College of Communication > Academics > Public Relations and Advertising

Public Relations and Advertising

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Public Relations and Advertising
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In the Public Relations and Advertising (PRAD) program you will develop an understanding of public relations and advertising theories and practices. You will learn to consider advertising and public relations processes, products and effects from multiple perspectives, as well as develop critical thinking skills and effective communication skills.

#1

DePaul’s Public Relations and Advertising graduate program was named the PRWeek's Outstanding Education Program award in 2022 and 2018, as well as recognized as a top five program nationally for nine of the past ten years.

Surrounded by Chicago’s PR and Ad firms

DePaul is located in the heart of Chicago’s business community, giving you opportunities to intern and work professionally with leading public relations and advertising agencies.

PRAD students have worked or interned around the city at places like the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Children’s Museum, Leo Burnett, Museum of Contemporary Art, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Shedd Aquarium, the Attorney General’s Office, FCB, GOLIN and more.

More than a degree

Students leave the PRAD program ready to dive into their careers. Whether they end up in an agency, production company, digital media organization, startup, government, nonprofit or corporate position— they're ready to show the world their expertise and creativity. As part of the MA in Public Relations and Advertising, students create and present a digital portfolio of their work. See our graduate students’ ePortfolios.

“The skills I learned, the mentorship I received, and the network I am now part of make the PRAD program the best of its kind, and I am beyond grateful to have been a part of it.”

Kevin (MA ’17)

Kevin, PRAD eportfolio showcase winner, 2017 

Learning beyond the classroom

Take advantage of our Study Away program in New York City. It’s a two-week experience of travel and study for Public Relations and Advertising majors to gain a deeper understanding of the structure, operations and culture of agencies and media outlets in New York.

Get involved with student activities and organizations like the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and The Ad Society. Join competitions, organize networking events, and meet fellow peers in the PRAD program.