Communication Studies, Public Relations
The Public Relations Bachelor of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides students with a comprehensive foundation in communication strategies, media relations, and public engagement. The curriculum emphasizes message design, media management, crisis communication, and audience analysis, preparing learners to effectively manage organizational and public communications. Students develop communication skills, strategic thinking, media literacy, and applied knowledge in public relations, equipping them to pursue careers in corporate, nonprofit, and governmental communication sectors.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, case studies, and applied projects that integrate theoretical understanding with practical communication applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in media strategy, public messaging, and campaign development, enabling them to apply classroom knowledge to professional and real world contexts. By combining theory with applied practice, students strengthen analytical abilities, writing proficiency, strategic planning skills, and applied communication competence, ensuring they are prepared for professional, leadership, and advisory roles in public relations and communication.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Communication Studies, Public Relations
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Communication Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 Foundations in Communication Studies
• Introduction to Communication and Public Relations
• Principles of Media and Society
• Academic Writing and Research
• Fundamentals of Strategic Communication
Year 2 Core Public Relations Studies
• Media Relations and Campaign Planning
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
• Crisis Communication Management
• Applied Research Methods in Communication
Year 3 Advanced Applications
• Strategic Public Relations and Branding
• Social Media and Digital Communication
• Corporate Communication and Ethics
• Applied Project in Public Relations
Year 4 Integration and Capstone
• Advanced Campaign Development
• Public Relations Analytics and Evaluation
• Capstone Project in Public Relations
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in communication, media strategy, and public engagement. Many pursue careers as public relations specialists, media coordinators, corporate communication managers, and social media strategists, applying strategic, analytical, and communication skills to professional contexts. Others work in corporations, nonprofits, governmental organizations, or media agencies, designing campaigns, managing communications, and enhancing organizational messaging. The program’s emphasis on applied communication, strategic thinking, and media literacy equips graduates to excel in professional, leadership, and advisory roles.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of communication with practical skills in public relations, media management, and strategic messaging. Its curriculum emphasizes campaign planning, crisis communication, media strategy, and applied projects, providing learners with the tools to communicate effectively and influence public perception. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing communication expertise, strategic thinking, analytical skills, and applied media competence. Through case studies, applied projects, and capstone experiences, learners strengthen communication skills, strategic thinking abilities, analytical competence, and applied media expertise, preparing them for impactful careers in public relations, corporate communications, media management, and digital strategy.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
