Public Relations

Catalog description

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of public relations. Students review historical aspects of the discipline and the theoretical foundation that informs the practice. The course helps students identify the skills and expertise that public relations professionals develop in order to be effective for their agency, nonprofit organization, or corporation. The course examines how institutions relate to their various publics and explores traditional public relations functions such as media relations, publications, crisis communication, special events, community relations, and other areas. Course discussion addresses ethical dilemmas, 24/7 deadlines, growing global demands, and the significant effects of new technologies on the profession. This course gives students a foundation for entering careers in public relations. Prerequisite: ENG 101. Three lecture hours per week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Critical Thinking, Information Literacy and Written Communication