MA Public Relations and Strategic Communication

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 55% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 54 with no individual score below 51.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to a specific program. Some courses may have additional requirements, such as a portfolio or an interview, and competition for certain programs may be high.

Leeds Beckett University offers various scholarships and financial support options to eligible students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support talented individuals, and provide opportunities for students who may face financial constraints.

1. Vice Chancellor's Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and personal accomplishments. It provides a partial tuition fee waiver for the duration of the program.
2. Academic Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. It offers a partial tuition fee reduction for the first year of study.
3. Sports Scholarships: Leeds Beckett University offers sports scholarships to talented athletes who compete at a regional, national, or international level. These scholarships provide financial support, access to sports facilities, and mentoring programs.
4. Carnegie School of Sport Elite Athlete Scheme: This scheme supports elite athletes who are studying at Leeds Beckett University. It offers tailored support, flexible study arrangements, and access to world-class sports facilities.
5. Care Leaver and Estranged Student Scholarships: Leeds Beckett University provides additional support for students who have experienced care or are estranged from their families. These scholarships offer financial assistance and dedicated support services.
6. Subject-Specific Scholarships: Some academic schools within Leeds Beckett University may offer subject-specific scholarships for outstanding students in certain disciplines. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and benefits.

A Master of Arts (MA) in Public Relations and Strategic Communication from Leeds Beckett University opens up a wide range of exciting career opportunities in the dynamic field of strategic communication. Graduates of this program possess the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various industries and sectors.  

1. Public Relations Manager: Graduates can pursue roles as public relations managers, leading communication strategies and campaigns for organizations. They are responsible for building and maintaining a positive brand image, managing media relations, and engaging with stakeholders to enhance the organization's reputation.

2. Corporate Communications Specialist: Many companies have dedicated corporate communications teams to manage internal and external communication. Graduates can work as corporate communications specialists, developing and implementing communication strategies, managing crisis communications, and supporting the organization's overall reputation management efforts.

3. Digital PR Specialist: With the growing importance of digital media, there is a high demand for professionals who can effectively leverage digital platforms for public relations. Graduates can work as digital PR specialists, utilizing social media, content marketing, and online reputation management techniques to engage with target audiences and amplify brand messages.

4. Media Relations Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as media relations officers, responsible for building relationships with journalists, coordinating media interviews and press releases, and handling media inquiries. They play a crucial role in securing positive media coverage for their organizations or clients.

5. Public Affairs Consultant: Public affairs consultants work at the intersection of public relations and government relations. They assist organizations in navigating the political landscape, influencing public policy, and managing relationships with government bodies. Graduates can find opportunities in consultancy firms or in-house public affairs departments.

6. Internal Communications Manager: Effective internal communication is essential for organizations to engage and motivate their employees. Graduates can work as internal communications managers, developing communication strategies to inform and engage employees, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and values.

7. Social Media Manager: Graduates with expertise in social media can pursue roles as social media managers, responsible for managing and growing an organization's presence on various social media platforms. They develop social media strategies, create engaging content, and monitor online conversations to enhance brand visibility and reputation.

8. Campaign Manager: Many organizations run targeted campaigns to promote specific products, services, or causes. Graduates can work as campaign managers, overseeing the planning, execution, and evaluation of communication campaigns. They coordinate various communication channels and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve campaign objectives.

9. PR Consultant: Graduates can work as PR consultants, either independently or within PR agencies. They provide strategic advice, develop communication plans, and offer reputation management services to clients from diverse industries. PR consultants often work on a project basis, offering their expertise to multiple clients simultaneously.

10. Academic or Researcher: Graduates with a passion for research and academia can pursue further studies at the doctoral level or work as researchers in the field of public relations and strategic communication. They contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the discipline and may also teach at universities or engage in consultancy work.

The MA Public Relations and Strategic Communication program at Leeds Beckett University equips graduates with the skills, knowledge, and industry-relevant experiences to excel in the field of strategic communication. With a wide range of career prospects available, graduates can find rewarding roles in corporate organizations, government bodies, non-profit organizations, PR agencies, or as independent consultants.