M.A. in Advertising, Public Relations & Corporate Communication is a two-year postgraduate program that equips students with advanced skills and strategic thinking for the modern integrated communication landscape. It covers advertising, public relations, corporate communication, digital marketing, influencer engagement, content creation, and event and brand management.
The curriculum combines theory with practical application, introducing students to branding strategies, media planning, consumer psychology, ethical advertising, crisis communication, and campaign management, while also incorporating AI-driven tools, social media analytics, and AR/VR technologies.
To be eligible for the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations, the candidate must have completed their bachelor's degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised university. The admission process relies on entrance procedures like CUET PG entrance exams.
Some of the popular universities/ colleges offering M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations are St Joseph's University, Bangalore, Kishinchand Chellaram College, Amity School of Communication, Amity University, MCNUJC, Bhopal, Jagran Lakecity University, Xavier School of Communications, Xavier University, Rashtrasant Tukadoji, Maharaj Nagpur University, Bangalore University, Sharda University and SGT University Gurgaon. The fee ranges between INR 30,000 to INR 3,00,000.
Graduates can pursue careers in copywriting, marketing communication, creative direction, digital media, corporate communication, public relations, government, advertising, media planning, brand management, and event management. The individuals can earn up to INR 3 LPA to INR 15 LPA.
Table of Contents
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Highlights
- What is an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
- Why study an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
- Who should study an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Eligibility Criteria
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Entrance Exams
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Colleges in India
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Admission Process 2025
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Syllabus
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations: Job Opportunities in India
- M.A. Advertising & Public Relations FAQs
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Highlights
Given below are some of the basic key highlights for the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations:
What is an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
M.A. in Advertising & PR is a 2-year postgraduate program that teaches advanced brand communication, public image management, advertising techniques, and media strategy, preparing students to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences.
- The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical training in ad campaign design, press release writing, crisis communication handling, media planning, budgeting, and public speaking, with students participating in real-world campaigns, case studies, internships, and capstone projects.
- The program trains students in managing corporate reputation, influencing public opinion, and designing advertisements aligned with marketing goals, with a special emphasis on social media strategies, content marketing, influencer and celebrity PR, and communication analytics.
- Many universities offer specialisations in areas like Political Communication, Entertainment PR, Brand Strategy, Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC), and Digital and New Media Advertising, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals.
- The degree is ideal for creatives and strategists interested in creative writing, visual storytelling, design, strategic thinking, media planning, and campaign management, offering pathways in creative departments and client-facing roles.
Why study an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
Given below are some points on why you should pursue an M.A.in Advertising & Public Relations. Let’s have a look at them:
- This M.A. course in Advertising & Public Relations is highly sought after in today's media-driven world, preparing students to manage advertising campaigns, public image, crisis communication, and brand visibility, making them indispensable across various industries.
- The course offers diverse career paths globally, including Public Relations Manager, Brand Strategist, Media Planner, Content Marketer, Corporate Communication Executive, and Digital Advertising Specialist, with roles in MNCs, startups, ad agencies, PR firms, government bodies, and non-profits.
- The program equips students with essential skills such as strategic thinking, copywriting, campaign design, digital marketing, social media analytics, media handling, event coordination, and multimedia storytelling.
- The program is designed for individuals who enjoy creative storytelling and want to participate in data-driven decision-making.
- It teaches the integration of creative content with communication strategy for maximum impact.
- It offers opportunities for entrepreneurship and freelancing, including independent PR consultants, freelance content creators, ad strategists, and founders of creative agencies or media firms, enabling flexibility in the evolving gig economy.
Who should study an M.A. in Advertising & Public Relations?
Here are some of the points on who should pursue the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations course:
- It is designed for communication professionals who want to work in advertising agencies, PR firms, digital marketing, corporate communication, or media houses, providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
- Graduates from Arts, Media, or Business backgrounds, including Mass Communication/Journalism, English/Literature, Psychology/Sociology, and Marketing/Business Studies, will find the program builds on their foundational skills.
- Creative Thinkers and Strategic Planners are ideal for individuals who enjoy writing, designing, visual storytelling, campaign ideation, organising, analysing, and managing communication strategies.
- The course is ideal for freelancers and budding entrepreneurs seeking credibility in PR consultancy, advertising agency, or content studio, enhancing practical skills in branding, client handling, and strategic planning.
- Professionals seeking career shifts into media and communication roles, brand management, and public-facing corporate positions from other fields.
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Eligibility Criteria
To get enrolled in the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations program applicants are required to meet certain eligibility criteria. Given below is the eligibility criterion commonly set by all the institutions offering the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations program in India:
- Candidates must have completed a Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised university.
- Candidates must qualify the entrance exam and participate in group discussion and personal interview rounds for the final selection phase.
- The reserved category candidates will receive a 5% mark relaxation.
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Entrance Exams
Given below is the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations entrance exam, along with the application date and application fees.
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Colleges in India
Given below are the top colleges in India offering M.A. Advertising & Public Relations courses.
Click here to know more about MBA Advertising Management
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Admission Process 2025
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations admissions can be accessed through either the entrance examination mode or direct admission through a quota. The admission process at Sharda University is mentioned below:
Step 1: Visit the Sharda University admissions official site and choose the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations.
Step 2: Fill in the online application form with all the necessary details, upload scanned images of your photograph and signature, and pay the application fee online.
Step 3: Choose your admission mode: With a valid CUET PG Score.
Step 4: Complete the application and print it out for your records.
Step 5: Appear for the CUET PG scores are both valid and received.
Step 6: Wait for the release of merit lists: Each CUET PG participant has a separate merit list prepared by Sharda University.
Step 7: If shortlisted, go to the official site to see whether you have been selected, and follow the process for admission confirmation.
Step 8: Confirm your seat by paying the admission fee.
Step 9: Complete the document verification as per the institute's requirement.
Step 10: Now, receive the details regarding the commencement of classes after completing the formalities.
Documents Required:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets.
- Graduation Marksheets
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card
- Migration certificate
- Character certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Signature
- Caste Certificate (If any)
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations Syllabus
The syllabus for the M.A. Advertising & Public Relations is similar in all three institutes offering the course; however, a few subjects or duration may vary, but core subjects remain the same in all. For reference, please check the MA Advertising and Public Relations syllabus from Sharda University.
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations: Job Opportunities in India
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations graduates can work in top hospitals, private clinics, research institutions, teaching, healthcare consultancy, and government health services across India. Given below are the job opportunities in India.
M.A. Advertising & Public Relations FAQs
How to secure a seat in the MA Advertising and Public Relations?
To secure admission to a top college, applicants must achieve an Intermediate level score of over 90%. Most institutes offer admission through entrance exams, so preparing well for these exams is crucial. Before shortlisting colleges, it's essential to check the placement rate, course delivery method, admission system, and financial aid offered by the college. This will help aspirants secure a place in the best college.
What are the additional career prospects after pursuing an MA in Advertising and Public Relations?
The individual is a creative, script, copy writer, advertising executive, PR/corporate communication professional, client servicing, event manager, account manager, marketing executive, systems manager, consultant, corporate manager, business development manager, product brand manager, and media planning manager.
What are the skills learned after graduating from the MA Advertising and Public Relations?
The M.A. program in advertising and public relations is gaining popularity due to the growing reliance on digital platforms, with professionals focusing on online reputation management, AI-driven ad targeting, influencer marketing, and personalised campaigns.
Are internships mandatory during the course?
Yes, Most programs involve mandatory internships or live projects in ad agencies, PR firms, or corporate communication teams to ensure industry exposure.
Can I pursue a PhD or further studies after this course?
Yes, pursuing an M.Phil. or PhD in Communication, Media Studies, or related fields can lead to academic and research careers.