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A public relations professor is sitting and talking with a group of students.

Bachelor of Science in Journalism (BSJ)

Minor

Journalism: Public Relations

Public relations professionals do more than manage messaging. They shape public understanding, turn conflict into conversation and translate complex ideas into clear communication. At BGSU, we believe effective PR starts with knowing how media works. That’s why our public relations specialization is part of the journalism program.

Graduates of our Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a specialization in public relations gain a competitive edge by combining journalistic integrity and fact-finding skills with strategic communication expertise. They leave BGSU with a deep understanding of newsroom operations, what journalists need and how to craft messages that resonate with media professionals and the public.

BGSU is one of the best colleges for public relations. We offer hands-on experience through:

  • Award-winning student-run agency
  • Direct partnerships with leading corporations and nonprofits 
  • A curriculum taught by industry professionals who bring real-world campaigns into the classroom

Our accredited public relations degree program provides the practical skills and professional network you need to launch your career from day one.

Why study public relations at BGSU in Ohio?

  • Accredited degree program. The School of Media and Communication’s public relations program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). This prestigious designation is awarded to fewer than 30% of the nation’s 400+ undergraduate journalism and mass communication programs. 
  • Industry-leading expertise. Learn from nationally recognized faculty who combine scholarly research and theory with opportunities to get involved in real-world PR campaigns, media appearances and top professional organizations.
  • A curriculum that stays ahead of the curve. Our courses are designed with input from industry leaders and updated regularly to reflect current trends. Develop expertise in strategic communication planning, crisis management, media relations and digital storytelling.
  • Master tomorrow’s technology today. Train with the same state-of-the-art equipment and facilities used by working PR professionals. Our Convergence Lab, broadcast television studio and professional audio facilities prepare you for immediate industry impact. 
  • Build your professional network before you graduate. Gain professional experience before you graduate in required internship courses. Immerse yourself in a thriving community of future public relations leaders through dynamic student organizations like the Media and Communication Student Association (MCSA), Pi Kappa Delta and Falcon Media. 
  • On-campus Public Relations Student Society of America. Connect directly with industry executives nationwide through our on-campus PRSSA chapter. The group hosts expert-led workshops, organizes field trips and helps students find great internships.
  • Accelerate your path to success. Fast-track your career trajectory by earning your B.S.  and your master’s in media and commmunication in just five years with our accelerated B.S. to M.A. We also offer an online strategic communication and social media specialization.

The BGSU public relations program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). 

#1 public university in Ohio for career prep

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Career – what can you do with a public relations degree?

A career in public relations isn’t just about press releases and media events. At a time when information travels fast and public perception can shift in an instant, it’s about helping organizations navigate an ever-evolving media landscape with authenticity and influence.

A public relations degree opens career paths across diverse industries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth over the next decade. 

  • Corporate communications professionals develop executive messaging and brand strategies that influence market perception and stakeholder relationships. 
  • Agency roles offer exposure to multiple client industries and communication challenges.
  • Nonprofit organizations rely on PR professionals to advance social causes, mobilize community support and elevate important voices. 
  • Crisis communication specialists protect organizational reputations during critical moments.
  • Government and public affairs professionals facilitate transparent institutional communication and contribute to civic engagement through strategic messaging. 

Graduates may also leverage their communications expertise to excel in:

Career paths

  • Community affairs
  • Corporate public relations
  • Education
  • Event planning
  • Government
  • Healthcare marketing
  • Nonprofit administration
  • Politics
  • Public relations agency
  • Sports marketing

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Curriculum

The Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a specialization in public relations prepares students for strategic communication careers. Students explore theoretical foundations and practical applications while building essential skills for today’s complex communication landscape. 

The 120-credit hour program emphasizes critical areas of communication expertise through advanced coursework in areas like crisis communication, social media strategy and comprehensive campaign planning. 

All students complete at least two internships. They gain real-world experience and professional networking essential for career success in public relations. A minor degree outside the field of journalism is also required. 

Required courses

3 public relations students stand with a professor in front a picture of the Google logo

Sample courses

  • Public Relations Writing and Social Media Strategies
  • Introduction to Strategic Public Relations
  • Public Relations Publication Design
  • Public Relations Campaigns
  • Leadership in Communication
  • Principles in Marketing

Public relations minor

A public relations minor adds strategic communication expertise to any degree. It makes graduates more competitive in today’s communication-driven marketplace. This 19-credit program covers essential skills from strategic messaging and social media to crisis management. It culminates in a required internship. 

#1 university in Ohio – big or small, public or private – students would choose again

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BGSU College of Arts and Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Journalism with specialization in public relations is part of the School of Media and Communication in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

Updated: 08/06/2025 11:31AM