2026 Public Relations Degrees Explained: Are They Classified as Professional Degrees?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many prospective students mistakenly believe a public relations degree is always a professional degree required for licensure or guaranteed career advancement. In reality, less than 30% of advanced degree holders in communications-related fields hold degrees classified as professional, despite industry growth. The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 13% employment increase in public relations roles by 2030, emphasizing skill relevance over specific degree titles.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, clarifies whether public relations degrees qualify as professional degrees, explains their role in career paths, and guides readers in choosing programs based on accreditation, cost, and outcomes.

Key Benefits of Professional Public Relations Degrees

Professional public relations degrees enhance career advancement and leadership potential, with graduates 40% more likely to secure senior roles within communications firms.
These degrees offer a strong return on investment through higher earning potential, with median salaries rising by up to 25% compared to non-degree holders.
They qualify individuals for regulated or advanced professional roles, enabling eligibility for certifications and specialized positions requiring formal credentials.

What Is Considered a Professional Public Relations Degree?

Knowing what qualifies as a professional public relations degree is crucial for students evaluating career-focused education pathways and licensure-oriented opportunities. Programs that meet industry criteria better position graduates for advancement, especially as workforce demand for trained professionals grows. In fact, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) reports a 15% increase in enrollment for such programs, highlighting their rising importance.

This overview addresses common misconceptions through a myth-versus-fact approach.

Applied Training

Myth: A professional public relations degree is only about theory and academic knowledge.
Fact: These degrees emphasize applied training, equipping students with practical skills like media relations, crisis communication, and campaign development.

Licensure Preparation

Myth: Public relations degrees are not relevant for licensure or professional credentialing.
Fact: Although public relations generally isn't licensed like law or medicine, many programs prepare students for recognized certifications such as the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR).

Degree Validity

Myth: Any degree labeled as public relations automatically qualifies as a professional degree.
Fact: Professional public relations degree programs must meet criteria including accreditation and career-focused curricula to ensure practical value and employer recognition.

Students exploring options may also consider related fields and flexible study methods, such as online EdD programs, to complement their career goals.

Who Should Pursue a Professional Public Relations Degree?

Identifying the best candidates for a professional Public Relations degree is crucial for students considering career-focused, practice-oriented education. This clarity helps align educational goals with career outcomes, especially in a field where strategic communication skills are essential. Enrollment in public relations programs has grown approximately 20% in the past five years, reflecting increasing demand for skilled professionals.

Below are common myths and facts that clarify who truly benefits from a professional Public Relations degree.

Licensure Needs

Myth: A professional public relations degree is only for experienced professionals seeking licensure.
Fact: While the degree supports licensure candidates, it also benefits early-career professionals wanting practical skills and enhanced job readiness, particularly for specialized or regulated roles within communications and media.

Career Changers

Myth: Career changers cannot benefit from a professional public relations degree.
Fact: Individuals transitioning from unrelated fields often find these degrees valuable for gaining focused training to bridge knowledge gaps and meet industry expectations.

Career-focused public relations programs emphasize real-world experience and strategic communication, contributing to career advancement and potentially higher salaries. For those exploring professional education paths, comparing options like an accelerated social work degree online or public relations degrees can clarify the best fit based on career goals and skill development.

What Are the Most Common Professional Public Relations Degree Programs?

Knowing the range of professional public relations degree programs enables students to choose one that aligns closely with their career ambitions. With demand for communications specialists expected to grow by 10% in the U.S. over the next decade, enrollment in these programs is increasing.

Below are common public relations degree options that cater to different interests and goals.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations: Focuses on developing strong writing, media strategy, and ethical communication skills. Coursework often includes digital media, research methods, and public affairs to keep pace with industry trends.
Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication: Emphasizes analytical approaches and practical skills for managing campaigns and media relations. This program typically integrates data-driven decision-making and crisis communication training.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with Public Relations focus: Provides a broader overview of communication theories alongside applied public relations techniques. It balances theoretical foundations with hands-on experience in campaign planning and message crafting.

Breakdown of All 2-Year Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

Are Professional Public Relations Degree Programs Accredited?

Accreditation is a major factor for students choosing professional public relations degree programs because it impacts the program's credibility, financial aid eligibility, and career opportunities. About 65% of students say accreditation status influences their public relations program selection, highlighting its weight in decision-making.

This article addresses common misconceptions about accreditation through a myth-versus-fact approach.

Program Accreditation

Myth: All public relations degree programs hold professional accreditation by specialized bodies.
Fact: Unlike fields such as law or medicine, there is no single mandatory accrediting body specific to professional public relations degrees; program oversight primarily comes from recognized institutional accreditors.

Programmatic Accreditation

Myth: Programmatic accreditation from specialized accrediting bodies is required for licensure or employment in public relations.
Fact: Programmatic accreditation is voluntary and less common. Some public relations degree programs seek it from organizations like the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) to indicate quality, but it is not federally mandated for licensure.

Accreditation Importance

Myth: Accreditation status does not affect financial aid or employer recognition.
Fact: Institutional accreditation ensures schools meet overall educational standards and is essential for financial aid eligibility. Employer recognition typically favors the reputation of the institution and graduates' skills over specific programmatic accreditation.

The distinction between institutional and programmatic accreditation is crucial when assessing different accrediting bodies for public relations degree programs. Students should also consider related fields and their accreditation practices, like those highlighted in online marriage and family therapy programs, for comparison when evaluating career pathways.

For those exploring accreditation organizations for professional public relations degrees, focusing on recognized institutional bodies offers the most reliable assurance of educational quality and financial aid access.

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Professional Public Relations Degree?

Meeting the admission requirements is crucial for students aiming to enter professional public relations programs, as these criteria help ensure readiness for both academic challenges and career demands. The competitiveness of these programs is rising steadily, with applications to communication-related degrees increasing by 7% in recent years.

Below is an overview of common prerequisites that applicants can expect.

Academic Credentials: Applicants generally must hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. This establishes a baseline educational foundation necessary for succeeding in advanced studies.
GPA Standards: Maintaining a minimum grade point average signals consistent academic performance and the ability to handle rigorous coursework, which many programs require to identify prepared candidates.
Standardized Testing: While test requirements vary, some programs still consider standardized scores to supplement academic assessment, although many now offer test-optional policies.
Letters of Recommendation: These provide insight into an applicant's character, work ethic, and potential from educators or professionals, adding a qualitative dimension beyond scores and grades.
Personal Statement or Essay: This narrative allows candidates to articulate their motivation for pursuing public relations, helping admissions committees gauge genuine interest and communication skills.
Relevant Experience or Portfolio: Practical engagement such as internships, volunteer work, or projects showcases hands-on exposure, reinforcing a candidate's commitment and understanding of the field.

What Courses and Practical Training Are Required in a Professional Public Relations Degree?

Knowing the curriculum and practical training requirements in public relations programs is essential for prospective students assessing their education and career prospects. These elements shape graduates' readiness to meet industry demands and unlock licensure, advancement, and higher earning potential.

The following outlines common components in professional public relations coursework and internships that form the backbone of such degrees.

Core Public Relations Courses: These foundational classes cover principles of public relations, media writing, strategic communications, crisis management, and ethics. They develop skills in crafting effective messages, analyzing diverse audiences, managing media relations, and maintaining reputations-key for professional competence and ethical standards.
Practical Training and Internships: Hands-on experience is emphasized through internships or cooperative education, allowing students to apply theory in real-world settings. This practical training hones abilities in campaign planning, digital content creation, and client interaction, building confidence and relevant expertise for career progression.
Experiential Learning Projects: Programs often integrate projects or simulations that replicate industry challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills. These exercises prepare students to adapt quickly and think strategically in dynamic environments.
Ethics and Strategic Thinking: Coursework prioritizes ethical decision-making aligned with professional standards. Developing strategic insight supports not only licensure eligibility but also positions graduates for leadership roles and competitive salaries.

Professional public relations degrees combine rigorous coursework with internships to create well-rounded experts capable of thriving in fast-paced communications careers. Those researching options should also explore degree affordability and delivery formats, for example, through resources like the EdD degree online guide, to find programs best suited to their goals and needs.

How Much Do Professional Public Relations Degrees Cost?

Understanding the cost of professional public relations degrees is critical for prospective students evaluating these programs. The average tuition for a public relations bachelor's degree can range from $15,000 to over $50,000 annually, highlighting the need to consider all financial aspects. This makes it essential to investigate tuition fees and related expenses carefully.

The total program cost includes more than just tuition; several factors influence affordability and overall investment. Key considerations include:

Tuition fees: Professional public relations degree tuition fees vary widely depending on whether the institution is public or private, with private universities typically charging higher rates. Program length and geographic location also significantly impact costs.
Fees and supplies: These expenses cover administrative fees, technology, and course materials that can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars annually, depending on the institution.
Internships and practical components: Many accredited programs require internships that may be unpaid or involve travel expenses, which can substantially increase the total educational cost.
Living expenses: Housing, food, transportation, and personal costs vary greatly by campus location and student lifestyle, making these an important part of budgeting.
Financial aid availability: Scholarships, grants, and assistantships can help offset costs and reduce student debt, which on average reaches about $30,000 for public relations graduates.

For students seeking accelerated options, exploring one year masters programs can provide a quicker pathway to advanced credentials with potentially lower overall cost and time investment.

Do Professional Public Relations Degrees Qualify for Financial Aid?

With rising education costs, financial aid eligibility is a critical factor for students exploring professional public relations programs. Nearly 60% of graduate students in communication-related fields receive financial assistance such as federal loans, scholarships, or employer support.

Let's address some common misconceptions through myth-versus-fact insights.

Financial Aid Qualifications

Myth: Professional public relations degrees aren't eligible for financial aid because they aren't traditional academic programs.
Fact: Accredited institutions offering professional public relations degrees often qualify students for federal loans and grants, regardless of the degree's professional focus.

Scholarship & Employer Support

Myth: Scholarships and employer tuition reimbursement are rarely available for public relations students.
Fact: Numerous scholarships exist through organizations like the Public Relations Society of America, and many employers provide tuition assistance for employees advancing their PR education.

Loan Forgiveness Options

Myth: Public service loan forgiveness doesn't apply to public relations graduates.
Fact: Graduates working in qualifying nonprofit or government roles can often benefit from loan forgiveness programs aimed at public service careers.

Are Professional Public Relations Degrees Required for Certain Careers?

Students exploring public relations programs must grasp which careers require specific degrees to make informed choices about their education paths. About 70% of public relations specialists hold a bachelor's degree, showing formal education's significant role despite the lack of licensure mandates in the field.

Here are common misconceptions clarified with accurate facts.

Degree Requirement

Myth: A professional public relations degree is mandatory for all roles.
Fact: Most positions don't legally require a public relations degree or license, as the field remains largely unregulated.

Licensing Needs

Myth: A license or certification is needed to work in public relations.
Fact: Licensure is not required to practice in most public relations jobs, unlike regulated professions such as law or healthcare.

Specialized Roles

Myth: All communication careers treat a public relations degree equally.
Fact: Specialized or competitive positions-especially in corporate affairs-often prefer candidates with accredited degrees or professional certifications to verify skills.

Career Eligibility

Myth: Candidates without a public relations degree cannot qualify for advanced roles.
Fact: While many employers favor a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or journalism for mid- and senior-level jobs, diverse educational backgrounds remain acceptable for entry-level positions.

Do Professional Public Relations Degrees Lead to Higher Salaries?

Evaluating the financial advantages of professional public relations degrees is essential for students who plan to invest time and money in advanced education with clear career goals. Understanding how such degrees influence salaries can better inform decisions about pursuing specialized study.

Below is a comparison of common misconceptions and clarifications on earning potential linked to professional public relations degrees.

Salary Expectations

Myth: A professional public relations degree automatically results in a much higher salary than a general degree.
Fact: Salary growth depends on factors like experience, location, and job role; while specialized degrees often qualify graduates for higher-responsibility, better-paying positions, results vary.

Career Advancement

Myth: Only a professional public relations degree opens doors to high-paying positions.
Fact: Advancement and higher pay can also come from practical experience and networking, but a focused degree offers a competitive advantage, especially for leadership and strategic roles.

Long-Term Gains

Myth: Holding a professional public relations degree does not improve financial outcomes over time.
Fact: Combining advanced education with experience generally enhances earning potential in the long run through stronger skills and credentials that support job stability and higher lifetime income.

Students should also consider program costs, accreditation status, and how each degree aligns with their career ambitions before committing to professional public relations education.

What Graduates Say About Their Professional Public Relations Degree

Theressa: "Choosing to pursue a professional public relations degree was a transformative decision for me, especially given the program's flexibility to balance work and study. With the average cost of attendance being reasonable, it felt like an investment that truly paid off as I advanced quickly in my career. I'm now confidently leading communication strategies for a major firm, thanks to the practical skills I gained. "

Amira: "Reflecting on my time in the public relations program, I appreciate the adaptable schedule that allowed me to learn at my own pace while managing family commitments. The program's affordability made it accessible, and the knowledge I acquired has been instrumental in navigating complex PR challenges. It's a career move I'm proud to have made."

Nelly: "From a professional standpoint, enrolling in a public relations degree program was a strategic choice that aligned perfectly with my career goals. The flexibility to attend courses around my job was invaluable, and the investment was justified by the career advancement and higher salary opportunities I earned afterward. The program equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of media relations and crisis communication. "

Other Things You Should Know About Public Relations Degrees

What skills do students develop in professional public relations degree programs?

Students develop skills in strategic communication, media relations, writing and content creation, crisis management, and digital media analytics. Programs also focus on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and interpersonal communication, which are essential for building and maintaining public trust.

Can professional public relations degrees be earned online?

Yes, many accredited institutions offer professional public relations degrees fully or partially online. These programs provide flexible scheduling to accommodate working students while delivering similar curriculum and outcomes as traditional on-campus options.

What career support services do professional public relations programs typically offer?

Career support often includes resume workshops, interview preparation, internship placement assistance, and networking events with industry professionals. Some programs have dedicated career advisors who help students and alumni connect with job opportunities in public relations and related fields.

Are internships required in professional public relations degrees?

Internships are commonly required or strongly encouraged to give students practical experience in real-world settings. These experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge, build industry contacts, and enhance their resumes before entering the job market.