Robert Gordon University (RGU) has joined forces with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) to launch a Specialist Diploma in Crisis Communications.
The CIPR is the leading body for PR professionals, dedicated to raising standards in the sector and championing professionalism in the industry.
With 10,000 members from all sectors, the CIPR is the largest membership association for PR professionals in Europe, and this most recent linkup with RGU strengthens a relationship which has been established over the last 10 years.
The course, the only of its kind in Scotland, aims to provide participants with the tools, concepts, frameworks and confidence to navigate the exceptionally complex landscape of issues and crisis.
Aimed at public relations professionals, the course, which is accredited by the CIPR, will explore the world of business and public sector, analysing the fundamentals of rapid response and data gathering, cultural and unconscious bias, human psychology and emotions, and crisis preparedness.
Izzy Crawford, from RGU’s School of Creative and Cultural Business and course leader for the new Specialist Diploma, commented: “This exciting new qualification will offer professionals from all walks of life a fast and affordable way to gain vital skills in crisis communications.
“The world is an unpredictable place but there are steps you can take to be better prepared and this course is designed to share that knowledge.
“At RGU we have extremely close links with industry and our courses are often tailored to the specific needs of industry. We look forward to working closely with our partners at the CIPR to deliver this exciting new course.”
Alastair McCapra, chief executive of the CIPR, added: “A crisis can blow up at any time. An organisation can be engulfed so quickly that it is more important than ever to have suitably qualified public relations professionals in place.
“The CIPR’s globally renowned qualifications equip students with the skills and confidence to deliver strategic value for clients and businesses. I’m delighted that students at Robert Gordon University will be able to benefit from the course from September this year.”
For more information on the CIPR Specialist Diploma in Crisis Communication please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/crisiscommunications.