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College of Arts and Sciences

Bachelor of Arts (BA), Communication: Public Relations

Program Overview

The Communication: Public Relations concentration helps you develop communication, public relations, and media production skills. You will study writing, public relations principles, crisis management, public relations research, video production, and more. You will gain hands-on experience through an internship and have the opportunity to network with communication professionals. Graduates can pursue a career as a public relations practitioner, communication specialist, social media manager, nonprofit marketer, editor, copywriter, or media relations consultant.

Admission Resources

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Program at a
Glance

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS

120

DETAILS

Total Credit Hours: 120
Program Type: BA
Location: Seated (Main Campus)
Time to Complete: 4 years (8 semesters)
Start Date: Fall: August | Spring: January
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Why AU?

Ready for the next chapter in your academic, professional, and spiritual life? Whether you are graduating high school or pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree, we invite you to be a part of one of the top regional universities in the South (U.S. News & World Report). Come discover why the Institutional Research & Evaluation, Inc. identified Anderson University as one of the top-ranked, most affordable colleges in the country. Take the next step in your journey of academic excellence today.
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The Knowledge You Will Gain

In addition to classroom studies, you will have the opportunity to broaden your learning experience through projects that take you into the community. Whether you’re developing public relations projects for local organizations or creating a podcast, you’ll have many opportunities to apply your skills in real-world situations. Completing an internship within your chosen concentration is required for graduation.

Career Outlook

Communication students concentrating in public relations can anticipate working in writing, editing, and social media management positions in the fields of public relations, marketing, and advertising. The degree is also broad enough to offer opportunities in fields as diverse as journalism, politics, law, nonprofit advocacy, and ministry.



Starting Salaries

*Source: These are the average national salaries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and ZipRecruiter. Public relations specialist: $66,750 Social Media Manager: $64,845 Technical writer: $80,050 Editor: $75,020

 

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Knowledge You’ll Gain

In addition to classroom studies, you will have the opportunity to broaden your learning experience through projects that take you into the community. Whether you’re developing public relations projects for local organizations or creating a podcast, you’ll have many opportunities to apply your skills in real-world situations. Completing an internship within your chosen concentration is required for graduation.

Career Outlook

Communication students concentrating in public relations can anticipate working in writing, editing, and social media management positions in the fields of public relations, marketing, and advertising. The degree is also broad enough to offer opportunities in fields as diverse as journalism, politics, law, nonprofit advocacy, and ministry.



Starting Salaries

*Source: These are the average national salaries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and ZipRecruiter. Public relations specialist: $66,750 Social Media Manager: $64,845 Technical writer: $80,050 Editor: $75,020

 

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Anderson University is a national leader in higher education in its use of technology to support and enhance all aspects of its core function—teaching and learning, which has led to the institution being recognized as an Apple Distinguished School since 2014. Through Anderson’s Digital Learning Initiative, Anderson has provided all of its residential undergraduate students and select graduate program students with an iPad Air and Apple Pencil. The mission of transforming learning experiences and preparing students to serve their communities and careers in the twenty-first century is enhanced through mobile devices developed by Apple.

Admission Requirements

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Previous Degree Required

No previous degree is required to enroll in this program.

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Transcript Requirements

Official high school or GED transcripts will need to be submitted as part of the application process for this program. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from their previous school.

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Additional Admission Requirements

Two essays (prompts) OR Official SAT, ACT, or CLT scores

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Application Deadline

Anderson University has a rolling admission process (students are notified when the are accepted whenever that is during the year) but students are encouraged to apply by the following dates: December 1st for the best scholarship consideration and no later than July 1st to begin in the fall semester.

More Information

I-20 Approved: Yes
I-17 Approved: No
Non Degree Option Available (Minor): Yes
Program Director:
Robert Reeves
Breakdown of Credit Hours:
41 Credit Hours – University Core Requirements | 30 Credit Hours – Communication Major Core Requirements | 12 Credit Hours – Communication Major Core Electives | 37 Credit Hours – General Electives
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Alumni Spotlight

Visit the AU NETWORK and meet more alumni in their Journey of Significance.

Georgie Kelley
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Music is not only a passion for Georgie Kelley, but it has also become an avenue for her to help others improve the quality of their lives. As a musical therapist, Kelley works with a variety of individuals, from students in her local school district to clients in her private practice.
Georgie Kelley
'21
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Zach Seiter
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Zach Seiter is on the front lines of digital defense for a large Upstate South Carolina utility.
Zachary Seiter
'23
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Jenny Broaddus
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Dr. Jenny Broaddus has spent more than two decades in professional counseling. Her passion is helping leaders be at their best professionally and in other ways.
Jenny Broaddus, Ph.D.
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Jeremy Fishman
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Dr. Jeremy Fishman found the Ph.D. in Leadership program at Anderson University a great fit for his unique aspirations.
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Bettye Smith, Ph.D.
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Although Dr. Bettye Smith’s background is in engineering, she has developed a passion for leadership development.
Bettye Smith, Ph.D.
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Dr. Kimberly Stapleton
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When Dr. Kimberly Singleton was looking to advance professionally, she found that the Ph.D. in Leadership from Anderson University had everything she needed.
Kimberly M. Stapleton, PhD, CFEI®
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Ashley Stone Ozmint
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Ashley Stone Ozmint has always been drawn to art.
Ashley Stone Ozmint
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C. Nakia Davis
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Anderson University graduate Nakia Davis has spent close to three decades in community banking.
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Leonard Galloway
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Leonard Galloway, human resources director for Anderson School District 5, is committed to his hometown.
Leonard Galloway
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Caroline Waldrop Blevins
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Caroline Waldrop Blevins says the students she teaches bring her joy.
Caroline Waldrop Blevins
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Sara Cantrell
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Sara Cantrell has always loved art and wanted to help others.
Sara Cantrell
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Bates Whitaker
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As communications manager for the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, Bates Whitaker gets to combine his love of the outdoors with his passion for storytelling.
Bates Whitaker
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Got Questions? We're Here to Help!

Got Questions?
We're Here to Help!

Hey there! If you’re curious about something or just want a bit more info, don’t be shy! Fill out the form below and our admission team will be in contact with you soon.

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