Whether you're working full time or part time, you can complete the entire Diploma in Public Relations (PR) through a flexible delivery format.
With online education, you can complete courses without attending the university. Our online courses include web-based learning. All courses have an official start and completion date. The instructor facilitates weekly learning objectives and course work, and all assignments are submitted online. Once you register for our online courses you have access to the "Orientation to Online Learning" course—a self-paced orientation to help familiarize yourself with Brightspace, our online learning platform.
There are many roles available in the field of public relations, including in the public and private sectors, and in non-profit organizations or societies. Employers are seeking credentialed professionals who have current knowledge in various aspects of public relations. Visit the Canadian Public Relations Society for more information.
Each course is 12 weeks long with an official start and end date.
The current fee schedule is available on the program page.
Our courses are non-credit, which means they will not, in general, ladder into undergraduate or graduate programs. Please contact the specific institution to inquire about their transfer opportunities.
Please review our system requirements page for more details.
Approximately two weeks before your course starts, you will receive an email with login information and details about ordering your textbook. If you live within the Victoria area, you can pick up the materials in person if you prefer. For information, please visit the UVic Bookstore website.
The cost for textbooks depends on the course, as courses may have required or optional textbooks. Some courses also require web-based readings.
Yes. You have the same access to the library as all UVic students. The library has both online and on-site tutorials to help you familiarize yourself with the system. Check the UVic Library website to learn more about the services available.
Our instructors have extensive experience in communication planning and developing communications tools—for both print and electronic. They work with boards of directors, CEOs, corporations and government; and as consultants and strategic planners to develop strategies to communicate an organization's mission and policies. See the PR program page for a list of instructors in the program.
Instructors set the evaluation criteria for each course. Within the course, grades may be a combination of assignments, quizzes or reports.
The Division of Continuing Studies offers bursaries in the fall and spring terms to assist learners in furthering their education. Bursaries are awarded to learners who can display evidence of a commitment to lifelong learning and who can demonstrate financial need. Visit the Continuing Studies Financial Support page to learn more.
You can view and change your contact information (e.g. phone number, mailing address and email address) online through My Account. Simply click the "Sign In" button on the top-right corner of your screen.
You can also view and print off your unofficial transcripts through My Account. For more information on how to access your student profile, please read the Continuing Studies FAQ page.
If your first language is not English, you must submit proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 90 on the online test or 575 on the paper-based test, with no section less than 20 or Academic IELTS 6.5, with no individual component less than 6.0).