Diploma in Public Relations

Diploma in Public Relations: Courses, Eligibility, Fees, and Career Scope 2026

A Diploma in Public Relations offers a focused and practical pathway into the dynamic world of communication, equipping aspiring professionals with essential skills to manage reputation and build strong brand narratives. In today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, mastering strategic communication is crucial for individuals and organizations alike. This comprehensive guide explores the course overview, eligibility criteria, fees, and promising career scope for a PR Diploma in 2026, alongside insights into top colleges and course formats.

Diploma in Public Relations: Course Overview and Key Learning Outcomes 2026

The Diploma in Public Relations is a postgraduate, industry-focused program preparing individuals to plan and execute communication strategies. With sustained growth projected for the Indian PR industry, this program equips students for key roles in reputation management and integrated marketing communications, meeting modern demands for strategic impact.

Level Salary Range
Entry-level ₹2.5–4 LPA
Mid-level ₹4–7 LPA
Senior-level ₹7–12 LPA+
Top roles ₹12–20 LPA+

Top Colleges for Diploma in Public Relations in India 2026

There are several reputed institutions across India offering Diploma and PG Diploma programs in Public Relations, with a strong concentration of colleges in Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities. Below is a verified and updated list for 2026, with corrected fee structures, admission timelines, and accepted entrance exams.

College Name Location Course Name Total Fees (INR) College Type Duration
Xavier’s Institute of Communication (XIC) Mumbai, Maharashtra Public Relations and Corporate Communication 3,48,830 (incl. GST) Independent 10 months
School of Communications & Reputation (SCoRe) Mumbai, Maharashtra PG Programme in Public Relations 2,25,000 + GST Private 10 months
Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, Delhi Advertising and Public Relations 1,45,000 Government 1 year
Institute of Marketing Communications India (IMCI) Noida, Uttar Pradesh Public Relations and Advertising 1,25,000 (classroom); 23,000 (distance/online) Private 1 year
AAFT Institute Noida, Uttar Pradesh Public Relations 1,20,000 to 1,55,000 Private 1 year
Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies Faridabad, Haryana Advertising and Public Relations 1,36,000 Private 1 year
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan SP College of Communication New Delhi, Delhi Public Relations 45,000 Private 10 months
National Academy of Event Management and Development (NAEMD) Mumbai, Maharashtra Event Management and Public Relations 90,000 (approx.) Private 1 year
Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Public Relations 30,000 Government 1 year
Delhi School of Communications (DSC) New Delhi, Delhi Communication (includes PR) Not publicly disclosed Private 2 years
NBA School of Mass Communication New Delhi, Delhi Public Relations Not publicly disclosed Private 1 year
Venkateshwara Open University Papum Pare, Arunachal Pradesh Public Relations Not publicly disclosed Private 1 year
Takshshila College Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh Public Relations Not publicly disclosed Private 1 year
Shashi School of Business and Media Patna, Bihar Public Relations Not publicly disclosed Private 1 year
Singhania University Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan Public Relations 25,000 to 30,000 (approx.) Private 1 year
CMJ University East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya Public Relations Not publicly disclosed Private 1 year

Diploma in Public Relations Syllabus: Core Subjects and Modules 2026

The Diploma in Public Relations syllabus for 2026 encompasses a range of core subjects designed to equip students with modern communication skills. Programs like the PG Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations (offered by institutes such as IIMC) integrate PR theory with hands-on industry training across two semesters, followed by a one-month industry attachment.

The course is structured to provide basic and emerging concepts in public relations, advertising, corporate communication, and allied fields. It also enables students to integrate various communication functions with organisational goals and strategies, while sensitising them to social and gender communication issues.

PG Diploma Core Subjects

The PG Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations covers ten papers spanning both theory and practicals, with a strong emphasis on applied skills and campaign production.

Paper No. Subject Theory Marks Practical Marks
I Communication Theories, Concepts and Process 70 30
II Marketing 40 60
III Advertising: Principles, Concepts and Management 50 50
IV Media Planning 40 60
V Creativity and Campaign Planning 25 75
VI Public Relations & Corporate Communication: Principles, Tools & Techniques 50 50
VII Government and Public Service Communication 50 50
VIII New Media: Concepts and Applications 25 75
IX Production Techniques & Methods 25 75
X Advertising, Marketing, and PR Research 25 75
Total 400 600

Program/Module Breakdown: Key Details

Program/Module Category Key Details
Communication Theories & Process Covers classical and contemporary models (Lasswell, Berlo, Shannon-Weaver), mass communication theories (agenda setting, cultivation, two-step flow), development communication, visual communication, and folk media
Marketing Topics include economics basics, marketing strategy (STP, 4/6/7P), consumer behaviour, product management, IMC, and laws/ethics in marketing
Advertising: Principles & Management Covers advertising concepts, ad agency structure, account management, advertising and society (gender/ethics), strategic planning, and brand management
Media Planning Includes an overview of global/Indian media, media research (TAM, ABC, Census data), media strategy, media buying, and budgeting methods
Creativity & Campaign Planning Focuses on creative process, creative writing, language in advertising, campaign planning, entrepreneurship, and full-group campaign production exercise
PR & Corporate Communication Covers PR models (Grunig), media relations, corporate governance, crisis communication, CSR, financial communication, investor relations, and internal communications
Government & Public Service Communication Includes government information systems (PIB, Doordarshan, AIR), media relations, public service advertising (PSA), crisis communication by government, and social media for governance
New Media: Concepts & Applications Topics include digital PR, online reputation management, digital advertising, social media data management, and hands-on workshops (Google Analytics, infographics, CMS, blogging)
Production Techniques & Methods Covers art and design, print production, photography, electronic media production, digital graphics software (Photoshop, InDesign, CorelDraw), and web/mobile elements
Advertising, Marketing & PR Research Covers marketing research, advertising research, PR evaluation, SPSS, and an individual Research Project Study submitted in Semester II

Semester-Wise Subject Distribution

Semester Focus Area Key Papers
Semester I (Sept to Jan) Conceptual and theoretical inputs Communication Theories, Marketing, Advertising, Media Planning, PR & Corporate Communication, Government Communication, New Media, Research (Part A)
Semester II (Jan to April) Hands-on skills, group campaigns, and industry attachment Creativity & Campaign Planning, Production Techniques, Research Project Study (Part B), One-month Industry Attachment

Paper VI: PR and Corporate Communication — Detailed Unit Breakdown

This is the most directly relevant paper for PR diploma students, covering seven units with both theory (50 marks) and practicals (50 marks).

Unit Topic Sessions Marks
I Understanding PR & Corporate Communication — definitions, history, pioneers (Ivy Lee, Bernays), Grunig’s models 10 10
II PR Practice and Process — in-house vs consultancy, campaigns, client-agency relationship, PR measurement 10 10
III PR and Media — media relations, press releases, press conferences, backgrounders, media tracking 5 5
IV PR’s Evolving Role — influencer relations, global PR, cross-cultural communication, entertainment, and celebrity management 5 5
V Introduction to Corporate Communication — stakeholder segmentation, internal and external communications, CC plan 10 5
VI Corporate Communication Strategies and Tools — corporate governance, reputation management, CSR, investor relations, internal communication 10 10
VII Crisis Communication — types of crises, phases of crisis management, media handling, case studies 2 5

 

Diploma in Public Relations: Important Admission Dates 2026

Admission timelines for Diploma and PG Diploma in Public Relations programs in India vary significantly depending on whether the institution follows a government entrance exam cycle (CUET-PG) or its own institute-level process. Most programs commence between July and September 2026, with applications opening as early as January/February. 

College Application Start Application Last Date Entrance Exam Result / Merit List Counselling / Admission Classes Begin
Xavier’s Institute of Communication (XIC), Mumbai January 2026 May 31, 2026 XIC OET: April 12, 18, 19, 2026 (Online) May 2026 May to June 2026 June/July 2026
School of Communications & Reputation (SCoRe), Mumbai Rolling admissions Rolling (Summer Batch and Winter Batch) NCAT + Personal Interview Declared on rolling basis On selection Summer Batch: July 2026; Winter Batch: January 2027
Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi CUET-PG registration opened Jan 2026 January 20, 2026 (CUET-PG last date) CUET-PG 2026 (Mass Communication paper) June 2026 (tentative) June to July 2026 August 2026
Delhi School of Communications (DSC), New Delhi April 2026 (approx.) June 2026 (approx.) Institute selection process / Merit June/July 2026 July 2026 August/September 2026
Institute of Marketing Communications India (IMCI), Noida Open (rolling admissions) Open throughout year Merit / Direct Admission Immediate on selection Rolling July/August 2026
AAFT Institute, Noida Open year-round Rolling AAFT Global Entrance Exam (GEE) + Personal Interview Declared post interview On selection July 2026 (tentative)
Manav Rachna International Institute, Faridabad February/March 2026 June 2026 CUET-PG / MAT / SNAP / CAT / Direct June/July 2026 July 2026 July/August 2026
NBA School of Mass Communication, New Delhi April/May 2026 June 2026 Merit based June/July 2026 July 2026 August 2026
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan SP College of Communication, New Delhi April 2026 June 2026 Merit based June 2026 June/July 2026 July/August 2026
National Academy of Event Management and Development (NAEMD), Mumbai March/April 2026 June 2026 Institute entrance + Personal Interview June 2026 June/July 2026 July/August 2026
Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), Thiruvananthapuram May/June 2026 July 2026 State level / Merit July 2026 July/August 2026 August 2026
Dr PDBH Government PG College, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand CUET-PG registration: January 2026 January 20, 2026 (CUET-PG last date) CUET-PG 2026 June 2026 State counselling: July 2026 August 2026
Venkateshwara Open University, Arunachal Pradesh May/June 2026 July/August 2026 Merit based On rolling basis Rolling August/September 2026
Takshshila College, Chhatarpur, MP April/May 2026 June/July 2026 Merit based July 2026 July 2026 August 2026
Shashi School of Business and Media, Patna April/May 2026 June 2026 Merit based June/July 2026 July 2026 August 2026
Singhania University, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan May 2026 July 2026 Merit based / Direct July 2026 July 2026 August 2026
CMJ University, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya May 2026 July 2026 Merit based / Direct July 2026 July/August 2026 August 2026

Key Deadlines to Note

  • CUET-PG last date (applicable for IIMC, Manav Rachna, government colleges): January 20, 2026 — this deadline has already passed for the 2026-27 batch, meaning CUET-PG aspirants should prepare for the 2027 cycle
  • XIC OET last application date: May 31, 2026
  • XIC OET exam dates: April 12, 18, and 19, 2026 (online mode)
  • SCoRe: Operates on a rolling basis with two batches annually — Summer (July start) and Winter (January start)
  • AAFT Noida: Admissions open year-round via AAFT Global Entrance Exam (GEE)

PG Diploma vs Diploma in Public Relations: Key Differences 2026

Comparing a PG Diploma in Public Relations with an Advanced Diploma in Public Relationship reveals distinct differences, primarily in eligibility and duration. The PG Diploma typically requires a university degree, while the Advanced Diploma is accessible after 10+2, making it suitable for different academic backgrounds.

  • PG Diploma Eligibility: Any degree from a recognized university.
  • Advanced Diploma Eligibility: Completion of 10+2 or equivalent.
  • PG Diploma Duration: One Year (Non-Semester System).
  • Advanced Diploma Duration: Six Months.
  • PG Diploma Total Seats (IIMC): 77.
  • Advanced Diploma Course Fee (Discounted): ₹5,750.

Further details for the Advanced Diploma in Public Relationship highlight its online examination structure and original course fee, offering insights into its assessment and cost.

Feature Detail
Advanced Diploma Original Fee ₹11,500
Advanced Diploma Exam Questions 60 (Multiple Choice Questions)
Advanced Diploma Exam Duration 120 minutes
Advanced Diploma Exam Max Marks 600
Advanced Diploma Exam Passing Marks 40%

Online vs Offline Diploma in Public Relations Courses 2026

Diploma in Public Relations courses offer a diverse range of options, from free online programs to intensive offline courses costing over ₹6,80,000. This comparison highlights key differences in duration, cost, eligibility, and features to help prospective students make informed decisions for 2026.

Option Type Institute/Course Name Course Type/Level Duration Cost (INR) Eligibility Key Features/Notes
Online Diploma in Public Relation Officer Diploma Six Months ₹4,750 (originally ₹9,500) 10+2 (higher Secondary) or equivalent Online examination (120 mins, 60 MCQs, 40% passing marks); Lifetime validity; Free job assistance; Certificate in 7 days (soft) / 45 days (hard).
Online Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations Diploma Six Months ₹4,750 (originally ₹9,500) 10th (high school) education or equivalent Online examination (120 mins, 60 MCQs, 40% passing marks); Lifetime validity; Free job assistance; Certificate in 7 days (soft) / 45 days (hard).
Online (Distance Learning) Institute of Marketing Communications India Graduate Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising One year ₹23,000 High school completion Offers extensive instruction across 13 modules.
Online (Distance Learning) Institute of Marketing Communications India Executive Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising One year ₹25,000 High school completion Offers extensive instruction across 13 modules.
Online (Free Course) Alison Diploma in Public Relations Not specified (Avg. Hours mentioned) Free to enrol, study, and complete Beginner Level Certification requires 80% or higher in the final course assessment.
Offline (Top 10 in India for 2026) Xavier’s Institute of Communication, Mumbai Diploma (Public Relations and Corporate Communication specialization) 10-month full-time ₹2,63,870 (includes GST, registration, library fees) 12+3 (graduation), age limit 35 and below 32 modules, 451 sessions; Classes from 10 am to 8:30 pm.
Offline (Top 10 in India for 2026) Symbiosis Institute (SIMC, Pune & SSMC, Bangalore) MBA in Communication Management (specialization in Public Relations) Two years (four semesters) ₹6,81,950 Not explicitly stated (MBA program) Best media and communication college in India.
Offline (Top 10 in India for 2026) School of Communications & Reputation (SCoRe), Mumbai Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations 10 months ₹2,50,000 + GST Not explicitly stated PRCAI approved; Practical approach with field visits and case studies; Offers scholarships.
Offline (Top 10 in India for 2026) Delhi School of Communications (DSC), Delhi 2-year Post-Graduate Diploma Degree in Communication 2 years Not specified Not explicitly stated (post-graduate diploma) Classes 8:30 am to 1:30 pm (six hours daily); Includes a full-time internship lasting more than six months.
Offline (Top 10 in India for 2026) Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi One-year Post-Graduation Diploma Program in Public Relations and Advertising One year ₹1,23,000 Not explicitly stated (post-graduation diploma) Established in 1981 to satisfy the expanding need for PR professionals.
Offline (Typical Classrooms) Institute of Marketing Communications India Graduate Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising One year ₹120,000 High school completion Offers extensive instruction across 13 modules.
Offline (Part-time Study) Institute of Marketing Communications India Executive Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising One year ₹120,000 High school completion Offers extensive instruction across 13 modules.

The comparison table illustrates that online Diploma in Public Relations options are generally more affordable and flexible, with some even being free, while top offline institutes offer comprehensive, full-time programs at significantly higher costs.

Career Opportunities and Job Prospects After PR Diploma 2026

A Diploma In Public Relations opens doors to diverse and promising career opportunities across various industries. Graduates gain practical skills and industry-specific exposure, significantly enhancing their job prospects. This section explores the dynamic landscape of PR careers, growth potential, and salary expectations in India.

  • Overall Prospects: Diverse opportunities, improved by diploma skills.
  • Demand in India: Significant rise, industry expanding due to brand reputation focus.
  • Growth Potential: Rapid from entry-level to strategic leadership roles like CCO.
  • Long-Term: Promising, professionals always in demand across all sectors.
  • International: Diploma opens doors, communication principles universally relevant.
  • Fastest-Growing: Digital communication is a key area, ensuring long-term prospects.

The field’s scope is growing, with strong demand across corporate, media, government, and digital industries, offering excellent opportunities in branding, online reputation management, and influencer marketing. Emerging specializations like influencer partnerships, digital listening, online crisis management, sustainability communication,

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PG diploma and PG?

A PG diploma typically spans 12-16 months for specialization after graduation, whereas a PG (Master’s degree) is a full master’s degree that generally carries more weightage.

What is a Diploma In Public Relations?

The Professional Diploma in Public Relations and PR Management by MTF Institute covers PR types, strategy, content creation, media relations, campaign planning, ethics, and crisis management.

What are the eligibility requirements for a Diploma in Public Relations?

Candidates must have passed the 10 or 10+2 examination from any stream or an equivalent recognized board exam with a minimum of 50% marks.

How do I apply for a Diploma in Public Relations?

To apply, shortlisted students report for Counseling and Document Verification at college reporting centers. Documents are verified for qualification, leading to enrollment in the Diploma in Public Relations course.

What is the application timeline for the Diploma in Public Relations?

The application timeline for the Diploma in Public Relations is determined by individual universities, with most considering your graduation aggregate score for admission.

What is the expected cutoff for the Diploma in Public Relations?

For top Diploma in Public Relations colleges, cutoffs generally range from 60% to 70%. Scoring above 70% is recommended for a safer admission chance.

Abhijeet Chatterjee
Written by

Abhijeet Chatterjee is a professional Content and Copy specialist with over five years of experience in crafting compelling content around the Edtech domain. His portfolio includes notable work for companies such as PhysicsWallah, Roar Media, Jagran Josh, etc. Academically, Abhijeet holds a Master's in Mass Communication, where he was awarded a gold medal for his outstanding performance. He has also qualified for the UGC NET in Mass Communication, demonstrating his expertise and a deep understanding of the field. His academic foundation is built on a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Beyond his professional work, Abhijeet is an avid writer and a cinephile. His personal interests include scriptwriting, film criticism, and reading novels.

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