PRP285
Strategic Communication
Effective communication doesn’t happen by chance. It requires strategy, insight and a deep understanding of audiences.
In this course, you’ll learn how to design communication strategies that align with organizational goals, influence public opinion and deliver measurable results. Drawing on research, behavioural science and persuasion principles, you’ll explore how strategic communicators build trust, drive engagement and support organizational success. You’ll develop practical skills in audience analysis, persona development, message design and channel selection, ensuring your communications reach the right people with the right message at the right time. You’ll also examine emerging challenges and opportunities like misinformation, artificial intelligence and the rapidly changing media landscape.
Through real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, you’ll learn how to plan, implement and evaluate communication strategies that support leadership, strengthen relationships and create lasting impact.
The final assignment for this course is due one week after the course ends.
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
Duration: 5 weeks
Tuition: $595
Can be applied to:
Public Relations Certificate
Automatically applies to:
Strategic Public Relations Microcertificate
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
Duration: 5 weeks
Tuition: $595
Can be applied to:
Public Relations Certificate
Automatically applies to:
Strategic Public Relations Microcertificate
Upcoming Offerings
- Thu, Oct 22 - Wed, Nov 25 (self-paced within deadlines)
- Thu, Jan 14 - Wed, Feb 17 (self-paced within deadlines)
- Thu, May 6 - Wed, Jun 9 (self-paced within deadlines)
What you will learn
After completing this course, you’ll be able to do the following:
- Align communication planning objectives with organizational goals
- Design an evidence-based strategic communication plan
- Present a strategic communication plan with confidence
- Create audience-centric communications by applying principles of strategic communication
- Evaluate the success of communication strategies
How you will learn and be evaluated
- Prepare to spend 6–10 hours per week on coursework
- Expect readings and other assignments on a weekly basis
- Plan to access the course at least once every few days to keep up with your work and class discussions
You will be evaluated on:
- Assignments
- Participation in online discussions
Learning Materials
No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.
Technical Requirements
For online courses, you will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course. For more information and online support, visit Online Learning.
English Language Requirements
To succeed in this course, you will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. If you are unsure whether your English language skills are sufficient, we recommend you complete the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with the following minimums:
- Overall band score minimum 6.5
- No band below 6.0
- Writing band score minimum 8.0
Please note we can’t refund your registration fees after the course start date if you find your English language skills are not adequate.
If you have questions or concerns about your English language proficiency, we encourage you to contact your local IELTS Test Centre.