Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Public Relations Major, B.S.


Department of Journalism and Media Production  

College of Letters, Arts and Sciences  

  Program Available Format(s): In-Person  

About the Program


Students pursuing the B.S. degree in Public Relations build on the fundamentals 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.

Students in all JMP programs are expected to demonstrate common industry standards such as active participation, professional conduct, academic integrity, and adherence to deadlines.

Student Outcomes

  • Think critically and evaluate sources.  
  • Apply Associated Press style guidelines to their writing.  
  • Create original works of reporting.  
  • Analyze ethical and legal considerations in the field.  
  • Demonstrate professional, collaborative behavior.  
  • Create strategic PR plans and execute tactical activities.  
  • 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.

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. 

Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Requirement: 0 or 3 credits


  • Students should consult the Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Graduation Requirement  for a list of courses that fulfill the ESSJ 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: 21 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: 9 credits


Students complete the major with nine credit hours of electives, three of which need to be upper division. Any JMP course is an acceptable elective, but the following list is particularly suited to the degree.

Senior Experience: 3 credits


Summary of Requirements


General Studies Requirements 33 credits
ESSJ Requirement 0-3 credits
Department Core 12 credits
Major Required Courses 21 credits
Major Electives 9 credits
Senior Experience 3 credits
Unrestricted Electives 39-42 credits
Total for the Public Relations Major, B.S. 120 credits

Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and ESSJ 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.