PR graduate jobs & schemes 2025

Graduate roles in PR usually fall into areas like media relations, corporate communications, consumer PR, digital and social media, or public affairs. You might be drafting press releases, pitching to journalists, managing social channels, or supporting campaign planning. Some graduate schemes offer structured rotations, while others place you directly into a specific team from day one.

PR graduate schemes often last 12–24 months and combine practical experience with structured training. You'll work on live accounts, attend client meetings, help draft content, monitor media coverage, and support campaign execution. Agencies usually want grads who can hit the ground running, so expect real responsibility early on, with lots of guidance along the way.

Not necessarily. While degrees in communications, journalism, politics, or English can help, agencies are open to graduates from all disciplines. What matters most is strong written communication, attention to detail, and genuine interest in how organisations manage their public image. If you can think critically, write clearly, and stay calm under pressure, you’re already on the right track.

PR is competitive, but not closed off. What sets applicants apart is how well they understand the industry. Demonstrate curiosity about current affairs, media trends, and recent campaigns. Show that you’ve done your homework on the agency or organisation. Good writing is vital, so make sure your application materials are polished and purposeful—no jargon, no waffle, just clarity and personality.

Starting salaries typically range from £22k–£28k, depending on location and agency size. Career progression can be fairly quick: many grads move into account executive or consultant roles within a year or two. PR rewards initiative, professionalism, and adaptability—if you show maturity and client-readiness early on, you’ll climb the ladder faster than you might expect.