What you will study
The University of Central Missouri’s Public Relations and Strategic Messaging certificate
is intended to complement any field of study with a curated selection of undergraduate
coursework. Along with core courses in public relations, strategic communications
and U.S. law, you’ll add an elective to focus on your interests and career goals.
Choose from courses such as:
- Electronic & Social Media for Public Relations
- Strategic Crisis Communication
Excellence in Public Relations
- UCM is only one of 36 colleges and universities in the U.S. to receive a Certification
in Education for Academic Programs by the Public Relations Society of America.
- The Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies is accredited by the Association
to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a testament to our high academic standards.
Unique learning opportunities in public relations and strategic messaging
The University of Central Missouri’s program curriculum for the PR and Strategic Messaging
undergraduate certificate is focused and concise — but you’ll still have many opportunities
for hands-on learning, real-world experience and career preparation:
- Coursework: Almost every Public Relations and Strategic Communication (PRSC) class includes experiential
learning. Whether that’s a class project, job shadowing or mock client pitches, you’ll
gain valuable experience and apply your newfound skills to real-world situations.
- Student activities: As an undergraduate student in UCM’s PRSC program, you’ll have many opportunities
to join field trips to sports organizations, cultural attractions and entertainment
venues such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas Speedway, Visit KC and Ameristar Casino,
where you’ll interact with industry pros and gain insights into your future career
path.
- Internships: UCM faculty and alumni connections in the industry create a variety of opportunities
for world-class internships, many of which lead to full-time jobs after graduation.
What can you do with an undergraduate certificate in Public Relations and Strategic
Messaging from UCM?
UCM’s rigorous certificate program in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging prepares
you to enter the job market with strong critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making
skills, all of which are essential in any job.
This undergraduate certificate can lead to many career paths. It’s a valuable asset
if you’re considering a career in business, politics, criminal justice or management,
for example. You could also add it to your Visual Arts or History major and work as a social media assistant or events coordinator for a museum or
cultural organization.
Pathway to the PR and Strat Comm BS
If you wish to continue your studies in public relations and strategic communications,
all of your core courses can count toward UCM’s bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Strategic Communication. Alternatively, if you’d like to pursue graduate studies in the communications field,
this credential can serve as an opportunity to demonstrate success on your graduate
applications.
Financial assistance options for your Public Relations and Strategic Messaging certificate
The University of Central Missouri is passionate about offering a high-quality education
at an affordable price. That’s why our tuition ranks among the lowest in the country.
We’re especially proud that 94% of UCM undergraduates receive financial aid.
We provide numerous funding opportunities and resources for degree-seeking students.
Our dedicated financial aid staff can speak to you about financing options, including scholarships, grants, awards, student loans and other options. Learn more
about program-specific scholarships by using UCM’s Scholarship Finder.
Learn From Industry Pros
Faculty are expert practitioners in a variety of career fields
UCM professors are experts in PR and Strategic Communication — and they teach what
they practice. Our faculty have years of professional industry experience in sports
PR, broadcasting and more. They are happy to use their networks and experience to
connect students with high-impact learning and professional opportunities.
Our Alumni Are in High Demand
Get hired by industry leaders
UCM’s PRSC students are highly recruited by major local firms such as Cerner, Intouch,
Barkley, Crossroads, Trozzolo Communications Group and FleishmanHillard.
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