Advertising, Communication & Public Relations
Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice
Study the Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice with Boston City Campus and step into the world of strategic communication in South Africa.
This Higher Certificate shows you how organisations shape public perception, manage media relationships and protect their reputation in fast-moving business and social environments.
You gain practical communication capability through real PR tasks. You write media material, assist with brand messaging, coordinate communication activities and support campaigns that influence how audiences respond. You also work with digital platforms to monitor sentiment and manage public engagement.
This qualification prepares you for roles in communication support, media liaison, brand communication and corporate PR. It also creates a clear pathway to further study through a Boston Diploma or a related Degree in communication, marketing or business.
Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice
Time to Complete
1 Year (min) - 3 Years (max)
Study Options
Full-time, Part-time or Flexi-time - via online learning (ODeL)
Credits
124
NQF Level
5
SAQA ID
122887
Field of Study
Further Study Options
Entry Requirements
To apply for the Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice, you need one of the following:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with English passed and endorsement for Higher Certificate studies;
- National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) with English passed and endorsement for Higher Certificate studies;
- Senior Certificate (prior to 2009) with English as a subject passed.
This programme is offered by Boston City Campus in the distance mode of education with support provided at Learner Support Centres. Apply to register at any Boston City Campus Learner Support Centre nationwide.
All modules are compulsory and must be passed.
Career Opportunities in Public Relations
With this qualification, you can pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Public Relations Assistant
- Communication Officer
- Marketing Communications Assistant
- Marketing Accounts Assistant
- Social Media Assistant
- Spokesperson Assistant
Did you know that Boston does not work on a points system
Although your subjects may be considered, Boston does not use a point system for entry.
Your endorsement says it all.
Your endorsement says it all.
Modules
Semester A
- Academic Literacy
- Computer Literacy
- Introduction to Public Relations Practice
- Fundamentals of Communication
Semester B
- Strategic Communication
- Digital Public Relations Practice
- Media Law and Ethics
- Public Relations Portfolio
How You’ll Be Assessed
Most modules use AS7 and AS8, which includes:
- Formative Assessment (FA1) – assignments or tests (50% of final mark).
- Summative Assessment (SA1) – final exam or capstone project (50%).
One additional supplementary opportunity is available for SA1 (additional cost).
Programme Outcomes
After completing the Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice, you will be able to:
- Understand key public relations theories and concepts.
- Create compelling communication using writing, visuals, and sound.
- Apply PR and communication strategies in practical, real-world contexts.
- Integrate public relations within broader business functions.
Programme Category
BOSTON HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME
On successful completion the Learner will be issued a Higher Certificate in Public Relations Practice SAQA ID 122887, NQF 5, minimum 124 credits from Boston City Campus