Minor in Public Relations and Advertising
Hours: 21 On-Campus Online
About
The Minor in Public Relations and Advertising at Fort Hays State University equips students with strategic communication skills essential for effectively shaping public opinion. Designed to complement a variety of major fields of study, the program prepares students to communicate with diverse audiences, including consumers, stakeholders, and the general public.
Through a well-rounded curriculum, students develop expertise in key areas such as public relations, advertising, and media. The minor emphasizes vital topics like organizational communication, strategic writing, and visual design, making it an ideal option for those seeking to strengthen their professional communication capabilities.
Why pursue a Minor in Public Relations and Advertising at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in Public Relations and Advertising enables students to strengthen their communication skills while customizing their education to complement their major field of study. The program focuses on helping students learn how to influence public attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and competencies that are valuable across all industries.
Offering both on-campus and online options, the minor provides flexibility to accommodate students’ schedules. It equips students with practical skills in writing, visual communication, and strategic thinking, preparing them for careers in corporate communication, non-profit organizations, or creative industries.
Who is this program for?
This minor is well-suited for students seeking to enhance their strategic communication skills and complement their major with practical knowledge in public relations and advertising. It appeals to creative individuals who enjoy problem-solving and have a strong interest in media and communication.
- Students interested in marketing, advertising, and PR
- Business majors seeking to enhance communication skills
- Media studies students wanting practical experience
- Communication majors specializing in strategic communication
- Future professionals in corporate or non-profit communication roles
Real-World Applications
Students develop skills that are directly applicable to real-world communication challenges. They learn to navigate the dynamic, fast-paced nature of modern communication roles by tailoring messages for diverse audiences and leveraging various media technologies.
The program places a strong emphasis on hands-on projects, including the creation of campaigns for businesses and nonprofit organizations. This approach ensures that graduates leave with a professional portfolio and practical experience, enhancing their career opportunities.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University incorporates the latest trends in media and communication into its curriculum. Covering evolving media technologies and digital communication strategies, the program equips students with the tools and techniques that are shaping the future of public relations and advertising.
The curriculum also emphasizes critical thinking and adaptability, preparing students to anticipate and respond effectively to emerging trends. Courses in visual and creative design, combined with strategic writing, ensure that students gain a balanced understanding of both the creative and analytical aspects of communication. With a solid foundation in digital and traditional media, graduates remain competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.
Hands-on Activities
Experiential learning is a key component of the Minor in Public Relations and Advertising. Students engage in practical activities such as developing real-world public relations campaigns, creating strategic media content, and designing advertising visuals.
These hands-on projects help students build technical expertise while also cultivating professionalism and confidence, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of the communication industry after graduation.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of media and society
- Strategic writing for public relations
- Organizational communication principles
- Visual and creative design techniques
- Media technologies application
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive media courses
- Public relations and advertising campaigns
- Practical writing assignments
- Visual communication projects
- Ethical communication practices
The core curriculum covers fundamental topics in communication and strategic media practices. Students start with introductory courses that offer a broad overview of communication principles and the media’s influence on public perception.
Advanced courses enable students to sharpen their technical skills while addressing the ethical considerations inherent in their work. Emphasizing writing, media design, and critical thinking, these courses prepare students to become well-rounded communicators equipped to tackle diverse challenges in the professional world.
COMM 345: Visual and Creative Design
This course focuses on the study and application of desktop publishing technology and publication design, emphasizing the creation of professional-quality printed and digital materials.
COMM 348: Intro to Public Relations and Advertising
This course offers a comprehensive overview of the public relations field, covering its development, current trends, and emerging technologies. It includes a review of grammar, social responsibility, and professional ethics, with a focus on the impact of public relations on society.Bottom of FormCCCCCCC
COMM 349: Strategic Writing and Ethics
This course develops professional writing skills for public relations, focusing on crafting messages for diverse audiences and media. It covers persuasive communication theories and practical techniques in planning, writing, editing, production, and evaluation.
Discover the full Minor in Public Relations and Advertising course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates pursue diverse career opportunities across multiple industries. The minor equips students with expertise in media strategy, campaign development, and visual communication, making them valuable contributors to a wide range of organizations.
Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists oversee the public image of organizations by crafting strategic messages aimed at maintaining or enhancing their reputation. Their responsibilities include writing press releases, developing media kits, and managing communication campaigns for a variety of clients.
Advertising Coordinator
Advertising coordinators oversee the development and implementation of advertising campaigns. Their role involves collaborating with creative teams, managing media placements, and analyzing the effectiveness of campaigns to ensure successful outcomes.
Corporate Communications Manager
Corporate communications managers play a vital role in overseeing both internal and external communications within corporate environments. They develop communication strategies, manage corporate social responsibility initiatives, and ensure consistent messaging across all channels.
Media Relations Specialist
Media relations specialists establish and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets. They pitch stories, coordinate press conferences, and manage media inquiries to secure positive coverage for their clients or organizations.
Marketing and Communication Consultant
Marketing and communication consultants advise organizations on enhancing their communication strategies. They conduct research, develop campaigns, and provide strategic recommendations to improve brand visibility and increase audience engagement.
The admission requirements for the Minor in Public Relations and Advertising at Fort Hays State University are straightforward and designed to support student success in the program.
Academic Standing
Applicants must have completed a minimum of 30 undergraduate credit hours before applying for the minor. This requirement ensures that students possess a solid academic foundation prior to enrolling in specialized communication courses.
Minimum GPA
To declare the minor, students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. This requirement reflects a foundational level of academic achievement and readiness for the program’s rigorous coursework.
Application Process
Students are required to submit a minor declaration form, which can be completed online or through FHSU’s Academic Advising Office. This process officially registers the minor and integrates it into the student’s degree plan.
Prerequisite Coursework
Although most courses in the minor are open to all students, the FHSU recommends completing introductory courses in communication or related fields to ensure students are prepared for the specialized content of the program.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
The Minor in Public Relations and Advertising complements a variety of other programs offered at Fort Hays State University. Students pursuing this minor may also benefit from exploring related fields that deepen their knowledge of communication and media.
The minor requires 21 credit hours. Depending on the student's course load, students can typically complete the requirements in two years.
Yes, the program offers online and on-campus options, providing flexibility for students with different needs.
Students will develop strategic writing, visual communication, campaign planning, and media ethics skills, preparing them for diverse public relations and advertising roles.
No, the minor complements any major and is especially beneficial for students in fields like business, media studies, and communication.
The program includes hands-on projects where students create public relations campaigns, develop strategic communication plans, and design media content.
Information about the Department of Communication Studies, Law and Political Science
The Department of Communication Studies, Law and Political Science at FHSU offers a dynamic and engaging educational experience designed to prepare students for successful careers across diverse fields in communication, political science, and law. Whether students are passionate about storytelling, inspiring others through news or entertainment, or driving change through political insight, these programs provide the essential skills and knowledge to excel.
Emphasizing both theoretical learning and practical application, students have an opportunity to participate in hands-on experiences such as service-learning projects, internships, and involvement with the state-of-the-art Institute for New Media Studies. Dedicated faculty, bringing real-world expertise into the classroom, ensure students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of their chosen career paths.
With small class sizes and personalized advising, students receive individualized attention throughout their academic journey. The programs are designed to enhance effective communication skills, cultural understanding, and proficiency with current media technologies. Whether pursuing careers in advertising, public relations, political management, or law, graduates are equipped to make a meaningful impact.
FHSU’s alumni network extends across a wide range of industries, providing valuable connections that support career advancement. Students at FHSU gain a solid education, practical experience, and confidence needed to become leaders in their chosen fields.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA): This national organization is dedicated to serving its members by enhancing their education, expanding their professional networks, and supporting their career launch after graduation. The FHSU chapter has achieved remarkable success, earning awards and offering students valuable opportunities to apply their academic learning in practical settings. PRSSA is committed to developing ethically responsible pre-professionals who champion diversity and advocate for the public relations profession. Students interested in participating can connect with faculty and peers through a variety of events and networking opportunities.
- Student Government Association (SGA): SGA serves as the voice of the student body at Fort Hays State University, representing students' interests and concerns to the administration. Participation in SGA provides students with valuable leadership experience, an understanding of governance processes, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change on campus.
- College Republicans and Young Democrats: These organizations offer platforms for students to engage with political ideologies and activities aligned with their personal beliefs. Members participate in discussions, organize events, and connect with local and national political figures, providing a deeper understanding of the political landscape.
- Tigers in Service: This organization focuses on service and volunteerism, encouraging students to participate in community service projects that make a difference locally and beyond. Tigers in Service is an excellent opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, network with community leaders, and give back to society.
- Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society): Pi Sigma Alpha is the national honor society for Political Science students. Membership is based on high academic achievement in Political Science coursework. The FHSU chapter meets monthly for programming, discussions, service projects, and social activities. Members also enjoy recognition at graduation through honor symbols, signifying their academic excellence and commitment to the field.
- Political Science Club: Open to all students, the Political Science Club allows underclassmen and those not yet eligible for Pi Sigma Alpha to participate in similar activities without the honor status. The club meets concurrently with Pi Sigma Alpha, engaging in stimulating discussions, service projects, and social events. It’s a great way for students to get involved early in their academic careers.
- Pre-Law Society: The Pre-Law Society is open to all majors and offers insights into the legal profession. Members learn about law school, the application process, and the day-to-day life of lawyers and judges. The society organizes visits to law schools and courts, hosts guest speakers from the legal field, and engages in service projects. This organization is ideal for students considering a future in law, providing them with the knowledge and connections to succeed.
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