Media & Communication Arts: Advertising/Public Relations, A.A.
Prepare for a career in media, marketing, and communication with the Advertising/Public Relations A.A. degree at Prairie State College. This program provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in advertising, public relations, and media production, preparing students for transfer or entry-level roles in the industry. Equip yourself for success in today’s fast-paced media landscape with PSC’s comprehensive program.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Public Relations and Advertising?
The career outlook for professionals in public relations and advertising is positive,
with growing demand for skilled communicators in various industries. As businesses,
organizations, and agencies increasingly rely on strategic communication and digital
media to reach audiences, opportunities continue to expand. An A.A. degree provides
a strong foundation for further education or entry into a competitive and evolving
field, offering a range of creative and strategic career paths.
A degree in History or the Liberal Arts opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities.
While History majors have traditionally pursued careers in teaching, museum curation,
journalism, law, and politics, the skills cultivated through historical studies apply
to a broad range of professions in both the public and private sector.
Suggested Curriculum
An Advertising/Public Relations program combines ethical practices with creative strategies
in an integrated marketing environment to apply current media practices to organizational
mass communication needs. It is recommended that students complete the entire Media
and Communication Arts core at one school. Media and Communication Arts students who
wish to concentrate in Advertising/Public Relations should complete a minimum of six
credit hours in the major in addition to the General Education Core Curriculum. Remaining
credits needed to complete an associate degree should be chosen with the assistance
of an academic advisor. Some schools have specific requirements for admission to the
major (e.g., minimum GPA, portfolio review, or other forms of assessment). Check with
an advisor.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)
Select three courses from the list for Area B with at least one course from humanities and one course from fine arts
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
Select one math course from the list for Area C.
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
Select one life science course and one physical science course from the list for Area D. One course must have a lab component.
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)
Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E.
- BUS 261 Advertising (IAI: MC 912) AND/OR
- COMM 116 Public Relations (MC 913)
Select one or two courses from:
- COMM 111 Introduction to Mass Communication (MC 911)
- JRNLM 101 Introduction to Journalism (MC 919)
Select additional courses from the list of courses approved for transfer or contact the universities you are considering.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
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