Illinois State University United States

Public Relations (B.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Public Relations (B.S.) at Illinois State University is designed for aspiring communicators who aim to shape public perception and build strong organizational relationships. You will delve into the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of communication campaigns, learning to monitor environments and counsel management effectively. This undergraduate degree prepares you to bridge the gap between private industry, public organizations, and their diverse stakeholders, fostering clear and impactful communication across various sectors. It's ideal for students passionate about crafting messages and managing reputations.

This Public Relations program is studied full-time on campus over four years, requiring a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 40 senior-level hours. You will engage with core communication studies, foreign language requirements, and a variety of electives, building a comprehensive skill set. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, preparing you for roles in media relations, corporate communications, and public affairs. You will graduate with the ability to research, plan, and implement effective public relations strategies, ready for diverse career paths in a dynamic communication landscape.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Public Relations program provides a comprehensive foundation in communication and strategic messaging. Students will engage with core communication courses, general education requirements, and university-wide electives throughout their academic journey. The curriculum progresses through foundational first and second-year studies, building towards specialized public relations electives and advanced coursework in the third and fourth years, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the field.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15-16 credit hours)

COM 111
COM 178
Foreign language course 111-level or University-wide elective
General Education course
IDEAS course or University-wide elective

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (15-16 credit hours)

COM 161
Foreign language course 112-level or University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

COM 268
COM 297
COM 181
Senior level Public Relations major elective
B.S. - SMT or B.A. language
University-wide elective

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 329 or COM 229
300-level Public Relations major elective
Senior level Public Relations major elective
Senior level University-wide elective
AMALI course or University-wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 377
300-level Public Relations major elective
Senior level University-wide elective
Senior level University-wide elective
University-wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 378
300-level Public Relations major elective
Senior level University-wide elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAdvertising & Media SalesAnimation & Visual EffectsAviation Maintenance & RepairBroadcasting & TelevisionDigital Media & Online PublishingFamily & Civil LawFood Safety & Quality AssurancePhotojournalism & Visual MediaRail & Mass Transit

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

COUNTRY Financial®

Capital one

ESPN

FOX Corporation

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

State Farm

Target

Why Study Public Relations (B.S.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Public Relations (B.S.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require special permits, while off-campus work needs university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, applicants need a Duolingo score of 105, a TOEFL overall score of 79, or an IELTS overall score of 6.5, among other requirements. It's important to meet these scores to ensure successful communication in the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Public Relations Specialists, Communication Managers, Media Relations Coordinators, Event Planners, or Content Strategists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This major equips students with skills in researching, planning, and executing communication strategies. Students will also learn to monitor organizational environments and advise management on effective communication.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Relations B.S. program has three intake months: January, May, and August. Be sure to apply before the deadlines for your chosen intake.
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