FAQ

Whether you’re working full- or part-time, you can complete all of the Diploma in Public Relations through a flexible delivery format.

With distance education, you can complete courses without attending the university. Our distance courses include web-based learning and print packages. All courses have an official start and completion date. The instructor facilitates weekly learning objectives and course work, and all assignments are submitted online. Visit Distance Education Services to learn more about the components of distance education,

The Diploma Program in Public Relations includes seven mandatory courses and three elective courses. View the schedule for more information.

The diploma program provides participants with knowledge, skills, and practical application in the following areas:

• Strategic methods to manage public relations and communications planning and programs.
• Exploration of a broad range of topics that comprise public relations practice. These include media relations, issues management, crisis communication, use of effective communication tools, and communication planning.
• The history, evolution, and theory of the public relations profession.

Specialists in the field of public relations work in the public and private sectors and in non-profit organizations and societies. Employers are seeking credentialed professionals who have current knowledge of this field. Visit the Canadian Public Relations Society for more information.

Each course is 12 weeks long with an official start and end date.

Each course costs CAD$465 for Canadian students for early registration (two weeks before course start) or CAD$495 for regular registration. The cost for international students who reside in or out of Canada is CAD$500 per course. Please note that this price does not include the costs of textbooks or course packs.

We take applications on an ongoing basis, but you must apply to the program before registering for courses. Download and print the form.

You can register online, by telephone, by fax or mail. Visit our registration page for more information.

Yes. Partnerships have been established with the following institutions: Athabasca University,Thompson Rivers University, Open Learning (TRU) and the University of Phoenix.

PR courses are delivered through a course management system called Moodle. You’ll need a reliable connection to the internet to access online courses.

See the Computer Requirements necessary for accessing Moodle courses. For more information visit the Distance Education site

When you register for a course, we’ll email you the UVic textbook order form with your official course receipt. The textbook order form will include information on how to order textbooks and/or course manuals, whether the material is required or optional, and the cost of materials including shipping charges. If you live in the Victoria area, you may pick up the materials in person if you prefer. Visit the UVic Bookstore site for more information.

The cost for textbooks depends on the course, as courses may have required or optional textbooks. Some courses also require a course manual and 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 library website to learn more about the services available.

Our instructors have extensive experience in communication planning and developing communications tools - both print and electronic. They work with boards of directors, CEOs, corporations and government, as consultants and strategic planners to develop strategies to communicate the organization's mission and policies.

Instructors set the evaluation criteria for each course. Within the course, grades may be combination of assignments and/or quizzes and/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 DCS registration page to learn more about bursaries.

You can view and change your contact information (telephone number, mailing address, email address) online. You can also view and print off your unofficial transcripts. For more information on how to access your student profile visit the My Account section.

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit proof of English proficiency (TOEFL iBT a score of 90 or higher; 233 computerized version; 575 paper version). Please contact us at publicrelations@uvcs.uvic.ca for more information.