Major Public Relations

Public Relations at The University of Texas has a long and rich history. We were one of the first universities to offer a major in Public Relations and we remain one of the best. Our focus on strategic thinking, professional writing, ethical practice and innovative use of new media prepares students to become professional communicators in a variety of settings. Our expansive alumni network and active student organizations give students added resources for forging a career in Public Relations and related fields.

Degree Requirements

Undergraduate students majoring in Public Relations must complete a specific combination of core curriculum, major coursework, Communication requirements, and electives to earn the degree. Among the coursework for majors is a required internship for credit (PR 350) that must be taken in specific sequence with other courses in the Public Relations major.

More information about courses in the Public Relations major can be found in the current undergraduate catalog. More information about requirements for Public Relations majors - including a degree checklist and current and past course catalogs - can be found at the Moody College of Communication Student Advising Office site.

Career Options

Public Relations offers a wide range of career opportunities in both private and public sectors. Graduates learn marketable communications skills and how to use them to achieve outcomes for businesses, government agencies, nonprofit organizations or politcal candidates and advocacy campaigns. Our graduates can work for agencies that specialize in public relations, and for businesses and organizations with their own communications positions. Regardless of the job title or type of employer, demand remains high for individuals with excellent writing skills, the ability to think strategically and an integrated communications point-of-view.

Some positions held by our recent alumni:

• Director of Public Relations, Steel Advertising and Interactive, Austin
• Global Digital Coordinator, Burson-Marsteller, New York
• Assistant Account Executive, Edelman, New York
• Assistant Editor, Brilliant Magazine, Austin
• Account Coordinator, Newlink Communications Group, Miami
• Public Relations Coordinator, T3, Austin
• News Production Associate, MTV News, New York
• Account Coordinator, Cohn & Wolfe, New York

Student Organizations

The University of Texas at Austin is home to one of the nine original chapters of the Public Relations Student Society of America. Named for Dr. Alan Scott, founder of the chapter and a pioneer in public relations education, our PRSSA chapter fosters relationships between students and public relations professionals. It offers regular meetings with guest speakers, a professional mentorship program and professional development workshops. See our chapter website for meeting times, membership information, scholarships and awards and other activities. PRSSA is open to all students, regardless of their major.