Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

Related Areas of Study

What is Public Relations?

Public relations is the area of work that deals with the perception of an individual, organization, product or company  with the intent to remove negative publicity and endorse positive exposure. Individuals will be responsible for creating events, press releases, contacting news agencies and acting as liaison between the client and the public. Individuals in this field may work for a firm, work for a single client in house, or maintain a client list.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$66,540

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

44.30%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

226,940

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Public Relations Degree

Georgetown University currently has more than 17,000 students and nearly 190,000 alumni from all over the world. It is one of the leading universities in academic learning and research, providing students with a diverse, dynamic and friendly environment.

It developed a masters degree in public relations and corporate communication that prepares students with planning, creative skills, and critical thinking. The degree program has 30 credit-hours and concentrates on research, writing, and ethics. Students can choose full-time or part-time courses that can be completed in one to two years.

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of Southern California is located in Los Angeles and is known as a global center of art, international business and technology. It offers a variety of curriculum plans and provides students with opportunities to stand out in the industry. 

The university’s School of Journalism outlined an undergraduate public relations program that teaches students the law and principles of freedom of speech as well as demonstrates the importance of gender, ethnicity, race, and sexual orientation in mass communications. Accompanied by experienced professionals, students will be mentored and prepared to become responsible employees and citizens. Graduates of this program can serve as assistants, writers, public relations coordinators, etc.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Located in Virginia, Washington and Lee University is one of the oldest schools in the United States. It values intellectually curious students and helps them to become engaged in the community.

Its Department of Journalism and Mass Communication offers two Bachelors of Arts degrees: Journalism and Strategic Communication, each with more than 100 credit hours. Students in this course, guided by dedicated and expert instructors, will study communication law, journalism ethics, in-depth reporting, and other journalism related courses. Before completion, students of both courses will attend internship programs and must submit a student portfolio.

Acceptance Rate

18.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Boston University accommodates over 34,000 students and offers more than 300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in its 3 campuses. Its mission is to provide the community with accessible higher education, artistic creation and scholarships.

Since 1947, the university has been a provider of quality education in public relations. Its faculty and staff are well-known scholars and award-winning professionals who teach outstanding courses and practice students by providing hands-on guidance, exams and training. Boston University offers a bachelor and master degree program in journalism that prepares the individuals for a long and outstanding career.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Established in 1883, the University of Texas in Austin aims to achieve excellence in its educational programs and to provide superior opportunities for professionals who still want to pursue their studies. It values learning, discovery, growth, and freedom of its students.

It offers a 120-credit hour program in Public Relations degree that focuses on English, government, American history, social sciences, natural science, math, and fine arts. Students can also enroll for elective courses while studying the program. The curriculum includes foreign language, global cultures, quantitative reasoning, ethics, and cultural diversity of the United States. Graduates of the program will also earn a Bachelor of Science degree.

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Miami is composed of a dynamic community of students, staff, and faculty. It has a vibrant and diverse environment that concentrates on giving quality service and knowledge for its students to have a long-lasting and rewarding career.

It has a public relations undergraduate degree program under the university’s school of communication. The students enrolled in the program will learn how to promote a product, a business, or image in the global marketplace. It stresses on the importance of computers, research, and media to the public relations industry. Throughout the four-semester program, students will have an opportunity to work with experts in a professional environment.

Acceptance Rate

27.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Founded 168 years ago, the University of Florida, aims to strive for a greater impact to the community and help change the lives of the people for the better. It provides students with various study programs, such as graduate and undergraduate, international, online, and professional courses.

The university provides scholarships to students to help them meet their educational needs. Through its public relations major, students will not only learn diversity, ethics, social responsibility, and political participation, but will also learn the importance of a friendly and supportive environment. Students can also choose a more flexible and convenient learning through online platforms and its combination program wherein students can graduate and receive their master’s degree for only one extra year. 

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Georgia is known as the birthplace of higher education in the United States. It provides world-class education and is committed to inspiring students to become strong and dedicated professionals in the industry.

It houses over 38,000 currently enrolled students and has produced more than 300,000 alumni worldwide. The department of advertising and public relations of the university offers a top rated Public Relations degree program designed to train individuals as creative thinkers, planners, and analysts in the public relations field. It focuses on preparing students to become an effective entry-level employee in advertising, marketing, and promotion. The university also offers a study abroad program where students can live and study in another country. 

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

George Washington University has more than 450 student organizations and courses, can accommodate more than 26,000 students, and provides outstanding education through its enthusiastic faculty. The university is also a member of Division I in the NCAA. 

One of its Master’s programs in Strategic Public Relations in which students can unlock their communication and critical thinking potentials. The purpose of the program is to enhance students' understanding and skills in strategic communication, writing, planning, interpreting, leadership and professional ethics. It also has flexible educational time, suitable for the schedule of the in-service professionals in the program.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Syracuse University provides an opportunity for its students to work and learn alongside experienced professionals. It offers various degree programs and activities that empower the sense of well-being of students as well as helping them discover their true potential.

The university knows how fast the public relations industry becomes. That’s why it designed a program that focuses on public relations. With the instructions and guidance of experienced professionals, individuals enrolled in the program will learn how to be a well-rounded public relations practitioner and earn skills that are relevant in the industry. Graduates of the 13-month program will obtain a Master’s degree in Public Relations. 

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

For nearly 150 years, Texas Christian University has been a private and progressive university for men and women in the community. It has a mission to be the best place to build the character of an individual.

With the focus to create an effective, innovative, and responsible education, the university offers a strategic communication program that encourages students to practice their skills in writing, broadcasting, and communication. Students at TCU will also learn how to conduct research using various platforms and learn how to have an effective marketing campaign. Students can choose to have a degree in the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, or a combined master and bachelor degree program.

Acceptance Rate

47.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

American University in Washington accommodates a diverse group of dreamers, activists, artists, scholars, and servant-leader students. As a student-centered institution, the university trains students to become the leaders of tomorrow.   Its School of Communication outlined a Public Relations and Strategic Communications program. To enroll for the course, applicants must meet the requirements such as a 2.50 average and 120-credit hours. Throughout the programs, participants will learn extensive lessons that they can use for a rewarding career in the industry, these include classes in speechwriting, political advertising, media, culture, and the like. Students will also have an option to choose both bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in one program. 

Acceptance Rate

36.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Southern Methodist University has nearly 12,000 students from the United States and 90 other countries. The university is located in Dallas and provides hands-on research, community service, leadership development and innovation programs. 

Its research field focuses on public relations, and applicants can choose between two bachelor of arts and associate degree programs for corporate communications and public relations. Students who want to take public relations as their major must have completed 12 credit hours and must have finished taking Communication Theory as well as Free Speech and First Amendment subjects. The program will focus on public speaking, writing, professional development, media and technology, and sports development.

Acceptance Rate

47.29

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Chapman University is committed to being an institution that prepares individuals for a challenging and rapidly changing industry. It was established in 1861 and currently has 50,000 alumni worldwide.

The mission of the university is to provide personalized education and enhance students' living standards, and has designed public relations and advertising courses so that students will learn appropriate plans and effectively carry out communication activities. During the first two years, students will develop their strategic understanding in visual, design, and digital marketing. Graduates will have experience in providing excellent communication skills.

Acceptance Rate

55.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The campus of Gonzaga University covers an area of 152 acres, with 23 students per class, and a teacher-student ratio of 11:1. It prepares students to serve God and the public interest wholeheartedly, while working hard to educate their mind, body and spirit. 

The university’s college of art and sciences has developed a program in public relations that teaches students how to manage communication between the media, public, and organizations. The program will also enhance the students’ skills and abilities by providing excellent lectures and hands-on internship training. Graduates of this program can work as public relations staff in companies, universities and other institutions. 

Acceptance Rate

61.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of Denver is committed to providing opportunities and empowering its students with unique abilities on a global scale. It can also promote learning in critical, creative thinking and develop knowledge.

With the aim to help aspiring public relation specialist, the university offers a Master’s degree program in public relations. It consists of courses such as strategies for building connections with the community, the use of mass media, quality content creation and persuasive principles. The ten-week semester has a flexible study schedule, and students can choose between evening courses and online courses according to their needs.

Acceptance Rate

58.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

One of the largest universities in the United States, Temple University has over 40,000 students and offers a dynamic learning environment in Philadelphia. It has a mission to provide affordable and excellent education and engage the students in the community and the ever-changing industry.

The BA in Public Relations is one of the highly regarded degree programs at Temple University. It consists of 124 credits and can be completed in 4 years. Students can learn proper communication and practice their knowledge and skills in critical thinking, writing, and speaking. Upon the completion, graduates will be prepared to enter the industry and become highly respected public relation professionals.

Acceptance Rate

60.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

In order to become a leading Jesuit university in the United States, the University of San Francisco offers a variety of degree programs to provide students with the knowledge and capacity needed to succeed in their chosen industry. It is equipped with diverse and highly qualified teachers that are committed to the student’s well-being.

The university offers work and internship programs for the students who are enrolled in communication studies. Students in this course explore a wide range of communications and public practices in the political and commercial fields. Students can also choose a major or minor in communications or a minor in public relations depending on their career trajectory. 

Acceptance Rate

64.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Sacred Heart University establishes the character of students, provides career and educational opportunities, and promotes personal growth. Its focus is on providing high-quality learning in liberal arts and social justice. 

The university offers a public relations master’s degree program that aims to teach effective strategic communication to individuals. The Sacred Heart will work with industry experts to provide students with excellent education to develop their practical skills and accumulate experience to build a career. Full-time students can graduate within one year, and part-time students can study courses for up to two years.

Acceptance Rate

63.92

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Drake University accommodates nearly 5,000 students worldwide who are enrolled in its 90 programs. The university ensures that it provides high-quality courses as well as scholarships and other activities for its vibrant community. 

It allows students to learn communication skills, planning, and research that will establish their network in the public relations industry. Through the program, students can also enroll in a double major in business, marketing, and psychology, while teaching communication lessons and strategic planning. Graduates of this program will have the opportunity to become employees of companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations and marketing agencies.

Acceptance Rate

67.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Brigham Young University was founded by the Church of Jesus Christ. It is committed to providing spiritual reinforcement, character development, and intellectual expansion of academic programs. 

It offers a 46-credit hour public relations degree program has a limit of 200 students per term. Applicants must have completed at least one writing course and have a B grade to be eligible for the program. The university aims to help students be knowledgeable in writing, editing, digital skills, technology, research, freedom of speech, ethics, history, critical thinking, domestic and international diversity, and theory to help them achieve successful careers.

Acceptance Rate

67.49

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

SUNY College in Oswego is recognized as the best comprehensive university in the United States, with outstanding teaching staff It provides a welcoming and student-centered environment that produces loyal alumni.

Its public relations degree teaches students how to develop strategies and techniques through research and case studies. Students can also participate and become a member of the Public Relation Student Society, this opportunity will help grow the network and experiences of the students. Upon completion, graduates will apply their research and problem-solving skills for their careers in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

54.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

SUNY College in Plattsburgh is a private liberal arts college with a vibrant community that thrives to change life on campus. It was established in 1889, although it was not officially opened to the public until 1890. 

In the Department of Journalism and Public Relations at the State University of New York, students are welcome and encouraged to train under the discipline of Public Relations. For more than 100 years, the department has cultivated many alumni who are well-known and influential in the fields of communication and public relations. What makes SUNY College’s curriculum unique is, it focused on theory and skills with the balance of practical experience to get their students job-ready.

Acceptance Rate

58.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Harding University is a private liberal art institution, with over 5000 enrollees annually and is distinctive for its affiliation with the Churches of Christ. As a Christian school, Harding University is committed to build a community which supports and seeks to uplift students towards excellent higher learning education.

Communication majors at Harding University have a reputation nationally and internationally through their unmatched skill sets, ethics, and morals. Majors of this program are required to finish a five-part undergraduate research, which collects and analyzes the data of their chosen topic. For graduates of this program, Harding University communications graduates are employed to high levels of corporate communication jobs.

Acceptance Rate

61.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Taylor University is a private liberal arts college with Christian influence and affiliation. It is recognized as one the oldest non-denominational Christian universities with a strong commitment to integrating faith through following Christ’s calling.

The Department of Communication at Taylors University enjoys a reputation for a 95% employment rate and excels in bridging the connections between its students and businesses across the country. Its public relations major trains students to develop and execute public relations activities in different environments including companies. Through the use of project-based courses, it highlights the application of theory to student learning experiences.

Acceptance Rate

68.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Top Public Relations Degrees

Public relations impact virtually every aspect of your life.  Earning a degree in public relations will help uncover all the subtle and overt ways public relations permeates society.  Online degrees in public relations can be found from several accredited colleges and universities around the country.  The primary degrees in PR include a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.  A summary of both programs can be found below to help you make a great decision for your future.

Public Relations Bachelor's Degrees

Online bachelor degrees can be conferred as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS).  Bachelor degrees are 4-year programs for full-time students and longer for students matriculating on a part-time basis.  A bachelor’s degree blends liberal arts classes with core business classes to provide students with integrative thinking skills and a well-rounded education.  Liberal arts classes will generally include communications, history, statistics, art, psychology, and creative writing.

Core business classes in public relations will vary by school and programmatic design.  However, a student will typically an array of classes to bolster their communication and technical prowess.  Classes will generally include the following: advertising basics, marketing, marketing research, consumer behavior, international marketing, business communications, media writing, visual literacy, organizational management, organizational ethics, and project management.

Public Relations Master's Degrees

Online master degrees in public relations provide students with essential tools for today’s business professionals.  Master degrees can be conferred as either a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS).  Graduate degrees in PR will take about 2-years of full-time matriculation to complete with part-time students taking longer as a function of course load.

Coursework is rooted in real-world communication theories and practices to help craft compelling messages that are on-point for local, regional, or national audiences.  A series of academic theories and case studies help prepare students to develop, create, execute, and measure effective integrative communication campaigns.  With a public relations degree in hand, students pursue a wide variety of careers in a variety of industries.

Career tracks can include the following job types: marketing, advertising, corporate communications, copywriting, social media, editing, training development, reporting, media management, employee relations, nonprofit communication director, speechwriting, and organizational development.

Public Relations Requirements

Individuals studying public relations will be able to pursue a degree starting at the bachelor degree level. Much of the education is taught in conjunction with business, and utilizes facets of marketing and advertising as part of its curriculum. Individuals will study how the flow information, and control of it, can affect public perception, and how to utilize a variety of methods in order to disburse the desired information in order to achieve maximum effect.

Modern programs will include mass media and internet components in the curriculum as the primary sources for information. A curriculum in public relations may include:

  • Modern Mediums
  • Event Planning
  • Business Relations
  • Psychology
  • Mass Communication

Employment Growth in Public Relations

Individuals in this field will seek employment with a single client, firm or eventually have their own client list as a private business. Individuals will generally work under managers in order to assist varying clients of a firm to ensure that needs are met and relations maintained.

Job growth is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade as the demands of public relations changes and trained individuals with an understanding of technology and modern mediums of dissemination come into higher demand. Combined with the retiring individuals, or those who change professions, job opportunities in the field should be plentiful in the coming years.

Public Relations Salary & Career Overview

The average salary for a public relations employee is near $91,000 annually, with the lowest ten percent earning less than $49,000 per year. Individuals will earn higher pay based on success and performance, with movement into management or developing  private firm typically earning more through the establishment of higher pay rates.

Public Relations Resources

Individuals interested in public relations may also consider a career in advertising, organizational leadership, organizational psychology, or political communication.  Organizations such as the PRSA and the IPRA provide unique benefits to PR professionals around the country.  PR majors serious about making an impact may choose to join such organizations and become involved in mentoring others in the field.

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com