Program Overview
Belmont University's Public Relations major equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the field. The program emphasizes writing, business savvy, and critical thinking, preparing students for diverse career paths. Students engage in hands-on projects and community involvement, while professors prioritize real-world experience and industry insights.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- To equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the Public Relations field.
- To help students develop a strong understanding of the principles and practices of Public Relations.
- To prepare students for a variety of career paths in Public Relations.
Description:
The Public Relations major at Belmont University is a rigorous program that combines communication, journalism, and marketing attributes. The program emphasizes writing, business savvy, and critical thinking skills, preparing students for a dynamic industry. Students engage in hands-on projects, including community involvement, to gain practical experience and build their resumes. Professors prioritize real-world experience as a teaching tool, bringing in guest speakers for further industry insights.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- Two pathways: Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS)
- 128 credit hours required for completion
- Divided into four components:
- BELL core requirements (53 hours)
- Major requirements (36 hours, including 12 elective hours)
- Minor requirements (18 hours)
- General electives (21 hours)
Courses:
- Core courses include:
- Public Relations Principles
- Public Relations Writing I & II
- Public Relations Campaigns
- Public Relations Cases
- Public Relations Research
- Public Relations Ethical Leadership
- Public Relations Internship
- Public Relations Senior Capstone
- 12 elective hours chosen from a selection of specialized courses, such as:
- Tower Creative Practicum
- Sport and Public Relations
- Nonprofit Public Relations & Development
- Social Media and Public Relations
- Public Relations Design & Production
- Social Media Content Development
- International Public Relations
- Social Media Measurement & Analytics
- Risk and Crisis Management for Social Media
- Event Planning
- Media Relations
- Advanced Public Relations Campaigns
Teaching:
- Professors prioritize real-world experience and incorporate guest speakers for industry insights.
- Focus on hands-on projects and community involvement.
- Strong emphasis on writing, business savvy, and critical thinking skills.
Careers:
- Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in Public Relations such as:
- Communications Director
- Media Planner
- Media Relations Director
- Press Secretary
- Account Executive
- Public Relations Director
- Public Affairs Director
- Crisis Manager
- Community Relations Director
- Nashville offers extensive and diverse PR internship opportunities, making Belmont an ideal location to study Public Relations.
