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Class Selections
As we approach mid-semester, it is also time to start picking classes for spring semester 2013. If you are either a public relations major or minor, there are many classes that can help you with your future career offered in other majors. These classes can serve as electives towards the major or minor. Here are just a few courses that I have taken so far while at the University of Rhode Island that I have found to be beneficial outside the classroom.
PRS 100:
Public relations 100 is the introduction course to all things public relations. The course is an overview of press releases, community relations, event management, and the different careers you can choose in the public relations field. It is a great way to better understand the major and minor, and make sure it is the right academic field that you want. It is also very hands on. When I took this course fall of 2011, we had a huge group project where we had to act as a public relations team for Ben & Jerry’s and create a new ice cream for them to promote. It was a great learning experience and one of the best projects I have done so far in my college career. While this course cannot go towards public relations major or minor, it is a great way to have an introduction towards what you will be studying.
PRS 200:
Public relations 200 is called event planning. This course is part of the electives for both the public relations major as well as the minor. It is a perfect class for anyone interested in using their bachelor’s degree for event management. The class is taught by a wedding planner from Newport and has many out of class assignments that give a student hands on experiences with events. We were required to do a site inspection, partake in a charitable event, and create our own event to raise money for a non-profit organization. The class also learned a lot about the different aspects of wedding planning and how each one serves a specific interest. So far, this has been my favorite course I have taken towards my public relations major.
COM 351:
Communication 351 deals with business communications. This class is also an elective towards the public relations major and minor. It is a great course to understand how to deal with working in a business after graduation. You learn how to write a cover letter and resume, as well as the communication skills that are best used during interviews and large conference meetings. It is a course I recommend to everyone in the major or minor since good communication skills are a top priority for most organization when they are hiring new employees.
WRT 201:
Writing 201 is writing for argument and debate. It teaches you the skills you need for writing strong persuasive papers and presentations that can be utilized in the work place. Also, it helps to fulfill the writing electives for the public relations major and minor. This course will help you to become a better writer, which is yet another skill needed and high prioritized when applying for jobs.
These are just some of the options you can take towards your electives for the major and minor of public relations. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact your advisor. They are the best tool to utilize when picking classes.
—Phyllis
