Public Relations Certificate of Achievement at Cerritos College:

Degree Overview:

Goals and Objectives:

Prepare students for upper-division Journalism or Mass Communications courses at a four-year institution.
Prepare students for entry-level work in the public relations industry.
Enhance students' understanding of ethics and social responsibility in public relations.
Equip students with transferable skills applicable to various career situations.

Program Description:

The Public Relations Certificate program at Cerritos College provides students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in public relations careers. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical experience, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the communication strategies, media relations, and public image management techniques used in the field.

Outline:

Program Structure:

The Public Relations Certificate program consists of 18 units, including major courses, general education courses, and electives. Students typically complete the program in two semesters.

Course Schedule:

Fall 2023:
JOUR 100: Mass Communications and Society (3 units)
JOUR 101: Beginning Newswriting and Reporting (3 units)
JOUR 157: Principles of Public Relations (3 units)
Spring 2024:
JOUR 157 or BA 157 (3 units)
Two additional major courses in Public Relations (6 units)

Individual Modules:

JOUR 100: Mass Communications and Society: Introduces the fundamentals of mass communication, including the history, theories, and technologies shaping the field.
JOUR 101: Beginning Newswriting and Reporting: Provides students with the essential skills and techniques for effective news writing and reporting.
JOUR 157: Principles of Public Relations: Explores the principles and practices of public relations, including media relations, crisis communication, and public image management.
Additional major courses in Public Relations: Students choose further courses from a variety of options, such as public relations writing, social media for public relations, or public relations campaigns.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Exams
Assignments
Presentations
Projects

Assessment Criteria:

Knowledge and understanding of public relations concepts and theories
Ability to apply public relations principles to real-world situations
Skill in written and oral communication
Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

Lectures
Discussions
Case studies
Simulations
Guest speakers

Faculty:

The Public Relations program at Cerritos College is taught by experienced and qualified faculty with expertise in public relations, journalism, and mass communication.

Unique Approaches:

The program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning through projects and simulations.
Students have opportunities to work with real-world clients and organizations.
The program offers a variety of elective courses that allow students to specialize in specific areas of public relations.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Public relations specialist
Media relations specialist
Communications manager
Public affairs specialist
Social media manager
Event planner

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the Public Relations Certificate program are prepared for entry-level positions in a variety of industries, including:

Public relations agencies
Corporations
Non-profit organizations
Government agencies

Job Growth:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% increase in employment for public relations specialists from 2021 to 2031.

Average Salary:

The average salary for public relations specialists in California is $71,980 per year.

Other:

The Public Relations program at Cerritos College is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC).
The program offers a micro-credential in Public Relations Writing.
Students can participate in the Public Relations Club to gain additional experience and network with professionals.