The Diploma in Public Relations Management at Walter Sisulu University is a three-year qualification at the Butterworth campus that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to build and manage mutually beneficial relationships between organisations and their publics. The programme covers corporate image and reputation management, crisis communication, internal and external communication, media relations, and corporate social investment. In South Africa's complex stakeholder environment — where government, business, communities, and media interact daily on issues of service delivery, governance, and corporate responsibility — effective public relations professionals are highly sought after.
English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 60–69% (Level 5)
Any other language: 50–59% (Level 4)
Any other two subjects: 50–59% (Level 4)
APS: 21
Public Relations Officer – Develop and implement PR strategies, draft press releases, and manage media relations for government departments, SOEs, or corporate brands across South Africa.
Corporate Communications Manager – Lead internal and external communications functions for large organisations, managing reputation, messaging, and stakeholder engagement across multiple channels.
Government Spokesperson or Communications Director – Manage media interactions, public briefings, and communications strategy for government ministers, premiers, or executive authorities.
Social Media and Digital Communications Specialist – Build and manage an organisation’s social media presence, monitor sentiment, and execute digital campaigns for brands competing in South Africa’s growing online space.
Crisis Communications Consultant – Advise organisations on managing reputational crises, media incidents, and public controversy, a high-value skill in South Africa’s intensely scrutinised public and corporate environments.
