Public Relations Graduate Certificate
The Public Relations graduate certificate is an opportunity to build or update your professional credentials in a rapidly changing industry. You’ll learn the latest tools in strategic PR as well as strategic planning for communicators.
Timing and Location
The certificate is designed for working professionals and all classes are held Monday-Thursday evenings at our Arlington campus.
Public Relations certificate Gainful Employment Disclosure
Estimated Tuition and Fees
Graduate tuition and fees at the George Washington University are comparable to the national average for private universities. These costs, set by the GW Board of Trustees, generally increase from year to year and may vary by program and location.
Please use this information as an estimate based on current tuition rates and fee structures. Total tuition and fees will vary according to the courses taken and the timeframe in which you complete your coursework.
2024-2025 Rates in Effect for Summer 2024, Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 Terms
- Tuition: $33,840 (18 credits @ $1,880 per credit hour)
- Other costs to consider: Application fee $80; Registration fee $35/semester; Textbooks $600; Matriculation Fee (one time) $200.
Requirements
The certificate requires completion of six courses (18 credit hours). It can be completed in as little as three terms, or at your own pace. All coursework can be applied towards a master’s degree in Public Relations and Communications.
The following requirements must be fulfilled: 18 credits, including 9 credits in required courses and 9 credits in elective courses.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| PSPR 6201 | Strategic Public Relations: Principles and Ethical Practice | |
| PSPR 6204 | Media Relations in a Digital World | |
| PSPR 6205 | Fundamentals of Business and Finance in Public Relations | |
| Electives | ||
| Nine credits in elective courses selected from the following: | ||
| PSPR 6207 | Sustainability and Social Responsibility Communications | |
| PSPR 6208 | Integrated Marketing Communications | |
| PSPR 6210 | Special Topics in Public Relations | |
| PSPR 6212 | Risk/Issues Management and Crisis Communications | |
| PSPR 6213 | Communications Research Methods | |
| PSPR 6214 | Digital Storytelling | |
| PSPR 6215 | Public Speaking and Presentations | |
| PSPR 6216 | Writing for Public Relations Professionals | |
| PSPR 6219 | Advanced Topics in Social and Digital Media | |
| PSPR 6220 | Social Issues and Public Policy | |
| PSPR 6224 | Global Public Relations Strategy and Practice | |
| PSPR 6225 | Nonprofit and Association Communication Strategies | |
| PSPR 6226 | Digital Communication Platforms and Strategies | |
| PSPR 6228 | Communicating for Social Change | |
| PSPR 6229 | Corporate Communications | |
See CPS regulations for additional information regarding enrollment status and time limits.