Focus Keyword:
Public Relations (PR) in India has transformed dramatically over the last decade. It’s no longer a profession limited to writing press releases or coordinating media events. Today, PR professionals shape narratives, influence public perception, build brand credibility, manage crises, and support business strategy. With India’s media environment expanding and digital platforms exploding with new forms of storytelling, PR has become one of the most exciting, fast-growing career paths for young professionals.
For many students wondering how to become a PR in India, the good news is that the field is open, dynamic, and filled with opportunities across industries—from tech and finance to entertainment, lifestyle, public policy, sustainability, and startups. This guide breaks down the complete roadmap: study options, essential skills, required qualifications, top colleges, salaries, employer types, and the real steps to entering the PR world.
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Study Paths: Degrees and Courses That Lead to PR Careers
The traditional pipeline into PR typically begins with humanities, communication, or social science backgrounds. However, students from business, science, and commerce can also enter successfully. What matters is communication ability and strategic thinking.
Best Undergraduate Degrees for PR
- BA in English
- BA in Journalism and Mass Communication
- BA in Psychology
- BA in Sociology
- B.Com with Marketing
These degrees help build language skills, research ability, interpersonal awareness, and an understanding of human behaviour—all invaluable in PR.
Best Postgraduate Degrees for PR
- MA in Mass Communication
- MA in Public Relations
- PG Diploma in Public Relations & Corporate Communication
- MBA in Communications
- MSc in Communication Studies
A postgraduate degree is not mandatory, but it does offer significant career leverage—especially at top agencies or corporate communication roles.
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Popular Short-Term Certifications
- Digital Marketing
- Media Law and Ethics
- Analytics & Measurement Tools
- Influencer Engagement Strategy
- Crisis Communication Management
These certifications strengthen practical skills and make candidates far more employable in a digital-first PR industry.
Top Colleges in India for PR, Media & Communication
If you want to build a strong foundation in storytelling, strategy, brand communication, and public relations, these institutes consistently rank among the best, according to NIRF, QS and top education surveys.
1. Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi
Known for its specialised diplomas in Advertising & PR, strong industry exposure, and excellent placement networks.
2. MICA, Ahmedabad
India’s premier institute for strategic communication, brand management, consumer insights, and marketing leadership.
3. Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC), Pune
Renowned for postgraduate programs in Communication Management with corporate-backed placements.
4. Jamia Millia Islamia – AJK-MCRC, New Delhi
One of the most respected media institutes in Asia, offering journalism, PR and broadcasting courses.
5. Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC), Mumbai
Popular for diplomas in PR, digital strategy, corporate communication, and content creation.
6. Amity School of Communication, Noida
Offers UG and PG programmes in journalism, advertising, PR, and integrated communication.
Core Skills You Need to Become a PR Professional in India
PR firms and corporate communication teams hire based on a combination of technical skillsets and behavioural abilities. Mastering the following gives any candidate a strong competitive edge.
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1. Strong Writing & Storytelling
The ability to turn complex information into clear, compelling narratives is the backbone of PR.
2. Media Relations
Understanding how newsrooms operate and maintaining strong journalist relations is key.
3. Social Media Management
PR pros must know how to shape brand narratives on Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and emerging platforms.
4. Crisis Communication
The ability to manage public backlash, controversies, or misinformation responsibly.
5. Analytics & Measurement
Using tools to track sentiment, media reach, engagement, and campaign performance.
6. Event Management
Launching products, handling press conferences, and managing brand experiences.
7. Emotional Intelligence
Listening, empathy, and relationship-building form the emotional foundation of PR work.
In Ritika Garg’s words: “Good work rarely speaks for itself in the real world.” This is why strategic storytelling matters as much as visibility.
Where the Jobs Are: Scope of PR in India
According to industry reports such as PRCAI’s SPRINT 2024–25 and analyses by Ipsos, the Indian PR industry crossed ₹2,500 crore in revenues, driven largely by digital PR, public affairs, corporate advisory, and influencer management.
Job opportunities are expanding across:
- PR & communication agencies
- Corporate communication teams
- Government and public policy organisations
- Startups and tech firms
- NGOs and advocacy groups
- Entertainment, fashion, and lifestyle sectors
Newer roles include:
- Influencer strategist
- Digital PR manager
- Public affairs analyst
- Crisis response lead
- Content and reputation manager
Salaries in PR: What You Can Expect
PR salaries vary depending on city, skill level, agency reputation, and sector. A general estimate:
Entry-Level (0–2 years): ₹3–4.5 LPA
Typical roles: PR Executive, Account Coordinator
Mid-Level (3–7 years): ₹8–18 LPA
Typical roles: PR Manager, Account Manager, Corporate Communications Associate
Senior-Level (8+ years): ₹20 LPA and above
Roles include: Group Head, Senior Manager, Director, Partner
In major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, median salaries hover near ₹8 lakh per annum for specialists.
Top PR Agencies & Employers in India
Students exploring how to become a PR in India should know which companies dominate the market:
- Adfactors PR
- Edelman India
- MSL
- Weber Shandwick
- Genesis BCW
- Ogilvy PR
- Avian WE
Large corporations in IT, pharma, FMCG, energy, and finance also maintain strong in-house communication teams.
How to Start Your PR Career: Practical Steps
- Begin with internships at PR agencies or newsrooms.
- Build a portfolio of writing samples, media coverage, and case studies.
- Learn monitoring and analytics tools (Meltwater, Talkwalker, Google Analytics).
- Develop strong LinkedIn visibility and network with industry professionals.
- Learn how to pitch stories effectively.
- Understand brand voice and messaging frameworks.
- Strengthen your research and crisis-handling abilities.
As Ritika often says: “Start messy, start scared, but start.”
Real-world work and consistent outcomes will open doors faster than any theoretical qualification.
Conclusion
PR in India is more than a job—it’s a blend of communication, psychology, strategy, and human insight. For those who enjoy shaping stories, tackling challenges, and creating visibility for brands or individuals, PR offers a rewarding and fast-growing path. With the right education, skills, exposure, and mindset, anyone can build a thriving career in the field. As India’s digital economy expands and public narratives become more influential than ever, the demand for skilled PR professionals will continue to grow.
Whether you’re a student, jobseeker, or mid-career professional, learning how to become a PR in India is your first step toward entering a powerful, impactful industry—one where storytelling meets strategy and every message matters.
