The Public Relations + Social Engagement program (PR+SE) is a study of many aspects related to the public relations industry. This program aims to teach students in different areas of public relations communication:

Public Relations

Students learn and implement best practices for managing communications with clients both externally and internally to their organization. Students learn fundamental techniques like writing a news release, creating brands and brand collateral, improving community relations between organizations and stakeholders, developing public relations strategies, and managing crisis communication situations. We feature courses like: 

• Public Relations
• Public Relations Writing
• Organizational Spokespeople

Social Engagement

PR + SE students learn about all aspects of using social media platforms for engaging with stakeholders in their communities. Courses teach students how to curate content, practice effective social media strategies, and measure analytics like reach and engagement — all responsibilities of today’s social media manager. Classes include:

• Social Media Strategies
• Social Media PR
• Social Media Analytics

Real-world learning experiences

Students will have opportunities to intern with local organizations that have public relations or social engagement needs, including non-profit organizations, small businesses, and even university clients. We have exclusive partnerships with some organizations to provide interns in a number of responsibilities such as social media, events, and integrated marketing communications. Students or potential internship partners can view information here about our internship opportunities.

Students will work in groups with a client in their capstone course COMM 4325. This course is designed for students to create and polish their job search materials to help them in their job search process during their final semester. Many students have a job offer in-hand or accepted by the time they finish their capstone course. 

Service-learning 

During semesters when Crisis Communication is taught, students will have the option to spend their spring break at a nearby community in-need of service. Past trips have included working to rebuild homes in Rockport, TX after Hurricane Harvey. Students engage with guest speakers like mayors, emergency management planners, and first-responders as they learn about how public relations works in a crisis.

You can also find academic advising guides and course rotations for Communication Studies in the Tarleton Catalog.

Programs and Opportunities

Testimonials