College of Communication - Public Relations & Advertising
Graduate Program
M.A. Public Relations
Welcome to Rowan’s graduate program in public relations.
For more than 30 years, our program has been helping students build successful careers in public relations and its related fields. Today, our graduates serve organizations of all types throughout the country.
Our program also recognizes the distinct needs of all of our students. Its flexible structure allows you to attend full time or part time—or take only one course at a time. And its convenient evening classes accommodate students who work full time.
All graduate faculty members also serve as practitioners—as consultants, trainers, planners, and researchers. This means you will work directly with experienced educators and practitioners in public relations, public affairs, and integrated marketing communication. We look forward to working with you.
Program at a Glance
Rowan’s 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 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.
The program is divided into three areas of focus: Corporate Public Relations, Educational Public Relations and Public Affairs. We also offer Certificates of Graduate Study in Integrated Marketing Communications and School Public Relations.
Program Admission Requirements
Rowan’s M.A. program in public relations requires the general GRE (the subject test is not required) as a standardized test score. Prior to admission to the program, students will need to have taken a course in publication layout and design, or be able to demonstrate proficiency with layout and design. If not, the course must be taken before completing the program and does not count toward the 33 semester hours required for the degree.
Students are also required to submit two writing samples with their application. Brochures, flyers, professional statements, and other written and printed works are encouraged; as well as any other materials that have been professionally published. Term papers should not be used as writing samples.
Course Sequence
Students should make their first course Public Relations Overview. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to public relations. It helps you understand the skills needed to practice successfully, and it helps you identify areas in public relations where you might want to focus your research and career.
Two other courses students take early in the program are Techniques in Communication and Introduction to Communication Research. These two courses, along with Public Relations Overview, are required for enrollment in Seminar and Internship. Incoming full-time students, however, may begin Seminar at the same time as the previously listed courses. (Seminar must be taken in a fall-spring sequence.) Therefore, it is possible for full-time students to complete the degree requirements in one calendar year. All courses are offered in the evening and accommodate working professionals.
To complete the program, students must earn a minimum of 33 semester hours (36 if a course in publication layout and design is needed), maintain a 3.0 GPA, pass a comprehensive exam, and complete an approved thesis.
Thesis
Students write a thesis on any aspect of public affairs, educational communication or corporate communication to complete the 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.
Careers
Upon receiving an M.A. in Public Relations, Rowan University graduates have many career options. Our graduates have gone on to fill positions as CEOs, directors, managers, and many other exciting roles in a variety of national and regional organizations.
FAQ’s
How do I apply?
You may call the Graduate School at 856.256.4050 to request an application, or you may visit the Graduate School web site and begin your application now online.
What standardized test do I need to take?
This program requires the general GRE. (The subject test is not required.)
Are there prerequisites?
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. Many students, however, choose a several-year approach to completing the program.
Will the program interfere with my job?
The program is designed for working professionals and should not interfere with your job. Classes meet weekly in the evening and can easily be accommodated into your work schedule.
Can I get a graduate assistantship?
Graduate assistantships may be available. Full-time (20 hrs. per week) and half-time (10 hrs. per week) assistantships may be available during Fall/Spring semesters in return for full or partial tuition waiver and stipend. Please visit the Graduate School web site 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.
How can I learn more?
An excellent way to learn more about our program is to attend an information session on campus. These meetings are hosted frequently by the Graduate School and are attended by our faculty. These sessions let you learn more about graduate study at Rowan and our M.A. in P.R. program. You will meet program faculty at these sessions, discuss the program with them and get answers to questions you may have. You can get more details about these sessions and RSVP for an upcoming session at the Graduate School web site.
NEW-STUDENT UPDATE: Thinking about our program? Why not “test drive” a course or two in the Spring 2010 semester? Learn more here.
Contact:
Professor Edward H. Moore
856-256-4274
mooree@rowan.edu
Dr. Suzanne D. FitzGerald
856-256-4265
sparks@rowan.edu
M.A. in Public Relations Links
