Public Relations

Public relations students learn and develop skills that will be needed in their careers especially writing, desktop publishing. Through research students learn to analyze audiences and apply newly acquired skills in developing messages for their audiences. They will tap into their analytical skills and be challenged to think quickly on their feet.

Majors can expand their knowledge of the various communication tools by taking a second communication concentration of broadcasting, journalism or broadcast sales.

As an option PR majors can take a second major in a specific field they have an interest in joining, as natural resource management, criminal justice, a foreign language, hospitality and tourism or one of the sciences.

Faculty bring years of academic and professional experience to the classroom. Classes engage students in "real world" challenges using the community as a laboratory.

Catamount Communications, the student-run public relations firm, enables students to practice their professional judgment and skills with various community groups and local non-profit agencies.

Students can begin their professional networking by joining the Public Relations Student Society of America, which is associated with the leading professional organization.

To complete the program: A total of 40 hours is required, including a minor, second communication concentration, second major, or other approved program and student selected general electives. At least 30 hours taken at WCU must be at the junior-senior level to meet one of the general university degree requirements.

Total hours required for the degree: 120

For an official listing of the required courses you should consult the official Western Carolina University catalog of courses.