The University of South Carolina Upstate (USC Upstate) is recognized for its excellence in media and public relations education. The university’s Department of Communication offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in various aspects of the industry.
Programs and Curriculum
USC Upstate’s media and public relations program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of communication. The curriculum includes coursework in:
- Media Writing: Students learn the art of writing effective press releases, news articles, and other media materials.
- Public Relations Theory and Practice: Students explore the theoretical and practical aspects of public relations, including campaign planning, media relations, and crisis management.
- Digital Media and Communication: Students gain expertise in using digital platforms for public relations purposes, including social media, websites, and mobile apps.
- Ethics and Law: Students develop a strong understanding of the ethical and legal implications of media and public relations activities.
Faculty and Research
The Department of Communication at USC Upstate is staffed by experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and industry engagement. Their expertise ensures that students receive up-to-date knowledge and insights into the field of media and public relations.
- Dr. Lisa Boss: Associate Professor of Communication and Director of the Media Arts, Film, and Television Program
- Dr. Joseph Lehman: Assistant Professor of Communication and Director of the Public Relations Program
- Dr. Danna Gallaher: Associate Professor of Communication and Director of the Mass Communication Program
The department also boasts a strong research culture, with faculty members publishing in top academic journals and presenting their findings at national conferences. This research activity keeps the curriculum current and ensures that students are exposed to cutting-edge trends in media and public relations.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of USC Upstate’s media and public relations program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the industry. They can work as:
- Public Relations Specialists: Develop and implement public relations campaigns that promote organizations and businesses.
- Media Relations Specialists: Build and maintain relationships with the media to generate positive coverage.
- Social Media Managers: Create and manage social media content to engage target audiences and promote brands.
- Content Creators: Develop and produce written, visual, and audio content for various media platforms.
- Communication Managers: Lead communication teams and oversee all aspects of organizational communication.
Student Success
USC Upstate’s media and public relations program has a strong track record of student success. Graduates of the program have gone on to work for leading organizations such as:
- CNN
- NBCUniversal
- The New York Times
- Edelman
- Burson-Marsteller
The department also has a vibrant student organization, the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). PRSSA provides students with opportunities to connect with industry professionals, develop their skills, and compete in national competitions.
Conclusion
The University of South Carolina Upstate is a top choice for students seeking a career in media and public relations. With its exceptional curriculum, experienced faculty, and focus on industry engagement, USC Upstate provides students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed in the field.