three public relations majors work together on a project for a client

School of Business and EntrepreneurshipPublic Relations Bachelors Degree

  • BA

About the Public Relations Major

Prepare for a dynamic career in public relations with Columbia College Chicago’s comprehensive BA program. Whether your goal is to work in government, corporate settings, or for non-profit organizations, our curriculum equips you with essential skills in research, strategy, media relations, and crisis communication. You’ll learn to engage the public effectively and shape perceptions, providing you with a solid foundation for a successful career in this fast-paced field. Work with real clients, build a portfolio, and explore a curriculum integrated with related fields like communication, social media, and advertising, ensuring you are ready for your unique career path upon graduation.
Examples of Public Relations Careers
  • Brand strategist
  • Corporate communications manager
  • Event manager
  • Media relations coordinator
  • Public relations specialist

The Student Experience

At Columbia, your education in public relations goes beyond traditional classroom learning. You will participate in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and gain real-world experience that prepares you for the industry.

  • Build a strong foundation

    Your first semester immerses you in the world of public relations through foundational courses like Introduction to Public Relations and Public Relations Writing. You will learn to create press materials, conduct audience research, and hone your presentation skills, all while preparing for potential internships that begin in your junior year.

  • Gain practical experience During your senior year, you’ll focus on your capstone project in the Agency course, working with clients from Chicago’s tech start-up incubator, 1871. Your portfolio will showcase work from hands-on courses like Strategic Media Relations and Global PR, demonstrating your ability to handle real client challenges.
  • Learn from faculty who are industry leaders Our faculty members bring a wealth of experience and insights into the classroom, having worked with leading communications firms and Fortune 500 clients. Their expertise ensures that you receive a well-rounded education aligned with industry standards.
  • Engage is organizations that jumpstart careersWe have an active and award-winning chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). PRSSA is a preprofessional student organization that regularly leads cause-related campaigns and hosts regional conferences that bring in industry leaders, giving you a chance to network with corporate PR professionals, event management firms, PR agencies, and more.

a public relations professional presents to a classroom of students

Career Readiness

Graduates of the Public Relations BA program are well-equipped to enter various sectors, having gained both theoretical knowledge and practical experience throughout their studies.

  • Real-world experience

    Starting in your junior year, you’ll have the chance to intern at prestigious organizations like Golin, Edelman, and FleishmanHillard. Our full-time internship coordinators are dedicated to helping you find opportunities that align with your professional goals, ensuring you gain valuable experience.

  • Networking opportunities with alumni

    Columbia hosts an annual Career Day in partnership with the Publicity Club of Chicago (PCC). It’s a day filled with programming, alumni panels and networking opportunities. Many students say Career Day helped them land their first job.  

Alumni Spotlight

Ebonne Just headshot

Ebonne Just '10

Ebonne Just’s PR team has managed high-profile campaigns for celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Cardi B, showcasing the real-world impact of her education at Columbia.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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