Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations consists of 18 courses (49 credit hours). In the Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, students learn the theories of communication influencing how public relations (PR) is practiced while developing the knowledge base and skills they need for critical thinking, speaking and writing—the basic foundations for becoming a PR professional.

The goal of the Public Relations major is to help students understand public relations is an ongoing communication and relational process, not a position. Viewed this way, public relations requires responsible, thoughtful reflection and action from all levels of organizations, not just those in leadership positions. This approach requires competencies of self-awareness, oral and written communication skills, ethical decision-making and action, and the ability to understand audiences' needs, wants and desires, and generate mutual win-win scenarios using a variety of communication tools to generate a vision and lead with, through, and for others to bring about positive change.

This program will build both knowledge and skills for students to understand true public relations, e.g., "relating" to publics through building a meaningful two-way dialogue built on mutual trust and respect, and be able to effectively formulate a position and influence and empower others. They will be able to use the knowledge gained from this program to bridge the divide between the theoretical and practical application in the organizations they work in (for-profit, non-profit, government and non-government organizations) and industries and the communities they serve.

Requirements for the Degree

Summary of Requirements

1. University requirements:
   1. New students are required to complete the General Education (GenEd) curriculum.
   2. All students must take a minimum of two writing-intensive courses. The specific writing-intensive courses required for this major are PR 1496  and PR 3096.
2. Lew Klein College of Media and Communication requirements.
3. Minimum of 49 credits in Public Relations courses and CSI 1111 or CSI 1911.
4. A grade of C or higher must be attained in all required Public Relations courses and CSI 1111 or CSI 1911.
5. An overall GPA of 2.0 must be attained in the major.
6. No more than 12 semester hours of transfer credits may be applied to Public Relations major requirements.
7. No more than 8 credits may be taken in Kinesiology and Dance activities courses.

Public Relations Requirements

Suggested Academic Plan

Please note that this is a suggested academic plan. Depending on your situation, your academic plan may look different.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations

Requirements for New Students starting in the 2020-2021 Academic Year