Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya | Requirements and Top Schools

Public Relations (PR) is a vital skill in Kenya’s corporate world, helping organizations, companies, and individuals manage their reputations and communicate effectively with the public. Kenya offers diverse Public Relations courses through several respected institutions, preparing students for promising PR careers. As demand for PR professionals grows due to the importance of crisis management and clear communication, enrolling in a PR course is a strong career choice in Kenya.

This guide covers the top Public Relations courses available in Kenya, universities offering these programs, and the specific requirements to enroll.

Table of Contents

1. Public Relations in Kenya
2. Top Universities for Public Relations in Kenya
3. Requirements for Public Relations Courses in Kenya
4. Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya
5. Online Public Relations Courses in Kenya
6. Cost of Public Relations Courses in Kenya
7. Schools Offering Public Relations Courses in Kenya
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9. Conclusion

Public Relations in Kenya

Public relations in Kenya is integral to various sectors, from corporate and government organizations to non-profits and individuals seeking to build personal brands. PR professionals help manage and enhance the public image of these entities, which is increasingly important as Kenya’s economy grows and companies look to maintain positive public perceptions.

In response, Kenyan institutions offer comprehensive Public Relations courses covering essential skills such as press release writing, event management, and social media strategy. PR is a desirable career path with ample opportunities, especially in organizations prioritizing effective communication.

Top Universities for Public Relations in Kenya

Several Kenyan universities are renowned for their Public Relations programs. Here are some top options:

1. University of Nairobi – Known for its Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, the University of Nairobi is highly regarded by employers.
2. Kenyatta University – Offers a robust BA in Public Relations program that combines theory with practical experiences.
3. Strathmore University – Provides a Professional Diploma in Public Relations suitable for fresh graduates and working professionals.
4. Moi University – Offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations with a focus on writing, visual communication, and project work.
5. Daystar University – Offers one of the most comprehensive PR courses, highly respected in Kenya’s job market.

Requirements for Public Relations Courses in Kenya

Admission requirements vary by institution and program level. Here are common requirements:

• Undergraduate Degree: A minimum mean grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), with specific grade requirements in subjects like English and Kiswahili.
• Diploma Programs: Typically require a minimum of a C- grade in KCSE, though some institutions accept equivalent qualifications.
• Postgraduate Courses: A Bachelor’s degree in a related field, with certain institutions accepting diplomas from accredited colleges.

Additional Requirements: Some universities may require entrance exams or interviews. Prospective students should confirm specific details with their chosen institutions

See: 10+ Best Agriculture Courses in Kenya: Requirements and Fees.

Best Public Relations Courses in Kenya

Kenyan institutions offer various Public Relations programs, each with unique features and areas of focus.

1. BA in Public Relations – University of Nairobi
   This four-year course covers communication theories, crisis communication, and public relations principles. The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.
2. BA in Communication and Public Relations – Daystar University
   Known for its strong industry connections, this program emphasizes public relations writing, media relations, and internships.
3. BSc in PR and Corporate Communication – KEMU
   Kenya Methodist University offers a four-year program focusing on corporate communication strategies, accredited by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).
4. BA in Public Relations – Mount Kenya University
   This course offers a curriculum that includes ethics, communication law, and responsible PR for sectors like NGOs and corporates.
5. PGD in PR and Digital Media – Africa Digital Media Institute
   A one-year postgraduate diploma program targeting professionals interested in digital media and communication.
6. Professional Diploma in Public Relations – Strathmore University
   This program covers public speaking, digital marketing, and event management, making it ideal for working professionals.
7. Diploma in PR – Kenya Institute of Mass Communication
   Offers both diploma and certificate programs, focusing on practical communication skills essential for the PR industry.
8. BA in Public Relations – African Nazarene University
   This program combines communication theory with real-world applications in fields ranging from corporate communication to public health.

See: International Relations Courses in Kenya: Requirements and Fees

Online Public Relations Courses in Kenya

Many Kenyan institutions now offer online PR courses, providing flexibility for working professionals. These courses cover the same material as in-person classes and include interactive elements like video lectures and online discussions.

Notable Online Courses:

• University of Nairobi: Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
• Kenya Methodist University: Bachelor of Science in Public Relations

See: International Relations Courses in Kenya: Requirements and Fees

Cost of Public Relations Courses in Kenya

The cost of obtaining a Public Relations degree varies:

• Certificate or Diploma: Between KES 50,000 – KES 150,000 per year
• Bachelor’s Degree: KES 100,000 – KES 300,000 per year
• Top Universities: Programs at institutions like the University of Nairobi can cost around KES 200,000 to KES 500,000 annually.

Private universities and colleges tend to have lower fees, typically ranging from KES 50,000 to KES 200,000 per year.

See: Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya | Requirements and Fees

Schools Offering Public Relations Courses in Kenya

Here is a list of Kenya’s top institutions for Public Relations:

1. University of Nairobi – Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, practical training with state-of-the-art facilities.
2. Kenyatta University – Offers a hands-on BA in Public Relations.
3. Strathmore University – Professional Diploma in Public Relations.
4. Moi University – BSc in Public Relations.
5. Daystar University – Renowned for its communication and PR programs.
6. Mount Kenya University – BA in Public Relations with internships.
7. Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) – Focuses on practical PR skills.
8. Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS) – Known for comprehensive PR training.
9. Technical University of Kenya (TUK) – Focuses on event planning and corporate communication.
10. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) – Covers media relations and public speaking.

See: Comprehensive Guide to JKUAT Courses, Qualifications, and Fees

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which university is best for Public Relations in Kenya?

• The University of Nairobi is highly regarded for Public Relations courses.

Is Public Relations a good career in Kenya?

• Yes, it is well-paid and in high demand.

How long does a Diploma in PR in Kenya take?

• It typically takes two years.

Conclusion

A Public Relations degree or diploma from a reputable institution in Kenya can open doors to a rewarding career in various industries. The courses mentioned above provide comprehensive training to help students excel in PR, from managing corporate reputations to government and nonprofit communications.