Best Master’s in Public Relations and Image Management Programs
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Public relations and image management is the art of swaying public opinion and shaping the image of businesses, organizations, or high-profile individuals. Public relations professionals form relationships with the media and publish press releases to try to control the story surrounding your client. Going to graduate school to pursue a master's in public relations and image management teaches students advanced techniques and helps them apply their skills to real-world scenarios.
The average program takes 1.5-2 years to complete. However, some online programs may allow a student to finish faster than this. Graduate degree tuition and fees cost, on average, $19,792 as of 2019-20, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). True program costs may vary depending on each school and program.
The career outlook for public relations professionals is generally good in terms of both salary and job growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), public relations jobs are expected to grow 11% between 2020 and 2030. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $62,800 as of 2021.
Georgetown University - Washington, D.C.
Why It's #1: Georgetown University tops our list of the best master's in public relations programs. Georgetown boasts a stellar graduation rate of 95%. It also has a good record of awarding financial aid, with 55% of students receiving aid. Tuition is $45,381, close to the average tuition rate for private schools. Admissions are highly competitive, with an admission rate of 14%. Fifteen percent of Georgetown students attend online classes. Students can attend Georgetown's master's in public relations and corporate communications fully online.
Popular Online Public Relations and Image Management Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Master's in Public Relations and Image Management Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Georgetown University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online, On-Campus, or Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes or Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,483 - $1,527
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Georgetown offers a master's in public relations and corporate communications. The flexible program is available online, in person, or as a combination of both. Students can complete this program either full or part time. Enrollees complete coursework in writing, planning, and research coursework and have opportunities to work with real-world clients.
Applicants must submit transcripts, a CV or resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation alongside their online application. Standardized test scores are not required.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $2,035
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
USC's M.A. in public relations and advertising is devoted to preparing public relations leaders. The curriculum covers PR techniques and platforms, research and analysis skills, and business fundamentals.
Students can specialize in computational public relations; digital, interactive, and converged communications; corporate and business communication; civic engagement; sports and entertainment; or lifestyle public relations.
Applicants must submit writing samples, letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and a personal statement. USC has suspended GRE requirements through 2022.
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition
Private | $61,050
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The BU master's in public relations program offers a blend of management, writing, and research instruction. The program prepares students for jobs in public relations via work with the PR Lab, a student-run PR firm, as well as through internship placements.
Applicants must submit transcripts, a CV, and letters of recommendation. They must also submit a 750-word personal statement answering one of two prompts.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $2,310
Credits to Graduate
30-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
UM offers two tracks for their master's in public relations. The first is a 30-credit thesis track focusing on public relations research. The second is a 36-credit coursework-only track designed to advance PR and corporate communications knowledge. Both programs seek to develop both creative and analytical skills.
To apply, students must submit undergraduate transcripts and a personal statement. GRE scores are encouraged but not required.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $479
Out-of-State | $1,111
Credits to Graduate
33-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
FSU offers a master's in integrated marketing communication. It combines public relations with applied research, advertising, and cross-cultural communication. Students can pursue multiple pathways through the program, including a thesis option.
Applicants must submit transcripts showing a minimum GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and, optionally, a resume or writing sample. FSU has waived GRE requirements through 2026.
George Washington University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus or Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,625
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students in GW's master's in strategic public relations gain broad expertise in the field, with special emphasis placed on political communications. Coursework is scheduled and tailored for career advancement for working professionals. Students expand their experiences with internships in both the public and private sectors.
Applications must include transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA must submit a work portfolio with a descriptive essay or GRE scores.
Emerson College
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,349
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Emerson prides itself on offering the first communication program in the U.S. In its master's in public relations program, students have access to real-world experiences to supplement their courses. Courses are primarily offered in the evening to make the program accessible for working professionals.
Applicants must submit college transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a resume. They must also submit an admissions essay answering one of two prompts.
University of Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus or Online | Scheduled or Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Tuition per Academic Year
Private | $36,728
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
DU offers a master's in public relations designed for working professionals. Students can either complete the program either on-campus or entirely online. Enrollees can also tailor their curriculum to their individual goals and interests with elective courses. In addition to coursework, students receive career support, including coaching and mock interviews.
Applicants must submit a personal statement, resume, and official college transcripts. DU has waived the application fee for all students.
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus or Hybrid | Scheduled or Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $390
Out-of-State | $1,078
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
IUPUI's master's in public relations is designed to help experienced public relations professionals take the next steps in their careers. In addition to coursework, students participate in real-world applications of PR and crisis communications. Students can pursue a degree in general public relations management or specialize in healthcare and life sciences or sports public relations management.
Applicants are encouraged to contact the program before applying to confirm application requirements. Applications must be submitted through a central IUPUI portal.
University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On-Campus | Scheduled
Avg. Cost per Credit
In-State | $470
Out-of-State | $978
Credits to Graduate
30-36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
UH offers both a thesis and non-thesis master's in public relations studies. The program is designed for professionals looking to move up the career ladder or looking to pursue advanced graduate studies. Courses focus on conceptual, applied, and research skills.
Applicants must have at least 18 credits of previous coursework in public relations. Applications must include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores.
How We Rank Schools
Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Master's Public Relations and Image Relations Programs ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 64 schools that qualify for our ranking list based on the following criteria.
- Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
- Must offer a master's degree program in the given subject.
- Must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.
To ensure the accuracy and quality of our final ranked list, the ranking team reviewed each qualifying school to ensure it met the criteria for our ranking, and then applied our proprietary ranking methodology to identify the best schools offering this program in the nation. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring academic factors (60%) and affordability (40%).
The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.
BestColleges' Ranking Factors
Frequently Asked Questions About Public Relations and Image Management Programs
Is a master's in public relations and image management worth it?
Yes, a master's in public relations is worth it. Public relations is a fast-growing and well-paying field, with the BLS projecting that public relations jobs will grow by 11% between 2020 and 2030. These professionals had an average salary of $62,800 as of 2021.
However, always consider your financial situation before enrolling in a graduate program. Consider loans you may have to take out, salary potential after graduation, and your financial plan after graduation. Speak with a financial institution or a school's financial aid office for help.
What can I do with a master's in public relations and image management?
Generally, people with a master's in public relations and image management work in upper levels of institutional communications. They are eligible for the highest positions in the field, often managing teams of public relations professionals and directing PR campaign strategy.
Graduates with a master's in public relations and image management work across all spheres, from politics to travel and leisure. Some programs offer students a chance to specialize in the unique challenges of a specific industry, such as sports or entertainment management.
What continuing education is available for public relations and image management graduates?
A career in public relations and image management typically does not require additional education past a master's degree. Some professionals may pursue an MBA, but it is not necessary for anything but specialized leadership positions.
For those who choose not to pursue additional schooling, they can continue to learn and grow in a variety of ways. The public relations industry often has conferences and conventions, where speakers discuss new trends and offer advice. Professionals can also choose to self-study.
How much money can I make with a master's in public relations and image management?
According to PayScale, the average master's in public relations program graduate earned $64,000 in 2022. PR professionals made a median annual salary of $62,800 as of 2021, according to the BLS. Those in leadership positions or with more experience generally earn more — the top 10% of earners in public relations made a median annual salary of $124,620 in 2021.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in public relations and image management?
Public relations and image management professionals can command salaries in the six-figure range. The top 10% of earners in public relations earned a median salary of $124,620 in 2021, according to the BLS.
Feature Image: Luis Alvarez / DigitalVision / Getty Images
