Department of English Language & Literature

About This Program

The field of public relations is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States, and Eastern Michigan University’s public relations program will prepare you to become a competent practitioner in an increasingly complex communication environment.

Our interdisciplinary public relations program combines rigorous coursework with practical, real-world application. Small class sizes foster an engaging and interactive teaching environment where professors truly get to know their students.

Coursework within the program encompasses a dynamic variety of topics and skills that students can expect to perform in their professional careers. These include public relations writing, social media strategy, research and analytics, campaign planning and management, media relations and more. Classes emphasize the development of professionally-focused organizational messaging as well as fostering mutually beneficial relationships between an organization and its publics.

Students are required to complete an internship or Co-op position in fields related to public relations, social media and communication. Program advisors are available to match students with a relevant role. Many of our program's graduates work for leading public relations and advertising agencies, major media organizations, prestigious corporations, respected public-sector agencies, and innovative non-profit institutions.

Students are also encouraged to join the PRSSA chapter on campus. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is a professional student organization that introduces students in public relations, journalism, marketing, communication, English and related fields to the professional world by enhancing relationships with public relations practitioners. The EMU PRSSA, Eleanor Wright Chapter, supports student development through internship opportunities, agency tours and bi-weekly workshops. Our chapter frequently hosts industry experts that assist us in guiding aspiring public relations practitioners on their paths to success. ​

• Public Relations Minor

  NEW! Starting in Fall 2019, we are launching the Public Relations minor. The new minor will serve students who are seeking to complete courses within the public relations discipline without committing to a full major. The public relations minor will include courses offered by the English Department, School of Communication, and College of Business.

• PRSSA and PRSA

  Students are also encouraged to join the PRSSA chapter on campus. The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is a professional student organization that introduces students in public relations, journalism, marketing, communication, English and related fields to the professional world by enhancing relationships with public relations practitioners. The EMU PRSSA, Eleanor Wright Chapter, supports student development through internship opportunities, agency tours and bi-weekly workshops. Our chapter frequently hosts industry experts that assist us in guiding aspiring public relations practitioners on their paths to success.