Welcome!
Welcome to Rowan’s graduate program in public relations. We know you may work full time or part time and have a family, so we structure our program so that you can attend part-time, full-time or take one course at a time. All graduate faculty also serve as practitioners—either as consultants, trainers or presenters (research findings).
We know how to practice corporate pr, school pr, public affairs and integrated marketing communication. We look forward to working with you in teams and as individuals as you craft plans and theses. We’re here to guide you through the process to become a “master” of public relations.
Program at a Glance
Rowan’s M.A. program leads to a master's degree in public relations. It will equip you to serve as a director of communication and public relations for corporations, businesses, industries, schools, colleges, and non-profit organizations. It also enables the you to work in public relations and advertising firms.
Some graduates use the degree as a stepping stone to a doctorate in communication; others apply their skills in positions that require excellent writers or presenters. A number of graduates have become executive directors for non-profit organizations and others have become CEOs of small and large businesses because of their ability to work with and motivate people. The program emphasizes real-world applications of the theories and techniques learned and features a modular approach, which allows you to take courses with varying credits, taught by full-time faculty and adjunct faculty practitioners who are experts in their fields.
The program is divided into three tracks: Corporate Public Relations, Educational Public Relations and Public Affairs. We also offer a certificate in Integrated Marketing Communications.
Degree Requirements
Students should make the first course, Public Relation Overview, School Public Relations or Public Affairs Overview. These courses will let you know if you might enjoy a career in this field and if you have the ability necessary to succeed in public relations.
Two other courses that students should take early in the program are: Techniques in Communication and Introduction to Communication Research. The overview course and these two courses are required for enrollment in Seminar and Internship.
Full-time students may take the Seminar and Internship at the same time as the previously listed courses. It is possible for full-time students to complete the degree requirements in a calendar year. Seminar must be taken in the fall-spring sequence. All of the courses are offered in the evening. To obtain the M.A. in PR, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, pass a comprehensive exam, and write an approved thesis.
FAQ’s (possible options)
How do I apply?
—You may call the Graduate School at 856.256.4050 to request an application, or you may visit its website.
What standardized test do I need to take?
—This program requires the general GRE (the subject test is not required)
Are there pre-requisites?
—Prior to admission to Rowan, students need to have taken a course in publication layout and design. If not, the course must be taken before completing the program and does not count toward the 33 semester hours of the program.
How long does it take to complete the program?
—The program is 33 semester hours and can be completed in one calendar year, however many chose a several year approach.
Will the program interfere with my job?
—The program is designed for working professionals and should not interfere with your job. The classes all meet one day a week in the evening.
Can I get a graduate assistantship?
—Yes, graduate assistantships are available. Full-time (20 hrs. per week) and half-time (10 hrs. per week) assistantships available during Fall/Spring semesters in return for full or partial tuition waiver and stipend—additional summer hours in Summer 2008 may be possible in return for tuition-waiver only. Please visit the Graduate School website for more information.
What are the requirements for the program?
—Students must complete 33 semester hours of course work, pass a comprehensive exam and complete a thesis.
Contact Information
Dr. Joseph N. Basso
856-256-4609
basso@rowan.edu
Dr. Suzanne D. FitzGerald
856-256-4265
sparks@rowan.edu
Careers
Upon receiving a M.A. in public relations, Rowan University graduates have many employment opportunities. Almost every company and organization needs the expertise of a public relations professional. Below are some of the places where our graduates work:
• Ketchum Public Relations
• Six Flags Great Adventure
• National School Public Relations Association
• Cooper Hospital
• Porter Novelli Public Relations
• Campbell Soup
• Philadelphia Electric Company
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Governor’s Office, Trenton
• The Washington Post
• Lincoln Financial
• Lockheed Martin
Thesis
Students must write a thesis on any aspect of public affairs, educational communication or corporate communication to complete the MA program. The thesis adds academic rigor to the program and provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research and publish their findings.
Topics range from advertising, corporate communication, crisis management, consulting, education, community relations, new media, integrated marketing communication to strategic planning.
Sequence of Courses
Course Descriptions
Faculty
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