Top 11 Public Relations Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important way for public relations managers to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. They can provide evidence of a manager’s qualifications, as well as show employers that they have taken the initiative to acquire additional knowledge and skills. In a competitive job market, certifications can be a valuable asset in helping public relations managers stand out from other applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers. By having a certification or two, managers can prove that they have the professional experience and dedication necessary to succeed in the field. Certifications also give public relations managers access to exclusive networks of professionals and provide them with additional resources that can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Public Relations Managers and explain how they can help advance a career in public relations.

What are Public Relations Manager Certifications?

Public Relations Manager Certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of experienced public relations professionals. It is designed for those who have worked in the field for at least five years, and it can be used to demonstrate their expertise to employers, clients, and other stakeholders. The certification program covers a wide range of topics related to public relations management including ethical principles, media relations, crisis communications, research methods, strategic planning, and more.

The certification can help PR managers stand out from the competition by providing evidence that they have mastered the essential skills and knowledge necessary to become successful in their field. It also demonstrates commitment to professional development in an ever-changing industry. For those who already have experience in the field, having a Public Relations Manager Certification can give them an edge when applying for positions or negotiating salaries with potential employers. Additionally, certified PR managers may be able to access exclusive resources such as job boards and networking opportunities through organizations like PRSA (Public Relations Society of America).

Pro Tip: Make sure you research the various public relations manager certifications available to find the one that best fits your career goals. Many of these certifications require specific qualifications and may have continuing education requirements, so it's important to understand what is required before committing to a certification program.

Related: What does a Public Relations Manager do?

Top 11 Public Relations Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Public Relations Managers today.

1. Certified Public Relations Professional (CPRP)

Certified Public Relations Professional (CPRP) is a professional certification offered by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB). It is designed to recognize the highest level of competency and expertise in public relations.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of five years of full-time work experience in public relations, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the UAB that covers topics such as ethics, law, research, communication theory, media relations, crisis communication and more.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the exam. Preparation includes studying for the exam and completing practice tests. There are many resources available online to help you prepare for the exam including study guides and practice exams.

The cost of becoming CPRP certified varies depending on where you take the exam. The UAB charges $395 for the initial application fee plus $150 for each additional year of work experience beyond five years. Additionally there may be other fees associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses or proctoring fees if you choose to take it at a testing center rather than online.

2. Certified Strategic Public Relations Practitioner (CSPRP)

Certified Strategic Public Relations Practitioner (CSPRP) is a professional certification program offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the practice of public relations and demonstrate a commitment to ethical standards.

The CSPRP program requires successful completion of four core courses: Introduction to Public Relations, Communications Planning and Strategy, Measurement and Evaluation, and Ethics in PR. The program also includes two elective courses that are chosen from a list of approved topics. The entire program can be completed in as little as six months or up to two years.

To become certified, applicants must submit an application form with their educational transcripts, work experience, references, and other relevant documents. After successful completion of all required coursework and passing the CSPRP exam, applicants will receive a certificate from PRSA indicating their status as a Certified Strategic Public Relations Practitioner.

The cost for the CSPRP program varies depending on whether you are already an existing PRSA member or not. For non-members, the cost is $1,500 plus applicable taxes; for members it is $1,200 plus applicable taxes.

3. Accredited in Public Relations (APR)

Accredited in Public Relations (APR) is a professional certification program offered by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB) of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). It is designed to recognize public relations professionals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills and abilities required for strategic communication management.

To become accredited, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in public relations, complete a written examination and submit a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to apply the principles of public relations in an ethical manner. Applicants also must agree to abide by the PRSA Code of Ethics.

The process typically takes between six months and one year from start to finish. The cost varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PRSA; non-members pay $385 while members pay $285.

In order to get started, applicants should contact their local chapter of PRSA for information on how to register for the APR program. Once registered, they will receive an application packet with instructions on how to prepare their portfolio and take the exam. After submitting their portfolio and passing the exam, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for accreditation within approximately two weeks.

4. Certified in Public Relations Management (CPRM)

Certified in Public Relations Management (CPRM) is a professional certification offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). The CPRM credential is designed to recognize public relations professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the field.

The CPRM program requires applicants to complete an online application, pass an exam, and demonstrate at least five years of professional experience. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as media relations, crisis management, ethics, and research methods. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must also have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.

The entire process typically takes between six and twelve months to complete. Applicants are encouraged to begin studying for the exam as soon as they submit their application. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their official CPRM certificate within two weeks.

The cost of the CPRM program varies depending on whether you are a PRSA member or non-member. For members, it costs $395 to apply, plus $195 for each additional year of experience you wish to include in your application. For non-members, it costs $495 to apply plus $295 for each additional year of experience you wish to include in your application.

5. Certified Digital Media Strategist (CDMS)

A Certified Digital Media Strategist (CDMS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have mastered the skills and knowledge necessary to develop, implement, and manage successful digital media strategies. The certification is awarded by the Digital Media Management Association (DMMA).

To become certified, applicants must complete an online course of study that covers topics such as digital marketing strategy, content creation, search engine optimization (SEO), analytics, and more. Upon completion of the coursework and passing an exam, applicants will be awarded the CDMS credential.

The online course typically takes between six to eight weeks to complete. The cost for the online course is $1,495 USD.

6. Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management Professional Certificate Program

The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management Professional Certificate Program is an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of public relations and communication management. This program is designed to help individuals develop their understanding of public relations and communication management principles, strategies, and tactics, as well as their ability to apply them in a professional setting.

The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Public Relations & Communication Management; Strategic Planning & Implementation; Crisis Communication & Reputation Management; and Digital Media & Social Networking. Each course takes approximately 10 weeks to complete, for a total of 40 weeks or 10 months.

To get the certificate, you must successfully complete all four courses. You can take the courses online at your own pace or attend live classes offered by accredited universities around the world. The cost of each course varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 per course.

Once you have successfully completed all four courses, you will receive a certificate from the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management certifying that you have met their standards for excellence in public relations and communication management.

7. International Association of Business Communicators Certification Program

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Certification Program is a professional development program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of business communicators. It is based on the IABC Global Standard for Professional Communication and provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

The program consists of two levels: Certified Professional Communicator (CPC) and Master Certified Professional Communicator (MCPC). To earn the CPC certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in business communication or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher. The MCPC requires five years of experience in addition to a master’s degree or higher.

To get certified, candidates must complete an application process that includes submitting documentation of their qualifications and passing an online assessment. The assessment covers topics such as communications planning, stakeholder engagement, research methods, writing and editing, digital media strategies, metrics and evaluation, project management, presentation skills, ethics and legal issues. Once applicants pass the assessment they will receive their certification.

The entire process typically takes about six months from start to finish. The cost for CPC certification is $395 USD for IABC members and $495 USD for non-members; MCPC certification costs $595 USD for IABC members and $695 USD for non-members.

8. Chartered Institute of Public Relations Diploma in Public Relations

The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Diploma in Public Relations is a professional qualification designed to equip public relations practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their profession. The diploma is the highest level of professional qualification offered by the CIPR and is recognized as a mark of excellence in public relations practice.

The diploma consists of three core modules, which cover areas such as media relations, crisis management, stakeholder engagement and digital communications. It also includes an optional module that allows students to specialize in one particular area of PR practice, such as internal communications or public affairs.

The diploma takes approximately 18 months to complete and requires successful completion of all four modules. Students can choose to study either full-time or part-time, depending on their circumstances.

To gain the diploma, students must first have achieved either the CIPR Advanced Certificate or Advanced Diploma in Public Relations before they can apply for admission onto the course. They must then pass all four modules within 18 months and submit a portfolio demonstrating their understanding and application of PR principles.

The cost for completing the CIPR Diploma in Public Relations varies depending on whether you are studying full-time or part-time, but typically costs between £2,000 - £3,000 including tuition fees and examination fees.

9. Society for New Communications Research Digital & Social Media Certificate Program

The Society for New Communications Research Digital & Social Media Certificate Program is a comprehensive, self-paced online program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively use digital and social media in their organizations. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Digital & Social Media, Digital & Social Media Strategy, Digital & Social Media Measurement and Analysis, and Advanced Digital & Social Media Strategies. Each course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete.

To get the certificate, participants must successfully complete all four courses by passing each course’s final assessment with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a printable certificate from the Society for New Communications Research.

The cost of the program is $795 USD.

10. PRSA Counselors Academy Certificate Programs

The PRSA Counselors Academy Certificate Programs are a series of professional development programs offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) to help members gain specialized knowledge and skills in public relations counseling. The programs offer an opportunity for members to become certified counselors in their respective fields.

The certificate programs are divided into three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires completion of a certain number of courses and assessment activities. The courses cover topics such as media relations, crisis communication, digital marketing, and social media strategy. Upon successful completion of each level, participants receive a certificate from the PRSA Counselors Academy.

The Basic Certificate Program is designed for those who are new to public relations counseling and takes approximately 12 months to complete. The Intermediate Certificate Program is designed for those with some experience in public relations counseling and takes approximately 18 months to complete. The Advanced Certificate Program is designed for experienced professionals and takes approximately 24 months to complete.

To get started on any of the certificate programs, you must first become a member of the PRSA Counselors Academy. Membership fees vary depending on your location but typically range from $50-$100 per year. Once you’ve become a member, you can then register for the certificate program(s) that best fit your needs and interests. Course fees vary depending on the program level but typically range from $500-$1,000 per course or module.

In addition to course fees, there may be additional costs associated with participating in the PRSA Counselors Academy Certificate Programs such as travel expenses or other materials needed for completing assignments or assessments.

11. AMA Professional Certified Marketer –Public Relations

AMA Professional Certified Marketer – Public Relations (PCM-PR) is a professional certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). It is designed to recognize marketing professionals who have demonstrated mastery in the field of public relations. The certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as media relations, crisis management, and social media strategy.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the PCM-PR certification. This includes completing a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education credits in public relations topics, and passing the PCM-PR exam.

To get PCM-PR certified, you must first join AMA as a professional member or higher. You can then register for the PCM-PR exam through AMA’s website. The cost of registration for the exam is $250 for members and $350 for nonmembers. After registering, you will need to complete the required continuing education credits before taking the exam.

Once you have passed your exam, you will receive your official PCM-PR certificate from AMA. You will also be listed on AMA’s website as a certified public relations professional, and be eligible to use the PCM-PR designation after your name on business cards and other materials.

Do You Really Need a Public Relations Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and career aspirations. If you are looking to start a career in public relations, then a certificate in public relations management may be beneficial. A certificate program provides the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of public relations, such as communication techniques, media relations, crisis management, digital marketing, and more.

Having a certificate can also demonstrate that you have taken the initiative to learn about the industry and gain valuable experience. This can be especially beneficial if you want to find employment with a well-known company or organization. Many employers look for candidates who have taken courses or earned certifications related to their area of expertise. Therefore, it is wise to invest in yourself and take courses that will improve your chances of securing a job in the public relations field.

In addition to gaining knowledge and experience through a certification program, having a certificate may also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within your current organization. Having evidence that you have taken steps towards advancing your professional development can help demonstrate your commitment to furthering your career path.

Ultimately, having a Public Relations Manager Certificate is not essential for working in the field of public relations but it can provide many benefits depending on your individual goals and objectives. Investing in yourself by taking courses or earning certifications related to public relations can help prepare you for success in this competitive industry.

Related: Public Relations Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Public Relations Manager Certifications

1. What are the requirements for becoming a Public Relations Manager Certification?

Answer: The requirements vary depending on the specific certification program, but generally include a combination of education such as a bachelor’s degree in communications or public relations, and experience working in the field. Some certifications may also require additional coursework or exams.

2. How long does it take to receive a Public Relations Manager Certification?

Answer: It depends on the specific certification program, but typically it can take anywhere from 1-3 years to complete all the necessary requirements.

3. What type of jobs can I get with a Public Relations Manager Certification?

Answer: With a Public Relations Manager Certification you can pursue roles such as public relations manager, marketing manager, media relations specialist, and other positions related to public relations and communications.

4. Is there an exam required for a Public Relations Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, some certification programs require that you pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

5. How much does it cost to obtain a Public Relations Manager Certification?

Answer: The cost varies depending on the specific certification program, but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.