As public relations majors at Temple University, we have a lot of elective opportunities to fit into our schedules. Having the freedom to choose from an assortment of classes may sound great, but the selection of courses available can be overwhelming. My first suggestion is to declare a minor or even a double major. These courses count towards your elective credits, and it looks impressive on your diploma when you graduate. If you’re not up to declaring a minor, here are some miscellaneous SMC classes to take that will compliment your PR concentration:
JRN 1101: Elements of Writing
If you need extra help with grammar, consider taking Elements of Writing. It’s an introductory journalism course, but it concentrates on AP style, which is essential to know.
JRN 1111: Journalism and Society
PR professionals constantly work with journalists. Journalism and Society teaches you the basic concepts and functions of journalism. A portion of the class focuses on public relations and how journalists perceive us. I suggest taking this class to understand how the other side of media works.
ADV 1004: Introduction to Marketing
Unless you declare a minor at Fox School of Business, you’re unable to take marketing courses. However, the advertising department’s Introduction to Marketing course goes over a similar curriculum from an advertising perspective.
ADV 1000: Introduction to Digital Design Tools
Intro to Digital Design Tools introduces the Adobe Creative Suite. Students will learn the basics of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. If you’re creative and artistic, I highly recommend this class! It’s fun, and having Adobe software knowledge is valuable in the public relations field.
MSP 1701: Introduction to Media Technology
Similar to Digital Design Tools, Introduction to Media Technology is the introduction to digital media. However, this class teaches you the basics of Photoshop, WordPress, and Final Cut Pro, which are also valuable to know as an aspiring PR professional.
Finally, be on the lookout for Special Topics courses. SMC will email a list of unique courses that aren’t available every semester. These special topics courses typically cater to trends in the industry, such as search engine optimization and social media marketing.
This guest blog post was written by PRowl account associate Kimberly Leung.
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