Public Relations (PR), B.S.
About This Program
As a Public Relations major, you will learn how to communicate using social media, pitch letters, press releases, speeches, and all the elements of a media kit. The curriculum covers research, ethical considerations, production, writing, and editing, equipping you with the skills needed to strategically influence public perceptions.
By graduation, you'll possess the tools necessary to effectively navigate the dynamic landscape of public relations, building and maintaining positive relationships between organizations or clients, and their target audiences.
What is Public Relations (PR)?
Public relations professionals are effective communicators who shape the image and message of a company, organization or brand and disseminate information to the public.
They create communications materials and campaigns that are consistent with the brand and cultivate relationships in media, business, government, academia and other sectors.
Public Relations (PR) Careers
Public Relations (PR) professionals operate in a varied spectrum of environments,
extending from traditional PR agencies and corporate communication departments to
digital media platforms and freelance opportunities. Public Relations offers a wide
range of career opportunities for individuals possessing strong skills in strategic
communication and relationship-building. They include:
• Communication
• Education
• Government/Civil Services
• Health-care
• Media/Entertainment
• Marketing
• Travel/Tourism/Hospitality
• Transportation
• Energy
• Utilities
• Government/Military
• Nonprofit
• Financial Services
• Crisis management,
• Event planning,
• social media management
Public Relations (PR) Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, In 2022, the average public relations specialist made:
- an average of $37.76 an hour
- a mean salary of $78,540,
The states with the highest employment level in public relations are:
- California,
- New York,
- Texas,
- Florida and,
- and District of Columbia
Public Relations (PR) Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Qs)
Q: How does PR differ from advertising?
A: While advertising involves paid promotional messages, PR focuses on earned media and
building relationships. PR is more about managing reputation through strategic communication.
Q: How important is networking in the field of PR?
A: Networking is essential in PR to build relationships with journalists, influencers,
and industry professionals. Attending events, joining professional organizations,
and connecting with professionals online can open doors for opportunities.
Q: What are some of the essential skills public relations specialists should develop
for success?
A: To achieve success, public relations specialists should hone skills such as Communication,
writing, research, social media, relationship-building, time management;, creativity,
collaboration and presentation.
Being an outgoing "people-person" is also advantageous for public relations specialists.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills contribute to gaining trust, which
is essential for PR.
Q: What are the industries with the highest levels of employment in public relations
specialists?
A: Advertising, public relations and related services; colleges, universities and professional
schools; business, professional, labor, political and similar organizations; local
government; management of companies and enterprises.
Program Faculty
| Name | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. William Jiles, Division Director | william.jiles@famu.edu | (850) 412-5393 |
| (850) 561-2806 | ||
| Dr. Deborah Thigpen, Visiting Professor | (850) 561-2528 | |
| Ms. Ranata Hughes, Internship Coordinator and Adjunct Professor | (850) 412-5395 |
