Public Relations

BACHELOR OF arts

No two days are ever the same as a public relations professional. You may be writing press releases and crafting social media posts one week to managing an organizational crisis the next. As PR practitioners develop and maintain an organization’s public relationships through effective communication strategies, they must be proficient writers, adept relationship builders and media savvy. CBU’s public relations program trains students in social media strategies, media relations, crisis communications, marketing campaigns and public relations writing, all while stressing the importance of ethics and branding.

Minors and Emphases

Public Relations Minor

New Media Emphasis
Professional Management Emphasis

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning Outcomes
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Why study public relations at CBU?

CBU’s public relations program trains students in social media strategies, media relations, event planning, marketing campaigns and writing, all while stressing the importance of ethics and branding. The scope of this effort includes working in nonprofit organizations, corporations, government and media organizations, both domestically and internationally.

Public Relations

PRL 300

Principles, history and professional practice of public relations and the writing and production of materials for special events, newsletters, and brochures.

Public Relations Writing

PRL 302

This course will provide students with practical application of public relations writing process for various media.

Campaigns and Reputation Management

PRL 375

Students will review case studies and best practices to identify different areas of reputation management while developing a theoretical reputation management campaign.

Student Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of key elements within the practice of public relations.
Effectively apply public relations organizational structure, workflow and practice.
Demonstrate mastery of effective research and writing for press releases, speeches, and social media posts for various audiences.
Create and develop campaigns that utilize convergence and/or digital media to strategically reach publics.
Demonstrate an understanding of public relations history, theory and ethical matters in the field.
Demonstrate an understanding of faith integration as it relates to the profession.
Use best practices for issues and crisis management in public relations.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Account Executive
Social Media Strategist
Advertiser
Events Coordinator
Campaign Specialist
Publicist
Media Relations Manager
Employee Relations Manager
Public Relations Specialist

*Some career opportunities may require further education

45

Units

2

Emphases

9%

Expected Rate of Growth in the Field

Student Testimonials

"At CBU, I’m extremely involved in PRSSA, I started with event planning and I’ve moved up to be the vice president. It is mind blowing to truly realize how important it is to have a PR team in every company. I’ve received helpful tips from professionals in the field like Aaron Norris and Karen Bergh about PR and how it pertains to our everyday world. I firmly believe that the professors and curriculum have equipped me to go above and beyond in everything that I will do in the future with my career."
Casey Maldonado, 2021

"The PR program has led me to many opportunities including being the lifestyle section editor of the school newspaper, the Banner, and holding the title of social media manager for CBU's PRSSA. The field of public relations is so diverse, I never find a dull moment in any one of my classes. The program makes me feel fully prepared for post-grad and I am happy to learn so many valuable skills during my time here at CBU."
Teddy Pena, 2021

"I love working with people, event planning, and being behind the scenes. Public relations has a little bit of everything and offers me a dynamic and exciting career choice! The program that CBU has to offer is what made me truly fall in love with public relations. The professors, curriculum, and involvement opportunities that CBU has to offer is extraordinary. I’m heavily involved in CBU’s PRSSA where I gain practical experience in running campaigns and working with real-life clients."
Kerrilyn Collins, 2020

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Mary Ann Pearson

Professor

I have more than 30 years of experience in leadership, journalism, public relations and education. I specialized in marketing and PR campaigns in property management, real estate and nonprofit work. I serve as the director at large for PRSSA and have mentored hundreds of students and faculty members, helping them successfully enter the field of public relations. My hobbies include spending time with my husband, grown children, grandchildren and dogs. I am an avid cyclist and I love to participate in Bible studies at my church.

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Victoria Brodie

Associate Professor

I have been a communication strategist for over two decades, working with clients in various fields from political candidates to lifestyle organizations. Through this work, I have developed branding, public relations, and communication strategies that aided businesses in reaching their organizational goals. In addition to my work, I strive to impact and help shape my community through volunteerism. To that end, I sit on the Leadership Riverside Steering Committee and serve on various boards and committees.

See Profile >

Mary Ann Pearson

Professor

I have more than 30 years of experience in leadership, journalism, public relations and education. I specialized in marketing and PR campaigns in property management, real estate and nonprofit work. I serve as the director at large for PRSSA and have mentored hundreds of students and faculty members, helping them successfully enter the field of public relations. My hobbies include spending time with my husband, grown children, grandchildren and dogs. I am an avid cyclist and I love to participate in Bible studies at my church.

See Profile >
Victoria Brodie

Associate Professor

I have been a communication strategist for over two decades, working with clients in various fields from political candidates to lifestyle organizations. Through this work, I have developed branding, public relations, and communication strategies that aided businesses in reaching their organizational goals. In addition to my work, I strive to impact and help shape my community through volunteerism. To that end, I sit on the Leadership Riverside Steering Committee and serve on various boards and committees.

See Profile >