6 Best HBCUs for Public Relations Programs

A public relations (PR) program can help you master how to effectively communicate with the public, media, and other members of the community on behalf of your clients.

When considering historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for an education in PR, it’s important to look for schools with a solid program, a track record of student success, and strong industry connections that can prepare you to pursue your career.

Earning a public relations degree can teach you how to manage and maintain positive relationships between an organization or person and the public or other stakeholders.

Some occupations in the PR field include:

HBCUs offer you a learning experience rooted in Black culture and heritage, a known HBCU fact. Class materials integrate diverse perspectives that can give you a broader and better understanding of the world, which can be especially useful in the PR field.

HBCUs have supportive environments, offering resources that are tailored to the needs of Black students. These schools usually have smaller class sizes, offer more individual attention, and can lead to mentorship opportunities, too. This can be especially helpful if you’re getting a degree in PR, where building relationships and networking are vital skills.

Most HBCUs have centers dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and addressing issues related to social justice. They can help you develop skills and knowledge that are essential to navigating the PR industry, which often focuses on DEI.

The best HBCUs for public relations have alumni who are accomplished in the PR field. This network can help you make valuable connections and snag opportunities both while in school and after you finish.

That, along with the fact that these schools have a reputation for going the extra mile to prepare students for employment after graduation, means you can pursue a top-tier PR career.

Finally, graduating from an HBCU can be a source of personal pride and accomplishment. These institutions are top rated and top tier, right alongside their non-HBCU counterparts.

The National Black Public Relations Society provides resources and support for Black PR professionals and students, including HBCU employment opportunities, jobs, events, and mentorship programs.

The Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Diversity and Inclusion section discusses its efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the PR industry. The organization offers scholarships, grants, and mentorship programs.

The PRSA Foundation is a nonprofit that awards scholarships, grants, and resources to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in the public relations industry.

The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations has leadership resources and scholarship opportunities for those pursuing careers in public relations. The center also offers mentorship programs.

HBCU Connect is an online hub that gives HBCU students and alumni a way to connect with one another, find jobs, and work with businesses and organizations that support HBCUs.