Public Relations Facts at a Glance

Career Outlook:

Employment is projected to increase faster than average; keen competition is expected for entry-level jobs.

Areas of practice:

Large and small corporations
Not-for-profit organizations
Public relations firms

Public relations functions:

Beginning level:

Media relations
Employee/member relations
Community relations
Development, fundraising
Special events
Marketing communications

Advanced level:

Counseling management
Issues management
Crisis communication
Financial/investor relations

Entry-level skills required:

Writing
Speaking
Visual design (in some instances)

Educational preparation:

Strong liberal arts foundation
Concentration of public relations and other communication courses
Supporting courses (minor, electives to develop areas of interest)