Students just beginning their studies in public relations may be interested in the two-year associate's degree program in the field from Tulane University. Coursework includes expository writing, principles of public relations, ethical issues in the media, introduction to journalism, public relations campaigns, media and the law, visual communications and introduction to media arts. Students also complete general core classes including critical thinking, business statistics, small group communications and social sciences. Upon graduation, students who wish to further their education may apply their associate's degree coursework to Tulane's bachelor's degree in public relations program.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED; no ACT or SAT score is required. Students may appreciate knowing that every seventh class at Tulane is free.
Tulane University
School of Continuing Studies
125 Gibson Hall
New Orleans, LA 70118
504-865-5555
tulane.edu
Earn a bachelor's degree at Delaware State University. The four-year program includes classes in media research techniques, organizational communication, news reporting and editing, public relations management and campaigns, public opinion and propaganda, techniques of layout and design, public relations writing, TV and radio announcing and advanced public relations. Students also take general courses such as lifetime fitness and wellness, survey of mathematics, introduction to political science and American civilization. While on campus, students may get involved in clubs such as the Society of Professional Journalists, the Public Relations Student Society of America, the Mass Communications Society and Lambda Pi Eta, the national mass communication honor society.
Candidates require a high school diploma or GED with a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Students may apply to the college after grades have been posted for their junior year. Delaware considers grades along with SAT or ACT scores, plus community service, special talent and demonstrated leadership ability for admission criteria.
Delaware State University
1200 N. DuPont Highway
Dover, DE 19901
302-857-6060
desu.edu
Take your public relations education further with the New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies' master in public relations and corporate communication degree. Students may take courses in the evenings and weekends and determine a concentration of either public relations management or corporate and organizational communication. The program may be completed within 2 1/2 years full-time or five years' part-time and includes classes in managing media relations, public relations consulting, strategic communication, public opinion and issues management, public relations specialties, integrated marketing, government affairs and public relations in nonprofit organizations. All students complete a work placement with a team of students in the program plus a final capstone project based on a communication challenge. New York University offers the chance to get involved with its PR League, which offers a job listserv, book swaps, speakers and study groups.
Students interested in the program must have a bachelor's degree (any field) and send two professional recommendations, a personal statement, current resume, GRE or GMAT scores. Applicants with public relations or communications work experience will be given admissions preference.
New York University
School of Continuing and Professional Studies
145 4th Avenue, Room 201
New York, NY 10003
212-998-7100
nyu.edu