Graduating With a PR Degree: What’s Next?

By: Lauren Wilchacky

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Graduation is getting closer, and suddenly the question everyone seems to be asking is, “What are you

doing after college?” For public relations students, the answer is not always simple. A PR degree can lead to careers in public relations, marketing, social media, corporate communications, content creation and more. Having so many options is exciting, but it can also make figuring out where to start a little overwhelming. The good news is that you don’t need to have your entire career figured out before graduation. Exploring a few different paths can help you find roles that match what you actually enjoy doing.

Agency Public Relations

If you like variety, collaboration and working on multiple projects, agency life might be a good fit. You

could work with several clients while gaining experience in writing, media relations, campaign planning and client communication. Explore titles like account coordinator, PR coordinator or junior account executive.

Corporate Communications

Corporate communications allows you to focus on the messaging and reputation of one organization. Your work could include internal communications, company announcements, media relations and other content. Search for roles like communications coordinator, communications associate or corporate communications assistant.

Social Media and Digital Marketing

If you enjoy trends, content and understanding what makes audiences engage, consider social media or digital marketing. These roles can involve creating content, managing social platforms, developing email campaigns, tracking analytics and supporting larger marketing strategies. Look for positions such as social media coordinator, marketing coordinator, digital marketing associate or content coordinator.

Content and Copywriting

If writing is one of your favorite parts of PR, there are plenty of opportunities to make it a bigger part of your career. Organizations need writers for blogs, websites, emails, newsletters, social media and marketing materials. Try searching for a junior copywriter, content marketing associate, communications writer or content coordinator.

Nonprofit and Community Communications

If you want your work to connect with a cause or community, nonprofit communications could be another path to explore. You might promote events, manage social media, communicate with volunteers or donors and share stories about an organization’s impact. Possible titles include communications coordinator, community engagement coordinator or marketing and communications coordinator.

Finding the Right Path for You

Your first job does not have to determine what you do for the rest of your career. Instead, think about the parts of your classes, internships, and student organizations you have enjoyed most. Decide whether you like writing, working with clients, creating social content, planning campaigns, looking at analytics, etc. Most importantly, do not limit your job search to positions with “public relations” in the title. The writing, strategy, research and communication skills you develop as a PR student can apply to careers across PR, marketing and communications. As graduation approaches, it is okay if you do not know exactly where you will end up. Your PR degree does not give you just one career path, it gives you options.