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Public Relations and Strategic Messaging Certificate

Communications are essential to every industry, and the numerous channels we use daily to reach people are constantly growing and changing. No matter your major area of study, the University of Central Missouri’s new undergraduate certificate in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging will boost your resume with specialized communication skills and experience.

Available at our Warrensburg campus or online, UCM’s PR and Strategic Messaging undergraduate certificate is designed to enhance your bachelor’s degree — and resume — to help you stand out to future employers and succeed in your career. This program provides a broad overview of the public relations and strategic communications industry and prepares you to pass the Public Relations Society of America’s Certificate in Principles of Public Relations exam.

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Earn your certificate in 1–4 semesters

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Named to PRNews’ 2022 Education A-List

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17:1 departmental student-to-faculty ratio

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1,550+ alumni and growing

What you will study

The University of Central Missouri’s Public Relations and Strategic Messaging certificate is intended to complement any field of study with a curated selection of undergraduate coursework. Along with core courses in public relations, strategic communications and U.S. law, you’ll add an elective to focus on your interests and career goals. Choose from courses such as:

  • Electronic & Social Media for Public Relations
  • Strategic Crisis Communication

 

Excellence in Public Relations

  • UCM is only one of 36 colleges and universities in the U.S. to receive a Certification in Education for Academic Programs by the Public Relations Society of America.
  • The Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a testament to our high academic standards.

 

Unique learning opportunities in public relations and strategic messaging

The University of Central Missouri’s program curriculum for the PR and Strategic Messaging undergraduate certificate is focused and concise — but you’ll still have many opportunities for hands-on learning, real-world experience and career preparation:

  • Coursework: Almost every Public Relations and Strategic Communication (PRSC) class includes experiential learning. Whether that’s a class project, job shadowing or mock client pitches, you’ll gain valuable experience and apply your newfound skills to real-world situations.
  • Student activities: As an undergraduate student in UCM’s PRSC program, you’ll have many opportunities to join field trips to sports organizations, cultural attractions and entertainment venues such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas Speedway, Visit KC and Ameristar Casino, where you’ll interact with industry pros and gain insights into your future career path.
  • Internships: UCM faculty and alumni connections in the industry create a variety of opportunities for world-class internships, many of which lead to full-time jobs after graduation.

 

What can you do with an undergraduate certificate in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging from UCM?

UCM’s rigorous certificate program in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging prepares you to enter the job market with strong critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills, all of which are essential in any job. 

This undergraduate certificate can lead to many career paths. It’s a valuable asset if you’re considering a career in business, politics, criminal justice or management, for example. You could also add it to your Visual Arts or History major and work as a social media assistant or events coordinator for a museum or cultural organization.

Pathway to the PR and Strat Comm BS

If you wish to continue your studies in public relations and strategic communications, all of your core courses can count toward UCM’s bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Strategic Communication. Alternatively, if you’d like to pursue graduate studies in the communications field, this credential can serve as an opportunity to demonstrate success on your graduate applications.

 

 
 


 

Financial assistance options for your Public Relations and Strategic Messaging certificate

The University of Central Missouri is passionate about offering a high-quality education at an affordable price. That’s why our tuition ranks among the lowest in the country. We’re especially proud that 94% of UCM undergraduates receive financial aid. 

We provide numerous funding opportunities and resources for degree-seeking students. Our dedicated financial aid staff can speak to you about financing options, including scholarships, grants, awards, student loans and other options. Learn more about program-specific scholarships by using .

 

 

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Take your degree further.

Your certificate in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging can be a stepping-stone to a more advanced degree. Consider these graduate degrees available from UCM:

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Make yourself more marketable.

If you’re looking for an additional credential to further burnish your communications expertise, consider the following UCM certificates:

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Explore programs related to public relations and strategic messaging.

Is an undergraduate certificate in Public Relations and Strategic Messaging just part of your story? This credential complements a number of majors. Consider the following bachelor’s degrees offered by UCM:

 

Housed in Missouri's only stand-alone PR and Strategic Communication program

From one of only 42 undergraduate programs worldwide certified by the Public Relations Society of America

Certificate Access

  • The PR and Strategic Messaging 12-credit certificate can be earned totally online. See UCM's Extended Studies Online Programs to get started.
  • Traditional on-campus students can also contact Extended Studies about earning the PR and Strategic Messaging Certificate.
  • The certificate can be earned in 1-2 semesters.

Opportunity to pursue - PRSA Certificate in Principles of PR

  • Those completing the PR and Strategic Messaging certificate will have been through the courses recommended, and content needed, to sit for the Public Relations Society of America's Certificate in Principles of PR." UCM does not confer this certificate; students must register for and sit for the exam through the Public Relations Society of America. 

 

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