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Communication Department Scholarship Opportunities Student Clubs FAQ Apply Now Contact UsAbout the Program
Public relations professionals drive strategic communication between organizations and their stakeholders through campaign development, crisis management, and digital engagement. Our curriculum combines hands-on campaign creation, media relations training, and analytics with industry best practices. You will develop expertise in strategic messaging, stakeholder relationship building, and communication measurement while gaining practical experience through internships and client projects.
The Polytechnic Approach
Tackle real-world challenges through comprehensive campaign development, crisis simulations, and strategic planning projects. Our program emphasizes professional tools and techniques, including social media management, data analytics, and multimedia content creation. Working with actual clients, you will build portfolios that demonstrate your ability to develop, implement and evaluate strategic communication initiatives.
Career Outcomes
Courses
The Public Relations option is tailored for those aiming to pursue careers in strategic communication across the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors. This option focuses on developing practical skills in creating and managing communication materials. You will gain hands-on experience and engage in practical courses such as event planning and multimedia communication. This real-world experience is complemented by classes that cover the fundamentals of public relations strategies and techniques, preparing you to effectively manage relationships and communicate with various stakeholders. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills, the Public Relations option equips you to excel in diverse roles within the communications industry and beyond.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Patricia A. Kurtz Memorial Scholarship
Patricia A. Kurtz was an assistant professor in the Communication Department at Cal Poly Pomona from 1984 until her death in 1991. She received her master's degree in communication from Cal State Fullerton and was in the process of obtaining a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin. Professor Kurtz was actively involved with students, serving as advisor to Opus magazine and co-chairing COM Day.
Get Involved
Public Relations Student Society of America
With a focus on professional development, Cal Poly Pomona's PRSSA chapter strives to help students obtain internships, network, and further their understanding of the public relations field.
