15 Best Affordable Public Relations Degrees (Bachelor’s) 2020

Students interested in attending one of the best affordable colleges for public relations degrees need to look no further. Our Affordable Schools team has compiled the 15 best cost-effective programs in public relations. Students who wish to major in public relations have a passion for psychology and marketing. They love speaking to people,and are driven in their career goals. Many times, they already have practice with public relations, such as their online presence on social media platforms, and are looking for a way to turn it into a career.

This ranking of the best low-cost undergraduate public relations programs in the United States will be of great help to these students. Programs focus on the quality and flexibility of the curriculum, as well as experiential opportunities. Students will no doubt find at least one program that fits their needs. There is also information on the degree’s requirements as well as discussion of concentrations available.

Methodology

Each ranking completed on this website goes through rigorous research to ensure that information is accurate and reflects the program’s current information by utilizing the National Center for Education Statistics website and its free and publicly available College Navigator. We set our search parameters to include schools that offered a bachelor’s degree in public relations.

There are two factors that were given points, which is how this ranking was designed. The first is tuition as it plays an important role in whether a student decides to attend a certain school. For the purposes of this ranking, only schools that had a total annual tuition of $15,000 or less as reported by NCES were considered for this ranking.

Tuition for one year – based on 15 hours per semester:

Under $7,500 – 3 Points
$7,500 – $15,000 – 2 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point

The second factor was the student: faculty ratio as stated by NCES. Smaller class sizes have been shown to increase individualized attention and a greater sense of commitment to a program, which is why it has been assigned points. Additionally, research has found that small class sizes lead to higher retention and graduation rates, increasing the chances that a student will stick to a program and graduate.

Student to faculty ratio:

10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point

Only 15 schools made the cut. They are listed below in descending order based on the total amount of points the school was awarded during the research process.

Ranking 15 Best Affordable Public Relations Degrees (Bachelor’s) 2019

15. Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, Michigan

Total Points: 3
Program Website

Eastern Michigan University offers a low-cost public relations degree that’s a great choice for students interested in the global aspect of the industry. This is an affordable 124-credit hour, interdisciplinary public relations degree program. It provides a strong foundation in the field as well as several skills necessary to be impactful as a public relations professional. Public relations courses range from crisis management to social media and everything in between. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship, combining all of their knowledge and skills into a work experience. The internship helps students understand the field from a professional’s point of view. The goal of this public relations degree program is to prepare students to hit the ground running right after graduation.

Tuition
In-State: $12,508
Out-of-State: $12,508
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

14. Ferris State University

Big Rapids, Michigan

Total Points: 3
Program Website

The affordable public relations degree offered by Ferris State University is for students interested in a degree that combines the business and public relations field. This is also one of 35 programs nationwide that provides a pathway for national certification in public relations, the Certification in Education for Public Relations. While the BS in Public Relations is a business-oriented degree, students will find that the program has a strong focus on public relations. This public relations degree program is designed to be cost-effective for all students as well. Tuition is the same for both in-state and out-of-state residents.

Tuition
In-State: $11,788
Out-of-State: $11,788
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1

13. Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, Kentucky

Total Points: 3
Program Website

Eastern Kentucky University offers the low-cost BA in Public Relations. The program is certified by the Public Relations Society of America. This public relations degree program is supported by small class sizes and a faculty with real-world experience. It also has a variety of facilities on campus that will be helpful to students’ education. The school has a department that offers:

• three Mac labs with design software, podcast and video production studios
• an audio production lab
• a student media center.

Students can also become members of the Public Relations Student Society of America,. The organization offers various hands-on learning opportunities for students.

Tuition
In-State: $9,666
Out-of-State: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1

12. South Dakota State University

Brookings, South Dakota

Total Points: 3
Program Website

South Dakota State University has an affordable online public relations degree. It accompanies the school’s on-campus version, providing students with flexibility in terms of how their degree is earned. Students can choose between the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science for their degree. Both programs are accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. The degree is comprehensive. It requires an internship as well as other hands-on learning experiences. Digital media and public relations electives are also available. These provide students with an exceptional education that combines technology and public relations. Free electives can also be taken to ensure that students earn a well-rounded education.

Tuition
In-State: $8,764
Out-of-State: $12,128
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

11. Black Hills State University

Spearfish, South Dakota

Total Points: 3
Program Website

Black Hills State University offers a public relations degree that is inexpensive and high-quality. This school offers students the chance to complete a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication with a concentration in public relations. It also offers a certificate in social media at the undergraduate level. This makes it a great choice for students who want to specialize in the field. This affordable public relations degree program is continuously updated as technology changes the nature of the field. Students are encouraged to speak with an admissions advisor to learn about specific requirements for the degree. An internship and other hands-on opportunities are available in the program. Students can put their skills to use at the student-run newspaper, radio and tv stations. They can also join the Public Relations Club, which also offers practical experiences.

Tuition
In-State: $8,733
Out-of-State: $11,778
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

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9. West Texas A&M University

Canyon, Texas

Total Points: 3
Program Website

West Texas A&M University offers an inexpensive public relations degree. Students can earn a BA or BS in Media Communication with an emphasis in advertising and public relations. The programs prepare students to take on leadership roles while also providing them with the knowledge and skills to work in a variety of mediums, such as:

• audio
• video
• digital

Students can also take part in research projects spearheaded by faculty members.They can do internships. They can also participate in the WT Leadership Mentoring program, which is designed to enhance a student’s ability to lead a process. The program that is accredited by the American Communication Association.

Tuition
In-State: $7,935
Out-of-State: $9,304
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

8. Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, Missouri

Total Points: 3
Program Website

Northwest Missouri State University is one of the most affordable colleges for public relations degrees. This school offers both a BA and BS in Communication: Public Relations. In this 122-credit hour public relations degree program students learn from practicing professionals. They also have the chance to take on practical experiences. The school is also home to Knacktive. This course combines a variety of disciplines– including public relations– into an interactive and collaborative learning experience. The course focuses on creating a campaign for a real-world client. It gives students a workplace experience that will be helpful to them in the future. Students can also study abroad, enabling them to get a feel for international public relations. The university has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top moderately selective regional universities three times in the past four years.

Tuition
In-State: $7,844
Out-of-State: $13,166
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1

7. The University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, Missouri

Total Points: 4
Program Website

The University of Central Missouri offers the affordable BS in Public Relations. It’s a top-value program that has a public-focused approach while also incorporating results-driven communication studies. This school’s public relations degree program offers students public relations-specific scholarships. It also has internships with major companies and opportunities to work with alumni. The program also offers several extra-curricular options for interested students, including participation in the Public Relations Student Society of America. Innovation Public Relations, is the school’s own student-led agency. The National Millennial Community/Gen Z Council offers the opportunity to meet and interacting with public relations professionals from all over the world. There are also study abroad opportunities. The program is also academically comprehensive and has been approved by the Public Relations Society of America.

Tuition
In-State: $7,673
Out-of-State: $14,442
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1

6. Franklin University

Columbus, Ohio

Total Points: 4
Program Website

Franklin University is home to an affordable online public relations degree as well as an on-campus program. It’s a great choice for students who want a little flexibility in their degree. This 124-semester hour public relations degree program has a strong core that includes courses such as:

• Media and Crisis Communication
• Client Engagement
• Public Relations and Promotional Strategy.

Students will also learn a variety of skills ranging from publicity to internal communications to social and digital media. Classes are small. Faculty are experienced in the field. There is one tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency.

Tuition
In-State: $12,649
Out-of-State: $12,649
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1

5. Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, Illinois

Total Points: 4
Program Website

Eastern Illinois University, one of the most affordable colleges for public relations degrees, offers a top-value BA in Journalism with a concentration in public relations. The journalism department is composed of many experienced faculty members. There is a variety of hands-on learning opportunities such as the student-run PR firm The Agency. Students can get experience in print publications such as student newspaper The Daily Eastern News. There are also opportunitiessuch as the student-run television and radio station WEIU-TV and -FM. EIU is a great choice for students, especially if they want to work in the journalism or entertainment fields. Courses that range from online journalism to publication design. Graduates will be well-prepared to take on many roles in the public relations field.

Tuition
In-State: $11,803
Out-of-State: $14,023
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1

4. Mississippi Valley State University

Itta Bena, Mississippi

Total Points: 4
Program Website

The best affordable BA in Mass Communication/Public Relations is offered by Mississippi Valley State University. It’s a comprehensive program that covers all of the foundational aspects of the field. Much of the 120-credit hour program is spent on learning the concepts and practices of the field. It prepares graduates to work as professionals straight after graduation. The final year in the program will require more hands-on experiences, such as:

• research projects
• an internship
• studios

By the time students complete their degree, graduates will have had some experience in all the major facets of the field.

Tuition
In-State: $6,550
Out-of-State: $6,550
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

3. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Georgia

Total Points: 4
Progam Website

The affordable Bachelor of Science in Public Relations is a professionally-focused degree. It’s perfect for students interested in attending a program in the greater Atlanta area. One of the most affordable colleges for a public relations degrees, Kennesaw State University is one of just three schools in the state to offer a public relations-specific degree. PR is important in Atlanta as it grows into an entertainment mecca. The 120-credit public relations program focuses on classroom studies as well as practical experiences equally. The program provides students with a balanced degree. Courses range from case study analysis to social media and more. Study tours and internships will put that knowledge to work. Students can also participate in the school’s student-run public relations agency. This will help them earn college credit while strengthening their skills.

Tuition
In-State: $6,347
Out-of-State: $17,329
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1

2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, Florida

Total Points: 4
Program Website

The affordable BS in Public Relations at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is another good choice for students. This 125-credit hour public relations degree program is for students who want to work in the field in a variety of specializations. Students at FAMU will have the chance to complete a comprehensive curriculum. They will also conduct research and participate in the school’s student-run media clubs. These activities enhance their understanding of the knowledge they gain in the classroom. This is a great school for students interested in the digital media space as well.

Tuition
In-State: $5,785
Out-of-State: $17,725
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1

1. Brigham Young University of Provo

Provo, Utah

Total Points: 4
Program Website

The Brigham Young University of Provo, our top-ranked best affordable college for a public relations degree, offers a best-value BA in Communications: Public Relations.  This program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework and is comprehensive in nature. The university gives students flexibility in the curriculum. It offers a list of directed electives instead of a curriculum that is rigid. The program is also competitive. Only 200 students are accepted every year. Classes are small with individualized attention. Students will have ample opportunity for practical experience through the required internship. This enables them to pull together all of their knowledge and skills to demonstrate that they are ready to head into their profession.

Tuition
In-State: $5,620
Out-of-State: $5,620
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options for Affordable Public Relations Degree Graduates?

Public relations is a field that lends itself well to most other industries, meaning that students will be able to work in a wide range of fields after graduation. Since an undergraduate degree is what most professionals have under their belt, it’s also a good field for students who want to go straight into work after graduation. Here are just a few of the many careers possible with a Bachelor’s in Public Relations:

• Public Relations Specialist
• Event Manager
• Marketing Coordinator
• Political Campaign Manager
• Government Affairs Specialist
• Direct Marketing Spokesperson
• Social Media Manager
• Art Director
• Media Planner
• Production Coordinator
• Advertising Account Executive
• Investor Relations Specialist
• Marketing Executive
• Public Information Officer
• Sales Promotion Account Executive

Students should keep in mind that some of the careers available in the field, both listed and unlisted above, may require additional professional education and training. However, this is most likely completed as a distance education program or through a series of workshops and conferences. This means that many graduates will not have to complete a graduate degree in the field. It is worth researching what possibilities could become a reality just by completing a certificate or a professional training program.

What is the Salary Potential for a Degree in Public Relations?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a professional with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations is currently $51,000. However, with some work experience and professional education, students can reasonably earn over $100,000. This range includes careers that are available in all fields, in both the public and private sector.

While it is more than feasible to find a job at a public relations firm or a company, many public relations professionals choose to work for themselves. They are known as freelancers or contract employers, meaning they work on projects and get paid for their contributions for that project only. This is becoming more common, especially in the digital media space, because younger professionals are interested in having a lot of different experiences prior to choosing just one specialization. Additionally, professionals who become freelancers often find their specialization through their work and can command higher wages due to their portfolio of work in the field.

Freelance work can be difficult at first because wages are earned on a project-by-project basis and they will need to learn how to budget and run their own business. However, should a student choose to take business courses while at the undergraduate level, it will enable them to take charge of their finances.

What Makes Up a Public Relations Degree?

The main disciplines of public relations consist of sociology, psychology, marketing, communications, digital media, negotiation, conflict resolution, and journalism. The field is all about communication, so this is the one field that takes precedence over the others, but it is also fair to say that history, politics, economics and law also play a role. There are rules and regulations in the field, especially for the government.

There are also sub-disciplines within PR which correspond to different industries. Graduates may find these difficult to obtain with a bachelor’s degree. However, they can learn more about the industry while on the job. Most industries are more apt to hire a professional if that professional has some background in the field. Students who complete a minor in the industry they’re most interested in working in are encouraged to do so.

Some of the most respected and sought-after specializations include politics, entertainment, and business. This is because these industries thrive or fail depending on a company’s ability to convey their message well. Politicians, entertainers and businesspeople often work with a public relations firm to enhance their image, thus creating public relations jobs in these specific areas.

Public relations is still the way that most people get their information, especially about specific topics. It is fair to say that most businesses or entities, including the government, use public relations in day-to-day operations to ensure that the general public is receiving a consistent message about that entity. Students who are interested in helping to mold targeted messages as a career should definitely enroll in a public relations bachelor’s degree.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the 15 Best Affordable Colleges for a Public Relations Degree (Bachelor’s).

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