Public relations study offers a vital focus on the growing needs for clear, responsible communication by corporations and organizations with their various publics.  Our professional focus helps students gain the knowledge and practical skills necessary for the 21st century’s complex needs.

Required Courses in Public Relations

CJN 101 – Introduction to Communication

An introduction to the discipline addressing social science, humanities and practical art approaches to the study of communication. Students investigate the broad themes and foundational concepts which unify the discipline in order to understand the diverse fields, functions and purposes of communication.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester

CJN 103 – Presentation Skills

The development, delivery and analysis of rhetorical messages. Stress on broad theories of rhetorical analysis in a historical context and pragmatic experience in delivering oral messages.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester.

CJN 405 – Communication Theory

An interdisciplinary examination of the development of communication theories from the classical tradition to the modern perspectives of rhetoricians, scientist, psychologist, sociologists, philosophers and others.

Prerequisite: CJN majors with Senior standing.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester.

CJN 112 – Journalism I

An introductory news writing course designed to teach both the writing style used by journalists and basic techniques used for gathering and presenting information for general publication. The course emphasizes fundamental writing and reporting skills such as interviews, finding sources, and choosing essential facts. Students will also be introduced to feature news writing and be assigned to develop and write basic stories drawn from real-life situations.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester.

CJN 247 – no description for Design and Production as of now.

CJN 257 – Advertising

Theoretical and practical applications of communication are considered in terms of advertising strategies and campaigns for media.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester.

CJN 277 – Public Relations

The basic principle techniques and process of public relations are examined. Issues, trends, opportunities, and problems faced by the practitioner and impacting the organization are analyzed.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered every semester.

CJN 378 – Event Planning and Promotion

Examines how conferences are built, promoted, managed, and assessed, with particular emphasis on nonprofit conventions, trade shows, and volunteer organizations. Specific issues analyzed include facilities planning and contracts, legal issues, volunteer management, budgeting, marketing, and planner/staff communication.

Prerequisite: CJN 277.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered yearly.

CJN 457 – Integrated Marketing Communication

Examines the integration of advertising, promotion, public relations and marketing communication in the strategic communication process.

Prerequisites: CJN 257, CJN 277.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered yearly.

CJN 477 – Public Relations II

Public Relations campaign management. The focus is on the application of techniques and strategies in the development and implementation of a public relations campaign. Includes the application of new technologies to the public relations process

Prerequisite: CJN 277.

1 term – 4 credits.

Normally offered yearly.