Online Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
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Public Relations Bachelor's Degree at a Glance
Want to craft compelling PR campaigns? Carefully manage a brand’s reputation? Communicate with clarity during a crisis?
This 120-credit online bachelor’s degree program is ideal for aspiring PR professionals and those looking to refine their professional communication skills. The workforce-aligned curriculum is designed to teach you the fundamentals of PR including research, planning, implementation, and evaluation. You’ll practice planning and executing campaigns, building media relationships, and leveraging digital strategies that will set you apart in the field of public relations.
Affordable Tuition
Online Courses
Expert Faculty
No Test Scores
Rolling Admission
Three Start Dates
Careers in Public Relations
Whether you’re currently working in public relations or are pursuing the field for the first time, this degree program will help you take your next step. Graduates work in a variety of roles in both the public and private sectors, with some pursuing industry-specific certifications and other specializations. Sample careers include:
- Public/media relations specialist or manager
- Event manager or event planner
- Public affairs specialist
- Communications director
- Fundraising and development coordinator
- Content strategist or social media manager
- Political campaign manager
- Crisis communications manager
- Public information officer
What You'll Learn While Earning Your Degree in Public Relations
This bachelor’s degree equips you with content-rich and highly competitive skills in public and media relations, strategic communication, and crisis management. You’ll master the concepts of conducting primary and secondary research, writing press releases, crafting and executing PR campaigns, building and maintaining media relationships, and managing communication during a crisis. You’ll learn to analyze and segment audiences, tailoring messages to different groups. You’ll explore digital PR strategies, leveraging social media and creating online content. You’ll also examine the ethical, legal, and cultural dimensions involved when communicating with the public. And through practical projects and internships, you’ll gain hands-on experience that will forever inform your career in PR.
- Media Writing
- Principles of Public Relations
- Media Ethics & Equity
- Media Law
- Capstone: Media & Design
See the Tulane University course catalog for a complete list of required courses for the BA in Public Relations. You can also download this sample matriculation guide, which includes a list of suggested electives.
The Tulane School of Professional Advancement awards the BA in Public Relations following the completion of 120 credits, which includes 36 credits in the major. An 18-credit Public Relations minor is also available as is an 18-credit Professional Certificate in Public Relations.
The degree can be earned entirely online, with in-person options for some electives and courses in the core curriculum. And because you may transfer up to 60 credits towards the 120-credit requirement, you could earn your degree in two to four years.
Explore SoPA’s Media + Design Program
From digital marketing campaigns to motion graphics to cutting-edge app prototypes, the Media + Design program prepares students to use public relations, digital marketing, graphic design, and interactive design to shape the world around us.
Take a look at all 12 of our applied degree, certificate, and minor offerings. See the work our students and alumni are creating. And find out how everything fits within the larger picture.
Expert Faculty to Guide Your Path
Our diverse faculty is comprised of award-winning industry professionals and subject-matter experts working in the fields of advertising, digital marketing, graphic design, interactive design, influencer strategy, corporate communication, and public relations. They guide you through an accredited, industry-driven curriculum developed to give you the expertise and skills most in demand today.
SoPA Faculty Feature
“In a society where media is so pervasive and ever-changing, I think it's vital; for students to learn the problem-solving skills necessary to create strategic, innovative, cultural, and socially significant communications solutions.”
Tamar Gregorian, Ph.D.
Associate Director
Professor of Practice
Media + Design Student Spotlight
“I really appreciated the ability to learn both in and out of the classroom by getting credit for internships I've completed. I am someone who learns best by doing, and the real-world experience of working in a variety of settings with industry professionals is irreplaceable. I've been able to get credit for internships in digital marketing, web design, and a summer at IBM as a software designer, and each experience has helped me hone in what I want to do after graduation.”
Megan Calvin
Tulane SoPA class of 2020
An Engaging & Flexible Online Learning Experience
Connect with motivated classmates and experienced professionals in an environment that nurtures creativity and collaboration
Year after year, our students earn local and national recognition for their exceptional work. Take a look—and get inspired!
Navigate degree requirements and prepare for the workforce with help from our academic advisors and dedicated career counselor.
Meet our advisory board, the media and design leaders who inform our coursework based on current needs and trends.
Quick Facts
Tulane SoPA accepts students on a rolling basis, year-round. Start dates every August, January, May, and June. We never require test scores or recommendations. Visit our Admissions Process page to learn more.
All tuition is charged by the credit hour and we have minimal fees. Visit our tuition page to see our current tuition rates and use our net price calculator.
We strive to make a Tulane SoPA education affordable for all students. Learn about financial aid, discounts and scholarship opportunities here.
You may transfer up to 60 credits to our undergraduate programs. Review admissions information for applying as a transfer student.
SoPA offers credit for your prior work experience through an assessment of your work portfolio. Undergraduates can earn up to 24 credits.
Enter your email to download our Media + Design e-brochure.
By submitting this form, you agree to receive information about the Tulane School of Professional Advancement’s programs via email, phone and/or text. You may opt out at any time.
