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undergraduate

Public relations


What is a public relations major?

This curriculum concentrates on the theories and methods for managing the media image of a business, organization, or individual and the communication process with stakeholders, constituencies, audiences, and the general public. It prepares individuals to function as public relations assistants, technicians, and managers. This includes instruction in public relations theory, related principles of advertising, marketing, and journalism, message/image design, image management, special event management, media relations, community relations, public affairs, and internal communications.

How much do public relations majors make?

median average salary

$60,000/yr

The national average salary for public relations graduates in the United States is $60,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $145,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $23,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, public relations graduates typically make between $40,000 and $95,000 per year.

How popular is public relations as a major?

Each year, around 9,140 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 30 students obtain an associate degree in public relations. In 2021, 9,303 students received a bachelor's degree and 59 students received an associate degree. This is 2% fewer public relations majors than there were in 2020. Public relations is one of the most popular majors within communications.

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