Career Spotlight: Communication/Public Relations

What Can I do With a Major in Communication?

General areas of employment include: Business, Public Relations/Advertising, Media, Nonprofit, Government, Law, and Education

Job titles include: Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Account Manager, Production Supervisor, News Reporter, Copywriter, Sales Promotion Manager, Special Events Coordinator, and Classified Advertising Manager

National Average Starting Salary: $30, 879 (NACE, 2005)

Skills needed: Written and verbal communication, interpersonal, research, leadership, and computer skills

**Call 333-6339 to make an appointment to discuss these options further with a Career Counselor at the Career Center**

Career Spotlight: Public Relations Specialist

A Public Relations Specialist portrays a favorable image of an individual, group, or organization.  They promote good will by selecting or writing publicity materials and releasing it through various forms of communication. A PR Specialist may create displays, make speeches, or plan events.

Public Relations Specialists must have the ability to persuade others and sell products, strong oral and written communication skills, creativity, and the ability to diagnose problems and handle conflict.

The median average salary of Public Relations Specialists in Iowa is $39, 000 (O*NET, 2005).

Employment is expected to grow faster than the average through the year 2014 (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006).