Students and professor looking at a cell phone screen,

Oftentimes, an organization’s image is just as important as its product.

Public relations involves managing relationships between organizations and their stakeholders. The public relations major will prepare students for careers in public relations and marketing communications. This major prepares students with essential written and visual communication, critical thinking, strategy, design and research skills for careers in public relations and marketing communications. The public relations major addresses both economic and societal issues, emphasizes the importance of market research and includes experiential learning opportunities.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Enjoy working with people.
  • Are a strong writer.
  • Are a creative thinker.
  • Have solid verbal and interpersonal skills.
  • Have an interest in the media.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Public relations specialist
  • Media relations manager
  • Marketing and communication specialist or manager
  • Press secretary and campaign manager
  • Social media coordinator
Recent Employers
Graduates have gone on to work at employers such as:
  • Epicosity
  • SDN Communications
  • Daktronics
  • Sanford Health
  • Caliber Creative
Internship Opportunities
We have provided the following internship opportunities:
  • SDSU Sports Information
  • Mankato United Soccer Club
  • South Dakota Art Museum
  • University Marketing and Communications
  • Downtown Brookings
Clubs & Organizations
We offer the following extracurricular clubs to participate in:
  • Public Relations Student Society of America
  • Advertising Club
  • Journalism Club
Suggested Certificates
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Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
New Product and Venture Development Certificate
New Product and Venture Development Certificate (Undergraduate)
Leading meeting
Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
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Workplace Intercultural Competence Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
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Digital and Social Media Minor
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Events and Facilities Administration Minor
Administrative Affairs Masters students
Leadership and Management of Nonprofit Organizations Minor
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Health Communication Minor
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Communication Studies Minor
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Student working on a laptop.
Mass Communication (M.M.C.)