You can study public relations as an emphasis of the communication studies major, or as a minor.
The public relations program focuses on the strategic management of an organization’s relationships with its multiple stakeholders. You’ll learn a variety of media that provide communicative avenues to deliver key messages for a product, service, or campaign.
You’ll explore the historical foundations of public relations and create a portfolio including pitch letters, news releases, public service announcements (PSAs) and a comprehensive campaign plan.
You’ll advance your theoretical understanding of strategic communication practices within an increasingly global society and apply your knowledge through real-world campaign planning, implementation, and evaluation for a selected client.
Along with the development of professional writing skills across convergent media platforms, Public Relations students acquire a capacity for analytical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making in the ever-expanding age of digital communication technology.
Hands-On Experiences
- Community-based public relations campaigns
- Networking opportunities with professionals through Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)
- Media kit development for local, regional, and national organizations
- Portfolio-ready public relations writing samples
- Social media planning, creation, and evaluation
- Cross-campus project collaboration
- Internships and study abroad


Career Possibilities
Graduates in this emphasis often choose careers in:
Public relations
- Account executive
- Publicist
- Media buyer and planner
- Crisis communication specialist
- Industry and market relations specialist
- Non-profit manager
Government affairs
- Chief information officer
- Speechwriter
- Press secretary
- Lobbyist
Corporate communications
- Marketing communications coordinator
- Brand manager
- Business development/fundraising
- Financial relations
- Employee relations
