FAQ
Public Relations Manager FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a public relations manager.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a public relations manager: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about public relations managers
What is the APR?
Accreditation in Public Relations, a respected credential.
Is pay high?
Yes, BLS reports high median pay.
Do PR managers handle crises?
Yes, often.
How much does a public relations manager make?
The median annual wage for public relations managers was $146,910 ($70.63 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $82,410 and the highest 10% earned more than $284,990.
How long does it take to become a public relations manager?
Most people need about 5+ years of experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications or journalism and years of experience are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a public relations manager?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is public relations manager a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.7% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 6,100 openings each year. Upsides include high pay; a common challenge is that crisis pressure.
What skills does a public relations manager need?
Key technical skills include communications strategy, media relations, crisis communications, and writing. Employers also value judgment, leadership, and persuasion.
What certifications are available for public relations managers?
Common credentials include APR, CFRE, Crisis communications training, and Master’s. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Public Relations Manager fit quiz, compare with Public Relations Specialist, or explore Public Relations Manager training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-2032 (Public relations managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Public relations managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.