Georgia Southern University

USA
1 Scholarships 97 Programs 3 Degree levels
Bachelor

Bachelor's in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication

DegreeBachelor
FieldPublic Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.
D

Cost & earnings at Georgia Southern University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn

You borrow $23,250 median federal debt
You repay $264/mo over 10 years
Graduates earn $53,236 10 yrs after entry
Debt clears in 1.7 yrs of the salary premium
US Department of Education figures See the full breakdown →

The Bachelor in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Georgia Southern University is a practice-focused degree that prepares students to plan, create and evaluate strategic communications across media. It suits students who want a blend of creative advertising, strategic public relations, digital content production and real-world experience through internships and capstone projects.

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational communication theory with practical skills in writing, campaign planning and media production. Core topics typically include Principles of Public Relations, Advertising and Promotion, Strategic Communication, Media Writing, Research Methods for Communication, Media Law and Ethics, and Social Media Strategy.

  • Media writing and content creation — news and feature writing, copywriting for advertising, digital storytelling and multimedia production.
  • Strategic planning and campaigns — audience research, message development, integrated campaign design and evaluation methods.
  • Advertising and branding — creative concepting, media planning, brand positioning and consumer behaviour.
  • Digital and social media — social analytics, content strategy, community management and paid digital advertising basics.
  • Professional practice — internships, practicum courses, client-based projects and a culminating capstone or senior project.

Students also complete general education requirements, electives that can specialise areas such as visual communication or political communication, and opportunities to contribute to student media and chapters of professional societies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high-school diploma (or recognised equivalent). Admissions typically consider academic achievement, the strength of the applicant's secondary-school record and preparation in English. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered as part of the application where applicable; check the university's current testing policy.

  • Academic background — a record showing competence in English and writing is important.
  • International applicants — must provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests (for example, TOEFL or IELTS) or approved institutional pathways.
  • Transfers and advanced standing — transfer credit is considered from accredited institutions; applicants should provide transcripts and course descriptions.
  • Portfolio or experience — not usually required for admission, but samples of writing, design or media work and relevant experience can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of communication roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical entry-level positions include Public Relations Specialist, Account Executive at an advertising or PR agency, Social Media Coordinator, Content or Communications Specialist, Event Coordinator and Media Relations Assistant.

  • Mid-career opportunities often move into roles such as Communications Manager, Brand Manager, Media Planner, Public Affairs Officer or Digital Content Strategist.
  • Graduates also work in specialised areas like crisis communications, corporate communications, political communication, fundraising and donor relations for non-profits.
  • Many alumni pursue further study in communication, marketing, journalism or business to expand strategic and leadership opportunities.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a programme emphasising hands-on learning and practical experience. Students benefit from access to communication labs and media production facilities, opportunities to work on real client campaigns and involvement in student-run media organisations and professional chapters such as PRSSA.

  • Practical placements — strong internship links with local businesses, regional media outlets and organisations in nearby metropolitan areas support real-world experience.
  • Experienced faculty — instructors bring a mix of academic expertise and professional industry experience in public relations, advertising and digital media.
  • Career support — dedicated career services, networking events and employer connections help students secure internships and entry-level roles.
  • Campus engagement — opportunities to lead student media, take part in campaign competitions and build a professional portfolio during the course of study.

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Programme details are indicative and may change — always verify current information with the official university website before applying.