MP6033 - Public Relations in Context

What will I learn on this module?

This module aims to develop your understanding of the principles of Public Relations theory and concepts so you can apply them to real-world public relations strategies. You will develop your skills in presenting and working in teams. The module will enable you to utilise a case study approach, involving the analysis of a public relations scenario. You will be briefed about the case study, analyse it in teams, and then deliver an assessed pitch for a contract. The module aims to develop skill-sets that are key to working in the Public Relations industry, and which will be invaluable in terms of future employability.

How will I learn on this module?

The module is taught via a 2 hour-long tutor-led lecture, and a 1 hour-long workshop during which you will address and discuss issues raised in the lecture session. During the taught sessions, you will develop skills in applying Public Relations theory to practice-based tasks. These tasks will allow you to receive formative feedback, and so your work in these sessions will lead you towards the module’s summative assessed pitch.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported in a variety of manners: the module tutor is available to discuss issues both during and outside scheduled teaching. Tutors can discuss issues during pre-determined Office Hours each week, and also via email. Additionally, information, teaching materials and other support is available through the Electronic Learning Portal system.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
KU1: Critically evaluate PR theory and apply to practice.

KU2: Plan and propose realistic strategic solutions to the case study, and deliver these in a PR pitch to encourage employability.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
IPSA1: Demonstrate ability to work collaboratively in teams.

IPSA2: Critically assess and analyse a Public Relations brief.

How will I be assessed?

The module will be summatively assessed with the delivery of a 15-20 minute PR pitch (worth 70%) which is underpinned by an individual 1500 word critical report (worth 30% of final mark).

The PR pitch will be 15-20 minutes in length, and will be delivered in groups. The pitch will allow you to demonstrate your strategic thinking, as well as your ability to present with flair and creativity. The 1500 word critical report will allow you to reflect on your practice within and contribution to the pitch in greater detail.

You will receive formative feedback on your understanding of Public Relations theory and concepts during the workshops. Class discussion will test your ability to critically engage with issues relating to the application of Public Relations theory in an academic fashion and allow you to demonstrate your understanding of the theoretical concepts raised in the lecture sessions. You will also have the opportunity to discuss your ideas with your peers during the workshop sessions.

Under normal circumstances, you will receive written feedback on your summative submissions within 20 working days. The feedback will normally be supplied electronically as part of the ESAF process. This feedback will provide a detailed account of your research/methodological skills, critical engagement and communicative ability, as well as supporting future learning by indicating areas for development. You can also request additional verbal feedback on your submissions by arranging a meeting with the module tutor.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Public Relations is developing at break-neck speed in the 21st Century, and the pitch is at the heart of securing a new client base. This module aims to develop your understanding of the principles of Public Relations theory and concepts so you can apply them to real-world public relations strategies. You will develop your skills in presenting and working in teams. The module aims to develop skill-sets that are key to working in the Public Relations industry, and which will be invaluable in terms of future employability.

Course info

UCAS Code P3P2

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Design Arts and Creative Industries

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

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The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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