FAQs
Q. What exactly is public relations?
A. Public relations is the practice of establishing a mutual relationship and understanding between an organization and its audience. As a public relations practitioner, you will represent clients and use various media to get their message out to the intended audience. Public relations is a process that involves research, creativity in how to get the message across, and evaluation. Public relations can be anything from planning an event for an organization, to writing a brochure, to contacting journalists about story ideas, to writing a speech, to consulting clients, to conducting a survey, to raising money, to writing a newsletter or news release. Whatever the medium, a public relations practitioner uses communication to get an organization's message across and create a relationship between the organization and its publics.
Q. What minors at Belmont are compatible with public
relations?
A. Public relations can be paired with numerous fields. The most common minors that students combine it with are journalism, marketing, political science, music business, mass communication and communication studies. For example, if students wants to work for a Christian nonprofit organization, they could also major or minor in public relations.
Q. Can I minor in Public Relations?
A. Yes, Public Relations is offered as both a major and minor. See curriculum link for the required classes.
Q. Can I receive a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor or Arts as a
PR major?
A. Yes, the Media Studies Department is in the College of Arts and Sciences and both kinds of degrees are offered.
Q. How big will my classes be within the field?
A. Our Public Relations program is one of the fastest growing majors on campus. However, it still prides itself in small classes and personal attention. Classes range from 12-24 students.
Q. Can I transfer in as a Public Relations major?
A. Transferring in as a Public Relations major is possible. All credits from the previous university may not transfer, but all previous courses taken will be reviewed. It is possible to still graduate within four years after transferring.
Q. Am I encouraged to have internships?
A. Yes, internships are very strongly encouraged at Belmont and
within the Media Studies department. Advisers frequently send out
notices about internships making it easy to find one that fits your
interests. For more information about internships, see the
Internships link.
