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Best Colleges for Public Relations: Compare Highly Ranked Programs

  • Post author:TransferGoat
  • Post category:College rankings

Public relations are more than press releases. The field involves strategy, storytelling, and building trust. The best colleges for public relations help students develop these skills with internships, industry connections, and expert faculty. 

Whether you’re starting college or transferring, this guide explores what makes top PR programs stand out and how to choose the right fit.

Top 7 Public Relations Schools Nationwide

Colleges with good public relations programs don’t just teach theory – they connect students to real opportunities. These seven options offer the academics, experience, and connections students need.

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)

Washington University offers a program for ethical communication and strategic thinking. It also provides rich experiential opportunities like internships and capstone projects. 

WashU accepts around 12% of transfer applicants, making it a selective program, but at the same time. still attainable for standout students.

  • Curriculum: Courses in media relations, social media management, crisis communication, and brand management, with cross-disciplinary electives in journalism, marketing, and psychology.
  • Experiential Learning: Robust internship network, PRSSA participation, and client-facing capstone campaigns.
  • Career Support: A strong alumni network and tailored career services prepare graduates for leadership roles in PR.

University of Southern California (USC) – Annenberg School

At USC’s Annenberg School, students gain access to one of the most prestigious communication programs in the country. The program emphasizes strategic communication and real-world application through coursework, internships, and professional events.

While highly competitive, USC admits roughly 23% of transfer applicants, giving academically strong students the opportunity to benefit from Annenberg’s extensive LA network.

  • Curriculum: Core studies in PR campaigns, crisis management, brand communication, and research methods.
  • Location Advantage: Prime access to LA’s PR, entertainment, and corporate sectors.
  • Student Life: A vibrant PRSSA chapter and career counseling.

New York University (NYU)

NYU’s takes advantage of its location to immerse PR students in one of the most influential media hubs in the world.

Each year, NYU accepts about 20–25% of transfer applicants, giving ambitious students a realistic opportunity to join a program rooted in one of the world’s largest PR markets.

  • Curriculum: Courses in strategic communication, digital media, campaign planning, and crisis communication.
  • Global Programs: Opportunities to study abroad in cities like London and Shanghai.
  • Career Support: Access to NYU’s Wasserman Center, career fairs, and mentorship through a vast alumni network.

Washington & Lee University

Washington & Lee delivers a small liberal arts setting with a strong emphasis on ethics, leadership, and applied learning.

This university is selective when it comes to accepting transfer students, but it is accessible for those prepared to thrive in a small, close-knit academic community.

  • Signature Programs: PRSSA chapter and Mock Con PR Team provide hands-on learning and national exposure.
  • Alumni Success: Graduates excel at PR agencies, multinational firms, nonprofits, and government roles.
  • Educational Approach: A balance of rigorous academics and ethical leadership development.

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

UT Austin’s communication program combines modern resources with access to Austin’s vibrant professional scene, making it a top destination for aspiring PR professionals. 

The program emphasizes both traditional PR strategies and digital innovation, preparing students for an evolving industry.

  • Curriculum: Courses in media relations, ethics, campaign planning, and emerging PR trends.
  • Facilities: Multimedia labs, production studios, and advanced PR software tools.
  • Opportunities: Austin’s growing corporate and nonprofit scene offers numerous internships.

Boston University (BU) – College of Communication

Boston University’s communication program is a strong choice for students seeking academic depth paired with career-building opportunities. 

BU is also known for being one of the most transfer-friendly institutions on this list, making it especially appealing for students eager to continue their PR studies in a vibrant city setting.

  • Curriculum: Focused on persuasive writing, campaign strategy, and analytical skills.
  • Networking: Proximity to Boston’s PR agencies and major organizations.
  • Alumni Network: Strong connections with PR leaders across industries.

University of Florida (UF) – College of Journalism and Communications

The University of Florida pairs affordability with national recognition, consistently ranking among the top public universities for communication. Its PR program is known for producing graduates who excel in agencies, corporations, nonprofits, and government roles. 

UF is one of the most welcoming options for students seeking to enter a high-quality PR program.

  • Reputation: Recognized nationally for journalism and communication excellence.
  • Alumni Impact: Graduates have built successful careers across industries, from global PR agencies to corporate and nonprofit leadership roles.
  • Student Support: Extensive career services and mentorship resources.

The Next Step Toward a Future in PR

Every school on our list offers a unique environment, but the common thread is that your effort, curiosity, and initiative will turn education into opportunity. 
By approaching your studies with focus and ambition, you’ll be ready to enter the PR world not only with knowledge but with the confidence and adaptability to thrive in an ever-changing industry.