Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Public Relations Major, B.S.


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Programs

Department of Journalism and Media Production  

College of Letters, Arts and Sciences  

  Program Available Format(s): In-Person  

About the Program


Students in the Public Relations major will build upon the fundamentals of journalism and media production in a program that focuses on the theories and methods for helping organizations and individuals nurture their reputations so that they can achieve their goals; employing communication strategies and tactics that influence internal and external stakeholders and prospects in the general public; and that prepares individuals to function as public relations assistants, technicians, and managers. Students receive instruction in public relations theory; related principles of persuasion, marketing and journalism; message/image design; image management; media relations; community relations; public affairs; and internal and external communication.

Student Outcomes

  • Promoting critical thinking and evaluation of sources.  
  • Developing students who apply Associated Press style guidelines to their writing.  
  • Developing students who create original works of reporting.  
  • Fostering the ability of students to analyze ethical and legal considerations in the field.  
  • Promoting an environment of professional, collaborative behavior.  
  • Demonstrate ability to create strategic PR plans and execute tactical activities.  
  • Demonstrate ability to work collaboratively within a team and professional environment. 

General Degree Requirements


To earn a degree, students must satisfy all requirements in each of the four areas below, in addition to their individual major requirements. 

Program Requirements


  • A total of 120 semester hours are required for graduation. 
  • A grade of C- or better is required for each course in this program to count toward the bachelor’s degree. Students should note that programs differ in the minimum grade required. 
  • A minor is required for this program. 

General Studies Requirements: 33 credits


Students should consult the General Studies Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the General Studies Requirements for degree completion.  

  • Written Communication (6 credits) 
  • Oral Communication (3 credits) 
  • Quantitative Literacy (3 credits) 
  • Arts and Humanities (6 credits) 
  • Historical (3 credits) 
  • Natural and Physical Sciences (6 credits) 
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits) 
  • Global Diversity (0 or 3 credits**)

 

** Students will fulfill the global diversity requirement by taking an approved course within one of the following categories: arts and humanities; historical; natural and physical sciences; or social and behavioral sciences. 

Multicultural Requirement: 0 or 3 credits


  • Students should consult the Multicultural Graduation Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the Multicultural Requirement for degree completion.  
  • Many programs include courses that meet this requirement. Students should consult with their advisor to determine what program courses may fulfill this requirement.

Department Core: 12 credits


All Journalism and Media Production majors begin with the following courses and prepare a portfolio for evaluation:

Public Relations Courses: 25 credits


All Public Relations majors take the following specialized courses, including a Portfolio Review and approved Senior Experience course. Public Relations Lab is a repeatable course and may be taken for up to six credit hours.

Major Electives: 6 credits


Students complete the major with six credit hours of electives. Any course offered by the department is an eligible elective. Please select electives in consultation with an adviser.

Senior Experience: 3 credits


Summary of Requirements


General Studies Requirements 33 credits
Multicultural Requirement 0-3 credits
Department Core 12 credits
Major Required Courses 25 credits
Major Electives 6 credits
Senior Experience 3 credits
Minor and Unrestricted Electives 38-41 credits
Total for the Public Relations Major, B.S. 120 credits

Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and Multicultural requirements, so the total credits listed may be greater than the number required to complete the degree. Therefore, it is important that you work with your advisor to make sure you are meeting requirements for your degree.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Programs