Public Relations Degree Program Earns Prestigious Re-Accreditation

In earning re-accreditation from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the Public Relations academic program at Eastern Kentucky University shares a distinction with only 31 other colleges and universities worldwide.

“PRSA’s accreditation process is thorough and rigorous, and the distinction is not offered lightly,” said Dr. Jim Gleason, assistant professor of public relations and a member of the PR faculty. “This certification demonstrates the commitment of EKU’s Public Relations program to the highest standards of the profession.”

First certified by PRSA in 1990, EKU’s baccalaureate degree program in Public Relations has been certified longer than all but one institution. The current certification is for a six-year period.

Gleason cited several strengths of the EKU program: wide experience and expertise among the PR faculty, the interdisciplinary nature of the PR program and the Department of Communication as a whole, active participation of the professional community in the region, engaged and energetic students pursuing the major, and supportive department chair and administration.

Currently, 106 students are enrolled in the EKU Public Relations program.

The PRSA’s Certification in Education for Public Relations program offers colleges and universities the opportunity to have an outside evaluation team review and endorse the program for meeting high standards in public relations education. The review is administered by two accredited PRSA members, a full-time educator, and an APR-credentialed practicing professional, who examine an institution’s curriculum, resources, faculties and university support. The review includes interviews of campus officials, as well as area professionals, other PRSA members and graduates of the program.        

Graduates of EKU’s Public Relations program pursue careers with corporations, non-profit organizations, education, government, and public relations agencies. Their responsibilities typically include providing appropriate counsel, writing and producing news releases, speeches and newsletters, using social media, and planning events.

For more information about the program, visit programs.eku.edu/academics/public-relations or call 859-622-1871.

Contact Information

Dr. Jim Gleason
jim.gleason@eku.edu

Published on February 06, 2013