Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Social Media Administration

Program Overview

Develop theoretical and practical skills related to this ever-evolving technical field, explore modern day technology, and develop expert communication through hands-on experiences.

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

  • Four-Year BA Program

Time to Complete

Full Time: 4 Years

Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in Public Relations and Social Media Administration at AIC?

The Public Relations and Social Media Administration program at American International College is rooted in a strong communications core. The curriculum blends traditional public relations theory with hands-on training in digital and social media platforms, helping students understand how organizations build and maintain relationships with their audiences across multiple platforms.

A key strength of the program is its emphasis on real-world application and professional development. Students gain practical experience that allows them to gain expert communication skills from press releases to streamlined posts on current social media networks. 

Students will learn how to best manage and enhance the image of corporate brands through strategic communications and will develop the skills future employers seek by learning from industry leaders. This hands-on focus ensures graduates are confident in both content creation and communication strategies.

What to Expect

  • Internships: Gain firsthand experience in your interests and a possible future career. You’ll then discuss your experience at the College of Business, Arts, and Sciences’ Internship Symposium, held every semester.
  • Industry expertise: Learn how to best manage and enhance the image of corporate brands through strategic communication.
  • Real-world application: Gain expert communication skills from press releases to streamlined posts on current social media networks.
  • Customize your education: Overlay your studies with a second major in Graphic Arts and Design, or Digital Media Production to strengthen your background for specific career paths. 
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Social Media Administration program turns you into a strategic communicator who knows how to build brands and shape conversations in today’s digital world. Gain real-world experience and graduate ready to turn creativity into a professional skill.

  • Write effectively as a PR professional
  • Market the event or institution they represent through targeted PR
  • Access and engage social media as a tool for connection and community building
  • Ethically write and prepare PR material
  • Communicate effectively
  • Integrate media platforms

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Social Media Administration:

  • COM1403: Public Relations I 
  • COM1282: Media Literacy 
  • COM1410: Digital Photography I 
  • COM2403: Public Relations II 
  • COM2630: Writing for Media
  • MKT2710: Integrated Marketing Communications
  • COM3240: Media Law and Ethics
  • COM3403: Public Relations 3: Crisis and Communication Management
  • COM3450: Feature and Opinion Writing
  • MKT3620: Social Media Marketing
  • MKT3725: Digital Marketing
  • COM4201: Public Relations Practicum: Internship Preparation
  • COM4403: Public Relations IV: Campaign and Executive Reporting
  • COM4899: Internship

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Minor Courses: Students must complete all courses listed here to earn a Minor in Public Relations and Social Media Administration:

  • COM1403: Public Relations I
  • COM1281: Media Literacy
  • COM2403: Public Relations II 
  • COM2630: Writing for Media 
  • COM3240: Media Law and Ethics 
  • MKT3620: Social Media Marketing 

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Individuals interested in studying Public Relations and Social Media Administration at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Arts, Media, and Design Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student.

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Our resources cover all associated costs and how to finance your education.

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Arts and Entertainment Management program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

AIC’s many clubs, student organizations, and service opportunities let you meet like-minded, driven individuals as you channel your creative passions:

  • Get published in The Yellow Jacket: Become a contributor to AIC’s long-running student newspaper, reimagined for the 21st century in a new digital format. Learn more.
  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your creativity creating content or managing a student clubs’ social media. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our Assistant Dean and Division Chair or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Frank Borrelli, MFA
Assistant Dean of Student Support and Experiential Learning

Phone: 413.654.1486
Email: frank.borrelli@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

What Can You Do with a Public Relations and Social Media Administration Degree?

Job Titles

AIC Public Relations and Social Media Administration majors begin careers as:

  • Public Relations Specialists 
  • Technical Writers
  • Social Media Managers
  • Brand Activation Managers
  • Editors

Salary Expectations

Each year through 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than a combined 104,800 openings in the media and communication field, including for:

Internship Opportunities

A key facet of the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences is the opportunity for internships with local companies and organizations that provide real-world experiences. AIC students have found internship positions with:

  • Western Mass News
  • Springfield Thunderbirds
  • Boys and Girls Club
  • Springfield Ballers

Related Programs

Channel your creativity into a meaningful career path in any of these other programs offered at AIC:

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success: