Academic Learning Compact - Public Relations

The major in public relations enables you to develop the knowledge and skills, including analytical and communication skills, necessary for the effective practice of public relations. You will learn public relations principles, perspectives for understanding and communicating with targeted and diverse publics, and a systematic process for problem solving that emphasizes programming based on formative and evaluative research. Special attention is paid to writing skills, and you will acquire the ability to write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for public relations practice. You will learn to use tools and relevant technologies, including new media, and you will develop an understanding of ethical principles, including the importance of truth and accuracy, which guide public relations practice.

Additional information is available from your major's website.

Before Graduating You Must

• Achieve a passing score of 70% or higher on a major individual project (e.g., media kit) developed in PUR 4100 Public Relations Writing and evaluated by the class instructor.
• Achieve a passing score of 70% or higher on a comprehensive campaign plan for an organizational client, developed in the major’s capstone course, PUR 4800 Public Relations Campaigns, and evaluated by the class instructor.
• Achieve a satisfactory rating on four of the five SLOs on a standardized evaluation completed by internship supervisors as part of PUR 4940 Public Relations Internship.
• Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Skills You Will Acquire in the Major (SLOs)

1. Understand concepts and theories relevant to effective public relations practice.
2. Understand professional ethical principles and the importance of truth, honesty, accuracy, fairness and diversity.
3. Apply tools and technologies relevant to public relations practice.
4. Gather information and conduct research for public relations planning and evaluation.
5. Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for public relations practice.