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What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Public Relations Program?
Online master’s in public relations programs offer a flexible alternative to traditional on-campus instruction and a convenient way for working adults to prepare for a career in this dynamic, relatively lucrative field. Many colleges offer online programs that follow the same curriculum as their on-campus options. Online programs often provide the added convenience of allowing you to work at your own pace, which is helpful for those who want to earn their degree as fast as possible. When choosing an online master’s in public relations program, compare the curriculum, format, and cost to ensure you select the right school for your particular needs and career goals.
Available concentrations
Concentration selection is one of the most important factors to consider when comparing different programs. If you already know what role you would like to have in the public relations field, look for a program that allows you to focus your studies on this specialty. Some of the most common concentration options for a master’s in public relations include:
International Public Relations: This concentration prepares graduates to manage global public relations campaigns.
Corporate Communication: Learn about corporate communications functions and the best practices for managing these functions.
Media Relations: With this concentration, you’ll study the role of media relations in government, corporate, and non-profit organizations.
Digital Communication: Explore the digital tools, trends, and techniques often used in marketing and public relations campaigns.
Common degree curriculum
The curriculum for an online master’s in public relations program may be delivered entirely online or feature both online and on-campus requirements. Programs may also be asynchronous, meaning they’re self-paced, or synchronous, which requires you to take classes simultaneously with other students. Working professionals benefit from asynchronous programs, as they allow you to make progress on your degree whenever you have time off from your work and family responsibilities.
While the exact curriculum varies between schools, master’s in public relations programs are typically designed to provide a solid foundation in the core principles of public relations and prepare graduates to transition into a successful career. Due to the ever-increasing popularity of digital media, almost all programs focus on blending traditional and non-traditional communication tools. Besides core courses, many programs allow you to choose electives to customize your degree according to your interests. Some programs may require a capstone project or internship to complete your degree. Here are a few standard courses you will likely take in your public relations graduate program:
Public Relations Theory: Focuses on understanding the abstract theoretical concepts in public relations and applying them to professional practice.
Public Relations Writing: Centers on the development of professional writing skills expected of public relations professionals and covers the many forms this writing takes, such as press releases and op-eds.
Brand Management: Teaches students how to build, measure, and manage brand equity.
Ethical Standards in Public Relations: Explores the importance of ethics in public relations by analyzing moral assumptions and the codes of conduct that should guide public relations professionals.
Integrated Marketing Communications: Reviews the combination of traditional and non-traditional technologies and approaches used in modern public relations campaigns.
Certification and license preparation
Completing a master’s in public relations program will help prepare you for the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) exam administered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). By earning the APR credential in addition to your master’s degree, you’ll set yourself apart as a leader in this competitive field.
Program accreditation
Only apply to schools approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Earning your degree from an unaccredited school won’t carry as much weight professionally and will disqualify you from accessing federal student aid and other financing options.
Ideally, your program will have also earned the PRSA’s voluntary Certification in Education for Public Relations (CEPR) designation. CEPR programs have passed a rigorous outside evaluation administered by the PRSA Educational Affairs Committee, which endorses undergraduate and master’s-level programs that meet its standards for curriculum, faculty, and other relevant factors.
Program completion timeframe
Most online master’s in public relations programs require you to complete 30 to 36 credit hours, though some run as high as 54 credit hours. One of the most significant variables in how long it takes to earn your degree is whether you attend full-time or part-time. Full-time students can usually complete the program in two years, while part-time students may need up to five years. Some programs are also accelerated, allowing students who can take on a particularly heavy courseload to graduate in one year to 18 months.Â
Employment Outlook for Master’s in Public Relations Graduates
This degree is an excellent option for anyone concerned about job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the total number of jobs in the United States is projected to increase by 3% over the next decade. Occupations related to public relations are expected to grow by about twice that rate, which means plenty of job opportunities will be available in this field.
You’ll also have the potential to earn an exceptionally high salary with this degree. The top 10% of public relations specialists make more than $128,450, and the top 10% of public relations managers make more than $205,230.
Of course, your salary will depend on where you work. Areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer higher salaries. For example, public relations specialists earn an average salary of $90,150 in California but just $51,060 in Mississippi.
Public relations specialists work directly with individuals, organizations, or clients to create and maintain a favorable public image. Their work may include writing press releases and speeches and developing social media programs and campaigns to improve public perception or increase awareness.
Public relations managers lead teams of PR professionals through large-scale media campaigns, which often include designing and directing the creation of promotional materials to enhance the client’s public image.
This role may include identifying new markets and pricing strategies, developing advertising campaigns, and overseeing programs that combine advertising campaigns with purchasing incentives such as coupons, discounts, contests, and free samples and gifts.Â
$138,730
6%
Professional organizations
Professional organizations allow you to network with others in public relations, no matter where you are in your career. Indeed, whether you’re new to the field or a veteran, these organizations host essential networking events and often provide training opportunities, job boards, professional journals, and other valuable services. Some prominent organizations for public relations students and professionals include:
Public Relations Society of America: Considered the world’s largest PR-related professional organization, the PRSA provides academic journals, innovative lifelong learning opportunities, and professional development through seminars, workshops, and conferences.
Social Media Association: The SMA hosts informative events, including presentations by expert speakers and panel and roundtable discussions. It provides a job bank for members as well.
National Communication Association: Serving scholars, teachers, and professionals, the NCA hosts an annual conference and numerous other events that provide educational and networking opportunities. It also publishes 11 academic journals full of industry news and runs a career center that you can use to look for and post jobs.
Financing Your Online Master’s in Public Relations Degree
While online master’s in public relations programs are usually more affordable than on-campus options, many students still need assistance to help cover the cost. Start your search by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see whether you qualify for loans, grants, and other financial aid opportunities offered by the federal government. Some states also use this form for their student aid programs, while others have a separate form you must complete. You may also find private scholarships and grants through various companies, nonprofit organizations, and other entities, some offered exclusively to online students.
Student Finance Resources and Guides
As mentioned above, various financing options are available to fund your college education. The resources listed below will help you make sense of all the eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and everything else you need to know to significantly reduce the cost of your online master’s in public relations.
Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
