offering a reputable public relation course. The Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Corporate Communications takes four years and is envisioned to churn out graduates capable of managing organizational communication and reputation.
Some of the courses offered are corporate communication, public relations strategies, and crisis management. KEMU is highly prestigious in Kenya, and its public relations course is accredited by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority, KNQA.
4. BA in Public Relations – Mount Kenya University
The other is the Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations offered at Mount Kenya University. This course focuses on ethics and law in public relations and provides learning for responsible communication in sectors of the economy such as corporate and non-governmental organizations.
At the postgraduate level, there are several colleges and universities offering postgraduate diplomas and certificates in public relations.
5. PGD in PR and Digital Media- Africa Digital Media Institute
Such is the Africa Digital Media Institute, offering a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations and Digital Media. This one-year program targets those working and wishing to increase their knowledge in public relations, digital media, and communication.
ADMI is one of the leading institutions in digital media and communication. Its public relations program is highly recognized in the industry.
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6. Professional Diploma in Public Relations – Strathmore University
Strathmore University is another place that offers a Professional Diploma in Public Relations course. Both freshers and working professionals can take it since it covers almost all aspects of public relations, such as digital marketing, public speaking, and event management. Hence, this course at Strathmore University is one of the best public relations courses in Kenya for working professionals.
7. Diploma in PR – Kenya Institute of Mass Communication
In addition, the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication offers a Diploma in Public Relations and a Certificate in Public Relations.
These programs are designed to help students acquire the appropriate skills and knowledge necessary for work in the public relations industry. KIMC is a government institution that has been offering courses in communications and media for more than 50 years and has, therefore, accumulated enough experience in the field.
Others include
8. African Nazarene University
African Nazarene University is among institutions that offer a degree in Communication and Public Relations. These students are equipped by courses in communication theory and practice. They are adequately prepared for work in various fields, ranging from public health campaigns to corporate communications.
Online Public Relations Courses in Kenya
Online PR courses in Kenya are gaining popularity because they are very flexible and convenient. Many students study while they are still holding down a job or attending to other responsibilities.
Many Kenyan universities and institutions now offer online Public Relations courses, which are usually identical to their on-campus counterparts in terms of curriculum and quality.
Most E-learning courses include video lectures, online discussions, and assignments, which can be accessed from anywhere with internet access.
The best online courses in Kenya for PR studies are at the University of Nairobi, which offers a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, and at Kenya Methodist University, which offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations.
The University of Nairobi has embraced this by offering online PR classes. These classes expose students to the most relevant areas in PR, including communication strategies, media relations, and crisis management, without necessarily requiring them to attend classes.
This format is most suitable for workers and people with other commitments. In addition, online courses normally provide the same quality education as classes taught in a traditional classroom setting where students get the required skills to perform well in their profession.
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How Much Does It Cost to Obtain a Public Relations Degree in Kenya?
The cost for a Public Relations degree in Kenya is not uniform, as it varies with different charges among learning institutions depending on the course level and the program’s duration.
The average cost of a public relations certificate or diploma is KES 50,000 to KES 150,000 per year, whereas a Public Relations degree will cost between KES 100,000 and KES 300,000 per year.
Top universities like the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University are a bit high, about KES 200,000 to KES 500,000 per year. Private universities and colleges may be cheaper, ranging between KES 50,000 and KES 200,000 annually.
Schools Offering Public Relations Courses in Kenya
When it comes to pursuing a career, Kenya is highly endowed with various institutions equipped with state-of-the-art facilities necessary for excellent training. Below is a list of some of Kenya’s best universities that offer public relations courses.
1. University of Nairobi
The University of Nairobi is among the best public universities offering a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations. This course is designed to train students in skills and knowledge that any professional would wish to have to succeed in the public relations field.
The School of Journalism and Mass Communication has state-of-the-art facilities, while the faculty members are professionals with experience in the field.
2. Kenyatta University
Other major institutions offering PR courses in Kenya include Kenyatta University. The Department of Public Relations and Communication at Kenyatta University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, which provides students with critical thinking, writing, and verbal communication experience.
Besides classroom theoretical training, the course will be practically orientated through field internships and community service projects.
3. Strathmore University
Strathmore University is the leading private university in Kenya, offering a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations. It aims to study the public relations principles, theories, and practices comprehensively.
The faculty members are professionals with experience in this field; employers in Kenya hold this course in high esteem.
4. Moi University
Other leading institutions offering public relations courses in Kenya include Moi University. The university’s School of Communication and Information Studies offers courses leading to the award of a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations degree, with an emphasis on acquiring relevant skills in writing, design, and visual communication.
The course also involves project work and attachments.
5. Daystar University
Daystar University is one of the leading Christian-based universities in Kenya, offering a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations. The University has become popular with its communication courses, which are some of the best in the country.
The course is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of public relations principles, theories, and practices.
The courses are taught by experienced professionals in the field, and the degree is highly respected by most employers in Kenya.
6. Mount Kenya University
Mount Kenya University is one of Kenya’s best institutions offering public relations courses. The Bachelor of Arts course in Public Relations offered by the University’s School of Communication and Journalism Studies focuses on the student’s writing, design, and visual communication skills.
The course is also designed to ensure students receive practical experience through projects and internships.
7. Kenya Institute of Management
Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) offers one of the best Public Relations courses in Kenya. The course focuses on communication, media relations, and handling public perception.
The students also study reputation management and media strategies, among the key skills any public relations professional needs. Because of its hands-on approach, many people consider it one of the best Public Relations courses in Kenya.
8. Nairobi Institute of Business Studies
Nairobi Institute of Business Studies NIBS provides some of Kenya’s highly recognized Public Relations courses. The school offers training on communicating, organizing events, and dealing with corporate communication.
The NIBS course lets students gain practical work experience through workshops and projects. Due to its complete curriculum, it has been proven to be one of the best courses on public relations and communication studies in Kenya.
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9. Technical University of Kenya
TUK ranks among the best Public Relations courses in Kenya. In this university, Public relations involves communication strategies and media management. Some of the skills acquired by students in this course include event planning, writing press releases, and handling communication from the perspective of a corporation.
Generally, this course is recognized as one of the best public relations courses in Kenya for those students willing to join the job market with hands-on experience in Public Relations.
10. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology – JKUAT provides one of Kenya’s best Public Relations courses. This course is strategically intended to focus on communication and media relations.
The course will also cover corporate communication, public speaking, and media engagement. Due to the immense focus on theoretical and practical work, this is among the best PR courses in Kenya for most working professionals.
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FAQs
University of Nairobi
It is a well-paid job
2 years
Conclusion
Taking a public relations course in Kenya may be an enriching career development since various industries have several openings to be hired.
Having a degree or certificate in any of these public relations courses in Kenya ensures that you acquire the relevant skills and knowledge that will aid you in your field.
References
- kenyaplex.com/Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya
- edurank.org/Public Relations Courses in Kenya
- knowlesti.ke/public relations training course in kenya/
- studyinkenya.co.ke/Public Relations Courses in Kenya
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