Public relations is a field that is steadily increasing in demand. Graduates of a Masters in Public Relations program will be able to work for private companies and corporations, advertising firms, communication companies, PR firms, and even for individuals who are in the public eye such as celebrities. Managing the way that an entity is perceived by the public takes a lot of skill and relies on numerous disciplines ranging from psychology to communications. Today many schools have lifted the GRE requirements for entry into a Masters in Public Relations program. Online programs in the field are difficult to find due its somewhat ‘niche’ standing. However, there are excellent programs worth considering if you hope to enter this exciting field. Here are some of them.
- New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies – NYU-SCPS has several campuses within its system and offers a highly regarded MS in Public Relations and Corporate Communications program. The main focus of this program is on PR skills at the corporate level, and the school does not generally require GRE scores for admission. However, in some cases the admission board may decide that test scores must be submitted due to a ‘weak’ application.
- Kent State University – Kent State offers a fully accredited program from their School of Journalism and Mass Communication. It’s available entirely online and students who show that they have significant experience in the job field will often be able to avoid the GRE score requirement.
- Full Sail University – Full Sail offers a 48 credit hour program in the New Media Journalism field and teaches students to effectively use new technology to bolster public relations for companies and individuals as well. GRE requirements may be waived if students meet specific criteria.
- Drexel University – Drexel is widely considered to be one of the nation’s top educational institutions and its MS in Communication program provides specific concentration areas including Public Relations. The 45 credit hour program is available entirely online and students who meet certain requirements won’t be required to submit their GRE scores.
- Columbia University – Columbia University is located in New York City and features a quality MA or MS in Communication program that will also feature electives and specializations in the public relations field. While generally no GRE is required, applicants to the programs could find that if they do not submit a GRE score that they are required to take an entrance writing exam.
- Purdue University – The Fort Wayne, Texas campus of Purdue University has a solid communications and PR program that will give students the skills to enter the field and find employment quickly. In order to avoid the GRE requirement during admissions students will need to have a 3.0 GPA or better during their undergraduate studies.