Public Relations

Undergraduate
On Ground
122 hours
4 years

Public Relations at Harding

This major equips students to be professional communicators who help clients tell their stories while also providing a foundation in communication theory and practice consistent with Christian ideals.

Why study public relations at Harding?

Student media

The department’s student media oversee The Bison newspaper, Petit Jean yearbook, HU16 television station, VideoWorks and KVHU 95.3/AM1660 radio stations. Students who volunteer or are hired for staff positions gain invaluable experience to apply to their future careers as well as a solid portfolio to present to future employers.

Pivot Creative Studios

Pivot Creative Studio is a student-run, full-service creative agency within the Department of Communication. Our mission is to provide organizations with fresh strategies and innovative perspectives that assist clients in reaching their branding goals.

Integrated Marketing Communication Organization

The Integrated Marketing Communication Organization is focused on providing experiences through projects, fundraisers, conferences, professional trips and community service that will enhance marketing-communication skills. This student-led organization is open to all connected majors.

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Broadcast Education Association

The Broadcast Education Association is the premier international academic media organization, driving insights; excellence in media production; and career advancement for educators, students and professionals.

Debate Club

The Debate Club participates in the International Public Debate Association style of one-on-one extemporaneous debate. All are welcome to join the club, regardless of the amount of experience they have had in debate. Select members of the Debate Club will be chosen for the Debate Team, which travels at the University’s expense to compete in several debate tournaments each year.

Harding Film Studies Association

The Harding Film Studies Association meets weekly to view movies and discuss themes and cinematic techniques in classic and contemporary films. All film fans are welcome at showings and discussion sessions.

Public Relations Organization

The Public Relations Organization is a student-run organization open to all majors. Activities include meeting with communication professionals on campus and around the state of Arkansas, hosting professional development seminars, fundraising, and working with local organizations.

Society of Professional Journalists

The Society of Professional Journalists Harding University Student Chapter is dedicated to the perpetuation of a free press as the cornerstone of our nation and our liberty.

What can you do with a degree in public relations?

Public Relations Firms

Public relations specialists play a pivotal role in managing and enhancing the public image and reputation of clients across various industries. A firm will give you the opportunity to work with a variety of clients, tailoring strategies to meet their individual needs. You'll be involved in campaign development, media relations, content creation, crisis management and more.

Corporations

As a PR specialist for a corporation, you'll focus your strategies on addressing the company's specific needs. You'll have a chance to develop a deeper knowledge of the organization's goals and values and integrate them into campaigns that address their target audience.

Public Institutions

In government agencies or nonprofit organizations, public relations can be even more nuanced as public perception is more closely tied to success. As a PR specialist, you'll be essential to building public trust, fostering transparency and advancing organizational goals through strategic communication that aligns with the institution's mission and values.

WE WANT TO CHALLENGE STUDENTS TO THINK ABOUT THE WORK THEY’RE DOING AND HOW IT MIGHT CONTRIBUTE TO SOMETHING BEYOND A HARDING CLASSROOM. THAT SORT OF CONTRIBUTION WILL SET THEM UP FOR GREAT SUCCESS WHEREVER THE FUTURE LEADS THEM.
Dr. Jim Miller

Professor of Communication

Assistant Dean of the Honors College

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Contact Information


501-279-4445