Program Overview
Shenandoah University's Public Relations minor equips students with the skills to create persuasive messages, plan campaigns, and manage crises. Through hands-on projects and simulations, students develop expertise in ethical decision-making and effective communication strategies. The minor complements various majors and prepares graduates for careers in media relations, corporate communications, and public affairs.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Public Relations minor at Shenandoah University is a 21-credit program designed to benefit students in various academic disciplines, including business, criminal justice, public health, sociology, religion, education, and political science.
Objectives:
- Ground students in the fundamental theories of persuasive communication and digital media tools.
- Enable students to create persuasive messages with a strong emphasis on ethical decision-making.
- Prepare students for careers in various fields requiring effective communication and public engagement strategies.
Description:
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, case studies, and simulations. Students develop essential skills in writing persuasive messages, planning and implementing public relations campaigns, managing crisis situations, and using social media effectively.
Outline:
Minor Course Requirements (21 credits):
MCOM 101
Understanding of Mass Communication
MCOM 205
Introduction to Public Relations
MCOM 335
Media Writing
300-level elective or MCOM internship
300-level elective(s)
Electives:
Students choose additional 300-level electives in consultation with an MCOM advisor. These may include courses like:
- Media Relations and Strategies
- Crisis Communication
- Social Media Strategies for Business
- Public Affairs and Advocacy
- Public Relations Campaigns
- Special Topics in Public Relations
Structure:
The program offers a variety of courses throughout the academic year, allowing students to tailor their schedules according to their needs.
Assessment: Assessment methods in the Public Relations minor include:
- Exams and quizzes: To evaluate students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
- Assignments and projects: To assess students' ability to apply theory to real-world scenarios
- Presentations: To develop communication and public speaking skills.
- Case studies and simulations: To practice decision-making and problem-solving skills in simulated public relations situations. Students are evaluated on their ability to demonstrate critical thinking, effective research and writing skills, creativity, and ethical considerations in public relations practices
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs various teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles:
- Interactive lectures: Engaging students in discussions and activities related to course materials.
- Guest speakers: Industry professionals sharing real-world experiences and insights.
- Case studies and group projects: Collaborative work on realistic scenarios to apply theory to practice.
- Individual feedback: Close guidance and mentorship from experienced faculty.
Faculty:
The program boasts a dedicated team of experienced public relations professionals and academic experts with extensive industry and teaching credentials.
Unique Approach:
The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences through practical projects and simulations, preparing students for real-world public relations challenges.
Careers: Graduates of the Public Relations minor are qualified for various career opportunities, with potential roles in areas such as:
- Media relations: Managing relationships with media, journalists, and bloggers for organizations.
- Event planning: Planning and executing successful events to engage target audiences.
- Corporate communications: Developing and managing internal or external communications strategies for corporations.
- Crisis management: Responding effectively during crisis situations to protect an organization's reputation.
- Publicity and promotion: Developing marketing strategies to promote organizations, brands, and products.
- Public affairs: Representing organizations or individuals in policy debates and public advocacy initiatives.
- Government relations: Building positive relationships with government stakeholders and advocating for favorable regulations.
Other:
- The minor is open to all Shenandoah University undergraduate students regardless of their major.
- Students can declare the minor by working with their Academic Advisor.
- The Public Relations minor complements a variety of majors and can enhance career prospects across various fields.
- The university offers career support services to guide students in their job searching and professional development journey.
