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Public Relations Dissertation Topics

Published by Grace Graffin at January 4th, 2023 , Revised On May 3, 2024

Public relations is a communication process that builds a positive relationship between an organisation and its audience. In other words, a public relations professional is responsible for using strategic communication to build a positive image of an organisation or individual through unpaid and earned means. The earned channels leveraged to build a positive image include news and press, media outreach, and social media engagements.

Public relations is a lot different from advertising and is much more difficult, too. Using unpaid means and earned channels for image building is more difficult than employing paid methodologies for creating brand awareness and image.

Given its high importance for a company, a public relations professional has to be the master of his job. Choosing public relations as a career is deemed as a very excellent choice, as its demand and importance are gaining importance day by day.

You might have approached or just entered your final year of the public relations degree and may be required to start working on the dissertation. If that is the case, you may be quite nervous and slightly clueless as to where to begin your work. the entire process starts with choosing a topic that is worthy of being discussed. If you are struggling to select the right topic for your public relations dissertation , here are a few topics along with their research aims for your guidance.

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Topic 1: Investigating the role of target marketing through public relations while confronting the increasing competition in digital marketing.

Research Aim: The research examines the significance of target marketing with the help of public relations while dealing with the rising competition in digital marketing.

Objectives:

• To identify the use of public relations strategies for target marketing practices.
• To analyse the way companies use PR strategies for target marketing to gain competitive advantages in digital marketing activities.
• To suggest ideas about how PR strategies can be used in a better way for target marketing thereby confronting competition in digital marketing.

Topic 2: Examining the role of different PR tools in improving relations between brands and customers – a study on the usefulness of newsletters.

Research Aim: The research aims to identify and assess the usefulness of different PR tools to improve the relationship between brands and customers. For analysing PR tools, this study will specifically focus on the use of newsletters.

• To identify different PR tools and analyse their importance in marketing, especially newsletters.
• To investigate the role of newsletters as a PR tool in improving relations between brands and customers.
• To recommend strategies about how newsletters can be used more strategically to improve relations between brands and customers.

Topic 3: A study on the impact of the rising demand and trend of digital marketing on the radical changes in public relations strategies.

Research Aim: The research aim is to carry out a detailed discussion on the impacts of the growing demands and ongoing trend of digital marketing on the radical changes in public relations strategies in the modern age.

• To describe how demand for digital marketing is increasing and the way it is becoming an important trend.
• To examine how changes in PR strategies are driven by the trend of digital marketing and rising demands for advanced marketing practices.
• To provide recommendations for advancing the PR strategies to respond to the increasing demands of digital marketing.

Topic 4: The impact of paid PR on the brand penetration of UK based tech startups through their social media platforms

Research Aim: The research aim evaluates the impact of paid PR on the brand penetration of UK-based tech startups through their social media platforms

• To shed light on the concept of brand penetration and paid PR
• To examine the significance of brand penetration and paid PR in UK-based tech startups
• To analyse how brand penetration of UK-based tech startups has been impacted by paid PR through their social media platforms

Topic 5: An investigation into the different ways paid PR is impacting the workforce and productivity of the UK-based SMEs

Research Aim: The research aim concentrates on the different ways paid PR is impacting the workforce and productivity of UK-based SMEs.

• To examine the concept of paid PR and its importance in SMEs
• To identify different ways through which the workforce and productivity of the UK-based SMEs can be improved
• To evaluate how paid PR in different ways is impacting the workforce and productivity of UK-based SMEs

Topic 6: Impact of social media on public relations strategies

Research Aim: Even since social media was invented, it has changed the patterns of communication in regular and corporate settings. Social media has inevitably changed how organisations interact with their audience since they are ensuring their presence on relevant platforms.

The main aim of the research will be to identify how social media has affected traditional public relations strategies.

Topic 7: The relationship between public relations and inbound marketing

Research Aim:  Inbound marketing uses multiple marketing tools and techniques such as content marketing, blogs, and social media to create brand awareness and attract new business. Inbound marketing aims to build a relationship of goodwill with the customers, consumers, and prospects which somehow relates to public relations.

The aim of the research is to identify how(if ) public relations and inbound marketing are related to each other by tracing their overlapping characteristics.

Topic 8: Can Public relations and advertising go hand in hand

Research Aim:  Most people confuse public relations for advertising, although they are two separate strategies employed to achieve similar goals for a business. In that regard, it is important to identify if public relations and advertising can go hand in hand and what outcomes they may cause.

Topic 9: Public relations and artificial intelligence

Research Aim:  The future belongs to artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence refers to technology   that can imitate human cognitive abilities and thus perform tasks that are ascribed to humans. Since artificial intelligence is going to take over, it already has, and it will change the operation of public relations. The responses and communication generated by public relations professionals will be generated by bots geared toward artificial intelligence.

The target of the research will be identifying how and in what capacity artificial intelligence will modify the practice of public relations.

Topic 10: Differences between traditional vs modern public relation practices

Research Aim: The aim of the research will be to compare and contrast the conventional and modern practices of public relations. The researcher will evaluate the key practices employed and the channels selected today versus a couple of decades ago and highlight the key differences. The researcher can identify as many variables as possible to perform a clear and broad comparison between both strategies.

Topic 11: The evolution of the PR agency model

Research Aim: The PR agency model today is not the same as what it used to be a couple of years ago. The researcher will study and evaluate the evolution process of the PR agency model and key changes that have occurred over the period.

Topic 12: Significance of public relations for social media influencers

Research Aim:  Social media influencers are gaining more importance as their influencer marketing is reaching new heights. While they play a significant role in helping brands achieve their marketing goals, they need to build public relations to keep themselves relevant, credible, and valuable to a particular niche. The aim of the research will be to identify how it is important for social media influencers to strengthen their PR strategies.

Topic 13: positive public relations- case study

Research Aim: Public relations is perceived with a negative connotation in general, although it is not like that. The aim of the research is to study and highlight positive public relations through different case studies. The researcher can choose very immediate examples or global examples.

Topic 14: public relations strategy employed by brands in the pandemic

Research Aim: While the pandemic was a shocking situation for all of us, the brands were having multiple problems in terms of managing health as well as the economic crisis at the time. During the pandemic, different responses from different brands were noted, which was a part of the public relations policy. The aim of the research is to identify how brands were able to execute their public relations strategy.

Topic 15: Public relations as an instrument to increase ROI

Research Aim: The main goal of public relations is to increase brand awareness, promote goodwill, and increase demand. The aim of the research is to identify if a public relations campaign can be oriented to increase the ROI and, if it does, How.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Also Read: Civil Engineering Dissertation Topics

Topic 16: Effectiveness of public relations in the health sector- case study

Research Aim: Public relations is only associated with businesses, politics, and media, but it can be used for just every sector. The research will identify how necessary public relations are and how effective they can be for the health sector by conducting a case study.

Topic 17: Uses and abuses of public relations

Research Aim:  Although public relations strategies are useful and important, they have flaws of their own kind. The flaws lie in how the strategy is prepared and executed and the goals it aims to target.

The aim of the research will be to identify and analyse the uses and abuses of public relations. The researcher can evaluate in what ways public relations can be useful and in what ways they cannot.

Topic 18: Importance of public relations for political parties in the age of technology

Research Aim: The political parties rely on public relations to establish a relationship of goodwill and create a good image in front of the public. With the advent of social media, political parties have to be extra conscious as one act can ruin their established credibility. The study will aim to find out how it has become more important than ever for political parties to focus on public relations for their own benefit.

Also Read: Politics Dissertation Topics

Topic 19: Public relations and journalism

Research Aim:  The aim of the research is to identify how public relations is important in journalism and vice versa. The research will also identify the key similarities between public relations and journalism. The researcher can also point out to what extent public relations is misused by political leaders to influence journalism.

Also Read: Media Dissertation Topics

Topic 20: How PR programs have affected the government plans and decisions around the world

Research Aim: The research will analyse and evaluate how public relations programs run by state heads or governments have affected their decisions and plans. The researcher can take the example of successful and unsuccessful PR campaigns and their impact, respectively.

Topic 21: How technology has changed the strategies of public relations

Research Aim: The research will evaluate and figure out the changes that occurred to public relations strategies due to the technology. The researcher can evaluate the impact of different technologies to understand the impact.

Topic 22: Whistleblowers and public relations

Research Aim:  Whistleblowers are individuals responsible for reporting any wrongdoings that may cause a threat to society to those in authority to rectify them. The whistleblowers thus play an important role in helping public leaders in improving public relations. The aim of the research would be to find out the wide-ranging benefits of whistleblowers for making effective public relations plans.

Topic 23: Trends in advertising and public relations to look forward to

Research Aim: The aim of the research is to find out the trends in advertising and public relations today and in the future. The research will also find the potential of each trend to evaluate how long it is expected to remain relevant in their respective fields.

Topic 24: Importance of strategic communication in PR

Research Aim: Communication is the key tool of PR. The research will find the definition of strategic communication. It will also identify and explore the importance of strategic communication in PR and the ways to improve it.

Topic 25: Tourism and public relations

Research Aim:  The aim of the research is to identify the importance of public relations for tourism sectors for enhancing tourism. Tourism is not something about the tourists and destination, but it is a major government sector that can help economic growth if focused on it . It will analyse and evaluate the key elements essential for fostering tourism that is possible with public relations.

List of New & Trending Dissertation Topics on Public Relations

• A Case Study Analysis on the Role of Public Relations in Crisis Management
• The Influence of Social Media on Public Relations Strategies.
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Its Impact on Public Relations Practices.
• The Use of Influencers in Contemporary Public Relations Campaigns.
• Challenges and Solutions of Public Relations Ethics in the Digital Age
• The Effectiveness of Storytelling in Public Relations Campaigns.
• Campaign Strategies in Public Relations and Political Communication.
• Stakeholder Engagement Strategies in Public Relations
• The Role of Emotional Appeal in Public Relations Messaging.
• The Impact of Culture on International Public Relations Campaigns.
• The Role of Public Relations in Influencing Public Policy.
• Social Justice and Advocacy Campaigns in Public Relations.
• Employee Engagement in Internal Public Relations Communications.
• The Influence of Visual Communication in Public Relations.
• Globalisation and Localisation in Public Relations Campaigns.
• The Role of Public Relations in Building Trust in Financial Institutions.
• The Role of Emotion in Public Relations Crisis Communication.
• Public Relations Strategies for Startups and Small Businesses.
• The Influence of Generation Z on Public Relations Practices.

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How to find public relations dissertation topics.

To discover public relations dissertation topics:

• Examine recent PR challenges.
• Investigate industry trends.
• Analyse PR strategies’ effectiveness.
• Explore ethics and social media’s role.
• Consider cross-cultural PR issues.
• Select a topic aligning with your passion and career objectives.

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Public Relations Dissertation Topics (26 Examples) For Research

Mark Aug 15, 2021 Aug 16, 2021 Public Relations No Comments

Public relation is a practice of deliberately managing the spread of information between the organization and the public. The ability of a company to relate to the public has an impact on its reputation and position. We have listed down some of the most impressive public relations dissertation topics that you can practice on. The […]

Public relation is a practice of deliberately managing the spread of information between the organization and the public. The ability of a company to relate to the public has an impact on its reputation and position. We have listed down some of the most impressive public relations dissertation topics that you can practice on.

A list Of Public Relations Dissertation Topics

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Public Relations Dissertation Topics

Pr and social media dissertation topics, public relations in practice, future of public relations.

The public relations have moved their focus from traditional media such as print and radio to online, and especially to social media platforms from Facebook and Twitter to the latest favourite, Instagram. The key reason for this shift is the exponential rise in the consumption of social media by people. This section explores how the PR landscape is changing as a result of this and how it needs to adapt in order to become influential on these social media platforms.

• To study the changes in public relations campaigns on social media as compared to traditional media.
• To analyse the key factors for evaluating campaign success of online Public Relations on Instagram and Facebook.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of influencers as a public relations tool on social media platforms.
• A case study to evaluate how influencers built their own brand using social media as a PR tool.
• To decipher the ROI for social media PR campaigns.
• To determine the marketing and PR skills required by the new professionals in conducting successful PR campaign using social media.
• To derive key determinants of crisis and reputation management on social media.
• To study how mobile-based consumption of social media is affecting the PR activities of major brands.
• Rise of social media based public relations: A case study of UAE/Saudi Arabia/Qatar (any Middle Eastern country).
• Paid PR: How can SMEs (small and medium enterprises) achieve brand penetration on social media using paid PR?

This section deals with the challenges faced by the PR industry today as well as the challenges it needs to overcome or the areas in which it can create a real impact in a society and the role it can play in achieving this.

• A case study to understand if public relations is still a male-dominated profession and what needs to be done to promote gender equality.
• A study to analyse the extent of participation of a PR professional in creating marketing and branding strategy.
• A study to evaluate if the digital media shift of the PR by major brands reduced the inequality and increased inclusivity of people.
• To study the impact of public relations campaigns on the perceived service quality of hospitality businesses.
• To understand the effectiveness of traditional media, mainly television as a PR tool in 21st Century.
• A study of brands that have failed to switch their PR to digital and social media and suffered their brand reputation and identity.
• To evaluate the lack of effectiveness and determinants of failure of UK government regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

The move from print and television to digital happened a few years ago and changed the dimensions of public relations for ever. Now, with the pandemic, and the need to work from home, there has been an unprecedented rise in the OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, Disney Plus and so on. These platforms are now considered to be the future of PR. This section explores research topic relating to this exciting new PR opportunity.

• Are the OTT platforms the latest PR tools? A case of Netflix and how it can be used as a PR tool.
• The case of how Hotstar, a local OTT platform, changed PR landscape in India.
• How online platform users are creating ‘fake news’ and damaging the reputation of brands.
• The role of digital PR in impacting political decision making and elections: Case of US elections of 2016 and 2020.
• To determine the use of social media as a political tool by political parties in the US and UK.
• To evaluate the steps taken by digital platforms to stop fake news that can damage reputation, incite violence, or create a false narrative: A case study of Twitter.
• A study to understand the role big data can play in shaping the future public relations campaigns.
• An explorative study to understand if public relations using digital media have lost moral and ethical values.
• To study the measurement of engagement in public relations campaigns online.
• To evaluate the ‘grey areas’ in digital PR and evaluate their impact on public perception of brands.
• To understand how the best brands are using PR mix to maximize the engagement with their target markets: A case study of Nike.
• What will be the future of public relations after pandemic and fake news? An explorative study.
• To explore the role of digital media platforms in bringing social change by using them as public relations tools.

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• PhD: Strategic Communication

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Fall Application Deadlines

US applicants:  Jan. 15 International applicants:  Dec. 1

In the online application, select Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design (APRD)  as the department, Media Research & Practice  as the degree, and Strategic Communication  as the subplan/track.

How to Apply

The PhD in Strategic Communication offered by the Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design is one of three separate and distinct tracks of the Media Research and Practice doctoral program within the College of Media, Communication and Information.

A PhD in Strategic Communication is a distinct track that is designed to provide students with rigorous training in theory and research. Students gain an understanding through coursework that explores theories and methods that shape strategic communication research. This program emphasizes how theory informs practice, critically analyzing how advertising and public relations operate in ways that can—or could—constructively contribute to the successful, ethical and resilient functioning of society.

The strategic communication and journalism studies tracks for the PhD are administered together by the departments of Advertising, Public Relations and Design and Journalism. Students in both tracks are taught by and have access to the faculties of both departments. The curriculum includes an overview of mass/public communication literature with specific modules and courses dedicated to advertising, journalism and public relations. Classes also focus on areas that straddle each industry such as social media, political communication, ethics, media organizations, health communication and video games. We welcome and appreciate both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research. Graduates pursue teaching and research positions at universities as well as work in the private sector. 

APRD is proud to share its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion mission statement: APRD strives to be a community whose excellence depends on diversity, equity, and inclusion. We aim to understand and challenge systems of privilege and disadvantage in higher education, such as those based on class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and dis/ability. We seek to reach across social and political divides and to make space for voices historically underrepresented in higher education and marginalized in society. In other words, diversity is not just a future reality for which we try to prepare students. It is a priority we want to put into practice here, now, and together, in order to foster places of learning where all members can thrive.

Why enroll?

• One of the few doctoral programs offered in an advertising and public relations department
• Study with award-winning researchers and teachers who are committed to assisting students achieve mastery of their work and chart a successful post-doctoral career
• Faculty who have conducted research in an array of specialties (see list below)
• Design a personally-designed plan of study to suit your interests
• Collaborate with faculty and fellow graduate students on research projects
• Study within a supportive environment, with the opportunity to teach courses relevant to your area of interest

Research interests of faculty teaching in the program

• Advertising and Public Relations Pedagogy: Erin Schauster
• Activism and Organizations: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh , Jordan Morehouse
• Corporate Branding and Image Management: Burton St. John III , Seow Ting Lee , Erin Willis
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh , Burton St. John III , Seow Ting Lee
• Crisis Communication and Risk Management: Burton St. John III , Seow Ting Lee ,  Krishnamurthy Sriramesh ,  Jordan Morehouse
• Digital Advertising: Chris J. Vargo , Harsha Ganga , Toby Hopp , Bridget Barrett
• Digital Games and Society: Harsha Ganga , Toby Hopp , Jolene Fisher , Mia Wang
• Global Public Relations: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh
• Health Communication: Seow Ting Lee , Erin Willis ,  Mia Wang
• Media Effects: Harsha Ganga ,  Mia Wang
• Media Ethics: Erin Schauster , Seow Ting Lee
• Moral Psychology: Erin Schauster
• Organizational Culture: Erin Schauster ,  Krishnamurthy Sriramesh
• Persuasion and Digital Media: Harsha Ganga , Erin Willis , Seow Ting Lee ,  Jordan Morehouse ,  Mia Wang
• Propaganda: Burton St. John III
• Public Diplomacy: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh , Seow Ting Lee
• Social and Economic Effects of Advertising: Harsha Ganga
• Social and Media Analytics: Chris J. Vargo , Toby Hopp ,  Bridget Barrett
• Strategic Public Relations Management: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh , Seow Ting Lee ,  Jordan Morehouse
• Strategic Communication for Social Change: Burton St. John III , Jolene Fisher ,  Mia Wang
• Sustainable Development and Communication: Krishnamurthy Sriramesh , Burton St. John III
• Technology and Advertising: Harsha Ganga ,  Mia Wang ,  Bridget Barrett
• Quantitative Methodology: Seow Ting Lee , Chris J. Vargo , Toby Hopp , Harsha Ganga , Kelty Logan ,  Mia Wang
• Qualitative Methodology: Erin Schauster , Erin Willis , Jolene Fisher ,  Jordan Morehouse ,  Bridget Barrett

It is expected that a student will devote her or his full time to the doctoral program and assistantship duties during the fall and spring semesters while in the program, unless other arrangements have been made with the department.

The following is a summary of minimum requirements to earn a Ph.D. in Strategic Communication or in Journalism Studies. Students will take two semesters of Proseminar, two semesters of methods, four semesters of Doctoral Professionalization Seminar and 30 credits of electives, which must include 9 credits of advanced methods electives. Students are expected to take courses numbered at the 6000 or above levels. There are some exceptions to this in which doctoral students can receive permission to take 5000-level courses.

• Proseminar in Mass Communication (6 Credits): All doctoral students are required to enroll in JRNL/APRD 7001 in their first semester of study, and in JRNL/APRD 7003 in their second semester. These courses are designed to introduce students to the major paradigms within the field of mass communication.
• Doctoral Professionalization Seminar (4 Credits): All first- and second-year doctoral students will be required to enroll in JRNL/APRD 7004. The course, which is 1 credit each semester, prepares students for life in a doctoral program and for life after one, all while providing a sense of community amongst multiple doctoral cohorts and both departments’ faculty. 
• Methods (15 Credits): All first-year doctoral students enroll in Quantitative Research Methods in the fall, and in Qualitative Research Methods in the spring. These general courses deal with a variety of research methods used within the field. PhD students are also required to take three additional graduate level courses in the areas of research methods (9 hours). These may be taken inside or outside the departments.
• Area of Concentration (18 hours): Doctoral students are required to take a minimum of 18 hours of course work selected on the basis of the student’s area(s) of research interest. These courses should come from a combination of both inside and outside electives. For example, for a student interested in media effects, a combination of classes from both APRD/JRNL and psychology would make sense.
• Independent study: Ph.D. students may take a  maximum  of two independent study courses in their course of study, either inside APRD and JRNL or outside of those home departments. Generally, these will be taken no earlier than the third semester of the program.
• Comprehensive examinations: Each doctoral student will be required to pass comprehensive examinations, consisting of four questions, which are generally administered after the last semester in which the student takes course work. The examinations are individually tailored for each student and comprise both written and oral examinations.
• Dissertation: A minimum of thirty hours of dissertation credit, APRD 8991, must be taken. Various restrictions apply to these hours.
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken in any one semester
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken prior to the semester in which comprehensive examinations are taken.
• No more than 10 dissertation credit hours may be taken in the semester in which comprehensive examinations are taken.
• After passing comprehensive examinations, student must enroll for at least 5 dissertation credit hours (full time) or 3 dissertation credit hours (part time) each semester until graduation.

Typically students enroll for 10 dissertation hours in the semester they are taking comprehensive examinations and 10 dissertation hours each in the following fall and spring terms. Students must be aware of Graduate School rules regarding registration for dissertation hours.

Applicants to the Strategic Communication track of the PhD program in Media Research and Practice are expected to hold the master’s degree or equivalent graduate work. In exceptional cases, applicants without a master’s degree may be considered for admission.

Completed domestic applications must be received by the program no later than Jan. 15 prior to the fall semester for which entrance is sought. International applications should be submitted by Dec. 1. Late applications may be considered under special circumstances.

Successful applications typically have an undergraduate cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.2 and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 in previous graduate work.

Applicants are required to:

• Provide three letters of recommendation.
• Provide a 700-word Statement of Purpose.
• Provide a resume or CV that includes academic and employment experience.
• Provide a writing sample that exhibits the ability to undertake the conceptual and empirical studies required of doctoral students (e.g., a chapter from a master’s thesis or graduate-level term paper).

Meeting these criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Because we accept relatively few new doctoral students each fall, we may have more qualified applicants than available openings.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are not requiring GRE scores at this time.

In the online application, select  Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design  as the department,  Media Research & Practice  as the degree, and  Strategic Communication  as the subplan/track.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Marketing and public relations'

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Werth, Ingo. "Fachbibliographie Internet - Public Relations und -Marketing." [S.l. : s.n.], 2005. http://www.bsz-bw.de/cgi-bin/xvms.cgi?SWB11759307.

West, Chasah E. "Organizational-Public Relations| A Cultural Measure of International Publics." Thesis, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1594479.

Marx, Wolfgang. "Public Relations als Schlüsselinstrument im Marketing von Beratungsunternehmen." Marburg Tectum-Verl, 2006. http://deposit.ddb.de/cgi-bin/dokserv?id=2818446&prov=M&dok_var=1&dok_ext=htm.

Montagno, Beth L. "Marketing public relations : a multimed[i]a campaign." Virtual Press, 2005. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/1327295.

Vrkočová, Pavlína Bc. "Public Relations ve společnosti Qlik.cz." Master's thesis, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, 2007. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-1578.

Stephansen, Kari. "Diffusion of viral marketing into the world of public relations." Diss., Columbia, Mo. : University of Missouri-Columbia, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10355/5715.

Swank, Tonja M. "It's a jungle out there : zoo public relations and marketing." Scholarly Commons, 2011. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/782.

Meravý, Vojtěch. "Marketing a public relations na mezinárodním operním festivalu Smetanova Litomyšl." Master's thesis, Akademie múzických umění v Praze. Hudební fakulta AMU. Knihovna, 2006. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-78716.

Muddiman, Ashley. "Harry Potter and the Public Relations Phenomenon." Miami University Honors Theses / OhioLINK, 2007. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=muhonors1176155079.

Hanpongpandh, Peeraya. "A comparison of perceptions of public relations, marketing, and advertising educators toward integrated marketing communications." Virtual Press, 1994. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/917012.

Al-Hajri, Hamad Faleh. "Integrating public relations into marketing strategies in the state of Qatar." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1918.

AlQubaisi, Abdulla Butti. "Public relations as a marketing strategy in the United Arab Emirates." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1923.

Bouzanis, Jason. "Quebec's public diplomacy: A study on the conceptual convergence of public diplomacy and public relations." Thesis, University of Ottawa (Canada), 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/28121.

Jonsson, Peder. "Kommunikationsmodeller inom public relations." Doctoral thesis, KTH, Industriell ekonomi och organisation (Inst.), 2017. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-205887.

QC 20170426

Kitchen, Philip James. "The developing use of public relations in fast moving consumer goods firms." Thesis, Keele University, 1993. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.320248.

Straková, Martina. "Internet jako nástroj marketingu a Public Relations v oblasti vážné hudby." Master's thesis, Akademie múzických umění v Praze.Hudební a taneční fakulta. Knihovna, 2014. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-177846.

Ashton, Kathleen L. "A survey of the status of marketing and public relations in the Indiana hospital industry." Virtual Press, 1994. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/935923.

Berdine, Alexis A. "Click for the Campus Store: Development of an Online Public Relations Campaign for the AU Campus Store." Ashland University Honors Theses / OhioLINK, 2015. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=auhonors1431338897.

Kerr, Gayle. "Consistency and integrated marketing communication : an exploratory study." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 1997. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/36301/1/36301_Kerr_1997.pdf.

Greene, Amanda E., Andrew Dotterweich, Mauro Palmero, and Don Good. "A Survey of Social Media: Perceived Effectiveness in Marketing among Individual NASCAR Tracks." WSSUScholar, 2014. https://scholar.wssu.edu/ijmm/vol3/iss1/1.

Krawtchenko, Pierre. "Contribution à l'étude de l'intégration du client dans la conduite de projets innovants." Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, INPL, 2004. http://docnum.univ-lorraine.fr/public/INPL_T_2004_KRAWTCHENKO_P.pdf.

Williams, Stephen. "The organisation and economic geographies of marketing and public relations businesses in the West Midlands." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2010. http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/878/.

Koláček, Kamil. "Komunikační strategie společnosti 3M Česko." Master's thesis, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, 2010. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-81924.

Lukusa, Adolphine Cama. "An assessment of the practice of public relations practitioners in marketing the corporate image in selected organisations." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1002.

Drevinskas, Dalius. "Factors' Contributing to the Competitive Advantage of the Lithuanian Public Relations Agencies." Master's thesis, Lithuanian Academic Libraries Network (LABT), 2010. http://vddb.laba.lt/obj/LT-eLABa-0001:E.02~2009~D_20100125_143102-44932.

Hemmonsbey, Janice Dorothy. "The strategic value of sport to the Cape Town city brand." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2110.

Preston, Heather Paige. "Come Together: Inclusive Leadership and Public Relations Education." Antioch University / OhioLINK, 2018. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1560961778025252.

Howard, Timothy Lent. "Emotional intelligence and its link to public relations education." Scholarly Commons, 2011. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/93.

Benkahla, Shawn M. "A study of the history and use of integrated marketing communications within publications from 1991-2005." Morgantown, W. Va. : [West Virginia University Libraries], 2006. https://eidr.wvu.edu/etd/documentdata.eTD?documentid=4577.

Dizmon, Khara Louise. "The application of marketing and communication theories on community festival event planning." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2007. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/3291.

Lake, Suzette. "A Consultant’s Analysis of Bond Public Relations and Brand Strategy." ScholarWorks@UNO, 2014. http://scholarworks.uno.edu/aa_rpts/162.

Hogg, Gillian. "Service quality in business advisory services : the case of the public relations industry in Scotland." Thesis, University of Stirling, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1893/2583.

Kyriazis, Elias. "The antecedents and consequences of the marketing manager and R&D manager working relationship during new product development an empirical study /." Access electronically, 2005. http://www.library.uow.edu.au/adt-NWU/public/adt-NWU20060522.103631/index.html.

Paitoonmongkon, Chanoknart. "The public relations campaign for Bangkok fashion week, Thailand." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2005. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2938.

Van, Oudenhove de St Gery Liesel Anja. "Public relations and marketing: a framework for stakeholder management in the Life Healthcare Group of hospitals - Eastern region." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1419.

Bezuidenhout, Sonja. "Evaluating audience responses to promotional messages." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020280.

Chou, I.-Ling. "Public relations plan for nonprofit organization: Tzu Chi Foundation." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2003. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2470.

Crossman, M. Kris. "An examination of opinion research firm specialists' perceptions toward public relations practioners as clients as compared to marketing and advertising practitioners as clients." Virtual Press, 1987. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/515491.

Scammell, Margaret. "The impact of marketing and public relations on modern British politics : the Conservative Party and government under Mrs Thatcher." Thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science (University of London), 1991. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.282955.

Kocián, Petr. "Komunikační mix a efektivita současné marketingové komunikace společnosti Aviva životní pojišťovna, a.s." Master's thesis, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, 2009. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-76298.

Zwakala, Kuhle Mkanyiseli. "Brand identity of a selected South African bank." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2435.

Welsh, Heather B. "An analysis of international public relation specialists and their use of the Internet for advertising and information gathering." Scholarly Commons, 1998. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2328.

Shin, Hyojin Jeannie. "Analysis of the perception and reality of integrated marketing communications (IMC) in corporate public relations a study of South Korea /." [Gainesville, Fla.] : University of Florida, 2006. http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/UFE0014266.

Cockrum, Jamie B. "A study of strategic marketing in liberal arts II colleges." Virtual Press, 1995. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/955090.

Zidarova, Margarita. "Corporate Social Responsibility: The Future of Marketing Communications." Master's thesis, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, 2010. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-71814.

Gallego, Angélica Helena Santini Montes. "CRIANÇA ESPERANÇA: comunicação e marketing da Rede Globo." Universidade Metodista de São Paulo, 2007. http://tede.metodista.br/jspui/handle/tede/767.

Scopelliti, Maria. "Gatekeepers No More: Redefining the Roles of Journalism and PR in the Age of Digital Media and Content Marketing." Thèse, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/30547.

Axelsson, Daniel, and Henrik Nordberg. "The Role of PR : In the Introduction Stage of a New Brand." Thesis, Jönköping University, JIBS, Business Administration, 2005. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-161.

The reality of today is that companies are spending more and more money on commercial spots. The “highlight” of the year is Super Bowl, where a 30-second ad costs more than $2 million to run. Advertising agencies are using their role as communicators by competing with each other with no interest in the product. The marketing guru Al Ries released a controversial book called “The Fall of Advertising and the Rise of PR” (2002) together with his daughter Laura Ries. In this book they are at-tacking the traditional advertising industry and claim that it has lost its credibility and above all, public relations is a more effective tool in brand building. The Rieses also favors PR in the in-troduction phase of a new brand.

The purpose of the thesis is to investigate agencies’ view of public relations role relative to traditional advertising in the intro-duction phase of a new brand.

The authors have used a qualitative study where the purpose will be achieved by performing in-depth face to face interviews with three respondents, which has a deep knowledge within the PR and the traditional advertising industry.

Whether PR as a promotional tool is viewed as more effective relative to traditional advertising in the introduction of a new brand one has to consider different variables. PR is more effec-tive when it comes to credibility, cost, and clutter. However, a major drawback is the control. Also, one has to consider the at-tributes of the brand since there are brands that are more PR “friendly” than others.

Jansdotter, Pernilla, and Emma Josefsson. "Ett komplicerat förhållande - Om relationen mellan lobbying och marknadsföring." Thesis, Högskolan i Halmstad, Sektionen för ekonomi och teknik (SET), 2011. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hh:diva-15933.

Yttermyr, Karl. "Grossistens roll på handarbetsmarknaden : En studie om Järbo Garns kommunikation med sina kunder och återförsäljare." Thesis, Umeå universitet, Institutionen för kultur- och medievetenskaper, 2014. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:umu:diva-87468.

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Awards for best doctoral and master thesis in public relations

The European Public Relations Education and Research Association (EUPRERA) has awarded two master students for their excellent theses in strategic communication at the EUPRERA annual congress in Zagreb on September 28. The congress is known as the major gathering of scholars and professionals interested in advancing the profession of public relations and corporate communications on the continent, hosted this year by University of Zagreb in Croatia.

Best thesis on Instigatory Theory, public diplomacy campaign and country image

The PhD Award for Excellent Doctoral Thesis is a bi-annual prize awarded by EUPRERA together with the PRCA (Public Relations and Communications Association) and ICCO (International Communications Consultancy Organisation), aimed to stimulate the academic discussion and build the body of knowledge in communication management across Europe. The jury, headed by Prof. em. Dr. Betteke van Ruler and Prof. em. Dr. Günter Bentele, selected the winning thesis and the award has been delivered by Ralph Tench (EUPRERA president), Sue Wolstenholme (PRCA representative) and Günter Bentele (head of the jury):

“Strategic Communication: The Instigatory Theory of NGO Communication (ITNC)”, by Evandro Oliveira . Supervisors: Teresa Ruão, University of Minho, Portugal; Ansgar Zerfass, Universität Leipzig, Germany. After NGOs have been made understandable as civil society organizations from various disciplinary perspectives, the author develops a new model for NGO communication, the Instigatory Theory of NGO Communication (ITNC). Different models are being tested in the theses; a mixed-method-design, composed of a worldwide study on international human rights NGOs as well as an elite interview study are carried out. As one result, the ontological principles of the ITNC model were confirmed and the model turned out to be applicable for NGOs. The theoretical as well as the empirical part of the theses are of a very high standard. The dissertation was defended simultaneously at the University of Minho and at the University of Leipzig. The Jury decided unanimously that Evandro Oliveira’s theses was the best in the whole field of applications, fulfilling all the criteria in an excellent manner. Complexity and appropriateness of the underlying theory, sophisticated empirical studies, practical orientation and suitability for practice are characteristics that distinguish this thesis. The development of an independent and new theory, the mentioned Instigatory Theory of NGO Communication, the broadness and complexity of the theory as well as the empirically very elaborate foundation are.

Master Thesis Award for Excellence is an annual prize aimed to celebrate the PR academia and the role performed by European Higher Education Institutions in the evolution of knowledge of this field. The jury, headed by Alexander Buhmann, from BI Norwegian Business School in Norway, selected the winning theses in two categories. The awards have been delivered by Stefania Romenti (EUPRERA director) and Ralph Tench (EUPRERA president):

Theoretical Impact Award

“Building the Nation: Analysing the Scottish Government’s Public Diplomacy Campaign Scotland is Now in the Context of Brexit”, by Melissa Walker . Tutor: Mariola Tarrega, University of Stirling, UK. Brexit is currently one of the most salient and prevalent political challenges in the EU. The complex and uncertain process towards a British independence from the EU has led to a controversial debate over Scottish independence. Melissa Walker’s thesis is situated in this important context and focuses on elements of nation building in the digital campaign “Scotland is Now”. Using the case of the campaign, Walker looks at how elements of nation building are employed to cultivate an image of Scotland, and how these nation-building elements can be related to Scotland’s soft power strategies in the context of Brexit. Overall, the jury congratulates Melissa Walker to a very interesting and topical thesis that focuses on important dimensions of a communication campaign in the complex negotiation processes over nation identity, thereby bridging conceptual insights from public relations, public diplomacy, and work on nation building.

Practical Impact Award

“The Impact of International News and Stereotypes on Country Images. A Case Study of the Swiss Country Image” by Jérôme Chariatte . Tutor: Diana Ingenhoff, University of Fribourg, Switzerland. The study of country images has become a vital research domain within in public diplomacy and international strategic communication. In his thesis, Jérôme Chariatte uses agenda setting theory and news value theory to hypothesize how international news and news factors, such as proximity, come to determine people’s country image. Further, the candidate incorporates a cognitive level in his analysis by including recent discussions on national stereotypes, as well as a newly developed five dimensional model of the country image. For public diplomacy and strategic communication practice, the insights from Chariatte’s thesis offer a complex picture of the conjoined and weighted influence of national stereotypes and the international media on the country image, and assess how they differ along the lines of geographic proximity. The results allow practitioners to better understand the complex process of the formation of country images and can serve as an evidence based source for strategic communication measures accordingly. Overall, the jury applauds Jérôme Chariatte for outstanding academic work that contributes to a topical discussion in the field and offers insights based on a sophisticated research design.

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Public Relations PhD Thesis

03 Jan 2024 - 29 Dec 2024

Hamilton, Tauranga

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2024 Best Online PhD in Public Relations Programs [Doctorate Guide]

You might consider earning a PhD in Public Relations if you are a natural storyteller with a passion for communication and marketing.

A doctoral program in public relations gives you the opportunity to conduct your own research, strengthen your understanding of social media strategy, and boost your writing abilities.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Public relations professionals often go on to make a difference in the relationships between the public and major organizations or famous figures.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Public Relations Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a PhD in Communication. The program requires 81 credits and usually takes 4 years to complete, including 1 to 1.5 years to finish a dissertation. Students can receive faculty mentorship and are part of a supportive community. The program can help prepare for careers inside or outside academia.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a PhD in Media and Communication Studies. The program is designed to provide flexibility for working professionals. Coursework is delivered in a hybrid format, with both online and face-to-face components. Students can enroll part-time, taking two courses at once, or full-time, taking three classes at a time.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Regent University

Regent University’s PhD in Communication program is available almost entirely online, though a 1 week summer residency on campus is required. Regent provides an interdisciplinary curriculum taught from a Christian worldview.

Coursework includes Communication Research: Applied Methods, History of Communication, Theology and Communication, and more. The program requires the completion of 56 to 64 credit hours.

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Salve Regina University

Salve Regina University offers an online program for a PhD in International Relations. Students usually take 4 years to finish, but the program can be flexible. Students take coursework on research methods and are required to complete a dissertation. The program also includes coursework on different countries’ foreign policies and their roles in world affairs.

Salve Regina University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a Doctorate in Communication and Information Sciences. The multidisciplinary curriculum is designed to develop both research and teaching skills. Multiple concentration options are available for on-campus students. The degree may be earned online or on campus. Students at the University of Alabama can enjoy small class sizes and close mentorship from faculty members.

The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online PhD in Public Relations Programs

Public relations is a field dedicated to communication between the public and an organization or individual. Ideally, companies want to use these PR interactions to create strong relationships with their intended audience, building brand loyalty and trust.

A public relations PhD program focuses heavily on conducting research into a variety of topics related to the industry. It also provides the opportunity to study the theories that most impact the current and future state of public relations.

While enrolled in a doctoral public relations program, you’ll likely study the following course topics:

• Rhetorical theory
• Media and politics
• Quantitative research methods in communication
• Public relations research methods
• Business science

Typically, PhD programs require you to complete a dissertation and present it before graduation. Public relations work can involve creating and managing press releases, press conferences, and social media posts.

PR professionals may also promote services or work directly with public figures to manicure and protect their public image. Many professionals who earn their doctorate in public relations choose to become:

• Postsecondary professors
• Public relations specialists
• Researchers
• Public relations managers
• Fundraising managers
• Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers

Most of these potential careers allow graduates of both on-campus and online public relations degree programs to use their communication and marketing skills to strongly impact the way a business interacts and builds relationships with a target audience.

PR Careers & Salaries

A doctoral degree in public relations can open up professional opportunities in the field of public relations itself as well as positions in marketing, research, and education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some common roles among PR professionals.

While there is a wide median salary range for jobs related to public relations, the amount you earn can also be impacted by factors such as place of residence and past experience in the industry.

If you are eager to begin or further your career in any of these positions, obtaining a doctorate in communication or public relations can help you develop your expertise and qualifications. Earning your degree will not guarantee a specific position or salary, though.

Public Relations Ph.D. Curriculum & Courses

Typically, a public relations doctoral program will involve taking a combination of courses from different fields, including statistics, business, and psychology. Here are examples of courses you may come across:

• Rhetorical Theory : You’ll examine the history of rhetorical theory as well as explore rhetorical analyses and how they relate to current issues in communication.
• Media and Politics : In this course, you’ll explore the role that media plays in shaping and impacting current political systems and beliefs.
• Quantitative Research Methods in Communication : After this course, you should be able to understand and apply statistical methods in communication research as well as explain your process and present your findings.
• Public Relations Research Methods : You’ll delve into the role of research in public relations, learning the necessary tools and methods to successfully gather data.
• Business Science : In this course, you’ll learn the basics of financial and managerial accounting.
• Human Behavior : A human behavior class will explore the events that result in human response, covering topics like rational decision-making and social behavior.
• Media Law and Ethics : An exploration of how morality plays a part in interpreting media law, this course delves into topics such as defamation, freedom of speech, and copyright.
• Statistical Research : This course provides the fundamental tools necessary to conduct statistical research, including the collection and analysis of data.
• Communication Science : You’ll learn to look at communication as a science, exploring models from areas like mass communication.
• Dissertation Research : In this course, you’ll begin your research into a selected area of study in the field of public relations, to be presented at the end of your program.

At the core of public relations is the ability to successfully understand and predict human behavior. This skill is applicable to many industries that center around interpersonal interaction, like sales and counseling.

Admissions Requirements

Your application materials work in tandem to paint a detailed picture of you as a doctoral applicant. Here are some common admission requirements:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only when required)
• Letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Personal statement
• Resume or CV

In addition to these materials, some doctoral programs also ask that you submit a research proposal or pass an entrance exam. While the minimum GPA requirement does vary between schools, many PhD programs require a GPA of 3.5 or higher to be considered.

Public Relations Doctoral Programs Accreditation

Accreditation is a self and peer review process for colleges and universities. The accreditation process intends to hold an institution accountable for the educational opportunities it provides its students. In addition, being regionally accredited acts as a stamp of approval for any school, signaling to applicants that the degree they earn will be recognized.

Attending a regionally accredited doctoral program can ensure that the PhD you obtain will be respected by employers and professional organizations. It can also be an eligibility factor for financial aid and can allow you to rest assured that you’ll receive a high-quality education.    

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The costs associated with attending college can be a stressful part of the application process for many individuals. If you find yourself worrying about your budget, you may want to explore the variety of financial aid opportunities.

• Apply for federal financial aid
• Apply for state aid
• Research scholarship opportunities through your school
• Look for scholarship programs through companies or foundations
• See if your employer offers tuition reimbursement benefits

One way to get started is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , which can determine how much federal aid you are qualified to receive. Other need-based financial aid programs may request a copy of your FAFSA as well.

What Is a PhD in Public Relations?

A PhD in Public Relations is a terminal educational program that centers around studying and conducting research into the communication between a target audience and an organization or public personality.

During the course of your studies, you may examine real-world public relations issues and case studies. You can also develop your skills in communication and areas like public speaking and writing. You can learn how to create and organize public relations campaigns as well.

Is Public Relations a Good Career?

Yes, public relations is a good career for many professionals. There is a variety of professional opportunities within the field of public relations. Common roles in the industry include public relations specialist, advertising or marketing manager, PR manager, and fundraising manager.

Many of the available jobs in public relations offer full-coverage employer benefits with higher than average salaries. For instance, the median salary for public relations managers is $125,780 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). PR professionals with a doctorate may also pursue research or teaching positions in postsecondary institutions.

What Can You Do with a Public Relations Doctoral Degree?

A doctoral degree in public relations provides a strong foundation in areas such as communication, marketing, and data analysis. These skills can prove useful in a variety of industries, including public relations.

Professional with a PR doctorate tend to work as a public relations managers, postsecondary teachers, or researchers. Many public relations graduates go on to pursue careers as fundraising, advertising, promotions, or marketing managers as well.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Public Relations Online?

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the number of credit hours required and how long it takes you to complete your dissertation. If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can generally be completed in 3 years with full-time study.

There are several factors that may impact the length of your doctoral program. For example, if you choose to attend school part-time, it will often take you longer to complete your doctorate degree.

What’s the Difference Between Public Affairs vs. Public Relations PhD Programs?

Doctorate programs in both public affairs and public relations are heavily focused on communication, though they can differ in career paths and intended audience.

To help you decide between these two degree paths, you might consider how you are most interested in using your communication and marketing skills.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate in Public Relations vs. Advertising?

While a doctorate in public relations and a doctorate in advertising will both cover communication and market research skills, they often have different focuses.

The field of study that is best for you will likely depend on your personal interests and professional goals.

Is a PhD in Public Relations Degree Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Public Relations is worth it for many students. Professionals with their PhD in Public Relations often work in academia, marketing, and communications, such as professors, fundraising managers, or marketing managers.

Many of these roles are experiencing high employment growth rates, on pace with or faster than the national average. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 13% job growth for PR and fundraising managers and 12% job growth for postsecondary teachers over the next ten years.

In addition to working in a stable sector, many individuals employed in the field of public relations enjoy a fast-paced and challenging work life. This could be motivating and help keep work fresh.

Getting Your PhD in Public Relations Online

A doctorate in public relations can help you advance your professional qualifications and really explore the areas of the industry that you find most intriguing.

Not only can you build up your communication and data analysis skills, but you will also have the opportunity to share your original research with the academic community. You might consider earning a PhD in Public Relations if you are interested in a research or teaching position within academia.

If you’re ready to pursue your terminal degree in this growing field, you can begin exploring online public relations doctoral programs from accredited universities today.

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Writing a research proposal

The research proposal is the main way in which we evaluate the quality of your research plans. You should aim to make your proposal about 1500-2000 words long.

Your proposal should include the following:

The title indicates the overall question or topic of the PhD. It should include any key concepts, empirical focus, or lines of inquiry that you aim to pursue, and it should be concise and descriptive. You can normally discuss changes in the title with your supervisor(s) should you be successful but it is important to try to choose a clear and engaging title.

Research questions

What are the questions or problems for politics or international relations that you are trying to understand and solve? In explaining these, it will be helpful to spell out what else we need to know in order to understand why you are framing the problem this way.

Research aims

In answering these questions, what will your research project do? What will it shed light on or help us to understand that we don’t really understand better?

Contribution

Why this project? Explain why your project is interesting, what its broader implications are, and – if you think this is relevant – why you are particularly well placed to tackle it. It is also valuable to reflect on who has worked on the topic before and to provide a brief literature review. Are there any good approaches to the topic, or particular articles or books, that you are drawing on or bad ones you want to push back against?

What are the sources you plan to use to answer your research questions? These will vary according to the nature of your research but may include study of particular texts, interviews, published or unpublished data, archival or policy documents, or field site visits, among others. Try to be as specific as you can and assess the possibility of access to relevant sources.

This includes thinking about the research methods you will use to analyse empirical sources (e.g., sampling, survey or interview design, data collection, discourse analysis) but may also include setting out the kind of theoretical framework you will employ or your approach to history or political ideas. What prior knowledge and skills do you bring to the project? What extra training may you need?

Structure and timetable

Include a provisional chapter structure and timetable to completion, covering the three years of the full-time programme or six years of the part-time programme, as appropriate.

To help you with your application here are some examples of PhD proposals which were successful in obtaining funding:  PhD sample research proposal 1 (PDF , 96kb) PhD sample research proposal 2 (PDF , 79kb) PhD sample research proposal 3 (PDF , 197kb)

Apply for a PhD now

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The main product of the IR Phd program is the doctoral dissertation. All doctoral dissertations submitted must make a significant and original contribution to the knowledge and understanding of their subject.

To access the doctoral IR track dissertations submitted at the Doctoral School of Political Science, Public Policy and International Relations since September 2009, please click here . 

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