Career roadmap
How to Become a Public Relations Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a public relations manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a public relations manager: (1) earn a communications bachelor’s, (2) work as a PR specialist, (3) lead campaigns, (4) earn the APR, (5) become a manager. Most people need about 5+ years of experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a public relations manager
Earn a communications bachelor’s
PR or journalism.
Work as a PR specialist
Experience.
Lead campaigns
Senior specialist.
Earn the APR
Credential.
Become a manager
Lead teams.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications or journalism and years of experience are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5+ years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- APR: Accreditation in Public Relations.
- CFRE: Certified Fund Raising Executive.
- Crisis communications training: Helpful.
- Master’s: Optional.
Skills to build now
Start with communications strategy, media relations, and crisis communications, and practice judgment and leadership. Learning the public relations manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- PR Specialist: Entry.
- Senior Specialist: Lead campaigns.
- PR Manager: Lead teams.
- Chief Communications Officer: Lead strategy.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Public Relations Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
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.
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.