Public Relations | Faculty of Arts

many cameras at a press conference — Faculty of Arts

Department of Communication

Communication - Undergraduate studies

Public Relations

Program overview

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Public relations is about promoting ideas. It means developing brand awareness and using communication tools in traditional or non-traditional media to shape public opinion. In Canada, there is a high demand in the public relations industry. As a PR specialist, you will tell stories about people and organizations. Developing communication plans and materials that could help take businesses or NGOs to the next level is all in a day’s work. You will become a pro at adapting to crises and finding quick and innovative solutions to real issues.

The Department of Communication offers this Honours Bachelor in Public Relations jointly with:

Algonquin College (in English);
La Cité (in French);

Combining both theory and practice, this program will give you a key competitive advantage.

There are three ways to fulfill the degree requirements.

Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive both a university degree and a college diploma.

Why choose this program

High Demand Industry: Public relations is a sought-after field in Canada that offers opportunities to shape public opinion, promote ideas and develop brand awareness for businesses and NGOs.

Theory and Practice: The Honours Bachelor’s in Public Relations program combines both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, providing you with a competitive advantage in the industry.

Dual Credential Program: You can earn both a university degree and a college diploma by completing the program, with options to start at either the University of Ottawa or one of its academic partners: Algonquin College or La Cité.

Flexibility in Program Completion: There are multiple pathways to fulfill degree requirements, including starting at the University of Ottawa and transferring to a partner college or vice versa, allowing you to tailor your educational journey to your needs and preferences.

Diverse Career Opportunities: After graduation you can pursue various career paths, such as public relations officer, media relations officer, speech writer, spokesperson, or communications officer, with opportunities to work in both traditional and non-traditional media environments.

Program structure

Get a glimpse into how uOttawa’s Public relations program is structured and the courses you’ll have the opportunity to take.

Understand program path and options

View course catalogue

Browse program options

4 years120 units

Honours Bachelor in Public Relations (start at uOttawa)

Register for the Honours bachelor's degree at the University and, after completing 60 credits (four terms), transfer to Algonquin College (in English) or La Cité (in French) to complete the diploma program in public relations. Because of space limitations at Algonquin and La Cité, the University can only accept 25 students per language stream. In addition, upon completion of 60 credits at the University of Ottawa, you must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 6.0/10 (70%) to be admitted to Algonquin College or La Cité.

Program structure

Course sequence

4 years120 units

Honours Bachelor in Public Relations (start at Algonquin)

Start by completing two years in public relations at Algonquin College (a minimum average of 3.0 is required) and then transfer to the Honours Bachelor in Public Relations at the University of Ottawa to do four more semesters (60 credits). The University has no registration limits in this stream.

Program structure

Course sequence

4 years120 units

Honours Bachelor in Public Relations (start at La Cité)

Start by completing two years in public relations at La Cité (a minimum average of 2.7 is required) and then transfer to the Honours Bachelor in Public Relations at the University of Ottawa to do four more semesters (60 credits). The University has no registration limits in this stream.

Program structure

Course sequence

Admission requirements and deadlines for Public Relations

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Students can complete this program in two ways:

Start by completing two years of public relations at Algonquin College and then transfer to the University of Ottawa to do four more semesters (60 units).
Register for the Honours Bachelor’s degree at the University and, after completing 60 units, transfer to Algonquin College to complete the Diploma Program in Public Relations.

After your studies

After completing your undergraduate studies in Public relations, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your education or entering the workforce.

You may choose to pursue graduate studies, such as a Master’s degree (MA or MC), to deepen your knowledge and develop advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. A research-based MA is ideal if you’re interested in specializing in a topic or eventually pursuing a PhD, while the Master of Communication (MC) offers a more practical approach, with the option of gaining professional experience through co-op placements.

Alternatively, you can move directly into the job market. Your degree can lead to a variety of careers in fields such as public relations, media relations, communications, speechwriting, or spokesperson roles. These opportunities allow you to apply your skills in writing, strategy, and communication in real-world settings.

Whether you choose further studies or enter the workforce, your degree provides a strong foundation to build a career in public relations.

Potential Career Paths

Tuition and fees

Learn about the costs associated with your program and explore the scholarships and funding options available to help support you along the way.

Tuition fees

Scholarships and bursaries

Student experience

Communication Student Association (CSA)

Be part of the Communication Student Association (CSA)! Year-round they organize social, academic, philanthropic, and professional events just for you.

Student Association of the Faculty of Arts (SAFA)

SAFA represents the interests of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Arts within the UOSU, the Faculty, the University, the community, and the provincial and federal governments. The students’ association also works to foster a sense of community through social, academic, and cultural events, while at the same time offering a variety of services to its members.

JDLC Ottawa

You speak French? Join the "Jeux de la communication" (JDLC), the University of Ottawa’s team knows how to stand out, both academically and socially, at this prestigious competition.