1.     What makes this programme different from studying public relations (PR) or marketing alone?

This programme combines both PR and marketing, allowing students to explore two areas of brand communication: building public trust and promoting brand value. Rather than specialising in just one area, students gain knowledge in both, developing a broader skill set. This helps them understand how PR and marketing work together in real-world contexts, from planning integrated campaigns and managing media relations to designing marketing strategies and measuring campaign impact. If you’re someone who enjoys creativity, strategic thinking, and communication, this dual-focus programme provides more flexibility for future career paths.

2.     Is the programme more theoretical or practical?

It’s a balance of both. We learn the foundational concepts and theories of communication, branding, and media, and then put them into practice through coursework like research assignments, group projects, and presentations. I appreciate this mix because it helps me understand the ‘why’ behind our approaches, while also practising the ‘how’ through real-world applications.

3.     What kinds of assignments do you usually do?

Most assignments involve writing and strategising. We’ve worked on PR plans, brand analyses, and digital content strategies, as well as press releases and media kits. Many of these are group-based, which teaches us how to coordinate and delegate responsibilities, much like in real jobs. At the same time, the assignments give us the chance to explore new ideas while still presenting them in a polished, professional way. What’s more, no two assignments are alike, which keeps the learning engaging and challenging.

4.     What’s the learning environment like?

The learning environment is very collaborative. Since many assignments are group-based, teamwork plays a big role. Lecturers are supportive, which makes it easy to ask questions and clarify concepts. Classes are also interactive—we’re encouraged to participate in activities, discuss ideas, and apply theories rather than just understanding them. Personally, I’ve grown more confident working with others, sharing my thoughts, and contributing meaningfully to discussions within this collaborative environment.

5.     What skills does the programme equip you with, and how do they prepare you for the workplace?

The programme has equipped me with a wide range of skills that extend beyond the classroom. I’ve strengthened my communication skills, from copywriting to public speaking, as well as critical thinking and strategic planning. Regular teamwork has taught me to collaborate effectively, adapt quickly to different working styles, and manage responsibilities efficiently. I’ve also learned to balance creativity with productivity, producing original, high-quality work while meeting deadlines. These skills directly prepare me for the workplace, helping me build a strong portfolio and become industry-ready in PR and marketing.

6.     How does the programme help you develop your creativity and prepare for creative roles?

The programme has taught me that creativity isn’t just about having ideas, but shaping them into something practical and impactful. In group projects, we learn to be original in designing campaigns, considering audiences, platforms, and outcomes, which helps turn ideas into actionable solutions. At the same time, the programme prepares us for real-world roles through internships, competitions, and industry events. Many seniors in the programme have completed internships at PR agencies, media outlets, and corporate communications departments. Altogether, it equips us with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to enter the creative field.

7.     What opportunities does the programme provide for learning beyond the classroom?

Plenty! We’re encouraged to get involved in clubs and societies, competitions, and industry events that complement what we learn in class. For those interested in PR specifically, the Institute of Public Relations Malaysia Students Association (IPRMSA) Taylor’s University Chapter is a supportive community where you can connect with peers, engage in workshops, and network with professionals in the field. There are also opportunities to take on leadership roles in student initiatives, join collaborative cross-department projects, and work on real-world communication campaigns. 

8.     What should I know before joining the programme?

One thing to know is that public speaking is a core component of the programme. You’ll do lots of presentations, so being shy can feel challenging at first. But don’t worry—practice makes perfect, even if you’re an introvert like me! Group work is also a major part of almost every module, so taking responsibility, collaborating effectively, and communicating clearly really matter in teams. I also wish I’d known earlier just how important time management is for balancing assignments, projects, and deadlines.

9.     What do you find most challenging about the programme?

For me, the biggest challenge is the amount of group work. Working with different personalities can be tricky, especially when responsibilities aren’t evenly shared. But it also teaches patience, tolerance, and conflict resolution. Time management is another challenge, particularly when multiple deadlines overlap, but it has also helped me become more organised and disciplined. Although these challenges can be demanding, the sense of accomplishment when everything comes together makes it all worthwhile.

10.     What’s your favourite module and why?

Since I love writing, my favourite module is Media Writing. It balances creative freedom with professional standards through practical work, including news articles, press releases, and feature stories. Mr Fizlan, our lecturer, made the module insightful through his constructive feedback, which helped me refine my skills and build my confidence. Being able to see my progress while exploring topics I’m passionate about made the module both rewarding and inspiring.