Unlock a PR Career Boost: Apply for the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026

If you’re a graduate student looking to break into the public relations industry, the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026 offers a powerful opportunity to gain hands-on experience, earn competitive pay, and publish your research. This prestigious summer fellowship combines real-world PR work with research and industry exposure, making it ideal for students ready to take their careers to the next level. Applications close on April 17, 2026.

About the Opportunity

The Ketchum PRISM Fellowship for Excellence in Public Relations Research, Insights, Strategy, and Measurement is a highly competitive program designed for graduate students in public relations, communications, business, and related fields.

Organized by Ketchum Analytics in collaboration with the Institute for Public Relations (IPR), this fellowship focuses on bridging the gap between academic research and real-world PR practice. It emphasizes “research that matters,” equipping participants with the ability to generate insights that directly impact communication strategies and business decisions.

The fellowship runs for eight weeks during the summer (mid-June to mid-August 2026) and takes place in person at one of Ketchum’s offices in New York City, Chicago, or Dallas. During this period, fellows will work closely with Ketchum’s Analytics and Strategy teams, contributing to real client projects and gaining exposure to the inner workings of a global PR agency.

In addition to practical experience, fellows are required to produce a research paper aimed at industry practitioners. This paper, which should incorporate modern tools and innovative approaches, may be published on the Institute for Public Relations website—offering significant professional visibility.

What You’ll Gain

This fellowship offers a combination of financial, professional, and academic benefits:

• Paid experience at $22 per hour for approximately 40 hours per week
• Hands-on PR industry exposure, working on real projects with experienced professionals
• Research publication opportunity on the Institute for Public Relations platform
• $2,500 grant awarded upon acceptance of the research paper
• Industry recognition, including participation in the IPR Annual Awards Gala in New York City
• Skill development in analytics, strategy, and communication research
• Networking opportunities with leading PR professionals and researchers

This opportunity is particularly valuable for students aiming to build a career in public relations, communications strategy, or research and analytics.

Why This Opportunity Matters

In today’s data-driven communication landscape, public relations is no longer just about messaging—it is about insights, measurement, and strategic decision-making. Organizations increasingly rely on research to understand audiences, evaluate campaigns, and drive impact.

The Ketchum PRISM Fellowship addresses this shift by training the next generation of PR professionals to think critically, analyze data, and produce meaningful insights. By combining hands-on agency experience with research development, the program ensures that participants are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.

Moreover, the opportunity to publish research and present findings to industry audiences gives fellows a competitive edge. It allows them to build credibility, expand their professional network, and position themselves as thought leaders early in their careers.

For students seeking to stand out in a competitive job market, this fellowship offers both practical experience and long-term career value.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be a graduate student (Master’s or PhD) in public relations, communications, business, or a related research field
• Have completed at least one year of study
• Demonstrate fluency in written and spoken English
• Be able to work at least three days per week in person at a Ketchum office (New York City, Chicago, or Dallas)
• Be available to work approximately 40 hours per week during the fellowship period

Post-doctoral candidates are also encouraged to apply.

Applicants should have a strong interest in public relations research, measurement, and strategy, as well as the ability to translate complex ideas into practical insights.

Application Process and Deadline

To apply for the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship, candidates must prepare and submit the following materials:

• Statement of Interest: Explain why you are a strong candidate for the fellowship
• Research Prospectus (max 1,000 words): Outline the research topic you plan to explore
• Resume: Highlight relevant academic, research, or professional experience

Applications are reviewed by a panel of public relations researchers and practitioners. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews with Ketchum.

Deadline: April 17, 2026
Fellowship Period: Mid-June to mid-August 2026
Final Paper Deadline: November 10, 2026

To learn more and apply, visit the official Ketchum PRISM website.

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