Abstract:

This dissertation aims to study Public Relations education impact and the contribution that theories and research make to the Public Relations practice and its professionalism status.

Extensive research was undertaken to achieve the aim and objectives of this dissertation. Secondary research includes a comprehensive research of the related literature. Primary research includes questionnaire and interviews, where the views of PR practitioners were elicited.

The Public Relations practice was examined as a study area. The development of Public Relations education and its contribution to the Practitioners roles and professionalism has been investigated to provide background for the study. Public Relations practitioners’ roles within the organization have also been examined.

Using theories from the secondary research, the view of Public Relations practitioners were analyzed. Opinions on the importance of Public Relations education and practitioners’ behavior have been investigated in terms of whether academic theory and research are used to enhance the practice. The author has also investigated practitioners’ opinions on the value of Public Relations education in enriching the practice.

The results of the research show that the Public Relations education has an increasing contribution to the role of PR practitioners along with the professionalism in the industry. The report also finds that practitioners value PR education and believe it would be more effective when combined with experience.

The report provides some basic insights to future exploration into the contribution that education makes to the performance of practitioners.