Most Popular Online Public Relations Degrees
Our list of the most popular online public relations degree programs highlights accredited schools graduating the largest number of students in this field.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Arizona State University Online leads with 52,896 learners, placing it among the top 1% nationwide for online enrollment.
- The University of Florida maintains a 97% first-year retention rate.
- Waldorf University earns the highest overall review rating at 4.45 out of 5.
See our methodology for more details. After our list of degrees, we spoke with Angela Anderson, a public relations professional, about how students can leverage online PR bachelor's programs to thrive in today’s communications industry.
Most Popular Online Public Relations Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University, Online | 755 | $24,780 | N/A | 93% | |
| Florida International University | 222 | $16,997 | N/A | 93% | |
| University of Florida | 182 | $15,000 | $72,397 | 92% | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 153 | $14,970 | N/A | 71% | |
| Liberty University | 102 | $11,700 | N/A | 75% | |
| Western Michigan University | 50 | $18,907 | $57,951 | 93% | |
| Arkansas State University | 42 | $7,260 | N/A | 91% | |
| SUNY College at Oswego | 42 | $8,480 | $58,896 | 91% | |
| University of Memphis | 29 | $16,890 | N/A | 85% | |
| Loyola University New Orleans | 24 | $14,040 | $51,389 | 91% | |
| Maryville University | 22 | $16,200 | N/A | 62% | |
| Midway University | 21 | $11,850 | N/A | 100% | |
| Point Park University | 16 | $16,620 | $58,670 | 93% | |
| Wilmington University | 4 | $12,570 | N/A | 97% | |
| Waldorf University | 2 | $9,900 | N/A | 95% |
Most Popular Online Public Relations Degrees - Program Details
- Graduates: 755
- Annual Tuition: $24,780
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: ASU ranks #1 for total graduates in this field, awarding 755 online communications degrees, which is a program that provides a strong foundation in how messages influence audiences, shape organizational reputation, and build trust across communities. The career list highlights public relations specialist and public relations manager, which you could emphasize as clear paths.
- Graduates: 222
- Annual Tuition: $16,997
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: The BS framework in this online public relations program focuses the content on evidence-based practice and applied communication methods, whereas most PR degrees lean toward liberal arts foundations. We also appreciate that FIU offers personalized support from a dedicated success coach for every online student.
- Graduates: 182
- Annual Tuition: $15,000
- Median Salary: $72,397
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: As part of UF's public relations program online, you can choose from two targeted specializations — Corporate or Public Interest Communications. We also note a competitive edge in experiential achievement, as UF’s PRSSA Bateman Case Study Competition teams have won more national titles than any other U.S. university.
- Graduates: 153
- Annual Tuition: $14,970
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 71%
Why we like them: This online bachelor's requires students to produce professional-level PR deliverables as part of their coursework. For example, past projects have included writing a press release and feature story, compiling a full media kit, crafting a 30-second elevator pitch, and delivering persuasive speeches.
- Graduates: 102
- Annual Tuition: $11,700
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 75%
Why we like them: Liberty requires a 400-hour internship and a 70-hour practicum in this fully online Sport Communication and Public Relations concentration. We view employer connectivity as a differentiator, and Liberty cites internship pathways with Adidas, the Washington Commanders, and DC United.
- Graduates: 50
- Annual Tuition: $18,907
- Median Salary: $57,951
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: At WMU, you see direct labor-market alignment through a public relations curriculum developed with industry feedback. You also benefit from a 94% three-month placement or continued-education rate among communication graduates.
- Graduates: 42
- Annual Tuition: $7,260
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 91%
Why we like them: While many communication programs cover broad interpersonal or organizational theory, A-State explicitly trains students in conflict resolution, persuasive tactics, and crisis communication — all core to PR practice. It offers crisis-focused, applied training.
- Graduates: 42
- Annual Tuition: $8,480
- Median Salary: $58,896
- Recommendation: 91%
Why we like them: SUNY Oswego gives you structured, human support that many online PR programs lack, including academic planning coordinators who specialize in guiding online learners through degree requirements, transfer pathways, and resource navigation. The program’s potential pairing with a new Digital Marketing minor is another differentiator.
- Graduates: 29
- Annual Tuition: $16,890
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 85%
Why we like them: UofM's online PR degree has high-impact internship opportunities at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, FedEx, and Archer Malmo. We also value the embedded student-run agency, Meeman 901 Strategies, where you can pitch, produce, and report to real clients.
- Graduates: 24
- Annual Tuition: $14,040
- Median Salary: $51,389
- Recommendation: 91%
Why we like them: Rather than following a fixed PR curriculum, students choose two specializations — such as Social Engagement, Digital Media, or Mobile Photography — to build a highly tailored program. For someone pursuing public relations, that flexibility means you can pair tactical PR training with complementary digital skills like visual storytelling or social media strategy.
- Graduates: 22
- Annual Tuition: $16,200
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 62%
Why we like them: MVU differentiates its program with embedded pathways to earn third-party industry certificates from Amazon, Google, HubSpot, and Salesforce. It offers a concentration in Emerging Media Strategy and Social Media, giving you structured preparation for fast-evolving PR and digital roles.
- Graduates: 21
- Annual Tuition: $11,850
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 100%
Why we like them: Midway lets students choose between a Writing or Graphic Design track. The creative execution aspect of these options makes the marketing communications program stand out for online students who want to enter PR roles with both content strategy and production skills.
- Graduates: 16
- Annual Tuition: $16,620
- Median Salary: $58,670
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: Students form an agency and build a fully integrated campaign for a real corporate or nonprofit client in the capstone, backed by Downtown Pittsburgh partnerships (e.g., Wood Street Communications and the Center for Media Innovation). We appreciate this hands-on, client-facing PR experience.
- Graduates: 4
- Annual Tuition: $12,570
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 97%
Why we like them: At WilmU, we appreciate the direct preparation for the Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) exam through coursework such as Advanced Technical Communication, which lets you earn degree credit while positioning you for an industry credential.
- Graduates: 2
- Annual Tuition: $9,900
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 95%
Why we like them: This public relations degree online includes hands-on courses in graphic design, web design, radio, television/film production, and digital imaging. And few other undergraduate PR programs emphasize both mass media law and crisis management at the core level. We also like that the required capstone project ensures students graduate with a professional-level portfolio piece.
Angela Anderson: PR and Digital Marketing Insights for Aspiring Professionals
Digital Marketing and Public Relations Professional
What should students look for when choosing an online PR program that will prepare them for today’s communication careers?
"I would recommend picking a program where you have access to professors that give you the space to interact, ask questions, and actually give you real feedback and not just a grade. Anything that lets you work on real-world projects, like campaigns for actual clients or simulations that mimic agency life, is super valuable.
My hope for any aspiring PR student is that they are able to come out of their program with a strong portfolio of projects that mirror what they would do professionally, and that they can say, 'Yes, I know how to do that' in an interview.
I would also check if the program includes certifications (Google Analytics, HubSpot, etc.) that line up with your career goals. And see if they offer a mix of different angles of PR, so you can get experience with PR writing, digitial marketing, pitching and more, and give you a taste of many different PR roles."
Any advice for prospective PR students?
"My biggest piece of advice would be to...
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Remember that you are your own brand! Be yourself, but the best, most awesome version.
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Have a strong online portfolio, and ask for feedback constantly.
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Be fun and memorable, and meet people! Get involved in any way you can, while it may be to approach opportunities virtually or more difficult online, there are tons of spaces to connect with people with similar interests/goals as you.
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Also join PRSSA if your school offers a chapter, or if there is maybe one in your state you could join.
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Connect with people on LinkedIn that you think are doing work you want to do, and send them a message, they could really appreciate it!"
How can online students gain practical PR experience while completing their PR degree remotely?
"Hopefully your program has built-in client projects, but if not, look for virtual internships or even reach out to local nonprofits or small businesses to see if they need help with social media or PR. Does your local animal shelter need someone to promote their event? Do that! TV? Social Media? Email marketing?
Volunteer work totally counts as experience, and it gives you portfolio pieces. Start saving everything you write, press releases, pitches, social posts so you can show employers real samples later in an epic portfolio."
What skills make new PR professionals stand out to employers?
"I would say being able to offer a variety of skills helps a ton.
I studied journalism before going into PR, and that background made me a stronger writer and helped me understand how reporters think, what the news wants to see, etc. I also did an undergrad program for social media/ digital marketing as my entry into the space before PR, so I had multiple angles I could bring to the table.
I would also say that showing a genuine interest about the clients or industries they represent can make you stand out to employers. When I applied for the role at my agency that I work for now, my cover letter highlighted my passion for some of the restaurants we represent, and I believe that enthusiasm showed that I wanted to work in this industry because I cared about it."
What types of entry-level roles are common for PR graduates at the bachelor's level?
"I would say if you want experience in PR, maybe start with journalism or social media if you can't find anything directly related to Public Relations or Communications.
Social media management is closely tied to PR, or agencies work together, and as a 'young person' you might offer unique skills to support their PR efforts. Any sort of writing experience, such as producing press releases or blog content, can also be strong starting points for building communication experience."
EXPERT TIP
"Do yourself a favor and read Dale Carnegie's 'How to Win Friends and Influence People.' This book changed my life and I believe it is the reason I have been able to build relationships. At the end of the day, PR is about relationship building and the more you practice connecting with people, the better and more confident you'll be at it!"
FAQs About An Online Public Relations Degree
What Is An Online Degree In Public Relations?
An online public relations degree develops communication, strategic thinking, and media relations skills, with courses in branding, crisis management, and digital communications. Graduates help build and maintain positive public images for organizations and clients, preparing for careers like PR specialist or communications manager.
There are three different online degree level options for public relations. Over the course of four years a bachelor's degree will prepare students for positions such as campaign manager, public relations coordinator, and public relations specialist. A master's program in public relations will enhance a student's knowledge in communication through technology and media. A master's program will typically take two years to complete and prepare graduates for above entry-level positions such as public relations manager, brand manager, and director of communications. Online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs are also available for people interested in receiving an education in the field of public relations.
What Are The Admission Requirements For An Online Bachelor’s In Public Relations Program?
Students can obtain an online bachelor's degree in public relations in four years, generally upon completing 120-credit hours. Participants will sharpen their skills in critical thinking, writing, strategic planning, and execution. These skills will lend assistance to building relationships between organizations and their public audiences, which is a necessity for graduates to perform in their follow up careers.
Public relations programs require general education coursework along with major specific courses such as public speaking, public relations, journalism, social media, writing for public relations, organizational communications, and ethics. A high school diploma or equivalent must be obtained prior to enrolling in a bachelor's program along with a qualifying SAT or ACT test score. Depending on the school, a letter of recommendation may also be required.
Graduates can seek entry-level job opportunities in both business and government as PR specialists, representatives, campaign managers, and PR coordinates. Public relations bachelor's programs are offered at both colleges and universities.
Why Is Accreditation Important For An Online Bachelor’s In Public Relations Program?
Accreditation should always be a top consideration when applying to public relations bachelor’s programs as well as applying to any institutions of higher education. Accreditation is the process in which colleges, universities, and educational programs are evaluated for quality and to ensure that acceptable levels of trainings are being conducted. Another important factor to consider is low-cost loans for students as only accredited institutions are able to participate in federal financial aid programs.
Attending an institutionally accredited school will also make the transfer process a lot easier for those who may be interested in changing their path in the future as institutionally accredited colleges will most often accept credits from other accredited institutions. (Rest assured that all online schools featured across OnlineU are institutionally accredited.)
Also, many employers are looking to hire graduates who have attended accredited schools. It gives the employer more confidence that the applicant has been well trained in their field and will be a great asset to the organization.
For a bachelor’s in public relations, we want to note that programmatic accreditation is not a major factor. Although, some schools may highlight memberships or alignment with organizations like the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) or the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), but these are less common at the bachelor’s level and not typically required by employers.
What Can You Do With An Online Bachelor’s In Public Relations Degree?
With the rise in popularity of technology and social media, public relation specialists have become vital in the relationship between organizations and the general public. Key job titles within the industry include public relations specialist and public relations manager. Public relations specialists are hired to to maintain a positive company image through media and address any concerns that the general public may have about the organization. Job functions of a specialist include creating press releases, gathering requested data, determining ways to access target audience, and assisting the client in successfully communicating with the general public.
Public relations managers will oversee PR specialists to ensure that all tasks and projects are being completed within the company's or client's standards. They also focus on evolving their clients' images with social, political, and economical changes to keep in good standing with the public. In order to qualify for a manager position it will require a minimum of three years work experience along with an educational background. A typical work week for a public relations manager incudes creating logos and signs to keep up the clients' image, organizing events, crafting speeches, coordinating interviews, and creating press releases.
Student Reviews of Online Public Relations Programs
I transferred from a brick and mortar school to Ashford in 2010, realizing that I needed a college that was more flexible with my schedule. The professors were very helpful and available to answer any questions you had. Unless given special permission, you take one class every six weeks, which helps you focus solely on that class. This also means that you learn a great deal of material in a short amount of time. If you have gone to a brick and mortar college, think of a summer class. Many of the... Read More
Review Date: 6/4/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love my college. Not only is there so much opportunity to learn. It is an awesome school that helps all students stay involved. The campus is huge but doesn't feel it. Everyone does a good job of coming together as a student body. The location in Orlando Florida which is great. It not only is a college town but you have all the theme parks, downtown Orlando and Winter Park. Which are three totally different areas to explore. I wouldn't change the school I picked. The University of Central Florida... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Suffolk University was a great school for someone like me who was working full-time. Very convenient location and the teacher were always very helpful! Even if I ran into any problems the professors were always willing to hear out my concerns and try their best to fix them. I really love being a Suffolk Alumni!
Review Date: 3/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
To me, SJSU is a friendly campus with its diverse community, amiable staff and eloquent lecturers. Student activities are outstanding in terms of multicultural events and different organizations. The online system for grade is not too effective for checking.
Review Date: 5/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I really enjoyed this school. The communications department is extremely small but that makes it better. You get to know your professors on a more personal level. The only bad thing about them is there are very limited opportunities for internships and work available at Stephen F. Austin in the communications department.
Review Date: 5/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My undergraduate experience at Hofstra has been the best four years of my life so far, and I loved it so much that I decided to come back for my master's. I've seen a lot of mixed reviews on this site about the school, but the thing is that every school has its up and downs and there's no such thing as one perfect school. Regardless of where you end up, your college experience will be what you make it. I didn't enjoy my classes initially. Once I changed majors and started studying something that... Read More
Review Date: 7/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent at Virginia Tech as a Public Relations major. Although not as challenging as other majors Virginia Tech is famous for, I believe I learned valuable communication skills that will help me pursue my dream career in the field of government. The professors I had at Virginia Tech were excellent. The COMM department is filled with successful, talented professors who genuinely care about their students. My academic advisor from the COMM department was always willing to... Read More
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I'm not, nor will I ever be an average college student. I had to get a GED instead of a High School Diploma. After 4 years at a community college I was finally ready to take the next step to achieve my Bachelors degree. I really wanted to get into the PR industry but I knew that UCF had a rigorous Ad-PR program that had a 10% acceptance rate. I applied to other schools, but UCF was the most affordable school out of my choices, so financially I thought I had to settle for trying to get into the program,... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Florida is a great school. If you are looking for a school in a college town that has a lot of school spirit, this school is for you. The city is dedicated to Gators. (The buses have Gator sayings on them, the restaurants have Gator paraphernalia, etc.) Most of the residents are former students. There is such an attachment and sense of pride for the Gators. Alumni still get excited to meet fellow Gators. The bond created here transcends the two, three, or four years you go here.... Read More
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I had an incredible experience at Western. The staff, professors and students create a great campus community. My advice? Get involved in as much as you can - you'll meet and work with so many incredible people while building your resume and serving communities.
Review Date: 11/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Murray State University provided me with rigorous coursework, undergraduate research experience, experiential learning opportunities, clubs/organization involvement, and a great diversified learning atmosphere. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime, connections among peers and professors that have already helped in my career, and a diverse background of coursework in public relations and psychology. I was challenged daily but supported as well. Murray State is a fantastic school, and... Read More
Review Date: 3/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Brigham Young University provided me with an education that was extremely helpful and pertinent to my transitioning into the professional world. One of my professors in particular, Dr. Laurie Wilson, was especially helpful as she dedicated many hours per week to help her students succeed with any given essays, case studies, or presentations we were tasked with. The course material in most all my classes was relevant and I felt like the assignments I was given, helped me bridge the gap between learning... Read More
Review Date: 3/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Mount Union is a fantastic all-around school. The campus is impeccable and the faculty and staff are driven to give students the best possible experience and prepare them for careers in a variety of fields. The Department of Communication also gave me great knowledge and the opportunity to get involved in areas that I know will continue to help my career.
Review Date: 3/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Florida has a fantastic College of Journalism and Communications. The faculty are top-notch and highly respected in their fields. They all have hands-on, in-the-field experience. They are constantly striving to build better facilities to mimic real life scenarios. The students are actively engaged with their academic and extra curricular activities. I would highly recommend this school!
Review Date: 3/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It was small enough to feel comfortable but not too small to feel like a community college. The campus is beautiful and the professors are attentive. There's not much to do in Statesboro, but it's a nice, small town.
Review Date: 10/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I went to Illinois State University after one year at a community college. My advisor was very helpful in getting me acquainted with the different programs in the School of Communication, and once I figured out what I wanted to study, she was just as involved with my plan of study. (Just so happens that the Public Relations program at Illinois State is an accredited program, which they have a few of those...very impressive!) I highly recommend getting involved on campus -- with different student... Read More
Review Date: 4/28/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Best college ever! Great place to have fun and is a great university for driven students
Review Date: 10/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The internship opportunities are great, but the students on campus are not incredibly friendly and the administration does nothing to lower the total cost of tuition/room/board. It's a incredibly expensive education. You would be better off going to a state school and coming to DC for the summer internships.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely loved Utah State University and the PR program! It was a great experience for me and I would recommend it to anyone! Great school. Good education. Beautiful area with some amazing people. Safer on and off campus than the vast majority of universities out there. Thank you Utah State for what you did for me as a student! Once an Aggie, always an Aggie!!
Review Date: 8/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed all my professors and they all had a very good understanding of the subject matter. Also the campus life was very enjoyable. I usually suggest Rowan to all my friends thinking about going to school for public relations.
Review Date: 5/31/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes