Public Relations (BS)

Undergraduate Program

Application Deadlines

Important dates and deadlines for undergraduate admissions

Location

Boone campus
Hickory campus

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Costs and Aid

Create connections and shape perceptions.

App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Relations degree program prepares you for a career in creating messages that are inclusive, sustainable and socially responsible — for both organizations and the public.

Throughout the program’s curriculum, you will explore the key ingredients of an effective PR media plan, explore concepts such as events marketing and consumer research and learn how to develop credible relationships with influential voices throughout the social media world.

This program integrates communication theory with practical application — including internships, study abroad classes and course-related work for local and regional clients. Students are able to develop a portfolio of skills and abilities valuable to any employer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, PR-related job openings will increase by 6% in the next decade.

Department of Communication

College of Fine and Applied Arts

A ‘Best College’ for 2025

The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.

Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching

U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.

A ‘Best College’ for value

App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com

Learn more about App State’s accolades

Elevate Your Education

Courses

- Students pursuing this major explore News Literacy and News Writing, Professional Ethics in Public Relations, Media in Society and more.
View the Program of Study

Minors

A minor is required. Suggested minors include English, General Business, International Business, Marketing, Non-Profit Management, Political Science, Psychology or Sociology.

View all minors

Transferring Credits

Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.

General Education

With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.

Gen Ed Program Info

Accelerated Master’s

You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.

Accelerated Master’s Info

Careers and Mountaineers

Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.

Careers

Campaign Manager
Communications Director
Corporate Communications Specialist
Creative Director
Events Planner
Fundraiser
Grant Writer
Human Resources Manager
Labor Relations Manager
Market Researcher
Marketing Analyst
Media Analyst
Media Relations Coordinator
Program Coordinator, Nonprofit
Public Information Officer
Public Relations Manager

Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Career information resource

App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.

Alum Profile: Logan DiFranco ’20

“(My) internship has brought me more confidence in my abilities than I could have wished for. It was awesome to be able to attribute it to how well Appalachian has prepared me for my future.”
– DiFranco, who holds bachelor’s degrees in communication, public relations and communication, journalism from App State, was selected for and completed a highly competitive internship at Spark Foundry advertising agency in Chicago.
Alumnus Profile: Patrick Sullivan '16
Patrick Sullivan finds that his public relations concentration in communication plays a big role in his career path, regardless of his job title.

More to Explore at App State

Fund Your Education

Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.