Earn a Master of Arts in Public Relations, Advertising & Social Media
Public relations. Integrated marketing. Branding and identity design. Social media. Research. Managing creative people. This is the realm of a content strategy specialist in public relations, advertising and social media.
Our M.A. in Public Relations, Advertising & Social Media is designed for both students right out of college, as well as the working professionals looking to expand their knowledge or take the next step in their career.
Students in the 36-credit program will learn the latest theory and practices in creating persuasive messages that influence the public on behalf of corporations, government, education and non-profit organizations.
"Having experienced a range of industries and roles in the communications field, I can genuinely say that I’m still thankful for my Point Park education. There will be a learning curve and unique challenges with every career move, but understanding the core principles of PR, advertising and social media can always be put to good use." - Stacey Simon, M.A., VP of social media, Spectrum Science
Choose a Concentration as a Course of Study
Students will select a concentration in PR and advertising or social media:
PR and Advertising Concentration
Students are provided with hands-on, real-world PR and advertising assignments beginning their first semester, which enables high-quality portfolio building.
Students will take courses in advertising/PR research, principles of PR/advertising, integrated marketing, social media and social media crisis and strategic communications.
Social Media Concentration
Students are provided an in-depth study of social media theories and practices in PR, advertising and marketing communication. This concentration provides students the opportunity to study, design and manage social media content as an extension of what they are learning as part of the PR/advertising curriculum.
Students will take courses in social media, social media crisis and strategic communications, social media analytics, social media campaigns and principles of PR/advertising.
Learn More in Our Virtual Open House Video
Learn from Faculty with Real-World Experience, Create a Professional Portfolio
Expert faculty who teach in the program include current and former advertising and PR practitioners and managers, graphic designers and social media gurus, as well as experienced researchers and theorists.
Students will create real-world examples for their portfolio by working with Wood Street Communications - Point Park's integrated marketing communication initiative - serving nonprofits throughout the region.
M.A. Program Structure
Students may choose to select electives from a wide range of courses or pursue one of two specific tracks.
Professional Track
Students who choose the PR, advertising and social media professional track undertake independent study under the guidance of one or more faculty mentors. Students may select directed readings, directed research, or they may choose to develop a project that demonstrates their skills in public relations and advertising.
Thesis Track
The PR, advertising and social media thesis track option provides the opportunity for students to take additional courses to prepare for admission to a Ph.D. program.
Questions About the Program?
Contact the Office of Graduate Admission at 412-392-3808 or gradadmission@pointpark.edu.