Public Relations and Advertising - University of Southern Indiana

Public Relations and Advertising at USI

Whether it’s tracking the latest trends on social media or creating a campaign to launch a brands newest product, the Public Relations and Advertising (PRA) major at USI prepares students to enter a fast-paced work environment full of opportunities. Students majoring in PRA may choose to emphasize in Public Relations or Advertising.

The PRA program educates students in public relations, advertising, communications, creative thinking, and critical skills such as:

Brand Development
Social Media
Internal and External Communications
Special Events and Promotions
Media Relations
Environmental Design
Crisis Planning
Reputation Management

Graduates of this program work for agencies, corporations, firms, non-profit organizations, and many more. Alumni obtained jobs corresponding to PRA relating but not limited to: Public Relations Mangers, Media Consultants, Communication Managers, Copywriters, Account Executives, Social Media Consultants, Digital Content Producers, Internal Communications Coordinators, Project Specialists, Promotions and Events Management.

Public Relations and Advertising Major - Advertising Emphasis

40 hours; C or better required in all major courses; 2.25 major GPA required

Students may choose either an emphasis in Public Relations or Advertising, depending upon individual interests. By carefully selecting appropriate electives offered in the program, students will develop skills in both areas.

The Advertising emphasis prepares students for a growing field in communications. Students acquire the essential skills of writing, design, advertising, graphics, research, market analysis, media planning, promotions, integrated marketing campaigns, and communication theory. In addition to required courses, students may choose from a variety of directed communications electives to enhance career objectives.

Public Relations and Advertising Major, Public Relations Emphasis

40 hours; C or better required in all major courses; 2.25 major GPA required

The Public Relations emphasis provides students with a background that includes the essential skills of strategic writing and design to enter the rapidly growing public relations field. Students are prepared to advance their careers through courses in research, strategy development, and integrated marketing. In addition to required courses, students may choose from a variety of directed communications electives to enhance their career objectives.

Public Relations and Advertising Minor

18 hours; C or better required in all courses; 2.25 minor GPA required

Students select either 9 credit hours of electives from the offerings for the Public Relations emphasis OR 9 credit hours of electives from the offerings for the Advertising emphasis.

For more information:

Dr. Erin Dennis

Associate Professor of Advertising

eegilles@usi.edu