Top Online MBA Programs in Public Relations

Updated September 26, 2023

Learn about the top online MBAs in public relations. Find out what makes these programs so affordable. See important stats such as accreditation, tuition, and delivery format.

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Online MBA in public relations programs cover business, communication, and marketing topics. Students learn how to maintain an organization's public image and improve community relations.

Online MBAs in public relations combine business coursework with classes in promotion, digital communication, and media relations. This degree can help jumpstart a new career or help current advertising, promotions, and marketing professionals advance in the field.

Learn about top online public relations MBA programs, coursework, cost, and potential career opportunities in this guide.

Top Online MBA in Public Relations Programs
School Admissions Insights Outcomes by the Numbers
1. Liberty University | Lynchburg, Virginia
  • Minimum Undergrad GPA: 3.0
  • Admission Rate: 64%
  • Online Enrollment: 92%
  • Tuition: $565/credit (full time)
  • Average GMAT Score: Not required
2. Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, Wisconsin
  • Minimum Undergrad GPA: 2.75
  • Admission Rate: 64%
  • Online Enrollment: 39%
  • Tuition: $779/credit (full time)
  • Average GMAT Score: Not required
3. Concordia University-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Minimum Undergrad GPA: 2.75
  • Admission Rate: 49%
  • Online Enrollment: 18%
  • Tuition: $779/credit (full time)
  • Average GMAT Score: Not required

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Online Public Relations MBA Programs For You

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

What Is an MBA in Public Relations?

MBA in public relations programs focus on communication theories, tools, and techniques in business settings. By learning to effectively message and create a public image for an organization or business, public relations specialists increase profits, sales, and public perception.

The BLS reports advertising sales agents earned a median salary of $54,940 in 2020, while marketing research analysts took home a median pay of $65,810. People with an MBA in business can advance to a managerial role in advertising or marketing.

$54,940
Advertising Sales Agents
Median Annual Salary | 2020

$65,810
Marketing Research Analysts
Median Annual Salary | 2020

In 2020, advertising, promotions, and marketing managers earned a median salary of $141,490.

Similarly, public relations specialists earned a median wage of $62,810, while public relations and fundraising managers received a median salary of $118,430.

Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Public Relations?

Public relations MBAs build written, verbal, and digital communication skills. Through coursework in strategic writing, public relations theory, and messaging, students learn how to communicate on behalf of organizations and companies. MBA in public relations programs train learners to communicate during crises, manage an organization’s reputation, and influence public opinion.

MBA in public relations programs prepare people to craft and shape perceptions of a brand, business, or organization. With a public relations MBA, students can evaluate the appropriateness of messaging, analyze trends and consumer data, and develop solutions to communication problems.

A public relations MBA can help graduates obtain leadership roles within an organization. Public relations managers work for entities across economic sectors, employing technology to craft messaging for healthcare, educational, and manufacturing companies alike.

MBA in public relations programs prepare people to craft and shape perceptions of a brand, business, or organization.

In 2020, top-paying industries for public relations and fundraising managers included computer manufacturing and courier and delivery services. According to the BLS, higher education employed the largest number of public relations and fundraising managers.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Public Relations?

Public Relations Manager

Public relations managers oversee an organization or business’s communications, advertising, and messaging. They prepare press releases, organize corporate events, and give interviews to media outlets. Public relations managers work closely with advertisers, marketers, and promotion professionals.

Public relations managers monitor social and consumer trends, adjusting messaging to shape an organization’s image as needed. They also coordinate internal communication, sending out newsletters and updates for employees.

Director of Communications

Communications directors work with executives, managers, and employees alike to create a positive image of an organization or company. They develop strategic plans for outreach, social media campaigns, and promotions. They also issue press releases, interact with journalists, and serve as an organization’s spokesperson.

Directors of communications analyze the efficacy of existing communication practices. They monitor communication technology and trends, pushing their organization forward to remain competitive. Communications directors work in private and public sectors, earning an average salary of around $85,712, according to Payscale.

Public Relations Director

Public relations directors possess extensive marketing, media, and managerial experience. Payscale notes that public relations directors can make an average base salary near $91,600, while entry-level public relations employees earn average salaries of about $51,000.

Public relations directors provide press releases and media guides to the public. They organize events and fundraisers to boost their client's public image. Strong written and verbal communication skills, creativity, and interpersonal skills are critical.

Communications Coordinator

A core part of an organization’s marketing activities, communications coordinators grow healthy relations among employees, managers, and executives. They work closely with marketing, promotions, and advertising colleagues to create and disseminate publications and organizational information.

Communications coordinators manage company events. People in this role have excellent communication and organizational skills, used to fix problems by engaging with clients, consumers, and employees. Coordinators earn about $45,685 on average.

Marketing Communications Manager

Payscale reports marketing communications managers earn an average salary over $67,000. As senior-level marketing professionals, marketing communications managers supervise marketing campaigns and advertising strategies. They may craft messaging on a specific brand, business, or organization for the general public.

Marketing communications managers review consumer data, economic and social trends, and industry updates to create effective marketing strategies. By monitoring competitors, marketing communications managers craft plans to stay atop their respective industry.

Online MBA in Public Relations Curriculum

Curriculum in MBA programs vary. Core classes focus on business fundamentals such as finance, accounting, and management. Public relations coursework provides specialized content to prepare students to engage with the media and consumers while fostering innovation, creativity, and communication skills.

  • Media Relations
    Media relations coursework emphasizes strategic interaction with media outlets through written and verbal communication skills. Students explore messaging for corporate, noncorporate, and government entities.
  • Emerging Digital Media Technologies
    Courses in emerging digital media technologies study the design, use, and efficacy of digital media tools. Students explore cultural and social influences on media and technology while evaluating the ever-changing social media landscape.
  • Advanced Marketing Strategies
    Advanced marketing strategies classes reinforce best practices in marketing while introducing learners to evaluation, strategic, and communication practices. Coursework explores the marketing process, training students to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities at every stage.

See More Top MBA Programs

How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Public Relations Program

When choosing an MBA in public relations, learners should consider coursework, cost, and degree outcomes. Unlike a master’s degree in public relations or communications, an MBA in public relations combines business and communication coursework.

Traditional MBA degrees take two years to complete. An online MBA in public relations provides a flexible, convenient alternative to an on-campus program. Learners can work full time, completing coursework while meeting their personal and professional obligations.

An online degree benefits full- and part-time students alike. Full-time learners can take classes along an accelerated timeline, earning a degree in as few as 18 months, while part-time students complete a program over several years.

An online degree often provides a more affordable option for public relations MBA students. Many institutions offer the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students, allowing learners to earn a degree as a nonresident with no additional cost. Online programs also eliminate room and board, commuting, and comparable expenses incurred by on-campus students.

Curriculum for MBAs in public relations vary by institution. Learners should make sure potential programs offer coursework that facilitates their career growth. Potential students may also consider internship, project, and research components. Working professionals may have opportunities to complete some degree requirements at their current place of employment.

Scholarships for Public Relations MBA Programs

Online students earning an MBA in public relations can apply for financial aid. Studying public relations and business administration opens additional funding options for learners. Many professional organizations and private funders offer scholarships and fellowships to students earning a degree in these fields.

Public Relations Student Society of America Scholarships

Who Can Apply: PRSSA offers several scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students earning a degree in public relations. Scholarships exist for leaders in the field and members of specific demographic and ethnic groups. Some scholarships recognize learners who have had excellent internship experiences.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Scholarship

Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship, sponsored by Daughters of the American Revolution, supports students earning a business administration degree. Learners must submit documentation of a minimum 3.25 GPA for consideration. Applicants can reapply annually.

Amount: $2,000


Apply For Scholarship

National Black MBA Association Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Through partnerships with educational institutions around the world, NBMBAA offers scholarships to support the educational and career advancement of historically underrepresented students. Requirements vary by program, but applicants must hold membership in NBMBAA.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Scholarship

Orangefiery Best Master's Thesis of the Year Award

Who Can Apply: The Institute for Public Relations gives the Orangefiery Best Master's Thesis of the Year Award to a graduate student who demonstrates advanced research-based knowledge of the field through a formal thesis. Applicants submit their completed thesis and letter of endorsement from a faculty member for consideration.

Amount: $2,000

Apply For Scholarship

Fort� MBA Fellowships

Who Can Apply: The Fort� Foundation offers financial assistance to women earning an MBA. Applicants to the Fort� Fellows Program must attend a sponsored school, enroll full time, and demonstrate leadership in the field.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Scholarship

Professional Organizations for Public Relations

Professional organizations for public relations build networks within the field. People benefit from membership by gaining access to continuing education programs, resource libraries, and collaboration opportunities. Public relations organizations also provide job boards, career guidance, and mentorship support to members.

National School Public Relations Association

NSPRA, founded in 1935, provides communication training and services to schools and educational organizations. Members of NSPRA receive weekly and monthly newsletters, access to the NSPRA directory, and strategic counsel consulting services. NSPRA also offers professional development programs, awards, and an annual seminar to support best practices, networking, and interactive learning.

Institute for Public Relations

IPR supports the use of research and research-based knowledge in public relations and corporate communication. The institute maintains award programs, events, and an online community. Public relations students and professionals can sign up for IPR’s research newsletter; contribute to organizational publications; and participate in bootcamps, symposia, and webinars.

Public Relations Society of America

With more than 30,000 student and professional members, PRSA serves the communications community through professional development, career building, and award programs. Members of PRSA also receive access to monthly webinars, event discounts, and access to PRSA awards competitions.

International Association of Business Communicators

IABC serves business communication professionals through educational programs, certifications, and an online resource library. IABC’s mission is to unify the collective disciplines of business communication through best practices, innovation, and in-depth learning.

International Public Relations Association

Established in 1955, IPRA unites public relations professionals from around the world. IPRA offers code of conduct resources, training programs, events and conferences, and awards to advance communication and ethical practice in the discipline.


2022's Best Online Public Relations MBA Programs

Explore our 2022 rankings of three of the best online MBA in public relations (PR) programs. Click on the link below to find out how we rated these colleges and universities.

#1 Top Online MBA Programs in Public Relations

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Jerry Falwell Sr. and Elmer L. Towns founded Liberty University in 1971. A private, Evangelical institution, the university enrolls around 47,000 undergraduates. The school operates a 7,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. Liberty uses a semester-based academic calendar. 

Online Public Relations Degree (MBA)

The online PR degree at Liberty focuses on media technology, digital communication, and management. The MBA provides a foundation for implementing the skills required to use marketing strategies and analysis for business promotion.

Students can transfer up to 50% of the total credit requirements toward their public relations MBA at Liberty. Many learners complete the fully online program in under two years.

Liberty's Affordability

As a nonprofit organization, Liberty has kept its tuition rate the same for years and commits to continue through 2023. Applicants for 2022 receive a waiver for the admission fee. The university offers first responders a 25% discount and provides military discounts. 

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC and ACBSP
  • Tuition: $565 per credit for full-time students
  • Required Credits: 45 
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online 
  • Admissions
    • Process: Submit application, professional recommendations, statement of purpose, and transcripts for an accredited bachelor's with 15 hours of upper-level business coursework 
    • GPA: 3.0 minimum 
    • Standardized Tests: None required
    • Cost: Admission fee waived
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Top Online MBA Programs in Public Relations

Concordia University-Wisconsin

  • Mequon, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private institution, Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) affiliates with the Lutheran religion. Just 20 minutes from Milwaukee, the 200-acre Mequon campus borders Lake Michigan.

MBA in Communications and Public Relations

CUW's MBA in communications and PR focuses on communication, business skills, strategic thinking, financial efficiency, and leadership. The flexible online course schedule accommodates working students' schedules. 

The communications part of the program involves learning to express thoughts and ideas professionally, presenting slogans, and performing analytic reporting. 

The MBA at CUW appeals to students wanting to work in advertising, consulting, and public image management. 

CUW's Affordability

Some of Mequon's cost-of-living expenses fall below the national average. Students can pay tuition in six monthly installments each semester. CUW offers scholarships to employees of CUW's academic partners, alumni, and students working at specific Christian schools or churches. These special scholarships range from $150 to $500 per course. 

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: HLC and IACBE
  • Tuition: $779 per credit for full-time students
  • Required Credits: 36 
  • Program Length: 24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online 
  • Admissions
    • Process: Submit application, nonrefundable fee, one-page essay, resume, two recommendation letters, and transcripts for all credits leading to a bachelor's
    • GPA: 2.75 minimum 
    • Standardized Tests: None required
    • Cost: $60 admission fee and $200 deposit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,060
Out-of-state
$30,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,052
Out-of-state
$11,052
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
5,777
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Top Online MBA Programs in Public Relations

Concordia University-Ann Arbor

  • Ann Arbor, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Part of the larger Concordia University system, Concordia University Ann Arbor affiliates with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The school runs a 187-acre campus just outside downtown Ann Arbor, in Michigan.

MBA in Communications and Public Relations

Concordia's online MBA in communications and PR appeals to those who speak or write for their job. This includes professional advertisers, corporate public relations professionals, and more. The program covers topics like communication, public speaking, business writing, marketing, and written communication for media and organizations. 

Asynchronous online classes let students engage with online learning tools and media at any time of day. The program offers flexible asynchronous classes, aiming to give working professionals an opportunity to set their own schedule. 

Concordia's Affordability

Tuition rates for private MBA programs cost as much as $2,000 per credit. But Concordia features tuition rates of just $749 per credit. Michigan's cost of living ranks 89 out of 100 for the national average. New students can use the code "INQUIRY" to waive the $60 application fee. Veterans also qualify for an admission fee waiver.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: HLC and IACBE 
  • Tuition: $779 per credit for full-time students
  • Required Credits: 36
  • Program Length: 18-24 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online: asynchronous online classes, synchronous virtual classes 
  • Admissions
    • Process: Submit application, nonrefundable fee or waiver, personal essay, resume, two recommendation letters, and transcripts for all transfer credits and credits leading to a bachelor's 
    • GPA: 2.75 minimum 
    • Standardized Tests: None required
    • Cost: $60
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,060
Out-of-state
$30,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,042
Out-of-state
$12,042
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
1,172
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Common Questions About an MBA in Public Relations

Can I get an MBA in Public Relations?

Yes. An MBA in public relations teaches necessary communications skills in the business world. Students can receive an MBA in communications online or in-person at top colleges and universities across the country.

How do I choose the right MBA in Public Relations program?

MBA in PR or communications programs vary in length, tuition, and course content. Spend time browsing website resources and speaking with an advisor for each program of interest to determine which one suits your learning needs and future goals.

How long does it take to get an MBA in Public Relations?

An MBA in communication and public relations takes around two years to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated MBA programs or credit transfers to shorten program length. Learners can also opt for online programs to complete coursework flexibly.

What skills do I need to have a career in Public Relations?

Public relations professionals have effective communication and multitasking skills. Time management, adaptability, and problem-solving skills also come in handy. A public relations MBA builds upon these skills while teaching actionable industry strategies and theory.

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