4 answers
Ande
Student
Mazomanie, Wisconsin
5
Questions
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What are good Colleges for Communications (Public Relations) Degree?
I've been looking for a few months now but I've been struggling with finding colleges that fit into my college interests.
I want to go into Public Relations and get a major and minor related to good skills to have in that field. A big thing for me is also financial aid and a study abroad program definitely in an English a first language country. I live and Wisconsin, and I wouldn't mind staying in state, but my parents are pushing the idea of going out of state, which I'd enjoy as well. If anyone has recommendations of where to look I'd appreciate it.
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4 answers
Felicia Barrs
Lead Property Management - Network Engineering
13
Answers
Little Elm, Texas
Updated
Felicia’s Answer
University of Southern California (USC) – Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
Famous for its programs in media, public relations, and digital communication.
New York University (NYU) – Steinhardt School & School of Professional Studies
Ideal for media studies and strategic communication, located in a major media center.
Syracuse University – S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
Regarded as one of the top communication schools in the nation.
University of Florida – College of Journalism and Communications
Excels in advertising, public relations, and digital communication, with a large media research program.
Boston University – College of Communication
Provides programs in public relations, media production, journalism, and more, with strong internship opportunities.
University of Texas at Austin – Moody College of Communication
Offers excellent resources and a strong alumni network, with a focus on public relations and media analytics.
Northwestern University – Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications
Renowned for combining journalism with strategic communication.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Hussman School of Journalism and Media
Affordable and highly respected for its journalism and public relations programs.
Penn State University – Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications
Features a wide range of communication majors with a focus on practical application.
Emerson College
A small liberal arts college in Boston, specializing in communication, media arts, and public relations.
Famous for its programs in media, public relations, and digital communication.
New York University (NYU) – Steinhardt School & School of Professional Studies
Ideal for media studies and strategic communication, located in a major media center.
Syracuse University – S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
Regarded as one of the top communication schools in the nation.
University of Florida – College of Journalism and Communications
Excels in advertising, public relations, and digital communication, with a large media research program.
Boston University – College of Communication
Provides programs in public relations, media production, journalism, and more, with strong internship opportunities.
University of Texas at Austin – Moody College of Communication
Offers excellent resources and a strong alumni network, with a focus on public relations and media analytics.
Northwestern University – Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications
Renowned for combining journalism with strategic communication.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Hussman School of Journalism and Media
Affordable and highly respected for its journalism and public relations programs.
Penn State University – Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications
Features a wide range of communication majors with a focus on practical application.
Emerson College
A small liberal arts college in Boston, specializing in communication, media arts, and public relations.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1058
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
When you're on the hunt for colleges with robust Communications programs, particularly in Public Relations, there are several top-notch choices to explore, both within and beyond your home state.
In Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out with its highly respected School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The school offers a broad and inclusive curriculum, featuring public relations courses, along with the chance to gain practical experience through internships and an active student media scene.
If you're willing to venture beyond state lines, Syracuse University in New York is worth considering. Renowned for its esteemed S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse offers focused programs in public relations and has solid ties with the industry for internships. Boston University is another excellent option, boasting a comprehensive Communications program, numerous study abroad experiences, and a commitment to learning by doing, making it a perfect match for those aiming for a career in PR.
For those seeking financial assistance, the University of Southern California is a viable option, offering substantial scholarship programs, particularly for students who can demonstrate financial need. Each of these colleges has well-established study abroad programs in English-speaking nations, giving you the opportunity to gain global exposure while continuing your education.
As you weigh up these choices, it's a good idea to contact the admissions offices to ask about specific financial aid options and any distinctive programs that align with your PR career aspirations.
In Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out with its highly respected School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The school offers a broad and inclusive curriculum, featuring public relations courses, along with the chance to gain practical experience through internships and an active student media scene.
If you're willing to venture beyond state lines, Syracuse University in New York is worth considering. Renowned for its esteemed S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse offers focused programs in public relations and has solid ties with the industry for internships. Boston University is another excellent option, boasting a comprehensive Communications program, numerous study abroad experiences, and a commitment to learning by doing, making it a perfect match for those aiming for a career in PR.
For those seeking financial assistance, the University of Southern California is a viable option, offering substantial scholarship programs, particularly for students who can demonstrate financial need. Each of these colleges has well-established study abroad programs in English-speaking nations, giving you the opportunity to gain global exposure while continuing your education.
As you weigh up these choices, it's a good idea to contact the admissions offices to ask about specific financial aid options and any distinctive programs that align with your PR career aspirations.
This is so helpful! Thank you!
Ande
Tara Zimmerman
Photographer + Social Media Manager
3
Answers
Riegelsville, Pennsylvania
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hi Ande!
Choosing a college definitely seems like a challenging task, but it can be easier if you break it down by what you're looking for:
1. You mentioned financial aid. If you're in the top of your class at your high school, you're more likely to get financial aid at out-of-state colleges and universities. If you aren't (which there is absolutely no shame in that), in-state colleges may be a better option!
2. After considered financial aid, look up what colleges/universities in and out of state offer the major(s) you're interested in. Read reviews of the universities, especially about those majors in particular, and also see if that is a specific school within the college, or if it's a smaller focus.
3. Determine what specific facet of Public Relations you're interested in, whether it be advertising, marketing, entrepreneurship, etc. Maybe as you determine that, you'll be able to find a school that offers those particular specialities!
Choosing a college definitely seems like a challenging task, but it can be easier if you break it down by what you're looking for:
1. You mentioned financial aid. If you're in the top of your class at your high school, you're more likely to get financial aid at out-of-state colleges and universities. If you aren't (which there is absolutely no shame in that), in-state colleges may be a better option!
2. After considered financial aid, look up what colleges/universities in and out of state offer the major(s) you're interested in. Read reviews of the universities, especially about those majors in particular, and also see if that is a specific school within the college, or if it's a smaller focus.
3. Determine what specific facet of Public Relations you're interested in, whether it be advertising, marketing, entrepreneurship, etc. Maybe as you determine that, you'll be able to find a school that offers those particular specialities!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Ande
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
480
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Ande, this is an interesting question and you have received solid advice already. Below are some links to independent evaluations of Public Relations programs; the lists are pretty similar, which I think is a good sign. Remember that you have to feel comfortable at the college so plan to visit at least a few of these campuses. Visiting also demonstrates interest, which could help your chances for acceptance.
As you look at PR programs, research what opportunities they offer for practical experience since that will be important for building your portfolio and getting your first professional role. You could also get PR experience helping the college itself, college athletic and student-run organizations or non-profits in the area.
Good luck!
US News -https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/public-relations-major-0909?_sort=rank&_sortDirection=asc
Niche - https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-public-relations/
As you look at PR programs, research what opportunities they offer for practical experience since that will be important for building your portfolio and getting your first professional role. You could also get PR experience helping the college itself, college athletic and student-run organizations or non-profits in the area.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps: