Career roadmap
How to Become a Public Relations Specialist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a public relations specialist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a public relations specialist: (1) earn a degree, (2) build writing samples, (3) intern, (4) get an entry-level role, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a public relations specialist
Earn a degree
PR, communications or journalism.
Build writing samples
Write releases and articles.
Intern
Agencies or in-house teams.
Get an entry-level role
PR coordinator or assistant.
Advance
Become a PR manager or director.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism or marketing is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Accreditation in Public Relations (APR): PRSA credential.
- Certificate in Principles of Public Relations: Entry-level credential.
- Social media certifications: Such as Meta or Hootsuite.
- Crisis communication training: Specialized courses.
Skills to build now
Start with writing, media relations, and crisis communication, and practice communication and relationship building. Learning the public relations specialist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- PR Coordinator: Support campaigns.
- PR Specialist: Manage media relations.
- PR Manager: Lead campaigns.
- Communications Director: Lead communications.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Public Relations Specialist 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
Do PR specialists need a degree?
Usually.
How long does it take to become a public relations specialist?
Most people need about 4 years of training. A bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism or marketing is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a public relations specialist?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and strong writing samples and internships matter.
What certifications are available for public relations specialists?
Common credentials include Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), Certificate in Principles of Public Relations, Social media certifications, and Crisis communication training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-3031 (Public relations specialists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Public relations specialists (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.