Master's Degree in Public Relations: Career Options for Graduates with a Master's Degree in Public Relations

Published Aug 11, 2009

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A master's degree in Public Relations prepares a graduate for careers in sales, advertising and media. Career options for graduates with a master's degree in Public Relations include Public Relations manager, press secretary and sales manager. A master's degree in Public Relations and college internships makes finding positions in these occupations favorable.

Public Relations Master's Degree Career Summary: Public Relations Manager

A Public Relations manager's main task is to create a favorable image for an employer or client. This is accomplished by writing press releases, developing media kits and maintaining Internet web pages. A Public Relations manager often manages communications budgets, arranges interviews, and drafts speeches for company executives. A Public Relations manager confers with labor relations managers to keep lines of communications open to ensure that employees are aware of company activities, according to O*Net, online.onetcenter.org. Many employers prefer an applicant with a master's degree in Public Relations or journalism, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov. Employers look for applicants who have taken courses in advertising, business administration, political science and creative writing.

Public Relations Master's Degree Career Summary: Press Secretary

Press secretaries are the liaison for agencies and officials, and keep the public informed about the agency's activities. A press secretary often prepares press releases and drafts speeches for company officials. At public events and meetings, press secretaries may represent officials who cannot attend in person. A press secretary may prepare annual reports and write proposals for projects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a master's degree in Public Relations is appropriate for a press secretary, and students should consider concentrations in Public Relations, journalism and communications.

Public Relations Master's Degree Career Summary: Sales Manager

Sales managers are in charge of a firm's sales program. It is the responsibility of a sales manager to assign territories and set goals for sales staff. In a large firm with many products, a sales manager supervises regional and local sales managers. Most employers require an applicant to have a master's degree in business administration, with a concentration in marketing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many sales managers are hired from within a company, and are often Public Relations specialists.

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