Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Alan Summers
An Online Public Relations Degree equips you with skills in media relations, crisis communication, and strategic messaging, preparing you for careers in PR agencies, corporate communications, and nonprofit organizations.
The public relations domain involves disseminating, organizing, and managing information from a person or organization to the public to mold their influence on others. An online public relations degree prepares applicants to develop and maintain the perceptions of individuals, smaller companies, or larger organizations. The degree equips students for careers in government, agency, nonprofit or profit PR, corporates, and so on. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this field is 8% (faster than the average for other occupations) between 2021 and 2031[1]. More than 27,400 job openings are accessible to those completing an online public relations bachelor’s degree.
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Featured Online Degree in Public Relations Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Online Degree in Communication (BA) – Public Relations
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Online Public Relations Degree Programs
Choosing the right college for an online public relations degree is critical to getting a quality education at an affordable price. Other factors such as the experience of the faculty, availability of student resources, accreditation, and reputation also determine how good a school is. Using Find Best Degrees’s unique ranking methodology, this is a list of institutions that offer the best online public relations degrees.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Florida-Online | 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | NA | 78% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Public Relations Degree Program
A public relations online degree prepares students to mold public perceptions, structure campaigns in public relations, and communicate efficiently with the press and other media outlets to receive a particular kind of media coverage. The bachelor’s program is generally around 120 to 125 credits and takes about four years to complete full-time. Many institutions provide the program online and in the traditional on-campus mode. Typically, students must complete a capstone project or practicum at the end of their coursework. An undergraduate degree is a minimum requirement for someone to enter the public relations field.
Curriculum and Coursework
The public relations degree online provides a comprehensive curriculum that integrates concepts from advertising, marketing, journalism, and various other fields of mass communication. It helps students develop their verbal, critical thinking, and writing abilities and prepares them to use effective strategies in today’s new media.
Students get to understand a wide range of hands-on components, along with how to apply concepts and theories in real-world situations. Most programs require students to complete at least one internship or practicum under the supervision of educators in colleges or other similar educational settings. Some coursework also requires students to work in research or agency-run campaigns.
Most programs have a general education component, under which English composition, social and behavioral sciences, science, mathematics, arts, humanities, etc., are covered. Additional general education courses include Basic Learning Strategies, Introduction to Sociology, Speech Communication, Introduction to Critical Ethics, etc. Here are examples of courses students can expect to take in the journalism major:
Public Relations
This course deals with establishing and maintaining public relations. Students learn about influencing public opinion and managing the reputation of the organization. It examines the principles of creatively writing campaigns, web-based communication, and integrated applied communication.
Media Research and Writing
This course explores different techniques and approaches to researching and understanding public relations contexts. Students examine various research methodologies and practices necessary for professionals within the public relations domain. Some of the common components of this course include copywriting, research and writing for broadcast, writing for the web, web research, and journalistic research.
Public Relations and Promotional Strategy
This course involves students developing, implementing, and researching promotional and persuasive campaign strategies that might be appropriate to governmental, non-profit, and corporate organizations. It is designed for those who want to develop specialized promotional and public relations communication skills.
Media and Crisis Communication
In this course, students learn how to build a positive reputation for the client through strategically managing communication with external and internal audiences and sustaining that image. Students also understand how to evaluate crises, utilize analysis techniques and tactics of public relations, and maintain organizational reputation.
Client Engagement
This course focuses on the fundamentals of client engagement and problem-solving. Students gain a strong awareness of evolving client bases and complementing client engagement with the marketing strategies used in various industries. Client engagement perspectives include product development, health care, environment, technology, logistics and transportation, and non-profit organizations.
Some other core courses often found in an online journalism degree include but are not limited to:
- Foundations of Communication
- Survey of Public Relations
- Writing for Public Relations and Mass Media
- Case Studies in Public Relations
- Capstone in Public Relations
- Critical Thinking and Public Speaking
- Social Media Practices
- Advertising and Public Relations
- Public Relations Writing
To understand more about what a bachelor’s degree entails, read the guide to bachelor’s programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Through the public relations degree, students open the doors to various possibilities within the domain. They learn to support diverse individuals, companies, and modern campaigns to develop or maintain an effective and positive brand identity. The undergraduate will also understand how they can keep the image and identity of organizations and evaluate their public opinion through digital platforms.
The degree provides the skills and knowledge individuals can apply to their professional careers. Some of these include the ability to:
- write stories in a journalistic style that does not outrightly read like a marketing pitch but creates a good perception in the mind of readers;
- lead projects wherein a team works on protecting the public image of an individual or organization;
- arrange for events like fundraising, etc., that help in building the brand value of an organization;
- communicate effectively with other professionals involved and keep them apprised of any news, changes, or events happening;
- work with various kinds and sources of media to give them a positive idea about the organization;
- control the image of one’s organization and work on its persona;
- design and deliver content and data that help an organization engage with its relevant audience and
- write words in terms of speeches, etc., that can be delivered by eminent leaders, event hosts, and politicians.
Types of Degrees Public Relations Students Can Obtain
The public relations bachelor’s degree online can be pursued in two ways – as a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations or BA Public Relations or as a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations or BS in Public Relations.
Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
The Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations or BA in Public Relations prepares individuals to promote and develop the image and public perception of an individual, organization, business, or other entity. The degree helps students tell a story, engage with diverse audiences, persuade, and inform others of a common communication goal. Students learn collaborative skills to engage with various stakeholders and make strategic plans to execute strategies.
Bachelor of Science or B.Sc. in Public Relations
The Bachelor of Science in Public Relations or BS in Public Relations offers an opportunity to integrate academics with practical application. Students learn about contemporary public relations, the role of media in society, and the nature of human communication. Students also learn to write concisely and effectively to engage and tailor material for diverse audiences.
Areas of Specialization for Public Relations Students
Academic specializations require students to pick a specific area of the subject they are studying and may be interested in. These focused areas in public relations can correspond directly to different careers in public relations, like event management, social media, business communication, and more. Some concentrations within an online degree public relations include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Media Relations and Writing | In this specialization, students learn about newspapers, television, radio, and other forms of journalism. It enhances understanding of communication across multiple channels and achieving business and consumer targets. | Publicists, social media managers, editors, and communications coordinators |
| Organizational Communication | Through this specialization, students learn to form strategic communications, requiring the acquisition of highly advanced communication skills. Individuals also put their points across effectively across different organizational functions, gaining a deeper insight into strategic business communications. | Various careers in marketing, political communication, journalism, technology, communication, and healthcare administration |
| Broadcasting | This concentration uses powerful visual stories to prepare students for today’s broadcasting challenges. It equips them with editing, visual storytelling, and reporting. Some colleges require students to do field production and studio work as projects to gain more industry experience. | Various roles in non-profits, ministry-related ventures, mission audiences, and corporate setups |
| Digital Marketing | This concentration is designed to develop the fundamentals for the new digital marketing landscape and the application of such marketing strategies and tools in the new-age digital environment. It prepares students to employ marketing analytics to use and visualize data. | Various roles in social media marketing, advertising, or digital communications. |
| Event Management | This specialization focuses on managing and marketing businesses related to meetings, special events, conferences, festivals, expositions, etc. It develops the skills required to have steady interaction with clients and stakeholders. | Event managers, wedding planners, event venue managers, event social media coordinators, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
It takes about four years to complete a public relations degree online. The time to complete the program is influenced by factors like the learning mode (online, offline, or hybrid), coursework, internship, capstone, and specialization. Part-time students typically require between four and six years to complete their programs. Here is an overview of the duration of a public relations degree online:
- Time to complete a full-time bachelor’s in public relations: about four years
- Time to complete a part-time bachelor’s in public relations: four to six years
- Typical number of credits required for a bachelor’s in public relations: 120 to 125 credits
Accelerated Public Relations Programs
Accelerated public relations programs help students complete their degrees in less than the usually required four years. Those accepted into accelerated undergraduate degrees can take department-approved graduate coursework as part of their bachelor’s curriculum. The credits earned will go towards the undergraduate and graduate degree and can fulfill the requirement for majors, upper-division, and electives. Some schools offering an accelerated public relations online degree include Idaho State University[2] and Bowling Green State University[3].
Requirements for Getting into an Online Public Relations Degree Program
Strong verbal comprehension, writing, and reading skills often give candidates an edge when enrolling in a public relations online degree. Admission requirements differ from institution to institution, but some of the standard online public relations degree admission requirements include:
- Application form and fee
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.7 (varies by school)
- Official academic transcripts
- Personal Statement
- At least two Letters of Recommendation
- Résumé (recommended, but not required)
- ACT or SAT scores (required by some schools)
How to Ensure an Online Public Relations Degree Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that a school fulfills all the prescribed educational standards and maintains the quality of programs. Those graduating from accredited institutions can be assured of its quality, transferable credits, and job opportunities. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation[4] and the Department of Education Database[5] are two resources to check an institution’s accreditation status.
While the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)[7] provides programmatic accreditation for online degrees in public relations, most colleges must have national or regional accreditation, with the latter being more common. Colleges may be regionally accredited by any one of six regional accrediting agencies, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
The guide to college accreditation provided in-depth information on accreditation and its importance.
Where to Find Free Courses for Online Public Relations Degree Students
Free courses can complement what is learned in the classroom and help with assignments and projects. Some courses also give learners wider perspectives and deeper insights into public relations. Here are a few free public relations courses students can pursue:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to PR-Free Course[7] | This course introduces learners to public relations and helps them understand what PR is and the different kinds of practice in the domain. It also helps them acquire some basic knowledge and skills to understand how working in the public relations industry feels. | PR Academy |
| Introduction to Public Relations and the Media Specialization[8] | This course helps undergraduates understand public relations and the importance of creating a brand image. They learn about the various tenets of public relations theory and learn to analyze how proactive crisis communication plans work. | Coursera |
| Public Relations[9] | This course is for those who want to learn about the basics of public relations, including various key terms in this domain. It teaches learners how to pitch to the media and increase a brand’s credibility and exposure. It also enhances their knowledge of digital and traditional marketing communication media. | Acadium |
Ways to Pay for an Online Public Relations Degree
Financial aid helps to ensure that students are not burdened by the high cost of undergraduate education. Although online students do not have to pay for transportation, gas, parking, meals, or lodging, tuition alone may be prohibitively expensive. Here are some funding options for students pursuing a public relations degree online:
Scholarships
Scholarships are typically awarded to academically deserving students to assist them in furthering their education. Aside from academic merit, some scholarships are given based on criteria such as diversity and inclusion, financial need, athletic ability, etc.
Grants
Grants are financial awards, usually need-based rather than merit-based, and can be used to defray educational expenses like student housing, books, library fees, transportation, research materials, and more.
Work-Study
The work-study program is available to undergraduates and graduates needing assistance with fees, tuition, or other expenses like boarding and accommodation. Students can work for a stipulated time while pursuing their studies.
Student Loans
Banks and other financial institutions make educational loans available to those who want to further their education but may not qualify for federal aid. Loans are given out on interest and, if not paid back on time, can lead to debt.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a form that students can fill out and submit to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. This form can be filled out online on the Student Aid[10] website with details like academic information, family background, financial history, etc.
Read the financial aid guide for more information on funding higher education.
Scholarships for Online Public Relations Degree Students
Scholarships are excellent financial aid to offset the high cost of higher education. Deserving students can apply for one or more scholarships to help pay for their tuition and other educational expenses. Here are some online public relations degree scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gary Yoshimura Scholarship[11] | This scholarship is awarded to individuals pursuing higher education in the domain of public relations, having a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, being a member of PRSS, and demonstrating a financial need. Applicants need to write an essay highlighting any challenges they faced professionally or personally and how they overcame them. | $2,400 | April 30 |
| Judy Corman Memorial Scholarship and Internship from Scholastic[12] | This award is given to candidates having a GPA of 3.2 or higher. The award winners are chosen through their academic achievements, work experience, leadership abilities, and awards. Awardees are given the opportunity of a fully-paid summer internship in New York. | TBA | January 31 |
| William B. Ruggles Right to Work Scholarship[13] | The National Institute provides this scholarship for labor relations research. It is given to undergraduate students pursuing a career in journalism, media, and other related fields. Candidates must demonstrate their passion for the domain and potential to complete their degree successfully. | $2,000 | December |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Public Relations Degree
Public relations occupations create and maintain a positive image for individuals, groups, or organizations. They help develop public perceptions of clients and increase awareness of each client’s goals and work. There are many types of public relations sub-fields in which an individual can work, including:
- Internal Communications
- Crisis Communications
- Online and Social Media Communications
- Community Relations
- Media Relations
- Public Affairs
- Strategic Communications
Here are a few occupations that public relations degree online students can look forward to:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Relations Specialists[1] | Interpersonal skills, organizational skills, problem-solving skills, writing skills, speaking skills | $62,800 | 8% (faster than average) | Public relations specialists create and maintain a positive image for groups, individuals, and organizations they are representing. They also craft messages and develop programs for social media to shape public perceptions and increase awareness of their client’s goals and work. |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers[14] | Analytical skills, communication skills, decision-making skills, interpersonal skills, organization skills, creativity skills | $133,380 | 10% (faster than average) | Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers plan programs to generate interest in various services and products. They also work with other professionals to plan promotional campaigns like coupons, giveaways, or contests. Negotiating advertising contracts may also be part of their job. |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners[15] | Communication skills, interpersonal skills, negotiation skills, organizational skills, problem-solving skills | $49,470 | 18% (much faster than average) | Meeting, convention, and event planners arrange professional gatherings and events. They arrange transportation, meeting locations, and other such requirements for an event. They also meet with clients to understand the purpose of events and plan their scope, including their time, cost, and location. |
| Fundraisers[16] | Communication skills, detail-oriented, interpersonal skills, organizational skills | $60,660 | 11% (much faster than average) | Fundraisers organize campaigns and events to raise money and donations for various organizations. They research prospective donors, contact and identify potential donors, and create strong fundraising messages that appeal to potential donors. |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers[17] | Interpersonal skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, speaking skills, writing skills, problem-solving skills | $119,860 | 8% (faster than average) | Public relations managers direct and plan the creation of materials that enhance the public image of employers with a positive perception. They coordinate campaigns bringing donations for their organizations and developing corporate identities and images. |
| Market Research Analysts[18] | Analytical skills, detail-oriented, critical-thinking skills, communication skills | $63,920 | 19% (much faster than average) | Market research analysts study business conditions, consumer preferences, and other factors that assess the potential sales of a service or product. They also monitor and forecast sales and marketing trends. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Public Relations Degree Graduates
Professional certifications demonstrate competency and expertise in a particular skill. They are a great way to enhance pay and career prospects. Although certification is not mandatory to function in public relations, obtaining one could help further professional goals. Some certifications for online public relations bachelor’s degree students can consider are:
Advancing Your Communication Strategy in DE&I Certificate Program[19]
This certification provides an understanding of how to use communication as a tool in building inclusive, anti-racism, and authentic culture where external and internal stakeholders trust the organization. It helps in achieving more effective outcomes in public relationships.
Communication Professional Certifications[20]
This certification allows candidates to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge in communication and provides employers the evidence of their outstanding skills. Two certifications are available: Communication Management Professional and Strategic Communication Management Professional.
Certified Fund Raising Executive program[21]
Earning this certification will help demonstrate knowledge and commitment to fundraising. It benefits those who want to set higher fundraising standards; it measures an individual’s knowledge and skills in the best practices in ethical and philanthropic fundraising.
Licensure is not compulsory for public relations professionals. However, to improve credibility in the industry, professionals can adhere to the PRSA Code of Conduct[22] to follow ethical practices in this domain. Most employers expect their employees to follow the guidelines in this code of conduct and uphold some core values, including honesty, expertise, loyalty, fairness, independence, and advocacy.
Additional Resources for Online Public Relations Degree Graduates
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public relations online should participate in professional organizations offering various opportunities. To gain insights into how public relations impacts society and several aspects of life, graduates can network with prominent professionals and organization members working in a variety of fields. Members can also gain access to journals, webinars, seminars, and research reports, all of which can be extremely beneficial to their studies or careers. Here are a few professional organizations to look into:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) | The PRSA is a leading organization that serves the community of communications through a network of more than 400 members from the U.S., Colombia, and Puerto Rico, among others. It provides many leadership opportunities, professional development programs, and exclusive networking events for the professional growth of members. |
| International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) | The IABC has been setting standards of excellence in the field of business communication by delivering certifications, awards programs, online magazines, resource libraries, annual world conferences, and more. They also share many in-depth courses and provide career guidance to their members. |
| Global Alliance for Public Relations (GAPR) | The GAPR is a major PR and communication management association, representing over 360,000 academicians and practitioners worldwide. It aims to raise professional standards worldwide and unify the profession of public relations. |
| Association for Women in Communications (AWC) | The AWC empowers women in the field of communications and related careers by enhancing their personal growth and diversifying their network. They also promote leadership and position their members at the forefront of communication. |
| Institute for Public Relations (IPR) | The IPR is dedicated to creating, promoting, and curating initiatives and research, empowering professionals with actionable intelligence and insights that can be used immediately. They aim to be global leaders for the science behind the art of public relations. |
FAQs About Online Public Relations Degree Programs
Can you get a public relations degree online?
Yes. It is possible to pursue a public relations degree online. An online degree in public relations gives students the flexibility to complete the curriculum requirements from any location. Online programs are also considerably less expensive than traditional on-campus degrees.
Are public relations in high demand?
What are the high-paying jobs in public relations?
Is a public relations degree the right fit for you?
Is a bachelor’s in public relations worth it?
How much does a bachelor’s in public relations cost?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlooks for Public Relations Specialists
Bowling Green State University
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Department of Education Database
Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
Introduction to PR-Free Course
Coursera – Introduction to Public Relations and the Media Specialization
Judy Corman Memorial Scholarship and Internship from Scholastic
William B. Ruggles Right to Work Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlooks for Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlooks for Fundraisers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlooks for Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlooks for Market Research Analysts
Advancing Your Communication Strategy in DE&I Certificate Program
Communication Professional Certifications