How to Get into PR or Marketing Without a Degree (And Still Build a Career)

How to Get into PR or Marketing Without a Degree (And Still Build a Career)

How to Get into PR or Marketing Without a Degree (And Still Build a Career)



You’re a natural at storytelling, love the idea of shaping brands, and thrive on creative challenges. But there’s just one (tiny) problem - everyone seems to be asking for a degree.

Here’s the good news: a degree isn’t the only way to break into PR, or marketing.

In fact, many of the most successful professionals in this industry got their start through hands-on experience, personal branding, and a whole lot of networking.

We’ve worked with professionals who’ve built incredible careers without ever stepping foot in a uni lecture.

So if you’re wondering how to get your foot in the door, we might be able to help. Here are some tried and tested ways to make your mark in the industry - without a degree.

1. Get Real-World Experience (Even If It’s Unpaid at First)

The best way to learn PR or marketing is by doing it. And that doesn’t have to mean landing a formal internship - there are plenty of ways to gain experience on your own. Volunteering to run social media for a local charity (Volunteering for the RSPCA in Hillingdon, Uxbridge is how Dru first got his knack for marketing), helping a small business with branding, or even managing a friend’s podcast promos can all give you (and help build) valuable skills.

We’ve seen people kickstart their careers by offering to create content for niche events, writing press releases for startups, or running their own marketing blog. These experiences help build a portfolio, and when it comes to PR and marketing, nothing speaks louder than results.

2. Build a Personal Brand (Yes, It Matters)

One of the biggest trends in 2025 is the rise of personal branding. Social media isn’t just for influencers - it’s where professionals showcase expertise, connect with industry leaders, and attract job opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn, Threads, and even TikTok are full of people building their careers by simply sharing their perspectives, insights and experiences.

We encourage aspiring marketers and PR professionals to start putting themselves out there. Share thoughts on industry trends, document what you’re learning, or create content that shows off your skills. It might feel awkward at first, but trust us - hiring managers and recruiters take notice.

One of the best real-world examples we’ve seen? A junior marketer who landed a job after consistently posting creative campaign ideas and flow breakdowns on LinkedIn. It’s proof that expertise isn’t just about a degree - it’s about showing what you can do.

3. Grow Your Network (It’s Not as Scary as It Sounds)

The PR and marketing world thrives on connections. The good news? Networking doesn’t have to be about awkward small talk at industry events. These days, it’s as simple as engaging in online discussions, attending virtual webinars, or even reaching out to someone with a thoughtful question.

We’ve seen professionals land opportunities just by commenting on industry posts, joining niche Slack or Discord groups, or collaborating with others in the field. The trick is to be genuine - ask for advice, share your own insights, and look for ways to add value to conversations.

A great starting point? Follow PR and marketing leaders on LinkedIn, engage with their content (a comment goes a long way), and participate in discussions. You’d be surprised how many people are open to helping those who show enthusiasm and initiative.

4. Learn Online (Because There’s No Excuse Not To)

If you don’t have a degree, building your skill set is even more important. In 2025, there are more learning resources than ever.

From free YouTube tutorials to in-depth courses on Coursera, Udemy, and HubSpot Academy, there’s no shortage of ways to develop expertise in marketing, PR, branding, and digital strategy. The key is to stay curious - whether that means mastering the latest AI-powered marketing tools or understanding what makes a press release go viral.

We always recommend staying ahead of industry trends. For example, emerging technologies like AI-driven content marketing, predictive analytics, and micro-influencer collaborations are shaping the way brands engage with audiences. Keeping up with these shifts can help you stand out - even without formal education.

5. Stay Open to Change (Because This Industry Moves Fast)

One thing we always tell aspiring marketers and PR pros is to be adaptable.

This industry changes rapidly, and those who succeed are the ones who embrace new trends and tools.

Right now, AI is transforming content creation, short-form video is dominating engagement, and brands are investing heavily in community-driven marketing. Staying ahead of these trends - whether through online courses, industry blogs, or simply experimenting on your own - is what sets professionals apart.

We’ve seen people with zero formal experience land jobs by mastering a niche skill that brands desperately needed, like TikTok marketing or AI-powered SEO.

The lesson? Stay curious, experiment often, and never stop learning.

Ready to Get Started?

At Reuben Sinclair, we believe that passion, persistence, and real-world experience can open just as many doors as a degree. The key is to get hands-on, build connections, and constantly refine your skills.

If you’re already on this journey, we’d love to hear your story. What’s helped you break into the industry? What challenges have you faced? Do reach out to us.

Because at the end of the day, PR and marketing aren’t about where you studied - they’re about what you can create, communicate, and inspire.