Public Relations Minor

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Erica Quam, Professional Academic Advisor
School of Communication and Journalism
Yeager Hall 211, Box 2235
605-688-4171

Program Information

The minor in Public Relations, available to all students, will equip students with the fundamental skills - writing, content production, public relations planning - that will help them become more attractive job candidates in their chosen fields. The course work provides a strong foundation in public relations with flexibility in elective course work to meet the needs of students pursuing a variety of careers.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students completing a minor in Public Relations will:

Demonstrate an understanding of the role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications.
Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness, and diversity.
Think critically, creatively, and independently.
Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences, and purposes they serve.
Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.

Equipment and Supplies

Students are encouraged to purchase a laptop (Apple Mac preferred) and software appropriate for the discipline.

Course Delivery Format

The program offers coursework in classroom, studio, online, and field-based settings.

Requirements for Public Relations Minor: 18 Credits

MCOM 210-210L - Basic Newswriting and Lab (COM) Credits: 3
PUBR 243 - Public Relations Principles (COM) Credits: 3
PUBR 345 - Public Relations Writing Credits: 3

Select from the following

Select three courses from at least two different prefixes. Journalism and Advertising majors must select courses outside of the ADV and MCOM prefixes to ensure compliance with ACEJMC accreditation standards. ACEJMC accreditation requires that students majoring in Advertising, Journalism or Public relations have at least 72 credit hours outside of the accredited prefixes (ADV, MCOM, PUBR). Credits: 9

ADV / PUBR 411-411L - Media Analytics and Studio Credits: 3
CMST 215 - Public Speaking (COM) [SGR #2] Credits: 3
CMST 311 - Business and Professional Communication (COM) Credits: 3
CMST 422 - Persuasion (COM) Credits: 3
HMGT 355 - Events and Facilities Administration Credits: 3
LMNO 201 - Introduction to Leadership and Management of Nonprofit Organizations Credits: 3
MCOM 219 - Social Media Strategies Credits: 3
MCOM 220-220L - Introduction to Digital Media and Lab (COM) Credits: 3