Program overview
The Public Relations Certificate is designed for students who have or are pursuing a baccalaureate degree and wish to specialize in the area of public relations. The 24-credit program includes courses in writing for the media, publication design, speech communication, as well as other areas of public relations. Upon completion of the program, students with a baccalaureate degree receive an official Public Relations Certificate.
This program is offered through Rider’s Continuing Education Program and is designed for adult learners aged 25 and over.
Admission requirements
Required courses
8 courses - 24 credits
| Rider Course Title | Rider Course Number | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication or Professional and Strategic Speech |
COM-104 or COM-290 |
3 |
| Writing for the Media | COM-107 | 3 |
| Public Relations | COM-240 | 3 |
| Publication Design | COM-212 | 3 |
| Feature Writing | COM-316 | 3 |
| Publicity Methods in Organizations | COM-341 | 3 |
| Cases and Campaigns in Public Relations | COM-440 | 3 |
| Choose ONE of the following: Fundamentals of Video Production Group Communication Organizational Communication Issues in Event Planning Sports Media Relations Advanced Publication Design and Presentation |
COM-131 COM-222 COM-253 COM-280 COM-347 COM-360 |
3 |
A grade of C+ or better in each course is required for the certificate. A minimum of six of the required courses must be taken at Rider.
Admission requirements
Candidates for admission to the Public Relations Certificate Program must complete a Continuing Education application and submit supporting transcripts from all colleges attended. Minimum admissions requirements are: (1) a baccalaureate degree or be a candidate for a baccalaureate degree (usually at Rider); (2) junior standing or beyond (may take some courses before admission to the program); (3) a 2.5 GPA in all undergraduate work or evidence of acceptable public relations experience.