Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026: Paid Summer Opportunity for PR Grad Students
Are you a graduate student passionate about public relations research? The Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026 offers a chance to gain real-world experience in research, insights, strategy, and measurement. This paid summer program targets students in public relations, communications, or business fields.
Program Overview
The Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026 runs for eight weeks in the summer of 2026. It takes place in person at Ketchum offices in New York City, Chicago, or Dallas. Fellows work with the Analytics and Strategy teams on projects for various clients. These projects cover measurement, analytics, and strategic research. Participants get exposure to a full-service PR agency and its tools.
At the end, fellows write a research paper for industry practitioners. This paper uses top tools for PR insights. It must be rigorous but not academic. Fellows can add creative elements like infographics or videos. The Institute for Public Relations (IPR) may publish it on their site.
Key Benefits
Fellows earn $22 per hour for an average of 40 hours per week. They must work at least three days a week in the office. The program builds hands-on skills in the PR industry.
After completing the paper, accepted publications come with a $2,500 grant from IPR. Fellows also get recognized at the IPR Annual Awards Gala in New York City on December 3, 2026. This boosts resumes and networks in PR.
Who Can Apply
Graduate students in public relations, communications, business, or research qualify. You need at least one year of study completed for a Master’s or Ph.D. Post-doctoral candidates may apply too. Full fluency in written and spoken English is required.
How to Apply
The deadline is April 17, 2026. Submit these materials:
- A statement of interest explaining why you deserve the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026.
- A research prospectus of 1,000 words or less on your planned topic.
- A resume with PR work, research, or related experience.
Apply through the online form at SurveyMonkey. For details, check the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship page. Start preparing your application now to stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship 2026?
It is an eight-week paid summer program for graduate students in PR, communications, or business. Fellows work in Ketchum offices in New York, Chicago, or Dallas on real client projects in research and strategy.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Graduate students in public relations, communications, business, or research with at least one year of Master’s or Ph.D. study completed qualify. Post-doctoral candidates and those fluent in English can also apply.
What are the benefits of the program?
Fellows earn $22 per hour for about 40 hours a week and gain hands-on PR skills. Top research papers may get published with a $2,500 grant and recognition at the IPR Awards Gala.
How do I apply for the Ketchum PRISM Fellowship?
Submit a statement of interest, a 1,000-word research prospectus, and resume by April 17, 2026. Use the online form at SurveyMonkey via the Institute for Public Relations website.