Master's of Public Relations and Communications

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The Master’s in Public Relations and Communications empowers communicators in government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors to lead and thrive. Our program equips professionals with essential knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding for success in public relations, public affairs, and communications. Combining academic rigor with real-world challenges, students excel in building strategic communications, media relations, crisis management, and digital skills, while driving meaningful social change.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Program at a Glance

30 credit hours with a circle with an arrow on the end

30 credits

You can earn your master's in just 30 credits. Less than 18 months to becoming a credible PR Practitioner. 

 

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Classes Held Online

Classes meet online. Students attend class one or two weeknights per week on a synchronous schedule.

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3 Concentrations

Choose from Corporate Communications, Government Communications and Public Affairs, and Nonprofit Communications.

 

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Storytelling Made Powerful by You

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With the media cycle moving at such a rapid pace, today’s leading public relations practitioners must go beyond traditional methods to accomplish their communications goals. Digital and social media-based communication and 24/7 access to breaking news have heightened the need for PR strategists to be informed and ready to respond at all times. We offer a comprehensive learning experience to help our students manage this ever-changing landscape for their clients, companies, and/or causes. 

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Program Objectives

From developing strategic communication plans to mastering writing and digital skills, media relations, crisis management, and organizational communications, students gain a comprehensive toolkit for success. Upon completion of the Masters of Professional Studies in Public Relations and Communications, students will be able to:

  • Develop, implement, evaluate, and deliver strategic communication and public relations plans that align with organizational/client goals and ethical standards of practice;
  • Conduct research, analyze and synthesize data, and apply insights to inform or evaluate communication strategies;
  • Identify and execute the most effective communication strategy by leveraging digital platforms and/or cultivating and sustaining relationships with media outlets, journalists, or other stakeholders;
  • Adapt communication strategies in a variety of contexts, including for diverse or international audiences; in high-stakes, crisis situations; and for effective change or reputation management;
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively with other professionals and potential clients.
 
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Where You'll Study

Foggy Bottom Campus in Washington, DC or the Graduate Education Center in Alexandria, VA or online
 

The program is offered fully online. Students attend class one or two weeknights per week on a synchronous schedule.

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What You'll Study

 

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You can complete this 30-credit master's program in as little as 18 months, including a two-semester, hands-on capstone project.

This program caters to current and aspiring public relations and communications professionals, offering a comprehensive curriculum aimed at developing strategic communicators adept at shaping narratives, building relationships and credibility, and responding to contemporary and emerging challenges.

The curriculum includes:

  • Core Courses taken by all students; 
  • Skills Courses focused on practical skills, such as Public Speaking and Presentations, Social Analytics and Digital Media, Risk/Issues Management and Crisis Communications;
  • Three Concentrations for students to tailor their studies in alignment with their career aspirations within the public relations & communications industry.
     

Courses and Degree Requirements

 

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Choose a Program Concentration that Aligns with Your Career Goals

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Corporate Communications Concentration

Equips students with advanced skills in strategic planning, media relations, digital communication, and crisis management, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse corporate environments.

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Government Communications and Public Affairs Concentration

Prepares students for leadership roles by teaching strategic communication, public policy advocacy, and media relations within governmental and public sector contexts.

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Nonprofit Communications Concentration

Trains students in strategic communication, media relations, and advocacy, specifically tailored to the unique needs and goals of nonprofit organizations.

 

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Who You'll Study With

Students learn from experts with experience working in Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, journalism, and government. They bring vast experience in issues and crisis management, media relations, and global public relations. The result is a hands-on, practical education that teaches you how to get results on target and on budget.

Our faculty, composed of seasoned practitioners and scholars, are committed to mentoring students toward their individual career objectives. Through hands-on learning opportunities and projects with prominent Washington, DC-based entities, students not only gain theoretical understanding, but also practical experience, ensuring they are well-prepared to advance in their careers.

Meet Our Faculty
Faculty members Karen Vahouny with Larry Parnell
Public Relations and Communications faculty members, Karen Vahouny, recipient of the "Advancing Innovation & Learning Award," and Larry Parnell, pose at the spring 2024 faculty awards ceremony.
 

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Admissions Information 

Applicants to the MPS in Public Relations and Communications must have:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning or international equivalent; 
  • An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is normally required (contact Admissions for additional information).

You’ll also have to complete our online application and submit the necessary required materials, including two letters of recommendation (academic or professional), a Statement of Purpose and a Resume. If you need assistance, please contact us by emailing [email protected]

Admissions Process

A maximum of one legal specialty course required for the degree may be approved for transfer to the Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies from credit earned while enrolled as a non-degree student at GW or from another degree-granting school of this University or another accredited college or university.

A maximum of two legal specialty courses required for the degree may be approved for transfer to the Master’s degree in Paralegal Studies from credit earned while enrolled as a non-degree student at GW or from another degree-granting school of this University or another accredited college or university.

For transfer credit to be approved, all of these conditions must be met:

  • the coursework must be from an accredited institution and must have been taken within the two years prior to matriculation;
  • it must be approved as part of the student’s program of studies;
  • it must not have been applied to the completion of requirements for another degree;
  • it must be post-baccalaureate graduate-level coursework; and the student must have received a minimum grade of B in each course for which transfer credit is requested.

Requests for transfer credit must be submitted in writing and approved by the program director and the Dean during the student’s first year in the program. An official transcript of the coursework must be on file before the request can be considered.

 

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Deadlines

Applicants that have complete applications are eligible to request an application fee waiver by 11:59 p.m. on the Priority Deadline.* To request an application fee waiver, contact your program representative before submitting your application. Fee waiver details. 

 

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Fall Admissions

  • Fall Priority Deadline: April 1*
  • Fall Final Deadline: July 1

 

 

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Spring Admissions

  • Spring Priority Deadline: September 1*
  • Spring Final Deadline: November 1

 

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Summer Admissions

  • Summer Priority Deadline: March 15*
  • Summer Final Deadline: May 15

Note: Applications received after the Final Deadline will continue to be processed, space permitting.

 


Lesley Lopez

"Our focus on the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors is at the core of where the world is heading and GWU is proud to be at its forefront. Thoughtful curriculum, meaningful education, and memorable experiences will exist in our school to shape the future of PR practitioners who want to make a change. And they will."

Lesley J. Lopez
Program Director & Assistant Professor


 

 

Contact Us

 

To learn more about the Public Relations and Communications (PRC) program, please email the PRC recruitment and admissions team.

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Request Information

Items marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Information Sessions  & Events

We periodically offer information sessions about GW's Public Relations and Communications program and special events.