Department of Communication

Public Relations

Department of Communication

Public Relations


  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Undergraduate

125 credits

required for program

Minor Available

125 credits

125 credits

required for program

Minor Available

Students in Public Relations program develop the skills to build goodwill for a business or organization’s stakeholders and audience. Students conduct market research, analyze audiences, think strategically, and identify publicity opportunities. Through real-world service-learning projects; informational interviews; and internships, students start growing their professional network.

This might be the right degree for you if

  • you enjoy connecting with people 
  • think strategically with creativity 
  • are interested in a career working with the public and community

Why study public relations at Northwestern?

We offer intense, hands-on, service-learning aspects in our public relations coursework. Experienced professors will encourage you to get involved in the many public events on campus and off campus. 

With campus so close to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, students can take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving public relations industries. We partner with Twin Cities companies to offer internships for you to gain real-world experience. 

Unlike larger schools where your professor may not even know your name, our professors can get to know you on a personal level. They individually advise you for your personal path to success. 

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Careers in public relations

There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in public relations.

What types of work are related to this degree?

  • Content Marketing
  • Community Outreach
  • Media Relations Manager
  • Sports Communication
  • Campaign Marketing and Fundraising
  • Fund Development
  • Community Affairs
  • Employee or Member Relations
  • Event Planning
  • Media Relations
  • Promotion and Sales
  • Speech Writer
  • Copywriter
  • Training and Development
  • Crisis Communication
  • Grant Writing

Who employs people with this degree?

  • Advertising Agencies
  • Radio Stations
  • TV Stations
  • Content Creation Companies
  • Public and Private Corporations
  • Marketing Agencies
  • Sport and Athletic Organizations
  • Retail Stores, Hotels, Restaurants
  • Healthcare Organizations
  • Financial and Insurance Firms
  • Real Estate Companies
  • Consulting Firms
  • Colleges
  • Government Offices
  • Missions and Nonprofit Organizations
  • Lobbying Groups

Strategies for success:

  • Obtain a part-time job, summer job, internship, or volunteer experience within an area of interest. Public relations is a competitive field and related experience is essential to breaking into the industry.
  • Explore specializations within the major and field. Select electives or earn a minor to enhance knowledge in area(s) of interest.
  • Participate in co-curricular activities to develop skills such as public speaking, team work, leadership, event planning, and fundraising.
  • Be prepared to start at the bottom and work up to positions of greater responsibility. Expect to complete administrative tasks in entry-level jobs. While these jobs may seem unrelated, you will be consistently exposed to the “lingo” and the culture of PR, and that will greatly help you later on.
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Still have questions about this program or how to apply?

Our team is ready with answers!

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Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.


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