Public Relations, BA

The Public Relations major provides students with foundational knowledge of public relations theory, research and professional communication skills. In addition, students learn about the ethical responsibilities to create and implement systematic communication plans for corporate, non-profit and governmental organizations. Based on the rigorous education in communication theory and research, strategic writing, speaking, media literacy, visual communication and public relations planning, students are prepared to develop integrated communication careers in fields such as public relations, social-trend research and public affairs.

Learning Outcomes

Course Requirements

Required courses (15 credits)

COMM 102 - Introduction to Public Speaking
COMM 226 - Public Relations Principles
COMM 312 - Public Relations Writing (CWRM – beginning Spring 2021)
COMM 337 - Public Relations Research and Measurement
COMM 341 - Public Relations Case Studies

Additional public relations course (3 credits)

Complete one course, selected from the following:

Concentration electives (12 credits)

Complete one course, selected from the following (3 credits):

COMM 211 - Organizational Communication
COMM 247 - Social Media Tools
COMM 271 - Event Management
Complete three courses, selected from the following (9 credits):
COMM 314 - Crisis Communication
COMM 317 - Health Communication
COMM 353 - Corporate Communications and Social Responsibility
COMM 359 - Strategic Communication for Non-Profits
COMM 394 - Topics in Public Relations
COMM 439 - Social Media Management

Electives (6 credits)

Complete six additional credits, selected from communication studies (COMM) courses. COMM 298 - Second Year Seminar (Speaking Intensive) or COMM 299 - Second Year Seminar (Writing Intensive) may be applied as an elective.

Total minimum credits: 36

Core Curriculum Requirements

A minimum of 120 earned credit hours is required for graduation. These earned hours include the Core Curriculum Requirements as specified in the Core Curriculum section of this catalog and at the Core Curriculum website, www.bridgew.edu/corecurriculum. For additional graduation requirements, see the Undergraduate Academic Policies and Procedures section of this catalog.