Communication - Public Relations The University of Akron

Overview

The Communication - Public Relations programme at The University of Akron provides students with a comprehensive foundation in managing organisational reputations. This degree focuses on the history, theory, and practical techniques required to build beneficial relationships between various entities and their target audiences.

Students enrolled in this course develop essential professional skills, including advanced writing, graphic design, and strategic research. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and public speaking abilities, ensuring graduates can communicate effectively across multiple platforms. The programme is delivered entirely online by the same expert faculty who teach on-campus classes.

The learning experience is highly flexible to accommodate the schedules of working adults and parents.

Why Communication - Public Relations at The University of Akron?

The University of Akron offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world application. The faculty members bring extensive industry and research experience into the virtual classroom, providing students with insights that go beyond standard textbooks. This practical approach ensures that the academic content remains relevant to the current demands of the global communications industry.

A distinctive feature of this programme is its close integration with the Professional Social Media Certificate. Students can use courses from this certificate to satisfy their elective requirements, gaining specialised training in a vital area of modern public relations. This dual focus allows students to enhance their digital expertise while completing their primary undergraduate degree.

Beyond standard coursework, the programme emphasises experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to work with real clients on live projects, such as managing social media accounts, planning promotional events, and executing full-scale PR campaigns. These activities allow students to build a robust professional portfolio that showcases their skills to potential employers during the job application process.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 464 per credit
• National fee: USD 464 per credit
• Local fee: USD 464 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include topics such as:

• Principles of Strategic Communication
• Media Relations and Press Writing
• Public Relations Campaign Planning
• Digital and Social Media Communication
• Corporate Communication and Branding
• Crisis Communication and Reputation Management
• Audience Analysis and Communication Research
• Ethics in Public Relations
• Internship / Practical Experience in Public Relations

Careers with Communication - Public Relations

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles across a wide range of sectors. Common career paths include working in public relations agencies, corporate marketing departments, and journalism. The skills gained are also highly applicable to roles in politics, financial relations, crisis management, and reputation consulting for various organisations.

The degree serves as a strong foundation for further academic study in several fields. Alumni may choose to pursue a master’s degree in communication or business administration. Additionally, the heavy emphasis on writing, problem-solving, and analytical thinking makes this programme excellent preparation for students intending to apply to law school.

The career outlook for public relations professionals remains positive as new technologies continue to emerge. As organisations increasingly rely on social media and digital platforms to connect with the public, the demand for skilled communicators grows. Graduates leave the university equipped to navigate these changing landscapes and secure positions in non-profit, government, or private sectors.