Public relations majors and minors at Carthage gain a thorough understanding of the principles underlying media releases, social media management, PR campaigns, and crisis communication. Students build their portfolios by composing PR documents and social media posts for local businesses and nonprofits. They graduate with the versatility to work effectively in a wide range of settings.
Public relations is one of the fastest growing careers today (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021). It is a form of communication that focuses on strategically building relationships with a public audience, whether that audience is internal to your company or external to your community, country, or world.
There is a focus on writing — especially social media-based writing — and speaking. We take an in-depth look at everything from management skills to crisis communication to brand awareness. Theories are explored, and students gain hands-on experience working in real time with companies in the area.
“Public relations is so much more than just looking at social media; it’s about working with people, dealing with crises in a professional manner, and helping an organization gain trust with the public. With a public relations degree, you are able to create the type of job you want for yourself.”
“I chose Carthage because it offered the perfect balance of being close to home while still giving me the independence I wanted.”
“I chose Carthage for its small class sizes and tight-knit community. When I toured, I felt like it was where I was meant to be.”
“Public relations is very important, especially nowadays with social media and technology. You learn how to properly curate an organization’s brand and public image.”
Financial Aid
More than 90 percent of Carthage students receive financial aid. The Communication and Digital Media Department holds an annual scholarship competition, with awards available to prospective communication, graphic design, and public relations majors. Recipients are chosen based on an interview and work samples.
Carthage has a Public Relations Student Society of America chapter that organizes speakers, networking events, and visits to PR firms in Milwaukee and Chicago, which have led to internships and jobs. A student-run “business” called Social provides PR services to other student organizations on campus.
Competitive advantage
Carthage public relations majors develop excellent interpersonal communication, group problem solving, creative thinking, and organization skills, making them more competitive in the job market, no matter what career path they pursue.
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